Scarlet speaks frankly (and gives a damn)

Scarlet’s style is fairly classic. She likes things simple, but a little off the beaten track, with minimal embellishments. The blacks, whites and creams she often finds herself wearing complement her usual slim silhouette, although she professes that green and purple are among her favourite colours.

But there’s a whiff of seventies; an eighties vibe. Scarlet says she inherited her enjoyment of vintage things from her mum, who has filled her house (and Scarlet’s former bedroom, much to her dismay) with eBay bargains.

Princess quizzes Scarlet about her outfit:

What were your first thoughts when you were getting dressed today?
I wanted comfort; something free-flowing – in case I had a big lunch! Then I wouldn’t have to worry.

Did the weather forecast influence you?
It was a funny Melbourne day, about 20°. I hadn’t worn that top for a long time, and because it’s polyester and doesn’t breathe, it keeps me warm.

How long did it take you to put it together?
About two seconds!

Tell me more about that top. It has a great print.
It’s a vintage seventies tunic, which I bought from an op-shop for $4. It’s a bit big for me, so needs to be cinched. Today I used this new eighties belt – also second-hand – made of grey, woven elastic. It has a lion’s head for a buckle.

And the jeans?
I love skinny jeans! I always buy them from Sportsgirl. These ones are high-waisted. I have bought about five pairs over the years, because they are a perfect fit on my body type.

You have a magpie’s collection of jewellery there, and that watch has a beautiful turquoise face. Tell me about the pieces.
My rose ring is new, from Diva. It’s a bit big, but I loved it! The necklace was a recent birthday present. It’s a sterling silver dove on a chain by Allan Ryerson from Body. I had my eye on it for a while, but then my friend Georgie surprised me with it. I absolutely adore it! One of the bangles is a sentimental hand-me-down, and the other is Tiffany & Co, a present from my mum; so were the earrings. The watch is DKNY, and was a 21st birthday present.

You're decked out in presents! I can see the sunglasses are by Bollé. Where are the shoes from?
Yes, the sunnies are vintage and belonged to my mother in the eighties. The ballet flats are from Payless!

Well… lesson learned: girls, don’t ever write off your mum’s – or other people's mums' – wardrobes. Thanks Scarlet!