WIELDING THE WARDROBE WAND - WHERE I SHOP FOR ON-CAMERA LOOKS AND MORE

Feeling our best can be a springboard to becoming the top version of ourselves – unlocking greater happiness, productivity, and confidence. Who would’ve thought a humble garment could do all that?

Hosting television means I need an otherwise ridiculous amount and range of clothing – from wetsuits to red carpet gowns and everything in between. Despite the common belief that all shows come with a wardrobe department, many – especially travel programs – don’t provide clothing, hair or make-up. The booking call often goes something like:“We’d love you to shoot for a week in the Whitsundays!” Cue me jumping for joy.“You’ll need ten changes of clothes.” Gasp. That’s fifteen if you like to be prepared for anything!

While TV takes me all over, I’m a roving resident of Australia’s East Coast — most often on the move between Sydney, the Northern Rivers of NSW, the Gold Coast, Brisbane and the Sunny Coast. In summer, the balmy weather alone is enough to lure anyone into the nearest air-conditioned store in search of vibrant prints, breathable linen shirts, and effortless looks that keep you cool — literally and figuratively. And let’s face it, nothing beats the joy of in-store shopping over scrolling online.

PACIFIC FAIR - GOLD COAST

Retail therapy that restarts my heart.

Aje, Zimmermann, Bec + Bridge, Hermès… chai in hand, I’m in my element – though store staff may get a little twitchy (something about hot drinks and delicate fabrics). But please, I’m a pro – I only cast wardrobe spells, not spills.

TV wardrobe highlight:

Aje on sale to host Carols in the Domain (Day) – teamed with my Hermès “I mean business” cuff. Say no more.

JAMES STREET - BRISBANE

A coffee and some people-watching at The Calile, an ice-cream across the road from Gelato Messina… and we’re off. I don’t love splashing out on full-price designer pieces – not when I need so many changes for work. My indulgences go towards:

• My beauty regime (age-appropriate essentials)

• Homewares (they boost resale value!)

• And standout accessories that take any outfit from zero to hero

My go-to? A Hermès cuff gifted for my 40th, which I wear with everything. I later bought a bolder, studded version for myself after my mum’s sudden passing – it says “I’m strong and I mean business”. I often pair it with a “but trust me, I’m worth it” tutu that’s become a bit of a red carpet signature. If Dua Lipa can wear one live at the Albert Hall, I can wear mine to a gala in Sydney.

RATIONALE

Supermarket cleansers no longer cut it for me – not now, not on camera. After struggling with skin issues for years, I now budget for Rationale because it genuinely works for me like nothing else.

#NotSponsored – Just Obsessed

JARDAN

While fashion gets me camera-ready, my home has to be life-ready — it’s the space where creativity starts. Whether I’m picking up a standout homeware piece or saving for an artwork that stops me in my tracks, Jardan is one of my go-tos. I see my home as our sanctuary — where Alexandra and I spend most of our time — and what surrounds us absolutely influences how I feel, think, and even what I wear. A splash of colour or a bold piece can inspire a whole mood (or an outfit). Investing in our space not only makes everyday life feel elevated, it adds value to our home — which I see as our retirement plan. One day, I won’t just be selling a house, I’ll be selling the East Coast lifestyle we’ve created inside it.

OP SHOPPING - SOUTHPORT

I adore checking into a hotel around Main Beach – the Sheraton Mirage, or the more budget-friendly Meriton Southport (my Covid hideaway) – and creating seaside memories with my daughter, just as my beautiful, Gold Coast-loving mum once did with me. Who remembers Surfers Paradise radio’s iconic 1970s jingle:“Time to turn so you won’t burn”? Totally ineffective, totally unforgettable.

After a morning of op-shop treasure hunting, you’ll find me poolside – wearing a sparkly gold cardigan I scored from the Salvos for $5, layered over swimwear. Also a $5 find? My favourite bright orange dress – it’s made for my figure and has been my go-to for Sydney Weekender’s 30th birthday shoot, Tasting Australia, and more.

FINAL THOUGHTS

Looking and feeling a million dollars doesn’t need to cost one. I always say that – and as my cheeky amputee dad George likes to joke:“Good – because I only have one leg left!”

Whether it’s a luxe cuff, a $5 dress, or a moisturiser that makes your skin glow on screen, the wardrobe wand works best when it reflects you. And when it does? That’s where the real magic happens.