In our sixth edition of Life + Style, we chat to Stylist and Fashion Content Creator; Deborah Gates. We take a look into her life as a Stylist and Content Creator and how she unwinds off-duty.

Q. Can you walk us through a day-in-the-life of your work?

Working as a Stylist and Content Creator, each day is quite different. One day will be focussed on sourcing and recommending wardrobe additions for a client and the next will be planning, styling and filming content for my social media.

Q: What does your morning routine look like?

My morning routine is very simple. I am not what I would describe as a morning person lol and I need my mornings to be quiet and calm as I prepare mentally for the day ahead, I quickly check messages and social media before I get up and then it's straight in the shower and then on to my favourite part of the morning...styling my outfit and getting dressed. My lovely husband brings me a decaf coffee - with a scoop of creatine - and then I am out the door.

Q. Where do you find your inspiration—art, music, travel, people?

My inspiration comes largely from other women. Women I see on the street, clients, and other women on social media. I have a love of Japanese design and actively seek out accounts on social media featuring a Japanese avant garde aesthetic where I find much inspiration and ideas for styling my own wardrobe. Music is also a great source of inspiration. I am an 80’s girl and there is no question the music of that decade still impacts some of my fashion choices.

Q. There's a natural dialogue between style and space—how does your home reflect the way you express yourself through fashion?

My home is very much a reflection of my overall style preferences. Like my wardrobe, my decor is neutral and minimal featuring layered textures, with some pops of colour and our small collection of original artworks are the statement pieces.

Q. How would you describe your personal style in three words?

Elegant, Refined, Edgy

Q. In what ways has your personal style grown or transformed with time?

When I was younger, it was so important to ‘fit in’ so I would wear what was trending and what everyone else was wearing. But over the years I have become more comfortable in my own skin, which in turn has made me more confident of my style choices. More than ever my personal style reflects my lifestyle, my personality and my interests.

Q. How do you make a piece feel fresh season after season?

Choosing well and choosing only pieces you love that you believe will have longevity in your wardrobe can mean that this is not an issue. For example, getting that gorgeous winter coat out after a long hot summer can be like welcoming a beloved friend back into your life. There is an excitement and a joy at the prospect of wearing it again. Having said that, I do use accessories to change things up, and from time to time will make small alterations like changing a hemline, adding a drape etc to create a new look.

Q. What’s one Repertoire item in your closet that you continue to reach for, time and time again without fail?

Now this is a hard one! It's like picking your favourite child lol! I do feel like my wardrobe would not function without my Tokyo Pant. They are a brilliant trans-seasonal piece that can be dressed up or down easily and the architectural and edgy vibe they bring is very me.

Q. What do you love about Repertoire outfits you’ve worn for this shoot?

What I love about these outfits (and individual pieces) is the potential for layering, the architectural lines, the interesting silhouettes, and the feminine yet edgy vibe. Each outfit brings something a little unexpected.

Q. What helps you reset creatively when you're off the clock?

I live in regional Victoria and enjoy spending time visiting nearby towns exploring all they have to offer. Closer to home I love to switch off, snuggle with my cats and watch British Crime shows.