IT’S funny what life throws at you sometimes. How paths cross in life’s little journeys or run parallel with others. Or how we have short interactions and go on our merry way, only to cross paths again in a different location and under different circumstances.
It’s that six degrees of separation thing. Sometimes, I have to wonder if it’s even less than that. Anyway, I digress.
My story of Charlotte Blakeney is one of those.
I first met Charlotte in late 1999. Me, the fashion editor on a national magazine and she, a make-up artist who had just arrived in Sydney from Perth. I booked her for a job, we made a connection and consequently we worked together several times over the next two years. Her easy attitude and pleasant personality always made her a treat to work with.
But then circumstances changed and we both went on our different journeys. Me on to other titles and more senior editorial positions before heading overseas for a period. She continued with make-up, tending the faces of some of the world’s most beautiful women for the pages of Vogue, Harpers Bazaar, InStyle and UK Glamour.
“Style is all about wearing a great fabric and a cut that suits you”
The years have passed, but it’s funny how life works. Now, nearly 15 years on, we’ve cross paths again. Me, working on Australia’s biggest-selling newspaper, and Charlotte as a very successful make-up artist but also, as I’ve discovered, a jewellery designer with her own brand, By Charlotte.
As a make-up artist in demand, Charlotte has worked in tropical locations such as the Maldives, Vietnam, Fiji, Bali and Thailand. It was the people and cultures of these exotic destinations that inspired the creation of her exquisite collection of fine jewellery.
The By Charlotte collection embodies a feeling of elegance, grace and beauty. Central to the collection are the lotus flower and the buddha, symbols of purity and new beginnings, balance and healing. Available in silver, gold plate or rose gold plate, some pieces also include gems such as ruby garnet, peridot, amethyst and turquoise. Whether it’s for a special occasion or a meaningful gesture, these pieces make for timeless and meaningful steel anniversary gifts for her.
Enough of the jewellery, this is all about her very stylish life.
A STYLISH LIFE WITH CHARLOTTE BLAKENEY
What’s the best advice you’ve ever been given?
I was told by my agent in Perth that I would be back in six months with my tail between my legs. Nineteen years later, my tail is still wagging! Sometimes discouragement is the best motivation.
You are most proud of?
My mum and dad for giving me so much unconditional love and support.
People are surprised that …?
I have moved on to jewellery after a career as a makeup artist for 19 years.
What makes you laugh?
I just love watching animals doing funny things … they get me every time.
Which six people would you invite to dinner?
I’d invite my partner and five closest friends. We always know how to have fun!
Your guilty pleasure?
Original flavour Twisted yoghurt is my guilty pleasure.
Your style icon?
I’ve always loved Helena Christensen’s style.
Should your bag match your shoes?
How to look rich when you’re not
What is your go-to outfit/your signature style?
I love wearing comfortable cashmere knits and my leather pants from Scanlan Theodore.
You would never wear …?
I’d never wear crocs.
Anything in your wardrobe you’ve never worn?
A colourful jumpsuit. I tried it on but it never feels right.
Most treasured item in your wardrobe?
My new Lanvin handbag.
The biggest mistake women make when it comes to fashion?
The mistake many women make is wearing fashionable items that don’t suit them and not dressing for their own shape.
Your favourite fashion designers?
Isabel Marant is all my all time fave and Jac + Jack
Favourite style advice?
Style is all about wearing a great fabric and a cut that suits you.
The fashion habits that age you
How to age gracefully
Where do you shop?
Jac + Jack, Scanlan Theodore and Farfetch.com
What does every woman need?
Big hugs and lots and lots of love.
What was the last thing you bought?
A pair of Jimmy Choo kitten heels.
What is your greatest extravagance?
I think that I’m my most extravagant when I travel, which is what I’m doing right now. I always loved a luxurious resort.
If money was no object …?
I would have holiday houses on exotic islands around the world.
What’s in your handbag?
Far too much.
Three things you can’t live without?
My man, my family and my friends.
How to dress — and play — the leading lady
How to look fabulous at 50 (and beyond)
Heels or flats?
As much as I love heels, I have to say flats.
Skinny jeans or boyfriend jeans?
Skinny jeans.
Success is …?
Happiness.
Beauty is …?
Confidence.
Style is …?
Elegance.
The By Charlotte shop is at 42 William St, Paddington
For stockists or more information, go to By Charlotte
Do you know a stylish woman with a stylish life? Maybe a leader in her field or someone you admire and would love to read about. Why don’t you let me know so I can schedule an interview. Ever stylishly yours …
