Wardrobe confessions: Accessories are more fun than clothes

Department of Conservation community relations manager Marian van der Goes opens up to Ellie Constantine.

How would you describe your style?
Pretty conservative.

I do like tailored clothes, although I occasionally splash out with something bright.

Has it evolved over the years?
Like most women, my wardrobe has changed when I've had lifestyle changes.

I had many more casual clothes when we had our own business set in a remote part of New Zealand.

Now I have more business clothes.

I've also moved from being seriously concerned about "this year's look" in my 20s to being unconcerned about what is "now".

When platform shoes came around for the second time in my clothes-conscious life,

I was easily able to decide that I didn't need to go there again.

Describe your wardrobe?
Greatly in need of some clean out or rationalisation.

I have tried but there is just too much which just might come in handy (a friend calls this the archives) or that I can't bear to part with for some other reason.

Whose style do you like or look up to?
I don't really know.

Who are your current favourite designers?
I have two ageing garments by Mild Red which I love.

They are quirky, different, both are asymmetrical, made of quality fabric, and from Dunedin.

What is your favourite - clothing?
My most comfy are a pair of Jean Jones trousers that just seem never to wear out.

Too bad their shop in Dunedin has closed.

Shoes?
Now that's hard, I couldn't pick a single pair but I do like coloured shoes.

Accessory?
That's harder still.

I have two drawers full of scarves The first was given to me in my teens, and I still wear it.

I would far rather buy accessories than clothes, none of that trying on in enclosed spaces to worry about.

What was the last item of clothing you bought?
A summer shirt at Frenz in Stuart St, Dunedin.

What has been your best fashion bargain?
A green leather jacket, bought 10 years ago.

It has been worn so much, travelled around NZ and overseas and still looks good.

What has been your biggest fashion mistake?
A dress bought for a summer wedding last year.

The colour was great but I suspect it would have looked way better on someone 10 years younger.

A fashion tip?
Better to buy less but of good quality.

It will be useful for your clothes' archives, especially if it is plain and can be dressed up with accessories.

A beauty tip?
I'm absolutely not qualified in this area.

What would you buy if money was not an option?
Outrageously expensive shoes.