Renee Bargh on the unexpected shoes she got ‘hooked on’ during pregnancy
By Georgie Gordon
Each week, we quiz a prominent person about their style and the inspiration behind it. Ahead, television host Renee Bargh.
“Pregnancy has totally changed my perspective on low-waisted jeans.”Credit: Amy Hibbard
How would you describe your personal style? I’m a Byron girl at heart, so my wardrobe is a mix of beachwear and relaxed feminine pieces. My work style is slightly more elevated, but I still take a casual approach for on-screen appearances and red-carpet events.
What’s the oldest thing in your wardrobe? A black Celine handbag – my first designer purchase – that I bought with my first pay cheque from my job on Extra in LA. It’s been a staple ever since.
And the most recent addition? A stretchy Sir dress that works perfectly with my [pregnancy] bump and will be great postpartum, too.
What would you wear on … a first date? Agolde baggy jeans with a nice top, blazer and low heels … on a plane? Nagnata track pants with a singlet, cosy sweater and New Balance sneakers … on the red carpet? A chic, stretchy dress by Paris Georgia or a cool suit by The Frankie Shop.
What’s your favourite fashion era? It’s now – fashion is finally embracing comfort for women.
Do you have a favourite designer? I have so many – Camilla and Marc, Sir, Christopher Esber, Bassike, The Frankie Shop, Alias Mae, Bec & Bridge, Luv Lou.
What’s your fragrance of choice? I’m very sensitive to scent when pregnant but Aesop fragrances like “Rozu” and “Ouranon” are subtle and refreshing.
What are the three essential items in your wardrobe? A pair of Alias Mae slides, a structured oversized blazer or trench coat by Camilla and Marc, and my St Agni “Petite Arc” bag.
Renee Bargh “lives in” these “Sumi” slides from Byron Bay label St Agni.Credit:
Any go-to jewellery? A pair of Sarah & Sebastian diamond studs. I also love By Charlotte earrings and Alemais’ statement pieces.
Can you remember a favourite outfit you wore as a child? My signature look at age five was a silk floral party dress with sandals and frilly socks.
What was your first fashion moment? I’ve had some unforgettable red-carpet moments, including attending the Emmys in Hollywood.
And your worst fashion mistake? When I first moved to LA, around 2010, it was ripped, super-tight jeans paired with lace-up high-heel boots and way too many accessories. I can’t believe I ever thought that look worked!
What’s on your wish list? A delicate gold Sarah & Sebastian soldered bracelet and a chocolate brown St Agni “Bon Bon” bag.
Is there something you would never wear? Crocs were on my “never” list, but I became completely hooked on them during my first pregnancy. Other than that, my tolerance for high heels has disappeared. Thankfully, there are so many beautiful stacked heels and chic kitten heels around.
Is there a current fashion trend that you like? I never thought I’d say this, but pregnancy has totally changed my perspective on low-waisted jeans. They’re the only style I can now wear comfortably, and I love how they highlight a pregnant belly. Agolde has some great low-slung, baggy jeans.
What do you wear to bed? I wish I could say I’m all about fancy silk pyjamas but these days I’m more into comfort. I’ll wear a linen set or a pair of loose shorts with an oversized tee, if anything at all.
What shoes do you wear most often? I live in my St Agni “Sumi” slides; I’m at the stage of pregnancy where lacing up shoes is pretty much impossible.
Who’s your favourite fashion icon? I absolutely love fashion stylist Monikh’s pregnancy looks – she’s the ultimate cool girl. When it comes to red-carpet style and glam, Rosie Huntington-Whiteley and Zendaya always get it right.
What do you wear on a typical working day? Beautiful, elevated pieces by Sir or Camilla and Marc. I’ve always embraced colour for my on-air looks, which has inspired me to incorporate more into my more neutral everyday wardrobe.
What’s your favourite off-duty, casual Sunday look? I’m all about a matching pyjama-style set over a Fella bikini.
Renee Bargh is a friend of David Jones.
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