Do you have a favourite designer? My career began in 1980s London; Katharine Hamnett was the designer who influenced me the most, she pioneered the streetwear and workwear that still dominates fashion today. I also loved Paul Smith, Nicole Farhi and Joseph Ettedgui. These days I’m comfortable with accessible brands like Assembly Label and Academy Brand, I see in them the simplicity I’ve always admired.

What’s your fragrance of choice? ”Papyrus Moléculaire” by Maison Crivelli. I also like Byredo’s “Gypsy Water” and “Desert Dawn”.

What are the three essential items in your wardrobe? Black Uniqlo T-shirts, baseballs caps and trainers are the basics I build with every day.

Any go-to jewellery? Two silver rings including my Georg Jensen wedding ring, a silver ID bracelet and a tiny platinum ear stud.

Can you remember a favourite outfit you wore as a child? My brother and I both had Batman suits; I wanted to be Robin but instead we were Batman and Batman.

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What was your first fashion moment? As a young PR intern, I attended John Galliano’s Les Incroyables graduation show in London in 1984. It was a truly “incroyable” time to be working in fashion!

And your worst fashion mistake? My very tight black pleather pants were probably always an accident waiting to happen. Sadly, I was about 35 when I wore them.

What’s at the top of your wishlist? I’m at a stage when I don’t really covet anything, but a classic black cashmere coat wouldn’t go amiss. Mr Armani must have one.

Is there something you would never wear? Crocs, anything with big logos, cropped tops.

Is there a current trend you like? I love that we’re wearing wide-legged trousers again.

What do you wear to bed? Tattoos.

What shoes do you wear the most often? New Balance, Adidas and Nike trainers, Birkenstocks, Blundstone boots and Tevas.

Do you have a favourite fashion icon? So many. Cate Blanchett rarely gets it wrong, ditto Tilda Swinton. I also like Harry Styles, Jude Law and Jonathan Bailey. King Charles has always been impeccably dressed and I admire the work of British fashion stylist Luke Day.

What do you wear on a typical working day? There’s no such thing. I dress for the demands of the job whether it’s on or off camera.

What’s your favourite off-duty, casual Sunday look? A T-shirt, linen shorts and Birkenstocks.

Neale Whitaker’s homewares collection for Gro Urban Oasis is available from gro-urbanoasis.com.au

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