This fashion designer’s favourite shoes are probably in your wardrobe

This story is part of the May 4 edition of Sunday Life. See all 13 stories . Each week, we quiz a prominent person about their style and the inspiration behind it.

Ahead, designer Alix Higgins. Alix Higgins’ fondest fashion memories were the years 2008-2014, including the last years of John Galliano at Dior. Credit: Louie Douvis How would you describe your personal style? Confused but confident.



What’s the oldest thing in your wardrobe? Some hand-me-down “Bugz Ice Pops” T-shirts from my dad. A lot of my wardrobe is vintage and second-hand. I’m constantly hunting for pre-loved garments to upcycle for my brand and end up shopping for myself.

I also shop on The RealReal for vintage designer pieces, such as Prada skirts from the late 2000s. And the most recent addition? A green JW Anderson feather boa. What would you wear .

.. on a first date? A miniskirt with a big collared shirt and comfortable shoes, such as sneakers, in case we go dancing.

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on a plane? A T-shirt from my own label with tracksuit pants, a hoodie, big headphones, an eye mask and slip-on sandals. ..

. on the red carpet? I’d make a big gown out of T-shirts and wear it with a little kitten heel. What’s your favourite fashion era? The years 2008-2014, when I was a teenager and discovering fashion.

Prada, and its iconic prints from that time, was some of the best fashion ever. It was also the last few years of John Galliano at Dior – his showmanship, the characters, the history; it was so rich and romantic. And then Raf Simons came in, and I loved how modern and simple it was.

In my brand and my personal style, I go between these two things – crazy vintage, then minimal and precise. Who are your favourite designers? Miuccia Prada is important to me. Also, Nicolas Ghesquière, JW Anderson and I love what Australian designer Jordan Dalah is doing.

What’s your fragrance of choice? Loewe “001 Man” and Byredo “Eyes Closed”. What are the three essential items in your wardrobe? My black R.M.

Williams boots – they’re dressy but a bit cowboy – long Uniqlo socks, and I’m obsessed with Balenciaga earrings, particularly the oversized silver styles with crystals and coloured stones..