Each week, we quiz a prominent person about their style and the inspiration behind it. Ahead, commentator and former Paralympian Ellie Cole. Ellie Cole wears an Oroton shirt andTommy Hilfiger blazer.
Credit: Jennifer Soo How would you describe your style? I was an athlete for a long time and didn’t explore my style because I was training six hours a day and I wore a swimsuit more than clothing. Now I like to look elegant and sophisticated, but ultimately prioritise comfort. I have a front-facing role in the media, so I need to look polished at times.
What’s the oldest thing in your wardrobe? A red knitted beanie I wore when I was three, going through chemo, to keep my head warm because I’d lost my hair. I keep it to remind me of the rocky start I had. And the most recent addition? A beautiful navy blazer from R.
M. Williams. What would you wear .
.. on a first date? Something I wear day-to-day because I’d want to be honest about who I am, such as nice pants, a tee and Rollie “Derby” shoes .
.. on a plane? I usually have a meeting on the other side, so I’d wear a belted Tommy Hilfiger dress from their Adaptive line .
.. on the red carpet? I don’t know if it’s because I’m an athlete, but I like a gold look, like what Jennifer Lopez wore to the Met Gala.
I recently got my first prosthetic high-heel foot, prior to that I couldn’t wear anything with a heel at all. Rollie “Derby” shoes are favourites. What’s your favourite fashion era? It’s now – because.