Jessica Mauboy still believes in wearing her ‘Sunday best’
By Georgie Gordon
Each week, we quiz a prominent person about their style and the inspiration behind it. Ahead, singer Jessica Mauboy.
“When I’m performing, I love a jumpsuit – something sparkly – with boots, big hair and jewellery.”
How would you describe your style? Elevated, chill and urban.
What’s the oldest thing in your wardrobe? My patent black Alexander McQueen pumps. They’re one of the first expensive items I owned; I wore them for the cover shoot for my debut album, Been Waiting, in 2008. When the stylist said I could take them home, I was in mortified shock. I didn’t
know how to accept things like that; it was a major deal.
And the most recent addition? The GHD Duet Style. We recently had a gathering – a celebration of my eldest sister getting married – in Darwin and we were sharing it around, getting ready, doing each other’s hair.
What’s your fragrance of choice? Chanel “Chance”.
Mauboy covets Tiffany & Co’s “HardWear” sunglasses.
What would you wear …
… on a first date? An off-the-shoulder top with jeans, leather jacket and heels.
… on a plane? Loose Levi’s 501 jeans, a white T-shirt, Lacoste sneakers and my cream Esse trench coat.
… on the red carpet? Custom Toni Maticevski or Mariam Seddiq. I love these two amazing designers, their souls and their spirits. Every time I create something with either of them, it’s an honour and a pleasure.
What’s your favourite fashion era? The 1990s. For me it was all about Janet Jackson: the high-cut midriff tops, the baggy jeans, the hair. I really wanted to be her.
Any special jewellery? The brooch my grandmother wore every Sunday. It’s a gold embroidered flower with pearls. I was given it when she passed and I hold it very dear.
Who are your favourite designers? I’ve created with Toni Maticevski for many of my major career moments and he constantly brings that edge. And Michael Lo Sordo, a dear friend. I just love his spontaneous vibe and his creations. He’s an incredible storyteller.
Can you remember a favourite outfit from when you were a child? Yes, a red-and-white polka-dot tulle skirt and a tee with a koala on the front of it when I was three or four. I never wanted to take it off.
What was your first fashion moment? Australian Idol. Washed-out denim with that Jay Jays top was iconic! Iconic in a warming, funny way because I didn’t know anything about fashion and that was my best dressed.
And your worst fashion mistake? When I was in a girl group, Young Divas, back in the day there were many hairstyling moments, including one when I cut my own fringe. Also, wearing ruched, cut-out tights was a mistake; they looked like shredded sausage casings.
What’s on your wish list? A pair of Tiffany & Co “HardWear” sunglasses.
Mauboy is excited by actor Zendaya’s sense of style.Credit: Edward Berthelot/Getty Images
Is there anything you would never wear? Low-rise jeans.
Is there a current trend you like? A-line skirts. I remember wearing them in the early 2000s.
What shoes do you wear most often? Superga sneakers. And I love a strappy heel for events. I never used to wear them because I hated my feet but I’m getting over that.
Do you have a favourite fashion icon? Zendaya’s style excites me; she’s not afraid to explore different looks. And Jennifer Lopez. I like how she expresses her Latina heritage through ruffles and florals, and I love the hourglass dresses that accentuate her figure.
What do you wear on a typical working day? When I’m just talking music, it’s baggy suit pants, a white tank and a leather blazer with a pointy heel or a chunky sneaker. When I’m performing, I love a jumpsuit – something sparkly – with boots, big hair and jewellery.
What’s your favourite off-duty, casual Sunday look? It’s pretty chic. Growing up, we’d have to put on our best dress to go to church, so I feel like it’s a special day. I still wear my florals and have fun with them. I love the vibrancy of an Aje dress; they bring a lot of spirit and soul.
Jessica Mauboy is the face of the GHD Duet Style Hot Air Style campaign.
Make the most of your health, relationships, fitness and nutrition with our Live Well newsletter. Get it in your inbox every Monday.