NET-A-PORTER’s Retail Fashion Director Lisa Aiken Talks Fashion Week

Which shows are you most looking forward to seeing at Australian Fashion Week?
There were several highlights to the Australian Fashion Week calendar including the beautifully staged Romance Was Born show, one of my ones-to-watch Georgia Alice and activewear brand P.E. Nation.

You attend a number of fashion week shows around the world - how do you pack for a long-haul trip?
When packing for a fashion week, I find it essential to plan looks. Most of my wardrobe is interchangeable but I find my packing gets a little out of hand if I don't at least think about the number of outfits I need and how I will put them together. The key to most successful looks is the accessories, so I have a set of essentials including belts, statement jewellery and sunglasses that come on every trip. Then I always throw in a few extras for emergencies, particularly an evening look or two as an event always crops up unexpectedly.

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What fashion week essentials would we find in your handbag?
I seem to be carrying smaller and smaller handbags these days (the Mark Cross box bag and Simon Miller 'Bonsai' are currently my favourites) so I have to be more edited than ever. Sunglasses, iPhone, lip balm, Nars bronzer, mints, tea and a credit card see me through the day.

Favourite item in your wardrobe at the moment and why?
I have lots of favourite pieces at any one time… this is a tough question! I’d say my Gucci loafers, as they are so versatile and feel so right for right now.

What's been the biggest 'pinch-me' moment of your career?
Becoming the Fashion Director for Net-a-Porter was a huge milestone in my career, and something I had dreamed of.

How would you describe Australian street style?
Australian street style is cool, modern and understated. There is an ease to how women dress here, which I love, as looks are put together in a way that is more about personal style than individual pieces.

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How did you get your job at Net-a-Porter?
I have always worked in fashion ecommerce, having previously held positions at MatchesFashion.com and MyTheresa. I joined Net-a-Porter as part of the editorial team before moving on to the retail and buying side. Working at Net-a-Porter is incredible, and this is my dream job.

What trends can we expect this season?
Australian designers right now are embracing a new minimalism, focusing on clean lines with exaggerated proportions. Designers Georgia Alice, Anna Quan and Tome were perfect examples. The trend is so modern, to take something as basic as a classic button down shirt and add dramatic elements like asymmetric necklines or oversized sleeves.