The dream purchase soprano Danielle de Niese finds ‘hard to justify'
Each week, we quiz a prominent person about their style and the inspiration behind it. Ahead, opera singer Danielle de Niese.
How would you describe your style? Diva glam.
What's the oldest thing in your wardrobe? A white blouse given to me by Donna Karan. I wore it on the cover of my debut album, Handel Arias, in 2007.
And the most recent addition? A white leather Gucci belt with the classic gold GG buckle.
What would you wear… … on a first date? On my first date with my husband I wore jeans, a white lace shirt that had a train at the back and high heels with a pearl ankle strap. … on a plane? Black trousers, a shirt, jumper, big scarf and my Brooks tennis shoes. … on the red carpet? I've worked with some amazing designers: Marchesa, Temperley, Vivienne Westwood; a favourite is a fuchsia corseted gown that Vivienne made for me. And I wear Christian Louboutin 'Nude' heels for darker skin.
What's your favourite fashion era? I love the art deco period. When I did The Merry Widow here in Australia in 2017, I was in seventh heaven in all the 1920s gowns. The art deco era has style, sleek lines and feminine silhouettes without being that corseted, 'poofy' bottom period.
Who's your favourite designer? I love Vivienne Westwood so much, her blend of edgy, rock 'n' roll and feminine. It sums up my style: I like things to be strong, fun and make a statement but also be
feminine – and feminine doesn't always mean soft.
What's your fragrance of choice? I wear Lolita Lempicka.
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