As a stylist and vintage fashion hound, I believe everything has a story — whether it be clothes or the people that wear them. So this is Style Stories, a collection of conversations with creative people who have a strong sense of style. I sit on my couch with old and new peers and discover how their fashion choices have shaped and been shaped by their family, friends, and careers. Together we tell their Style Story. View every story at MadeleinePark.co Produced by MITT Work
In Episode 2 of Season 14, I chat with Emma Clegg and Molly Rogers — occupational therapists turned fashion entrepreneurs — who are challenging what it means to dress with purpose. As co-founders of JAM the Label, they're helping to reshape the narrative around disability, dignity, and personal style through one of Australia's most exciting adaptive fashion brands.From Emma's love of timeless, practical staples to Molly's playful flair for colour and print, JAM bridges their differences — and in doing so, creates clothing that brings choice, agency and joy to people who have long been left out of the fashion conversation.We explore how their work helps people with disability reclaim confidence and connection, how personal style shows up in the smallest of details, and how thoughtful design can do more than just look good — it can change lives.As a Sydney personal stylist, these are exactly the kinds of stories I love to share — where fashion becomes more than a trend, but a tool for self-expression and empowerment.What We Cover:– The story behind JAM the Label– How Emma and Molly's personalities shape their designs– The emotional power of feeling well-dressed– Challenges and misconceptions around adaptive fashion– What it means to lead with empathy — in business and in styleLinks & Resources:→ JAM the Label→ Book your complimentary style consultation with me: www.MadeleinePark.co
What if power dressing wasn't about commanding the room with a shoulder pad… but with your presence?In this episode of Style Stories: Styled By Me, I share the journey of my client Rachel — a powerhouse in the corporate world whose wardrobe just hadn't caught up with her current self.Together, we didn't reinvent her. We refined her — strategically weaving in colour, confidence, and a quiet edge that now speaks volumes before she even says a word.From cool blues that say “trust me,” to bold reds that close deals — this episode is a reminder that the most powerful wardrobe isn't always the loudest. It's the one that reflects you.✨ Because when your style truly aligns with your story, the results shine for both you and me.In this episode, we explore:Why a “good” wardrobe isn't always a true wardrobeThe psychology of colour in power dressingHow confidence and cohesion can elevate your presenceThe difference between wearing clothes and letting them speak with youReady to step into your own shine?I offer a complimentary 15-minute style consultation to explore how we can refine your look and reconnect you to the power already within.Whether you're looking for a wardrobe refresh, a signature style, or a fresh perspective — my approach is personal, perceptive, and entirely tailored to you.
In Episode 1 of Season 14, I chat with Helen Rydge — clinical psychologist, vintage enthusiast, and softly defiant dresser - whose wardrobe tells the story of a woman who grew into herself after becoming a mother. While others may have retreated, Helen emerged more fully. No longer dressing to blend in to the crowd, Helen dresses to honour the creative, curious, and caring components of herself.Through our chat, Helen shares how fashion can be an anchor — for identity, for confidence, and for connection. And how sometimes, the most powerful thing you can wear is something entirely for you.I hope you can sit back, relax and enjoy listening to Helen's story. If Helen's story inspires you to reconnect with your personal style, I'm offering 15 complimentary style consultations for Style Stories listeners. Whether you're rediscovering who you are or simply ready for a wardrobe refresh, I'd love to help you get dressed with more confidence and intention.Book your session at MadeleinePark.co and step into your style story.
Style Stories is back! It's been a minute, but I'm back with Season 14—same deep dives into personal style, fresh conversations, and styling wisdom to help you feel more confident in your wardrobe (and yourself). Expect candid chats, the psychology of fashion, and practical tips you can actually use.Subscribe now & DM me https://www.instagram.com/madeleinepark.co with what you'd love to hear! New episodes dropping soon.
In this freestyle episode, I share my insights from the South by Southwest Sydney Conference, focusing on the theme of authenticity in the modern world. I discuss the intersection of fashion and technology, the importance of cultivating a personal digital presence, and the transformative power of dressing as one's true self. Are you enjoying the chat but would like the opportunity for me to tap into your style? Uncovering the psychology that sits behind personal style is the philosophy that forms the foundation of not only Style Stories but my new personal styling service STYLUS. STYLUS is a premium subscription-based service that empowers you with tailored fashion guidance and wardrobe optimisation advice. The on-demand, text-based service taps into your personal style, giving you all the tools to make considerate, informed choices at the touch of a text message. Go to madeleinepark.co for more details.
