‘I wear the knock-off’: TV host Mel Tracina’s budget fashion and beauty finds

‘I wear the knock-off’: TV host Mel Tracina’s budget fashion and beauty finds

What’s your fragrance of choice? I love perfume; I’ve come a long way from wearing Impulse. Hermès’ “Un Jardin Sur La Lagune” is my favourite. I’ve recently discovered Palermo, so now I’m wearing the knock-off version.

Tracina loves Area NYC for its embellished basics.

Any go-to jewellery? I’m not spending big money on jewellery. I’m going to Colette, Lovisa and Harlow & Co and getting statement earrings and cool pieces that I can chop and swap with my outfits.

Can you remember a favourite outfit from when you were a child? Yes, it was a cute little dress in rose print that flared out at the waist when I was about five.

What was your first fashion moment? Attending the AACTA Awards this year. It was the first time I’d worn a designer dress that was custom-made for me: a plum, off-the-shoulder gown with a corset top by Cappellazzo Couture. I felt so special, I couldn’t breathe, but I didn’t care.

And your worst fashion mistake? Y2K fashion was not for me; there were ample mistakes made, such as wearing skirts over pants, and low-rise hipster pants.

What’s on your wish list? A pretty handbag, like the Dolce & Gabbana “Devotion” bag.

Is there something you’d never wear? Low-rise jeans look great on other people, but they don’t suit my body.

Is there a current trend you like? I love a tonal outfit, pyjama-style sets, oversized blazers and a white shirt. Now that I’m older I can trust myself to go a whole day without spilling food on a white shirt.

What do you sleep in? Cachia cotton pyjamas.

Loading

What shoes do you wear most often? I rotate three pairs of Adidas “Gazelle” sneakers in black, pink and tan.

Who’s your favourite fashion icon? Fran Drescher from The Nanny.

What do you wear on a typical working day? For Big Brother we’re going for “classy girl boss”. I’m wearing Aussie labels such as Effie Kats, Bec + Bridge, Meshki and Nookie.

What’s your favourite off-duty, casual Sunday look? I’ll be at home in an old tracksuit and slippers watching something trashy on TV.

Mel Tracina is the host of Big Brother on Channel 10.

Get the best of Sunday Life magazine delivered to your inbox every Sunday morning. Sign up here for our free newsletter.