We present Nicole Warne, the author of the blog www.garypeppervintage.com, an Australian with impeccable style who chooses her favourite garments from the collection, in particular the ethnic prints.

-How do you think you have become a style icon?

I would never say I’m a style icon. I think the most appealing traits of bloggers is their unique but relatable approach to style and fashion. Not everyone will like you, but as long as you’re confident in yourself, have fun with what you wear and dress only for yourself, you’ll find people will always respond. That’s a style icon in my books.

-How did you get shot by Tommy Ton?

The first time I was shot by Tommy was at my first Sydney Fashion Week two years ago. I was new to the fashion scene and I didn’t know colour blocking was such a major trend for Fashion Week, so when I arrived in clashing colours of coral and red apparently I caught his eye.

-What are your style references?

I draw a lot of inspiration from past eras (particularly the 50s and 60s), vintage pieces, the places I see and confident girls I see on the street.

-Your perfect combo for this Spring is…

A pencil skirt with a matching crop top. A little trend-based but so feminine and sultry.

-What are your must-haves for a weekend at the beach?

An ethereal, lightweight dress to throw over your bikini, a floppy straw hat, sandals, sunglasses, Invisible Zinc and chilled bottles of water with a slice of lime.

-What trend would you never wear?

Flatforms would never suit me but I admire girls who can pull off this daring trend.

-What trend matches your style the most?

Tailored two-piece suits and colour blocking are some of my favourites. Classic and colourful.

-Define your style.

Naturally my style is changing over time. At the moment it’s a mix of classic pieces with a modern, feminine and preppy edge.

-What can you recommend from Australia?

Drinking tea through a Tim Tam (a delicious Australian chocolate biscuit) is an experience everyone visiting must try! Spending a day at the beach and having a BBQ with friends, music and drinks in the afternoon is another Australian tradition. Favourite Australian designers would be Camilla and Marc, Lover and Karla Spetic.

-Which is your shopping route in Australia?

I personally do all my shopping online but wandering the streets of designer boutiques in Paddington or scouring the vintage stores and Camberwell Markets in Melbourne is a must.

-Tell us a bit about your project: Gary Pepper Vintage store

Gary Pepper Vintage is an online store that sells vintage womenswear and accessories. I started my store the same day I started my blog in late 2009 and after two weeks of launching my business I decided to quit my full-time job to take Gary Pepper Vintage full-time. It was scary leaving that financial security behind but after 6 short months Gary Pepper Vintage was established as a company, had three full-time staff and was gaining national and international press. It grew into one of the largest online vintage stores in Australia which also helped propel my blog into what it is today. Now, my store has taken second priority as my blog requires 100% of my energy and attention but I hope to be able to balance and grow both my store and my blog this year.

-What are MANGO’s key items for this season?

Mango is wonderful for offering classic yet on-trend pieces at an affordable price. My favourites are the matching two-piece suits in crisp whites or playful prints.

-And finally: a tip for our customers.

Try to invest in timeless pieces. I find a versatile piece can be changed countless times with inexpensive details such as a bright lipstick, a patterned clutch, a statement necklace or even replacing the buttons every few months. It’s all in the details.