In this freestyle episode, I want to tackle getting ready for the event season so you don't spend a fortune but still look fabulous. Are you enjoying the chat but would like the opportunity for me to tap into your style? Uncovering the psychology that sits behind personal style is the philosophy that forms the foundation of not only Style Stories but my new personal styling service STYLUS. STYLUS is a premium subscription-based service that empowers you with tailored fashion guidance and wardrobe optimisation advice. The on-demand, text-based service taps into your personal style, giving you all the tools to make considerate, informed choices at the touch of a text message. Go to madeleinepark.co for more details.
In Episode 8 of Season 13, I chat with Rabie Mtanos, founder of luxury Sydney-based tailoring service, Soraya Tailoring. Rabie's exacting eye and unwavering commitment to quality are not only the hallmarks of his business but have also shaped his dapper yet distinctive style. One to like quality and something a little bit different, the values of Rabie's business reflect the man himself: passionate about delivering exceptional service and distinguished through excellence. The quintessential gentleman, Rabie's story has been shaped by the need to quickly forge meaningful relationships which has proved pivotal not only to his success but to tailoring a special service that embraces diversity, fosters community, and does it all with style. Are you enjoying the chat but would like the opportunity for me to tap into your style? Uncovering the psychology that sits behind personal style is the philosophy that forms the foundation of not only Style Stories but my new personal styling service STYLUS. STYLUS is a premium subscription-based service that empowers you with tailored fashion guidance and wardrobe optimisation advice. The on-demand, text-based service taps into your personal style, giving you all the tools to make considerate, informed choices at the touch of a text message. Go to madeleinepark.co for more details.
In Episode 7 of Season 13, I chat with Nat Thaipun, who we may know as the winner of this season's MasterChef, but to her friends, she's Nat Wolf. Wolf like in adventure, energy and passion, Nat and I go deep. And as we peel back the layers to her story, we find this stealth strength is actually a mechanism for finding purpose. Cooking may have now centred her, but Nat still doesn't mind living life on a knife's edge. And her ambitious live large approach has given her the tools to creatively curate diverse cultural cues and masterfully turn them into something modern and visionary. Whether it's her love for vintage fashion, crafting a kangaroo lab or an array of meaningful tattoos, it's Nat's style to honour history for both her story and others, but keep it contemporary and always make it cute. Are you enjoying the chat but would like the opportunity for me to tap into your style? Uncovering the psychology that sits behind personal style is the philosophy that forms the foundation of not only Style Stories but my new personal styling service STYLUS. STYLUS is a premium subscription-based service that empowers you with tailored fashion guidance and wardrobe optimisation advice. The on-demand, text-based service taps into your personal style, giving you all the tools to make considerate, informed choices at the touch of a text message. Go to madeleinepark.co for more details.
In this freestyle episode, I set a scene and tell a short story to illustrate the common conundrums a styling service can help solve. I announce more details about my new styling service STYLUS. You can gain more insight into the service by joining my mailing list at www.madeleinepark.co/newsletter, or commenting 'style' on any of my instagram posts at www.instagram.com/madeleinepark.co/.
In Episode 7 of Season 13, I chat with Nina Treffkorn, co-director of Sydney contemporary art gallery, China Heights. Born to Buddhist parents that moved from a German commune to a conservative catholic small town in Ireland where she was raised, it's fair to say Nina has become used to looking at the world from the outside in. However her move to Sydney allowed her to discover a diverse art and fashion community she could belong to, and Nina has since found her place inside. And while it's Nina's style to lean into a uniform look as a tool to belong she is not strictly black and white. Nina may have stood out for her height as a child but she's learnt the value of having a unique story and style and while she finds peace is staying centred she uses her individual assets to her advantage, leading her to greater heights.
