We asked Elle Macpherson what she wears to bed. Her response was suitably cheeky

Each week, we quiz a prominent person about their style and the inspiration behind it. Ahead, supermodel and entrepreneur Elle Macpherson.

Elle Macpherson says her style embodies the spirit of the 1970s ‘Cali-girl’ aesthetic. Credit: Simon Upton

How would you describe your style? Relaxed. Not only in the way I dress but in the way I respond to life. I wear what suits me and expresses my free, easygoing spirit. As I’ve matured, I care less about dressing for others and more about dressing for myself. [I prioritise] personal style over fast-fashion trends, and quality over quantity – they are my mottos.

What’s the oldest thing in your wardrobe? Me! And a pair of blue jeans from my teens. I also have a substantial collection of Hermès bags from the 1980s and ’90s, including one called “The Macpherson”.

And the most recent addition? Japanese denim from Tokyo skater brand Visvim, and some fun print dresses from my friend J. J. Martin’s fab brand, La DoubleJ, which I wear with my embellished Birkenstocks.

What are the three essential items in your wardrobe? Blue or white jeans, a fresh white shirt or tee, and a smile.

What would you wear … on a first date? On my first date with Doyle [Bramhall], I wore my favourite blue jeans and vintage white T-shirt. … on a plane? The “Le Sport Marnie” wide-leg pant and “Margot” zip jacket from my collaboration with The Upside look polished yet effortlessly chic, perfect for travel between Miami, LA and Australia. … on the red carpet? I like a strong, lean silhouette. A recent fave is the Alexandre Vauthier black sequin harem-pant suit I wore for the Elle Style Awards 2025 in Spain.

Who are your favourite designers? Alaïa still rocks my boat. I live in The Upside and recently discovered another Aussie brand, Mela Purdie – I love the long silk pieces for day to evening.

What’s your favourite fashion era? I relate to the ’70s California girl, Topanga Canyon music vibe with a bit of Jimi Hendrix thrown in.

What’s your fragrance of choice? Sacred frankincense natural oil. I don’t wear synthetic perfumes any more – not even my old favourite, “Vétiver” [by Guerlain].

This Melissa Odabash bikini is high on Macpherson’s wish list.

Any go-to jewellery? Lots! I wear a chain with silver and gold sacred feathers by Japanese jewellery designer Goro’s, Luis Morais sandalwood beads, rings I snagged from Doyle, a Turkish cuff and an Audemars Piguet watch my sons gave me for my 60th birthday, plus as many gold and beaded bracelets as I can fit on.

Can you remember a favourite outfit you wore as a child? Yes, a crochet bikini.

What was your first fashion moment? I remember arriving in New York City from Australia and trying to look like a fashion model in tight, skinny blue jeans, a white down coat and very high red heels.

And your worst fashion mistake? Arriving in New York City from Australia as a young fashion model wearing very tight jeans, very high red heels and trying to navigate the NYC streets in the middle of winter!

What’s at the top of your wish list? The Row flip-flops, a Melissa Odabash triangle bikini, Eres lingerie and a Nina Morris velvet suit.

Is there something you’d never wear? I’ve worn it all. I probably wouldn’t wear a miniskirt today. And no more platform shoes – at six-foot tall in flats there’s no need!

Is there a current trend you like? I love what Dior is doing.

What do you wear to bed? A smile and a grateful heart.

What shoes do you wear most? Isabel Marant boots and Birkenstocks.

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Who’s your favourite fashion icon? Jane Birkin is effortlessly cool and natural. Also my dear friend, Australian make-up artist Filomena Natoli – her style is simple, sexy, chic and glamorous with a sporty European twist.

What do you wear on a typical working day? A pair of Chrome Hearts Levi’s 501s with whatever moves my spirit that day.

What’s your favourite off-duty, casual Sunday look? A bikini and a cowboy hat.

The Upside collection featuring Elle Macpherson is available now; theupside.com.au.

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