Jeanne Ryckmans, non-fiction publisher at Harper Collins, is probably one of the most stylish people on the planet. From riding a Vespa around Paris to working at Vogue to being painted for the Archibald Prize and writing a children’s book, her style reflects both exotic international influences and a strong desire for simplicity.

We spoke to Jeanne at her beautiful but hot Paddington home, where she lives with her husband and three year old daughter.

Describe your personal style
Once upon not a long time ago - pre-toddler - I’d describe it as fairly classic with a slight twist. I love textures. Clean, simple lines. Beautiful fabric. Stiff cottons. Soft silks and cashmeres. Subtle hues. Now, with an almost three year-old, I’m gravitating to Bassike, Petit Bateau nautical jerseys and a French high street label called Comptoir des Cotonniers because sticky little fingers and expensive silk not a good mix.

What inspires you?
Originality. Simplicity.

Who are your favourite designers?
Vanessa Bruno, By Malene Birger, Rittenhouse, Zadig & Voltaire, Virginie Castaway, Chloe. If the fairy fashion godmother waved her magic wand I’d be quite happy with Celine.

Who is your style icon?
I know everyone says Kate Moss, but…Kate Moss. Clemence Poesy a close second. Charlotte Rampling in a few years time!

What do you think of Sydney style?
Intriguing.

Where do you like to shop?
I’m a big fan of walking the neighbourhood streets - Queen Street in Woollahra and William St in Paddington. There’s always a wonderful new boutique popping up. Attic and Robert Burton in Queen Street. Poepke, Jac & Jac and Belinda’s in William Street. Di Nuovo in William Street is also a favourite. I like the French expression for window shopping: “lecher les vitrines”  (literally “lick the windows”). There’s always one I want to lick. Well, not literally. But you know what I mean.

What are your favourite pieces?
A simple white Antik Batik summer dress; a black silk By Malene Birger cocktail dress, a navy blue Hoss Intropia winter coat with fun balloon-like sleeves and sweet brown leather buttons. I just bought a Virginie Castaway leather jacket online.

What are your most versatile pieces?
I bought a wool/cashmere/silk dress by Belgian label Essential-Antwerp some years ago from Robbie Ingham that I trot out each autumn and winter because it’s easy and timeless. Perfect with ballet flats or a heeled boot. A pair of Ginger & Smart black soft cotton take on the harem pant (not quite MC Hammer). A pair of black plastic Givenchy sandals that resemble my toddler daughter’s “jellies”. Bensimon sneakers (with laces) in several hues.