Wardrobe Confessions: Kaylene Holland

John Ward
John Ward
Kaylene Holland, the PHO manager for the Otago Southern Region, is usually seen around Balclutha in sophisticated business suits. But what other treasures are hiding in her wardrobe? Lea Jones takes a look.

How would you describe your style?
Simple, plain, mostly black, no frills and definitely no florals or patterns anywhere near my face.

Has it evolved over the years?
Yes it has become more formal as my career has become more professional and as I have become more aware of what I enjoy wearing.

Describe your wardrobe.
Black, black and more black clothing, 27 pairs of shoes, six pairs of boots, a bulky fire brigade uniform (one pair of the boots go with the uniform) and my gun belt (steel cartridges, of course).

Whose style do you like or look up to?
Paula Ryan and Suzanne Paul always look very chic, stylish and never seem to age.

Who are your current favourite designers?
To be really honest I am a bit of an eclectic shopper and not really up with who's who in the fashion designer world.

However, earlier this year I bought a lovely, long-line, fine merino (black) cardigan at a stall at the Women's Expo in Balclutha.

I can't recall the ladies' names sorry, but their label is Le Bev and I think they were from Cromwell.

What is your favourite item of clothing?
Quite honestly I couldn't be without my flannelette pajamas.

But for out and about in public it would have to be the cardigan described above.

Shoes - Black, knee-length boots. Accessory - Silver and black dangly earrings.

What was the last item of clothing you bought?
A one-piece evening pant suit outfit with an attached flowing overtop.

I bought it recently while holidaying in Mt Tamborine (Qld).

What has been your best fashion bargain?
I have a lovely pink winter coat which I purchased second-hand for $70 from Refind Rig a couple of years ago. It has fancy lining, has weathered two winters and often draws comments.

What has been your biggest fashion mistake?
Several years ago while on a cruise around the Pacific Islands I thought it would be a great idea to get my hair braided and beaded.

The moral of the story is that what looks good on the island should stay on the island.

A fashion tip?
Say no to G strings - they are very uncool and so last century. Alternatives are (a) learn to cope with having a visible panty line or (b) go commando.

A beauty tip?
Have regular professional pedicures.

Your feet will love you for it and they will look great in strappy summer footwear.

What would you buy if money were no object?
A canary yellow V10 Dodge Ram pickup truck would go with just about everything in my wardrobe. Although I might also need a black one, just in case.

 

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