In this freestyle episode, I address the cost of living crisis and how buying second hand clothing may save you money. I do this by comparing the cost of new items versus their secondhand equivalents and below are the links to the items I refer to: Black Leather Aviator Jacket New: https://viktoriaandwoods.com.au/products/radioactive-shearling-jacket-black-chocolate?variant=40216594645126 Second-Hand: https://www.ebay.com.au/itm/386942080089?chn=ps&_ul=AU&norover=1&mkevt=1&mkrid=705-139619-5960-0&mkcid=2&mkscid=101&itemid=386942080089&targetid=1278430612776&device=c&mktype=pla&googleloc=9071791&poi=&campaignid=19649531412&mkgroupid=146789074798&rlsatarget=pla-1278430612776&abcId=9305371&merchantid=7364522&gad_source=1&gclid=EAIaIQobChMIzcXm5-36hgMVn2APAh3BMwHiEAQYASABEgKXE_D_BwE Camel Silk Shirt New: https://www.scanlantheodore.com/au/products/silk-shoulder-pad-shirt-camel Second-Hand: https://depop.app.link/o08tIWVbLKb Grey Wool Skirt New: https://nz.camillaandmarc.com/products/brancusi-mini-skirt-charcoal-pinstripe Second-Hand: https://shop.lifelinenb.org.au/products/perri-cutten-skirt-size-14-100-wool?_pos=5&_sid=bb7589566&_ss=r&_fid=eed2a17e0 Designer Handbag New: https://www.fwrd.com/product-bottega-veneta-chain-cassette-bag-in-butter-gold/BOTT-WY464/?d=Womens&fromGrs=true&itrownum=2&itcurrpage=1&itview=05 Pre-loved: https://whatweworeboutique.com/products/bottega-veneta-chain-cassette-bag-yellow-medium-rrp-8-100 If you'd like more of my styling tips subscribe to my newsletter at www.madeleinepark.co/newsletter, follow me on instagram at www.instagram.com/madeleinepark.co/ or connect with me directly at contact@madeleinepark.co
In episode 5 of season 13, I chat with Jess Brady, Financial Planner, Financially Fierce podcast host and founder of The Greenhouse Money Growing Program. Jess' career in finance afforded her freedoms at a young age and in her compliant yet calculating ways, Jess is now on a mission to unlock the systems that keep others from accessing their own sound financial futures. Jess' philosophy on finance is not dissimilar to fashion - tap into what's personally important and consciously use what serves you. Whether she's wearing second hand clothes, dressing like a farmer, or donning Gucci shoes, it's Jess' style to creatively use what she's got, reward herself occasionally and always think of others.
In this freestyle episode, I discuss how to elevate your layered winter looks by focusing on the winter coat as both a utility item and a decorative item. I share my styling hacks to help elevate your layered look while still keeping you warm this winter. If you'd like to hear more of my styling tips please subscribe to my newsletter at www.MadeleinePark.co/newsletter, follow me on instagram at www.instagram.com/madeleinepark.co/ or connect with me directly at contact@madeleinepark.co
In episode 4 of season 13, I chat with Katie Kaars, professional Photographer and Camera Confidence Coach. With over 175,000 followers on Instagram, Katie knows how to be seen and heard. But growing up in a household where children were taught to be seen but not heard, Katie learnt from an early age that creativity could serve as a powerful outlet for self-expression. And while her career found herself behind the lens of a camera, Katie's style has always found a point of difference. One to enjoy a practical and pragmatic approach to both her work and her wardrobe, Katie has learnt to let go of rigidity and add more frivolity while always finding beauty in raw and authentic style.
In this freestyle episode, following from my recent tip to Tokyo, I share tips on how to apply the thinking of Japanese philosophy Wabi Sabi to our existing wardrobes. In appreciating the aged, the irregular and the natural, Wabi Sabi offers us a great sustainable solution to understand our wardrobes in refreshing ways. I'd love to engage with you more on these discussions and this content. So please follow me on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/madeleinepark.co/ or subscribe to my newsletter at www.MadeleinePark.co/newsletter
In episode 3 of season 13, I chat with Georgie Vicars, founder of Jamoo. Like's the label's name suggests, Jamoo and Georgie alike are one of a kind. Inspired by the Australian coast, Jamoo is a playful pastiche of the past presenting itself in patch-worked pieces put together from a legion of repurposed towels Georgie has hunted, hoarded and handpicked. While Georgie likes to live in a moment and may still be mapping out her ensuing adventures, Jamoo stands as a reflection of her free childhood spent barefoot on the beach and sailing in the pacific paired with her care for craft and her talent for textiles. Amped up by sustainable ethics and a reverence for all things retro, the fabric of Georgie's style and her story is one that feels bold yet benevolent, carefree but kind, and both cool and warm all at the same time.
