We sat down with SO Stylist Marnie and chatted fashion, growing up in the country and the best way to spend a day in Brisbane. Read on to learn more…

 

How long have you been with Samantha Ogilvie?

I have been with Samantha Ogilvie since the start of February 2022, so coming up to one year which is exciting.

 

 

Why do you love what you do?

I am a little bit obsessed with creating outfits. I really enjoy styling a complete outfit for somebody and gaining an understanding of their personal style. It’s a lot of fun to explore styling that is different to my own and to delve into the wonderful variety of colour and styles that we offer at Samantha Ogilvie.

 

 

A bit about your background and what brought you to Samantha Ogilvie?

I am from a small country town in NSW called Moree but went away for school before moving to Brisbane. At heart, I am a bit of a country girl and into my horses but I have always had a passion for style and creating outfits. When I came to Brisbane, working at Samantha Ogilvie was the perfect opportunity and place for me.

 

 

What has been your favourite moment at Samantha Ogilvie?

Styling a mother and daughter in outfits for a wedding shortly after I started at SO. Both women were so lovely and open to trying styles that they may not have usually chosen for themselves. They were amazed that they were able to walk out of the store feeling so confident with their new pieces and it was very special to be able to assist them.

 

 

What do you think are this season’s must-have styles?

For Summer, I love a short sleeve shirt and short set. They are so cute - especially with a boxy shirt silhouette and bright, fun fabric. I have a few on rotation at the moment…

 

 

Which upcoming collection are you excited for?

ALÉMAIS – they kill it every time.

 

 

What is something you can never get enough of?

I love oversized blouses with a big sleeve that can be worn off the shoulder. It is a style that ALÉMAIS and Lug von Siga do really well. Perfect to wear slouchy and style with denim shorts or a great jean.

 

 

What is the hardest-working piece in your own wardrobe?

I always find myself reaching for an oversized, lightweight blouse.

Also, I love my sandals and they get so much wear through the warmer months. I have my eyes on the Loeffler Randall Blaise Sandals for a ‘Dad Sandal’ update this season.

 

 

What item in your own wardrobe is most special to you, and why?

A tan, braided leather belt made by my dad.

My dad does a lot of leatherwork and braids beautiful belts. I am in awe of how he creates them! Every time I visit home he will have a different colour belt made for me. The craftsmanship is incredible and I love every piece but this one is extra special because it was the first one he gifted me.

 

 

What is inspiring you at the moment? 

The street style from recent fashion weeks has been really inspiring my style. I have loved seeing the baggy, wide leg jeans worn with flat shoes. I channel this look with my FRAME Le Baggy Palazzo jeans styled with a sandal. There is a lot of creativity in fashion at the moment and people are enjoying getting dressed up again.  

 

What are your favourite brands at SO?

FRAME for jeans.
Agua by Agua Bendita is my absolute go-to.
Sea – I love their use of frills.

 

Who are your style influences?

First and foremost, my mum. She has a very classic look and wears a lot of effortless shirting, blue and white tones and freshly ironed cotton and linen fabrics. Growing up, my mum’s style shaped how I thought about “what do I like to wear” and “how do I like to dress” and I find it still influences me today.  

Matilda Djerf is a Scandinavian influencer and designer that I follow on Instagram. Whenever she posts an outfit, I think to myself - “I need it”. Her style reflects how I like to dress.

I also must mention Ralph Lauren. I just watched their most recent runway show and every piece was beautiful. Working for Ralph Lauren really influenced how my personal style developed and taught me so much about the world of fashion.

 

What do you love to do in your me-time?

For a self-care day, my first stop is reformer Pilates at Total Fusion followed by a visit to my cousin and her baby (my god-daughter) or a catch up with friends over coffee.

 

Favourite Instagram account?

@matildadjerf

 

Favourite travel destination? 

Fiji.

I visited with my family and we did so many amazing things. The weather was perfect and the people are amazing. I would love to go back and enjoy it again.

 

Anywhere on your travel wishlist…?

The south of France and Monaco - that part of the world looks so beautiful.  

 

Favourite Brisbane restaurants/café/bars, and what do your order?

My best friend works at a little café near my house so that is my go-to for a piccolo coffee.

For my ultimate Brisbane restaurant, I can’t go past Hellenika. As soon as my friends decide to go out for dinner, we say “let’s go to Hellenika”.  We start with the zucchini chips followed by the classic lamb with olives and octopus.

For a nice, relaxed vibe the Boatshed at the Regatta is a favourite.

@hellenika

Favourite place to spend a day off?

If I have a little bit of time, I always try and get home to Moree.
Otherwise, for a Summer day trip - I love to go up to Noosa and get to the beach.

 

The best thing about working in the James Street precinct?

There is everything you could ever want and more! I always say that I am very lucky to work here. It is such an incredible area with so many beautiful restaurants, stores, and all-round good vibes.

 

 

The best thing about living in Brisbane?

There is so much more opportunity. For someone who has come from a small town and had to go away for school before moving here – there is just so much. You can really make whatever you want, happen.

 

 

A must-do for those visiting Brisbane?

When I have a friend visiting Brisbane I say “let me show you something”. We start at James Street with a visit to Samantha Ogilvie. Next stop is takeaway from Agnes Bakery before walking up Kent Street and to Wilson’s Lookout above Howard Smith Wharves. The benches overlooking the river are perfect for enjoying a coffee and pastry and watching the world go by. Then we head down the lift for a walk along the river. I love that there are so many beautiful places to explore in Brisbane.

@agnes.bakery.brisbane

@howardsmithwharves