Model Of The Moment Nicola Is Taking Canberra By Storm

Model of the moment Nicola, is taking Canberra by storm. In between back to back modelling shoots and running her blog, my gal pal spared a few minutes to talk to me in my apartment over a cheese board.

Who are you and where are you from?

I was born on Anzac Day in Darwin in the military! I moved to Canberra when I was 7 years old and started school at Girls Grammar. I lived in 10 houses growing up! I studied Double English in school. I also loved science, if I could do a second degree, I would go into Medicine!

So let’s talk fashion! What does a typical uni outfit look like?

Well I can’t wear jeans and a t-shirt that’s for sure! I need to wear something that’s uniquely me. If I don’t feel comfortable or look like crap then I can’t be efficient or get anything done.

How would you describe your style in general? 
Eccentric! I love mixing old, vintage pieces with new, modern staples. 

Also my colour palette is quite neutral - my favourite colour to wear is tan or camel. I would probably say I hate wearing black but if I’m being completely honest, I always incorporate that into my wardrobe. 

What are your Top 3 items that you can’t live without?

Blazers, shoes and a good jumper. 

Who’s your style icon? 

My Grandma, she’s my biggest influence. Gabby Burns from whoworewhat and Gigi Hadid. 

What’s your favourite accessory?

Watches for sure! I don’t really wear much jewellery but I love my watched and I have so many bands. 

Favourite and worst fashion trend? 

Probably vintage trousers, because I love trousers! 

So you have a blog, how did that start?

Well it’s a funny story! It started as an assignment in Florence when I was studying Communication, Media & Fashion. We had 3 minutes to pull a logo, name and blog page. So I created my blog, now known as Blonde & Co and was sent to Milan Fashion Week to write about it. So I did all this fashion stuff overseas and got back to Canberra and wanted to continue it. I did this really vulnerable video on my Insta stories one time and I didn’t realise I had an effect on people! I had people interacting and engaging with me more than ever before.

How fun! So what can we expect to find on it? 

My outtake on fashion trends, top picks on different seasons, different fashion events, travel and lately I’ve been into skincare. 

What’s your modelling story?

I saw a good friend walk in FASHFEST when I was young and hadn’t finished Year 12. I pretty much threw myself in the deep end and didn’t know what to expect when I gave it a go! I auditioned and cried and told my mum when I got in. After that I joined HAUS Models!  

Favourite model at the moment? 

Gigi Hadid, Steph Claire Smith and Brooke Hogan. 

Favourite designer at the moment? 

Balmain - I love the military look because I had that background growing up. I love Chanel - I’m a classic pearls and tweed jacket kind of girl. Closer to home I love Zara and Seed. Oh and Dior gowns - anything from Paris really! 

Words by Maryanne 

@maryanneirhia

Photography by @wearefoundau