In this freestyle episode, I share tips and stylist insider knowledge on how to rethink all those sequins coming out of our post-Swift era. I ruminate on how to tone down, add contrast and make our sequinned styles more wearable by offering ideas on suiting up, muting palettes, fabric fusions, shifting shapes, and keeping things simple. If you'd like a direct style consultation from me or have a style conundrum that I can address in future episodes, please connect at contact@madeleinepark.co or DM me at https://www.instagram.com/madeleinepark.co/
In episode 2 of season 13, I chat with Camilla Schippa, a refreshing figure formidably marrying circular fashion practices with true social impact. A self-proclaimed migrant matriarch, Camilla is the CEO of The Social Outfit, a charitable organization whose mission is to empower refugee and new migrant women through employment and training in one fashion forward movement. Camilla's story convinces us to think outside the square by not only understanding the power of freedom in our own self-expression but by refreshing our thinking around what real humanity in fashion can look and feel like. And while Camilla's colourful style is not without it's sparkle, she is the guiding light in leading a multitude of women towards their own opportunities to shine, with enough glitter and bejewelled glamour to make the whole place shimmer.
In this freestyle episode, I share tips and stylist insider knowledge on rethinking and refreshing your wardrobe. I ruminate on how to reorganise, repair, reimagine and replay with your clothes to make them work better for you. There are also tailoring hacks and my ideas on the power of visual inspiration in transforming your wardrobe. If you'd like a direct style consultation from me or have a style conundrum that I can address in future episodes, please connect at contact@madeleinepark.co or DM me at https://www.instagram.com/madeleinepark.co/
For the first episode of the new year, I chat with Charlotte Dallison, author, writer & vintage fashion aficionado. Charlotte's recently released book, How to be Fabulous, not only dares us to defy trends but to refresh our personal styles by diving deep into the world of pre-loved clothing. By sharing her story, Charlotte provides a gracious guide on how to think about style, including how her take on manifestation helped refresh not only her style but her story. And while she still holds on to some of the small-town sentiments of her Christchurch upbringing, her desire to be fabulous and live a big life is sending her to Hollywood where her old world glamour and “Some Like it Hot” style will offer a refreshing change to Tinseltown.
A new year can offer us the promise of many fanciful/different things, but often it's simply an opportunity to refresh, whether it be our style or our story. Season 13 will continue to share the stories of creative people with a strong sense of style however this season I will turn the wheel to provide more offerings on how you can refresh your style and use it as a tool to share the story you want to tell. I hope you can sit back, relax and enjoy listening to Season 13 of Style Stories.
As 2023 wraps up, I conclude Season 12 of Style Stories with a message of understanding for the Christmas presence. I'll be giving myself the gift of a small break over the holiday season, returning reenergised and full of heart in January with what will be my 4th year of Style Stories. As you spend your holidays celebrating the spirit of the season, I hope you find the presence of your own style and story and that you can sit back, relax and enjoy.
Today I am chatting with Aminata Conteh-Biger, founder & CEO of the Aminata Maternal Foundation and Special Representative for Australia with the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR). As we wrap up Season 12, Stories with Heart, it seems only fitting I share a story, also told through Aminata's autobiography Rising Heart, that's full of passion, strength and life. A former refugee from Sierra Leone, Aminata has seen unimaginable trauma and a gentle warning, this episode does contain sensitive material. Aminata may take hold of her own story however she never lets adversity define her style. Instead, she exudes an infectious deep-seated confidence that carries the unabashed colour and charisma she graciously wears on her sleeve. And while she may have been taught to find beauty from within it's her style to act out and impel others to do the same.
In Episode 6 of Season 12, I chat with Rachael Johns, best-selling author and prominent voice in contemporary relationship stories focusing on women's issues. She has coined the term 'life-lit,' delving into the intricacies of female relationships and the desire to belong. As this season focuses on stories with heart it's only fitting to talk with Rachael as she launches her latest romance novel, "Talk to the Heart". Rachael's narratives offer a joyful escape from what she would call “the depressing stuff” and she invites her readers to embrace the happiness she believes everyone deserves. But Rachael's ability to spread joy doesn't stop with her stories and whether it's her passion for all things pink or her extensive collection of earrings from independent designers, it's her style to always spread the love.
