High-top Converse, wide-leg jeans: Inside a ballerina’s wardrobe

What’s your fragrance of choice? Calvin Klein “Eternity”.

What are three essential items in your wardrobe? A big, colourful knitted cardigan to curl up and read in, a beanie to hide my hair that’s still full of product after a show, and big black Dr Martens boots to feel tall and powerful.

“It’s only now, at 21, that I feel like I can express myself through clothes that reflect me.”

Any go-to jewellery? A Mimco necklace with an “L” from my sister. I never take it off; it was a huge comfort to me when we lived on opposite sides of the country.

Can you remember a favourite outfit from when you were a child? A multicoloured dress that I aptly named “The colours and the flowers” when I was three. I loved the way it moved when I danced; it gave me so much confidence and made me feel so happy.

And your worst fashion mistake? There were many questionable outfits when I changed high schools and no longer had to wear a uniform. I wore a lot of fast fashion. It’s only now, at 21, that I feel like I can express myself through clothes that reflect me.

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Is there anything you would never wear? The thought of fur makes me uncomfortable. Also, sandals and any shoes that my not-very-pretty ballerina feet are exposed in.

Is there a current trend you like? I love the way consumers and brands are striving for more ethical and sustainable fashion choices.

What’s at the top of your wish list? A pair of brown or burgundy embroidered cowboy-style boots.

What shoes do you wear most often? High-top Converse “Run Star Motion” sneakers; they’re so comfortable and they boost my height!

Who’s your favourite fashion icon? I love the entire vibe and aesthetic of the French film Amélie, including everything Audrey Tautou wears in it. Also, Sloane Peterson’s soft, cool, ’80s cowgirl look – the western jacket, the big shorts – in Ferris Bueller’s Day Off.

What do you wear on a typical working day? A fun leotard, ballet tights and men’s gym shorts. I’ll swap them out for a wrap skirt or tutu and pointe shoes as my day progresses.

What’s your favourite off-duty, casual Sunday look? I’m usually exhausted under my doona in a hoodie, recovering from the week.

Lilla Harvey is a nominee in the Telstra Ballet Dancer Awards; telstra.com/ballet.

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