May 26, 2023
STAFF STYLE | Leah's Edit
From Leah's infectiously kind, effortlessly gorgeous and easy going nature - you may find it hard to believe she is a mother of three; balancing family life, her very own business as well as her busy role as Visual Merchandising Manager at True. We loved sitting down with Leah chatting about style, her background in make up and how she makes it all look easy.
Hi Leah! Tell us a bit about you and your role at True?
I joined the Sales team at True about 9 months ago and quickly began assisting Andrea with the Visual Merchandising before becoming VM Manager. Being a multi brand store, we are constantly receiving new arrivals so it's a big job making everything look as one.
I love having a creative outlet to come in and innovate the presentation of the store - helping to make the experience of a visit memorable and enticing. Now that I've been at True almost a year, I'm really starting to form some great relationships from the sales side of things which is super lovely. True has such a loyal following so it's so nice to get to know everyone and make connections.
How would you describe your style?
My style lends itself to neutral tones; pieces that are
fresh and minimalist. I like to have relaxed spaces in my home so my style is probably an extension of my taste in interiors. I like to dress a little bit feminine and put together while still being comfortable when running around with my kids in tow.
What's are the oldest and newest items in your wardrobe?
Hmm, I don't keep things for too long and regularly clear out both mine and my kids wardrobes - preferring to stay organised and neat! Although, seeing the Birkenstock Boston's come back around I wish I'd kept mine from high school. I do have a leather jacket that lives on forever.
My latest purchase was the Harris Tapper Howard Vest which was a bit of a new direction for me. The brand has really surprised me being more adrogynous than I would usually go but I love how everything goes back together so well season after season. It's a real staff favourite which I've caught on to.
We love Harris Tapper! What are your other go to brands?
Mahsa is definitely a go to for me - the blouses are timeless and perfect for feeling comfortable while looking a little bit pretty and feminine. I also love American Vintage for their pastel, slouchy knitwear at a great price point.
What is your biggest challenge when styling yourself?
Naturally, my height. Im 5ft2 so finding pants and jeans are hard as I appreciate the intended styling so I don't want to lose the vibe by wearing them too long or too oversized. In saying that, the oversized trends have definitely been helpful. I'm super happy with some of the Róhe and Mother jeans I've managed to secure lately.
You are our resident Make Up Artist and the girls love getting a touch up from you before a staff night out! Talk us through your background before True?
In 2008 I went to make up school in Ponsonby; they've just closed down unfortunately but they were amazing trainers and I loved my experience. From there I worked for Bobbi Brown, Mac and freelance between having my 3 kids. I still run my freelance business and really enjoy doing events when I can.
Where would we find you when you're not at True?
You will probably find me on the way to or from some sort of exercise. It has become a huge mental game for me in the last few years - taking the time out for myself, doing something that makes me feel really good in between busy mum duties. I love the gym, yoga and have just taken back up social soccer!
My favourite thing to do on the weekends is have my family of 5 together - Cooper (13), Olive (8), Ivy (5) and my husband Blair. We love to get away to a beach - any beach, when we can. Lucky for me, my hobbies are spent at work - Fashion and Make Up!
What’s on your wish list in store at the moment?
This Stine Goya tee will definitely be coming home with me! I also have my eye on the Tol Trapezium Sunglasses as they come in two sizes, so the smaller are perfect for a more petit face. I love all the Jasmin Sparrow Earrings.
I'm also in the process of building on my Baina collection. I have started with the Sage and Check Pool Towels for my bathroom and am waiting for the new green design to come in as well as some Ivory to add.