In episode 5 of Season 12, I'm chatting with Dana Tomic Hughes, self-confessed design tragic, interior designer, and founder of renowned design platform, Yellowtrace. Vogue may have hailed Dana as one of the most visionary women on the planet, but as narrative unfolds you'll also find her to be one of the most tenacious, passionate and dedicated. Proud to have popped Dana's podcast cherry, sharing her style and her story is emotional and a privilege, just the way she sees design. And despite it's privilege Dana is determined to make design and beauty accessible to all, which she does with her colourful style that offers humour, sophistication and always tells a story.
In Episode 4 of Season 12, I'm chatting to you. At the midpoint through Season 12 I wanted to do something a little different and talk you through a case study of a fashion styling client. By walking you through their real-life story I hope to answer some of the styling dilemmas I regularly get presented with and help solve some of the questions you may have around avoiding trend-driven dressing and defining what sits at the heart of your own style story. I hope this podcast style helps you with your story and that you can sit back, relax and enjoy! To give you a more visual experience to this podcast episode, the mood board for this episode can be found here: https://www.instagram.com/madeleinepark.co/?hl=en If you want to hear more about elevating your style at your next event, I am hosting a fashion event, The Party before the Party, in partnership with my favourite consignment store What We Wore in Clovelly. On Thursday the 12th of October I will be guiding guests on how to achieve head-turning, show-stopping looks with pre-loved pieces and we will keep the party going with a DJ and make-up artists on hand to help add that glowing touch. Tickets can be redeemed with any purchases made on the night and can be purchased here: https://events.humanitix.com/the-party-before-the-party And if you'd like to get in touch to a find a more personal touch to your own style story, please get in contact! You can email me at contact@madeleinepark.co, otherwise all contact details can be found on my website MadeleinePark.co.
In Episode 3 of Season 12, I chat with Dijanna Mulhearn, fashion presenter and author including her recent New York Times acclaimed book, Red Carpet Oscars. Dijanna's poise and polish may make a show-stopping impact but it's her point of view that adds the real texture and colour to her style. By understanding fashion as a communication tool, Dijanna is able to single-handedly challenge every trope you may have about the superficiality of fashion or fashion people. Instead she comes at style from a place of kindness and empathy and our chat not only explores Dijanna's story but she provides award-worthy advice on how to find the very heart of your style.
In Episode 2 of Season 12, I chat with Ronni Kahn AO, social entrepreneur and founder and CEO of food rescue charity OzHarvest. Ronni may call herself an accidental activist but her upbringing founded on principles of generosity and purpose have made her contribution to repairing the world, her calling. OzHarvest gave Ronni a force to find her voice and share her heart and now she colours the world yellow with abundant warmth, engendering joy wherever she goes. And whilst Ronni is rightfully revered for her altruistic work, she's also widely recognised for her eclectic style. Whether it's Indian cheesecloth, oversized accessories or just that happy slap of yellow, Ronni's style not only stands out but stands for her sense of purpose and repurpose.
In Episode 1 of Season 12, I chat with Charlotte Ree, devoted home cook and author of Heartbake, a personal memoir that not only chronicles Charlotte's stories of love through her love of food but includes recipes to feed the heart and soul. Whether it's on paper or in person, it's Charlotte's style to be open-mannered and lay her whole story out on the table. And of her lessons in love, she's been taught not only to feed herself first but dress to please herself first too. Like her story, Charlotte's style evolves naturally, is organically told and is open to heartache even if still hungry for a little love and romance.
If wearing your heart on your sleeve is understood as an act of intimate self-expression, then fashion and style may be the vehicle that signals the very heart of your story. Season 12 of Style Stories aims to honour stories with heart by featuring creatives with a strong sense of style who come with care, compassion and connection and candidly share their stories with an open heart. In this vein, I have started a fortnightly newsletter to share more of what sits at the heart of my style and my story. I'd love you to join me by subscribing to my fortnightly newsletter at madeleinepark.co/newsletter where I wear my heart on my sleeve and share the things that are inspiring my story, including the guests of Season 12. I hope you can sit back, relax and enjoy listening to Season 12 of Style Stories.
