The savvy eye behind the styling of our latest lookbook, meet Gemma Keil. She’s a mother to twins, a talented creative and an all-round inspiration to us here at Blanca, so we asked her about ‘Jardin’, juggling it all and the best parts of styling as a profession. Grab the arvo knock-off wine for this one.

Kayla Blazer in Cream, Kayla Shorts in Cream

 

On her personal style journey:

Before becoming a mum, I definitely used to dress up more. Now, as boring as it might sound, I prioritise comfort and practicality equal to style. I’d say I wear 80% practical and 20% ridiculous/fashion/fun. A few years ago, these percentages were definitely flipped.

On ‘you’ outfits:

I think a mix of girly and pretty pieces paired with more masculine, oversized style makes me feel most ‘me’. I enjoy playing with proportions and dressing down formal pieces to make them suitable for everyday wear.

For example, an oversized blazer with a cute mini skirt, a pretty dress with sneakers, or an embellished top with baggy jeans.

On high repeat items: 

I “invested” in a pair of Hermes sandals this season, and I have worn them so much. They’re a black leather slide/thong style with some nice silver hardware and go with everything.

 

On styling as a profession:

Styling is such a niche job that sometimes I joke with my husband about my skill set and wonder how I’ve made a career out of it. It often doesn’t feel like work. I love creating beautiful images, setting a mood, crafting a character and creating an identity for a brand or story.

On the Jardin resort collection:

I love the cream textured short suit set (the Kayla Blazer and Kayla Shorts). 

Blanca shoots are always so fun!!! Ana is so collaborative, and it’s one of those shoot days where it doesn’t feel like work.

On resort styling tips:

Carrying through your most-worn pieces or silhouettes and wearing these back in lighter fabrics.

On inspiration:

I believe creative people feel their best when they’re making things – whether it’s images, meals, artworks or anything else. Creating order and beauty amidst the chaos of life helps me stay sane, even if it’s fleeting. 

I feel most inspired after a good night’s sleep and a cup of coffee.

On our weekend plans:

Ok, get ready for a very uncool answer.

Kids soccer, then most likely the park, the supermarket, lots of chores and then in the afternoon, unwind with a glass of wine. My life is so family-centric at this point, which is the best and sometimes the worst! Mainly the best…

 

Bonus Round

What are you wearing…on shoot day?

More recently, a cotton oversized tee (usually Carhartt or similar variety), silk black pants and a cashmere knit with black sneakers.

What are you wearing…out and about?

Denim, a blazer and a cute blouse.

What are you wearing…for the ultimate resort vibe?

I love embroidery and crochet in whites and black, perhaps a bit sheer and boxy.

Gemma wears: Zanzi Shortsleeve Shirt in Black, Tiffany Top in Black, Kayla Shorts in Cream, Kayla Blazer in Cream (and her amazing slides).