We sat down with SO Stylist, Isabelle and chatted all things style, travel and Brisbane.
A true people person, Isabelle loves to form connections through fashion and to enhance a woman’s confidence through a beautifully styled outfit.
Read on to learn more about Isabelle’s fashion must-haves, her background as a model and artist and where she can’t wait to travel next…
How long have you been with Samantha Ogilvie?
I started as a stylist with Samantha Ogilvie in June 2021.
Why do you love what you do?
At Samantha Ogilvie, we are fortunate to work with a beautiful array of brands. It is lovely to be able to style such special pieces on women that make them feel great about themselves and what they are wearing. I also love wearing the brands we stock myself and feel so proud to be able to offer product that is beautiful and different.
Tell us about your background and what brought you to Samantha Ogilvie?
I was a full-time model from when I finished school in Toowoomba until a few years ago. I was actually living in London before returning to Brisbane in 2017 to pursue my landscape, oil painting and study an honours degree in arts and design.
I have always loved fashion and people so put the two together and Samantha Ogilvie was a great fit! I have a very detailed eye so I really value working with fashion that has a point of difference.
Images: Isabelle's time modelling in London
What has been your proudest or favourite moment at Samantha Ogilvie?
It would have to be when I was able to make someone’s day. Recently, I was able to assist a client in store with selecting a few new pieces for her wardrobe. The overall experience was honestly so beautiful and since then we have been able to keep in contact about new arrivals and styles that I think she would love.
I love people and when you really connect with them and form friendships it feels so good.
What do you think are this season’s essential items or trends?
I am loving the textured linen styles from Silvia Tcherassi. I think they are so beautiful! It is an elevated fabric and the colour tone gives a warm earthiness. Perfect to pair back with a strappy sandal and statement gold earring.
Silvia Tcherassi top & skirt Lizzie Fortunato earrings Loeffler Randall heels
What is something you can never get enough of?
I do love a beautifully patterned long dress from Agua by Agua Bendita, Silvia Tcherassi or Emporio Sirenuse. I think they are just fool-proof, trans-seasonal pieces to have in the wardrobe and offer so many styling options. I add a thin, leather belt and mix up my accessories to create fresh looks.
Image: Isabelle wearing Emporio Sirenuse Bella Coptic Dancer Dress
What is the hardest-working piece in your own wardrobe?
My accessories! In particular, my Valentino sandals that are in constant rotation and my gold jewellery that I love to layer and wear every day. Also, a handbag! I never leave the house without a handbag.
What item in your own wardrobe is most special to you, and why?
I’d have to select two items from my jewellery collection. My Cartier watch because I just love it and my pear-diamond pinky ring. I had been dreaming of this ring since I was a little girl and I feel so lucky to be able to wear it now.
What’s inspiring you at the moment?
Home interiors - I am very into textures and how items are presented within a home. I have been so inspired by floristry, beautiful glassware and even different coloured candles.
Looking to fashion, I am really into Agua by Agua Bendita dresses. I think they give the perfect Summer, festive vibe and are very romantic and feminine.
Image: Isabelle wearing Agua by Agua Bendita Calatea Dress
What are your favourite brands at SO?
Agua by Agua Bendita
Silvia Tcherassi
Emporio Sirenuse
Yvonne Leon
Image: Isabelle wearing Yvonne Leon jewellery
Who are your style influences?
My personal style is influenced by classic European style icons – I love an off-shoulder silhouette and to finish my make-up with a swipe of winged eyeliner.
In art, my favourite artist is Brett Whitely.
Images: Brett Whitely artworks
What do you love to do in your me-time?
Playing with my dog, Oscy (A.K.A Mr Oddles) is such special time for me! Then, if I am not working on my oil paintings, I love to go for a walk or swim or indulge in a little beauty appointment.
Image: Isabelle Falconer oil painting
Favourite Instagram accounts?
@saraloura
@mercimaison
@_propheta_
@joshuayeldham
@brettwhitelystudio
@ahhtash
Favourite travel destination?
My all-time favourite trip was to Saint Moritz in Switzerland – it was so magical. I took a train from Zurich to Saint Moritz and it felt like a fairy-tale. I spent the whole time in awe of how pretty the scenery was just thinking “how is this real”!
Images: Highlights from Isabelle's European Travels
Anywhere on your travel wishlist?
I would like to explore more of Northern Italy – Lake Como and Lake Maggiore. They emulate the pure beauty that our world has to offer from the history to the people and even the food.
Also, a visit to Japan is high on my travel wishlist! I would love the attention to detail and the amazing food – definitely my vibe.
Favourite places to eat and drink I Brisbane, and what do your order?
Sushi Room at The Calile hotel. You need to get the Wagyu and Foie Gras Sushi Roll – it is delicious. Also, the Otoro Futomaki Sushi Roll and Spicy Tuna Crispy Rice are amazing. Top it off with a little Yuzu cocktail and you are going to have a great night.
Image: @sushi__room
For a beautiful New York vibe, I can’t go past SK Steak & Oyster. Dining at SK is a luxurious experience, and makes you feel like you could be anywhere in the world. The food and ambience are phenomenal. Get the Sweet Corn Agnolotti – you will not regret it.
Image: @sk.steakandoyster
Favourite place to spend a day off?
If I have the time, I will head down to Kingscliff with my dog Oscy and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere of that part of the world. Oscy loves to go for a beach run and chase the birds!
The best thing about working in the James Street precinct?
The people. I have met so many wonderful people and think that the sense of community within the James Street precinct is very special.
Plus, the location is so close to everything and there is always something exciting happening in the area.
The best thing about living in Brisbane?
Returning from London was a huge lifestyle change. I didn’t know how I would feel about living outside of a big, International city but I love being back in Brisbane. I think that the whole dynamic of Brisbane has shifted and places such as The Calile Hotel have elevated the city to being more of a destination.
Brisbane has so many amazing restaurants and stores and I adore visiting GOMA and the Queensland Art Gallery. Plus, Fish Lane and Howard Smith Wharves are perfect areas for getting out and exploring the variety that the city has to offer.
Brisbane is always compared to Sydney and Melbourne but I think it has a really nice feel here. I am lucky to live in Newstead, where there is a lot going on. I can walk everywhere with my dog and there are so many new little nooks – cafes and bars are popping up constantly!
A must-do for those visiting Brisbane?
Come to James Street and head straight to Samantha Ogilvie! Then go for a walk and experience the cafes, bars, and restaurants that the area has to offer.
