In this series, I’ll be delving into the wardrobes and personal styles of Canberran women to see what drives their fashion sense and find out their styling and shopping secrets.

Last week I was invited into the home of popular Canberran designer Vicky Kidd-Gallichan, the brains and nimble fingers behind Wedding Couture label Rockstars and Royalty. Having met Vicky at a number of events around town, and being in awe of her elaborate 50’s updo’s and glamorous styling, I had a feeling that her wardrobe would be quite fabulous.

Vicky greeted me at the door in her off duty style – jeans and a leopard print cardigan and her gorgeous pink hair down – having come straight from working in her studio. While this is Vicky’s casual alter ego, this is a devoted 50’s girl, and her wardrobe is filled with piece after piece of brightly coloured, printed, or black fit and flare dresses. The designer says that her motto in fashion is ‘red, polka dots or black’. She doesn’t believe in being boring or the concept of being overdressed, and (save perhaps a trip to the supermarket) always goes glam with her outfits. The key to Vicky’s style is definitely the way that she accessorises. She loves her sequined pumps, flower fascinators (she owns a box full of them) and Swarovski jewellery.

One thing that struck me about Vicky is that she is so confident in her personal style, and knows exactly what she likes. She is not swayed by trends or fads, and in this way, reminds me of fellow British designer, Vivienne Westwood, who is also known for her dramatic gowns. When shopping for new clothes, Vicky buys only what fits into her own style, and not what would fit into a current trend. In this way, Vicky has maintained a strongly identifiable personal image, and is recognised everywhere she goes.

Like many modern fashionistas, Vicky purchases more than 50% of her clothes online, where she can access independent designers that aren’t available locally. The designer’s an astute bargain hunter, especially when it comes to eBay, having nabbed fabulous dresses for under $15 that look 10 times that price. Vicky also does not hesitate to splash out for a beautiful gown or perfect vintage animal print coat. She has an impressive collection of vintage 50’s coats and jewellery, which she picked up in vintage markets in Britain and Australia.

On how being a mother of a three year old has changed her style, Vicky says that she favours comfort more than ever. While she still loves her sky high ‘Spice Girl’ platforms which she practically lived in back in Britain, Vicky’s typical everyday outfit is a printed dress, Alannah Hill accessories and ballet flats.

Rock Stars and Royalty will be parading at FASHFEST on 1-4 May. On her collection, Vicky revealed that there will be more colour than ever, with teal, gold and flower embellishments. As always, there will be lots of glitz and glamour. Vicky’s show will be on Wednesday 1 May. Buy your tickets before they sell out at www.fashfest.com.au.

Vicky’s studio, where she fits, creates and showcases her designs.

Vicky holds shoes from Betts and handmade bow shoe clips

From left to right: Vintage leopard print cape; vintage feather purse; Swarovski star motif ring; Peep Toe purple velvet pumps.