Each week, we quiz a prominent person about their style and the inspiration behind it. Ahead, cookbook author Donna Hay.

How would you describe your style? It’s like my cooking style, classic with a little twist.

What’s the oldest thing in your wardrobe? Three favourites are a pair of black satin Manolo Blahnik heels I bought in 2001, a beaded Collette Dinnigan gown from the early 2000s, and a Phoebe Philo-era Céline black crêpe dress from 2010.

And the most recent addition? A pair of Miu Miu “Plume” sneakers.

What are three essential items in your wardrobe? A tailored pleated skirt. A good white shirt; I like The Shirt by Rochelle Behrens because it has extra buttons at the bust and doesn’t gape when I’m filming. And a great coat; I have a Bassike gabardine coat I can throw over anything.

What would you wear … on a first date? A black pencil skirt with a feminine Chloé-style top and kitten heel. … on a plane? I have a bizarre routine; I take many changes for a long-haul flight. I’ll start in jeans and a white shirt, then change into loungewear, then the airline pyjamas, then an outfit to arrive in, always with a good trench or Max Mara coat. … on the red carpet? I’d dust off my favourite black Martin Grant wool crêpe gown or go for something sparkly by Dior, with a Gianvito Rossi heel.

Who’s your favourite designer? I’m a Prada and Miu Miu girl. I love the beautiful fabrics and craftsmanship. I have beautiful pieces that I’ve had for at least 10 years, such as an olive satin pleated skirt that always gets compliments. Locally, I love P. Johnson’s tailoring.

What’s your favourite fashion era? Now. I love newness, I’m addicted to seeing things unfold. Rules are being broken and that’s my kind of vibe; dressing down beautiful pieces so they’re in everyday circulation, the high-low combinations.

What’s your fragrance of choice? I wear Perfumer H “Ink” – must be my love of publishing – and “Rhubarb”, which is lighter and a bit citrusy.