Australia-based Willabelle Ong is a photographer, a writer, and a style influencer – just to name a few. Her impeccable style has caught the eyes of fashion writers from WhoWhatWear, New York Magazine and Teen Vogue. In an exclusive interview, Willabelle reveals her biggest fashion splurge to date (and it involves a set of wheels), her workwear essentials, and how she unwinds on top of her busy schedule.
Credit: Pale Division
How would you define your style in one word?
Playful!
Name your wardrobe essentials for work.
Thankfully I can wear anything and everything for the work that I do, so it’s never been a problem. For the everyday career woman, I’d say wardrobe essentials would be a tailored suit, a crisp white blouse and a fitted pencil skirt. Plus a pair of killer stilettos to match!
Credit: Pale Division
What is your biggest fashion splurge to date?
Probably a sleek car to match my daily ensembles.
What is your fashion pet peeve?
When bra straps are visible. If you’re wearing a tank top or a sleeveless blouse, a strapless bra would easily do the trick.
Credit: Pale Division
Name one person whose style you admire.
Anna Dello Russo!
What is your style philosophy?
Invest in pieces that will take you through the seasons!
Credit: Pale Division
What is your morning routine?
I have an awful habit of checking my emails first thing when I wake up. Then I wash up, slap on a load of sunscreen, have breakfast and dive straight into my work. My morning routine varies, sometimes I like to catch up with family or friends over brunch, and on other days I feel the urgency to knock out all my work by late afternoon.
Describe a typical day at work for you.
No two days are ever the same – I do everything from freelance photography and writing, to digital editing and brand consulting. With that being said, I completely cherish the flexibility where I get to work from anywhere, and at anytime I want. Personally, I love producing creative content for my clients because it’s fun when you get to work with a huge team and bounce concepts off one another!
How would you unwind after a long day at work?
I read or treat myself to a fabulous meal, or both. And a spa session is always a great idea!
Credit: Pale Division
What is your advice to young women who are interested in a career in fashion?
Know the right people, work smart and hard, and above all stay grounded.