How to ask for what you want
LeadershipCatherine Brenner, Louise Adler and Sam Mostyn offered their advic...
Collette Dinnigan AO is a fashion and interior designer. She’s also the author of the recent release Bellissima: An Australian-Italian Affair. Here, she lets us in on her favourite places to stay in New York and Italy.
If you could re-read one book what would it be?
I would choose A Fine Balance by Rohinton Mistry. It’s a fascinating exploration of the human spirit in an inhumane setting.
What is your favourite hotel and why?
I love The Carlyle in New York — it’s elegant, discrete and welcoming. I also love Il Saint Pietro and Le Sirenuse both in Positano, which are such a treat to stay in.
What are you reading and or listening to at the moment?
I have recently been listening to Apple Music’s Summer Hits 2024. It’s the perfect feel-good playlist.
Who do you admire and why?
[My] friend Louise Olsen has a calmness that seems to transcend whatever stress or project she is working on. To me, this is a truly admirable quality in a field that is driven by passion and emotion. She is an incredible talent and the co-founder and creative director of Dinosaur Designs. She is also an artist who has had many solo exhibitions in both Australia and France.
What is your Instagram feed most likely to be full of?
My Instagram feed is full of design inspiration — lots of patterns, flowers, food, travel and animals.
What does a typical day look like?
A typical day in my life begins at 7:00 am, followed by a family breakfast and the morning school drop-off. I can then be found sorting through emails and working on my latest project. I also love working in the garden, shopping and at the end of the day, will be preparing dinner.
Do you have a favourite designer?
I love Deborah Sams from bassike. Her designs are both high quality and effortless.
What is the one thing you spend money on that could be considered an indulgence?
Good quality wine is an investment I am happy to indulge in.
Following on from that, what brand is your current obsession?
I love Felton Road’s Cornish Point pinot noir – delicious!
Is exercise a must or a grind and how do you fit it into your lifestyle?
I think exercise is a must. My favourite forms of exercise are gardening and taking the dog on a long walk.
What do you hope people will remember about you?
I hope people will remember me as a kind, compassionate, honest and generous person with a great sense of humour.
Who are three women you’d like to be in the room with when making a big decision?
The three women I would like to be in the room while making a big decision include Nikki Andrews (the CEO of NAC Media Group), Imogen Banks (an award-winning television producer) and Edwina McCann (the editorial director at Vogue Australia).
Image credit: Earl Carter
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