Having studied how and why people dress the way they do, University of Otago researcher Shelagh Ferguson found the shoe was on the other foot when she let Lea Jones study the contents of her wardrobe.
My research into other people's wardrobes has made me realise that I have a very muddied sense of style. It has been very inspiring to see how others put outfits together. Some of my informants put together outfits that I would never have thought would work and they just looked stunning, so that has encouraged me to be a bit more unconventional and try a few combinations that I would not have previously considered.
Has it evolved over the years?
Another aspect that has come across very strongly in my research is how people work out what suits them, and this obviously takes a little while!
When you look back at photos of yourself, I am sure I'm not alone in cringing at the '80s fluorescent craze and big hair and other such crimes against fashion, but we thought we were the height of fashion at the time. So, yes, my style has changed over time and my current goal is to look back at photos in 10 years' time and not cringe.
Describe your wardrobe.
Interestingly, most university student surveys indicate the students don't care what their lecturers wear as long as they are interesting. So there is no expectation from students for lecturers to be smart but I do find that I wear more formal clothes when teaching and hence a large chunk of my wardrobe comprises dresses with merinos underneath, and boots.
Whose style do you like or look up to?
Not so much a person, more an era: I just love the tailored suits of the 1930s and '40s with long skirts and fitted peplum jackets. They just look so stylish. I also love the male fashions of that era, particularly the hats. Oh, to have more men in hats!
Who are your favourite designers?
I really adore the clean lines and good-quality material of Marc Jacobs clothes. Also a big fan of Dunedin designer Charmaine Reveley.
What is your favourite item of clothing?
If I had to pick an item I wear every day: the flannelette jimjams win every time, matched stylishly with Ugg boots.
What was the last clothing item you bought?
A friend recommended the make Paper Denim and Cloth Jeans. I found a pair online and they are my favourite jeans by far. It is amazing what a well-cut pair of jeans can do for your self-confidence.
What has been your biggest fashion mistake?
The challenge is to think of only one. I do remember a very bright multicolour fleece that would have given Joseph a run for his money in the ''coat of many colours'' stakes.
A fashion tip?
Always wear clothes you feel comfortable in, as nothing seems to make a person look more uneasy than the constant readjustment of their clothes.
What would you buy if money was no issue?
More stylish gumboots. I have Red Bands and sailing gumboots. I really need more style in my gumboot wardrobe.
