I’m all about a good contrast in fashion. Which is why you’ll often see me flaunting and breaking the style rules to create a contrasting edge to my looks. Not being the tallest lady of the bunch, you’d think I’d stick to clothes that elongate and avoid oversized ensembles. But no; I love draping on layer after layer and I’m as happy in flats as I am in a heel. I love an outfit that screams luxury and elegance, but has a cheeky little touch that puts it slightly off centre.

So does the team at Backstage – their latest collection ‘Lisette’ totally plays to my contrasting alter ego. Up until now Backstage was my festival go-to-label; the Aussie designers behind the brand take inspo from music, arts and film and they just GET what women want to wear when soaking up some fun.

Their latest pieces still have that hip vibe, but with such a polished touch. The colour palette is a rainbow of refined – monochrome, khaki, and raw earthy tones. The fabrics are all sleek satins, burn out silks, the softest knits and little luxe touches like velvet cuffs. So far so sweet, but then throw in some bold elements like cold shoulders, voluminous flares, bondage-style neck ties and extreme skirt slits, and the looks get a distinctly tough edge.

Backstage have made it possible to toe the line between sweet and sexy.  I mean how 70’s Bianca Jagger is that shirt and flares combo? But I’ll be avoiding the dusty fields and saving these babies for after-parties.

All garments via Backstage via David Jones.

Photography: Mishy Tran, Beauty: Julie Provis.