Meet Jess Vander Leahy. Model, writer, and a treasured member of our Kin. We sat down with Jess to chat summer memories, her best styling advice, and her current obsession with Pedro Pascal.
Q: Hi Jess! You’re a model, writer and a constant source of inspiration to us. What is it you love most about the work you do?
A: I love the variety. I mean, for the most part, it’s very different every day. I like getting to work with different teams on different locations. No two days are really the same and the switch-ups mean I’m always intrigued.
Q:What is the best piece of styling advice you’ve ever received?
A: What I’ve gathered from all my favourite style icons, is that the general gist to good dressing is dressing so people can have an opinion about your outfit, but you don’t really give a f**k what that opinion is.
The real compliment is that you were noticed and there was a moment in their mind for your sense of style. Having style that’s not considered at all is a modern-day tragedy.
Q:What are three things you want to learn or experience this year?
A: More travel. More love. More tennis.
Q: Do you have a favorite summer memory?
A: The feeling of pulling my bikinis out of storage and putting them in my car! I have millions in there so I never get caught without one.
Q: What wardrobe pieces do you reach for time and time again?
A: At the moment, my Cooke & Kin sarong. It’s just the perfect size to be worn traditionally or as a long or short skirt, or top or dress!
Q: What are you currently watching, listening and or reading? (podcasts and audiobooks included)
A: I’m obsessed with Pedro Pascal — specifically his Mandalorian voice — so I’m watching ‘The Last Of Us’. It’s horrific but addictive. I can’t wait until it’s over. My nerves can’t take this.
Q: Where is your favourite spot to Vacay and why?
A: It truly used to be Byron, but since I made my favourite place in the world my full-time home, I’d say Sardegna – a large Italian island in the Mediterranean Sea. I love it because topographically it kind of feels dry and arid like West Australia, but with the most glorious beaches and olive trees and then Italian food. What more can you want?
Quick 5:
Morning or evening?
Late night ;)
Sarongs or shirts?
Sarongs
Mini or midi?
Mini
Beach or pool?
Beach, sans wind. Even a hint of wind and I’m in the pool.
Coffee or Tea?
Iced tea for me bebe.
Follow Jess on instagram @jessicavanderleahy.
Jess' first childrens book - Loved people love people.