When I first met Nora Swann, I was taken aback by her timeless beauty. Reminiscent of enduring icons that are photographed by the likes of Nina Leen, Steven Klein or David LaChapelle, Nora was dressed in a deep fuchsia dress, pink draped scarf and fluorescent heels. Elegance and passion are at the core of Nora Swann’s fashion sense.
As a Personal Stylist of Kila’s Style, Nora has emerged into the fashion industry with the desire to bring out the individual’s personal best. Nora’s distinctive sense of style was strongly identified in her Kila’s Style Fashion Show that I had the pleasure of attending last month in Manukau.
Swann’s line introduced pieces from Op Shops, creating a chic and unique look. A retro vibe is evident in her use of bold and bright colours mixed with an eccentric shimmer and glow in pure tones of gold, blue and grey.
Kila’s Style Fashion Show
As a stylist, Nora knows how to accentuate the beauty of all body types and most importantly her ability to keep costs to a minimum makes her services attainable. Kila’s Style debunks the notion that one needs to be a celebrity to have a Personal Stylist. People can feel confident in achieving a personal and unique look through Kila’s Style’s services. The runway revealed leather, although not an easy material to work with, Nora heightened the sleek look with pink hues. Each outfit was paired with killer heels, the definitive accessory. Men are also styled by Nora. I was surprised by a male model who wore a yellow palette with white. Indeed, yellow could be quite daring for men to consider, however Kila’s Style succeeded with ingenious layering and use of colour to produce a comfortable and stylish outfit.
Beautiful ladies styled by Kila’s Style in Op Shop clothing.
The show concluded with a reveal of Nora’s Pasifika inspired creation. A white off the shoulder dress with pink lace lining. I was impressed with Nora’s spin on the Ie Faitaga, a traditional dress of men in the Pacific. Nora lined the Ie Faitaga with a gorgeous pattern and shortened the front which maintains the traditional sense of the clothing with a touch of modern design.
Pasifika Inspired Creation by Nora Swann
The integration of styling and designing her own pieces is a natural step for Nora. In only eleven months of being in business she has conducted over 150 Colour Consultations, 20+ Makeovers, styling for a music video and 3 Fashion Shows.
A pastel pink and white gown was the show stealer for me. The dress flowed in all the right places with a corset bodice and sweetheart neckline. A beautiful piece that epitomises the elegance of Nora Swann and Kila’s Style.
My favourite of the Fashion Show
Interview
How did Kila’s Style evolve?
Last year in May I entered Cleo Magazine’s competition ‘Who wants to be a Fashion Stylist?’ The condition of the entry was I had to explain in 100 words why I thought I’d be a great stylist.
So I entered and won from over 3,000 entries nationally. I was so surprised when I received a phone call from Angela Stone herself saying that I had won her competition. The winner was to go on a fashion styling course with Angela Stone to the value of $4,000. The course was for three days and there were only two students (myself and Rachel Hunter’s buyer for her clothes line in The Warehouse). It was the most exciting and informative thing ever and with only two students we were able to get the most out of Angela Stone.
I went on this course in October and then Angela helped me start up my own business which was formed in December [2011].
What are three items that every girl needs in her wardrobe?
1) Cowboy Boots: They’re versatile, can be worn all year round and will never go out of fashion.
2) Quality Jeans: It was so hard to find a pair that suited my body shape and I had to spend a bit to find them but I love my Calvin Klein Slim Fits.
3) A Stylish Blazer. I have a cool black and checkered 80′s Blazer which makes me feel so good when I wear it. I can dress it up or down and still feel great!
What is the most treasured item in your wardrobe?
The most treasured item in my wardrobe is my wedding dress. A really good friend made it for me when I got married in Australia. I opted for a simple style and focused on my accessories. I remember putting it on. It was close to 40 degrees celsius and it had 10+ layers of lining!
Beautiful Nora on her Wedding Day
Who is your favourite designer or fashion icon?
I idolise Daphne Guiness. She likes to make her own accessories and garments when she can’t find what she is after. She reminds me a lot of myself. I love her fashion sense, her creativity and just how she isn’t afraid of taking risks. She is the epitome of a fashionista to me.
How would you describe your sense of style?
I’m a cross between a creative and dramatic dresser. I’m a ‘Winter’ (in terms of what colours suit me) and I love wearing the big and bold [colours] as I know it accentuates my natural features. I love taking chances, mixing fabrics and textures that the ‘manual’ says I shouldnt. I love statement accessories and will always experiment with fashion until the very end.
Nora Swann
Kila’s Style is now nearing its 1 Year Anniversary. Be sure to stay updated via Kila’s Style Facebook page. Stop by, have a browse and grab a few style tips from the gorgeous Nora Swann.
Nora & I after her Fashion Show. Loved how everyone received a pretty Lei upon entrance.
Love & Laughter,
Curly Miri