Today I'm chatting with Amanda Webb, Chair of the Board at Dress for Success Sydney. As Season 11 of Style Stories wraps up, Amanda and I address some of the broader questions sharing these stories sought to answer. We talk about the purpose and transformative power of fashion while understanding the unique position DFSS holds in cultivating community, and circular fashion practices. Most importantly we discuss the heart of the organisation which relies on the empathy of women helping women and the power of yes. I hope you've been moved and motivated by the style stories of the Dress for Success Sydney community and if you're seeking more stories with heart, look out for Season 12 of Style Stories, coming soon. If you'd like to know more about my style and my story I'd love for you to subscribe to my recently launched newsletter. You can do this at https://madeleinepark.co/newsletter
In Episode 6 of Season 11, I chat with Denise Cheng, National Manager - Active Philanthropy for Equity Trustees and Board Member of Dress for Success Sydney. Denise has devoted her career to giving back to others, inspired by the strong sense of community that was instilled in her at school and at home. And while Denise focusses on fairness, she has broken free from the perfectionist mould her younger self once built around her. One to have always coloured between the lines, Denise now colours outside them exposing her classic style to a little more flair, a lot more fun, and the freedom to express her authentic and vulnerable self. To join the Dress for Success Career Hub, a one-stop shop to help you at every stage of your career journey, visit dfscareerhub.org.au
In Episode 5 of Season 11, I chat with Yana Malyutina, owner and founder of consignment boutique, What We Wore, and volunteer stylist at Dress For Success Sydney. Yana's Russian heritage may be at the root of her style but at the heart of her story is graciousness and gratitude. An unwaveringly positive self belief, a hungry drive and a hand at hustle has determined Yana's success and whether it be leopard print, diamante's, sequin's or feathers, Yana proudly wears her heart on her sleeve and is never afraid to show off her confident style. To join the Dress for Success Career Hub, a one-stop shop to help you at every stage of your career journey, visit dfscareerhub.org.au
In Episode 4 of Season 11, I chat with Julie Stocca, former client and current employee of Dress for Success Sydney. Forever a ray of sunshine, Julie has perfected the art of keeping up with appearances. This has lended her an elegance and strength of style that sees her as a reigning pageant queen but has also groomed and protected her through the tougher times. Today, with the help of DFSS, Julie's inner self matches the strength and grace of her outward expression and it's her style to boldly let her voice be heard. To join the Dress for Success Career Hub, a one-stop shop to help you at every stage of your career journey, visit dfscareerhub.org.au
In Episode 3 of Season 11 I chat with Robyn De Szeoke OAM, Deloitte Director and Former Chair of the Board for Dress for Success Sydney. Forever forward-thinking, it's Robyn's fate to forge independent paths for females. Whether it be trough her commitment to family, work or community, Robyn's strength of character is central to her story and drives her independent attitude as well as her individual attire. Not one to follow trends, Robyn prides herself on statement pieces which emulate power, poise and a pursuit of excellence and its her style to always be dressed for success. To join the Dress for Success Career Hub, a one-stop shop to help you at every stage of your career journey, visit dfscareerhub.org.au
In Episode 2 of Season 11 I chat with Marina Guilmant, Learning Designer whose work sits at the intersection of technology, education and creativity. Like many members of the Dress for Success Sydney community, Marina's link to the organisation has gone full circle, taking her from client to volunteer and her style has followed suit. With the support of DFSS Marina finds herself not only reinventing her story but rejuvenating her style, resilient enough to catch up with colour and rebellious enough to occasionally break the rules.
Season 11 launches with a live broadcast of The Style Edit, the fundraising event I hosted and produced in association with DFS Sydney and in celebration of International Women's Day. With the support of over 30 sponsors including Elms Store, Tan Temple and Soraya Tailoring, the Butler venue was jam-packed with warmth, positivity and a generosity of spirit. I had the pleasure of sharing the stage with Leisa Sadler, CEO of DFS Sydney and Naima Ibrahim, one of their beloved clients, who gave their take on the organisation and it's significance to them. Across the sunlit venue, over a beautiful breakfast, we laughed, we cried and of course we shared our style and our stories. A successful event I thoroughly enjoyed being a part of and with this episode I hope you too can sit back, relax and enjoy. To join the Dress for Success Career Hub, a one-stop shop to help you at every stage of your career journey, visit dfscareerhub.org.au
As the world casts its eyes downwards, economically speaking, I want to know how can we look up to fashion? Where in clothing do we understand purpose and what are the stories that give this sentiment power? Season 11 of Style Stories aims to address these questions by delving into some of the soul reaching stories coming from the community of Dress for Success Sydney, the not for profit organisation whose mission is to empower women to achieve economic independence by providing the clothing, confidence and community to help women thrive in work and in life. This series will continue to share stories of creative people with a strong sense of style, but with women who not only understand how we dress serves a purpose to success but are able to circle back to the significant impact clothing can have on confidence and community. I hope you can sit back, relax and enjoy listening to Season 11 of Style Stories.
