3 days ago
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Each week, we quiz a prominent person about their style and the inspiration behind it. Ahead, designer Effie Kats.
The designer’s signature scent is “Jazz Club” by Maison Margiela Replic.
How would you describe your style? There’s a duality. During the day I keep it simple with clean silhouettes and some subtle structure; at night my look becomes softer and more intuitive with a hint of drama. I predominantly wear my own labels. Effie Kats is evening wear and Bayse Brand is more casual, so I’m covered.
What’s the oldest thing in your wardrobe? A Chanel belt – the classic gold chain with black leather woven through it and a gold medallion – from the 1980s.
And the most recent addition? The “Boat” bag from Korean label OSOI. I like supporting smaller independent brands, it feels more personal, less about trends and more about unique design.
What would you wear … on a first date? My go-to is the classic “jeans and a nice top” formula – maybe the Bayse Brand “Amrita” bodysuit – with a pair of Paris Texas “Lidia” mules. … on a plane? Loose jeans, an oversized tee, sports jacket, loafers and my The Row “Margaux” suede bag. … on the red carpet? I like a timeless silhouette with sharp styling. Selena Gomez and Elsa Hosk do it best.
This “Margaux” bag from The Row is Effie Kats’ preferred carry-on luggage.
What’s your favourite fashion era? When Tom Ford was at Gucci (1994 – 2004). I love the simplicity, the confidence, the sex appeal; it defined the ’90s in such a powerful way, and it still resonates today. It had a big impact on me as a designer.
Who are your favourite designers? Tom Ford, always. More recently, Pierpaolo Piccioli at Valentino. There’s something powerful in his pared back and elegant designs – the palettes were muted, the silhouettes minimal but the overall impact was so bold. I’m excited to see what he brings to Balenciaga.
What’s your fragrance of choice? Maison Margiela Replica “Jazz Club” is my signature.
What are the three essential items in your wardrobe? I’m living in the Bayse Brand “Collins” jeans I designed in collaboration with stylist Elliot Garnaut. The Effie Kats “Powerphase” blazer. It’s based on a men’s double-breasted blazer that my dad, a tailor, made but in more-petite proportions. And loafers – I’m wearing the Phillip Lim “Alexa” and a Saint Laurent pair in the most perfect shade of brown.
Kats loves the retro style of these Song for the Mute x Adidas sneakers for lazy Sundays.
Any go-to jewellery? Gold Saint Laurent “Dome” earrings.
Can you remember a favourite outfit you wore as a child? I had a little leather vest from the Queen Victoria Market that I’d wear over my T-shirts. It was my way of expressing myself and standing out. I thought I was the coolest person in the world when I wore it.
What was your first fashion moment? In 2019, I went to the Australian Fashion Week Ten Pieces show at Icebergs wearing a metallic-blue mini dress with ruffled sleeves, a Chanel choker and white graffiti Christian Louboutin stilettos. An influencer said to me “Louboutins at 10am in Bondi? You’re brave”. It was a memorable look.
And your worst fashion mistake? The above. It was not appropriate for the occasion.
What’s on your fashion wish list? A Chanel “Nano Kelly” bag.
Is there something you’d never wear? Never say never. I never thought I’d wear stirrup leggings again, but here we are.
Is there a current trend you like? Funnel neck jackets are having serious moment. I just bought the black leather “Bonded” jacket by Remain Birger Christensen.
What do you sleep in? Qantas pyjamas.
Who’s your favourite fashion icon? I love Carine Roitfeld’s “classic with an edge” outfits from back in the day, and Christine Centenera’s minimal, refined and effortless style is an inspiration.
What do you wear on a typical working day? I keep it simple in jeans, a T-shirt, blazer, belt and loafers.
What’s your favourite off-duty, casual Sunday look? I’ll be chilling in leggings, a spray jacket and my Song for the Mute x Adidas sneakers.
The Effie Kats Winter 2025 collection “The Muse” is available now.
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