For episode 6 of Style Stories season 10, we end the season with a bang! In this episode I chat with larger-than-life celebrity chef, Big Sam Young, in his neighbourhood restaurant S'more and I promise you after listening to this interview you will want some more. Forget quiet luxury, Sam is all about luxury in it's largest, loudest forms, whether it comes in the shape of a Burberry suit or a lobster lasagna. Sam might enjoy the finer things in life, but don't be fooled by the Balenciaga hoodies that his got, Sam will never forget where he came from. And while he likes to live life large, the key ingredient to his success is sharing happiness and it's his style to make sure everyone is invited to the table.
In episode 5 of season 10 I chat with Yianna Velos, self-confessed oil magnate, caviar dealer and co-founder of fashionable olive oil brand, Golden Groves Co, which she has created alongside her sister Katianna. Keeping it in the family is central to Yianna with her olive oil hailing from the idyllic Mani Peninsula in Greece, where both her parents were born. And while it may have been in her stars to find a force that forged family with food, it seems fashion was also in her fate. Her beginnings were borne out of a pair of sunglasses and since then Yianna's sense of self has found itself in fashion. Underpinned by pleasure and pride, Yianna does denote a certain decadence, but like her upbringing around food, she is also learning to bring colour, creativity, and community to her sense of style.
In episode 4 of season 10, I chat with Farah Celjo, Managing Editor of SBS Food. Farah believes everything has a story whether it be food or the people that share it. Farah's story stages her from the Maroubra skate park to the SBS subtitling offices but it's from the kitchen she's gleaned her greatest inspiration. As a little girl sitting by her mother's side listening to her stories from Bosnia and beyond, Farah's connection to storytelling through food was always in her fate. And while her sense of style doesn't mind a food print and reflects the curious and colourful combination she's come to know her mother to be, it's her centre stage of sand, sun and surf that give her look that happy hook and sprinkle her story with pure joy.
In episode 3 of season 10, I chat with Anna Ugarte-Carrel, winner of the Good Food Guide 2020 Young Chef of the year award who has helmed the kitchen of the Old Fitzroy and adds notorious restaurants such as Huberts, Momofuku, and 3 Michelin-star Noma to her impressive resume. Anna doesn't mind putting herself in the pressure cooker but takes nothing for granted especially when it comes to storytelling, community and beauty. Like her food her style is simple, tasty and gives us colour in context while always offering a little bit more bite.
In episode 2 of season 10, I chat with Myffy Rigby, Editor of newly launched Swill Magazine and former editor of the Good Food Guides & Time Out Sydney. With this cache of credentials, Myffy comes as a beacon of good taste and as a storyteller at heart not only articulates the lingo of food but confidently speaks to the language of fashion. Like any good story, Myffy's foray into to the world captivates you from the onset and leaves you wanting for more. You'll get adventure, wit, character development and originality as Myffy throws light onto the forces that shaped her style.
What better way to kick off Season 10 than with a live broadcast of the East Sydney Fashion Feast, an event I hosted and produced at Kings Cross' Ezra Restaurant as part of the Eastside Unlocked Festival. With the help of our couture designer darling, Mariam Seddiq, and Sharon Salloum, the lady acclaimed for modernising Middle Eastern food in Australia, the lunch met it's goal of being an elegant afternoon of food, fashion and fun! Together we explored the influence Sharon and Mariam's Middle Eastern and Middle Asian heritages had on their crafts, highlighting the similarities and differences between the food and fashion industries, with an accent on sustainable practices. The guests broke the bread, they shared the wine and they sat back, relaxed and got a taste of both Mariam's and Sharon's stories and I hope you can too.
What's considered to be good taste may lie in the eye of the beholder but at it's heart, there's a deliciousness and depth of flavour that invites us in and begs us to ask for more. I'm Madeleine Park, stylist and vintage fashion hound. I believe everything has a story whether it be clothes or the people that wear them. Last season of Style Stories, I endeavoured to navigate our fashion landscape by understanding how our love for fashion can move forward in ways that also love our land. Naturally, connecting to the stories that sit behind our clothes, from their growers to their makers, helps cultivate a healthier relationship between clothing, culture and country. It seems the food industry has already cottoned on and as consumers we are far more aware of what we put in our bodies that what we put on them. In the following season I want to digest what fashion can learn from food. How can we apply the principles of farm-to-fork to fashion and if we beckon chefs to serve a sense of self on our plates, how does fashion follow suit? That and I love food - cooking it, eating it and the culture that surrounds it. Like fashion, food gives me a platform to bring together art and science and I'm inherently attracted to it's culture of of chaos and control. And done well, gosh it tastes good! So this is Season 10 of Style Stories, a collection of conversations with the fashionable forces in food, who not only bring together beauty and purpose but are able to cook up stories with heart, humour and of course great taste. I hope you can sit back, relax and enjoy taking a bite out of Style Stories Season 10: In Good Taste.
As we come to the end of 2022, I conclude Season 9 of Style Stories with a a message of appreciation for the little things. I will be taking a short break to reflect on some of my more vivid achievements, to dream up what's next, and to re-energise but I look forward to connecting in the new year with more style and stories wrapped in great taste. Thank you for listening this year, I hope it's the little things that make your holiday great and that you can sit back, relax and enjoy.
In episode 6 of season 9 I chat with Anna McLeod, Global Content and Communications Manager at the Woolmark company. Working with wool may have been written in Anna's stars, but it's taken twists of travel and the turns of time to return her to a place that sits at the heart of her story. And while she may have left forward focussed frontiers and fast fashion behind her, she remains serious about style. Whether it be investing in the well-made, treasuring totems of her past, or being passionate about her purpose on the planet, Anna is a marriage of the classic and the considerate and it's her style to simply lay this out in black and white.
In episode 5 of season 9 I chat with Eloise Bishop, former Head of Sustainability for the Country Road Group and David Jones. Eloise may be set to embark on new adventures, however it is clear her passion for care, craft and community has left a firm touch on these iconic Australian fashion institutions. A tactile person, Eloise is passionate about how things feel and whether it's fabrics, farming practices or folk it's her sensibility to marry sustainability with style and ensure everything has a story, whether it be clothes or the people that were them.
In episode 4 of season 9 I chat with Amy Low, Brand and Marketing Director at Piping Hot Australia. While fashion may have been a defining force for generations of her family, culture and community are at the heart of Amy's history. Whether she's supporting sustainable ocean research in line with Piping Hot and Unicef, or working as a Board member for a not-for-profit that provides fashion-focussed employment & training to refugees, Amy carefully applies passion to purpose, and does it with colour and charisma. Her affection for the quote “I'm trendy as f*ck but I don't want the world to blow up” gives us a window into Amy's style and as we sit at Bondi Beach on a sunny afternoon and feel the inherent joy that comes with being by the ocean, Amy shares the joy and meaning that sits with her story.
In episode 3 of season 9 I chat with Jess Nathan, best known for meeting her love match on Australian dating show, Farmer Wants a Wife. While Jess may have once had lofty goals of wanting to be on television, the reality of the spotlight has proven things are not always as they seem. Despite being painted as the heart-breaking city girl, in the light of day Jess is a country girl at heart. And now she is all shacked up with farmer Andrew in rural Delegate, it's her return to the good old country values of being practical, taking only what you need and considering community that have come to define her style.
In episode 2 of season 9 I chat with Rachel Rutt, model, artist and designer of cult knitwear & crochet label, Rutt Australia. While Rachel may be a familiar face, gracing the pages of all the style glossies, fashion hasn't always come naturally. Like her craft her story is an inter-twined web of diverse experiences leading her to a site of substance and style but always circling back to a place that respects and reveres the beauty of nature. Whether she's foraging in a rural commune, weaving on a wool farm or basking in the beauty of the beach, Rachel has mastered the art of knitting the practical with the pleasing and it's her style to do it with colour and free-flowing charm.