Ellie Cole: ‘I was an athlete for a long time and didn’t explore my style’

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 and Tommy Hilfiger blazer.

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.

What’s your favourite fashion era? It’s now – because there’s freedom to wear whatever you want. Our society is so diverse and more open-minded now; people can be expressive and choose from any decade.

Who are your favourite designers? I love Ted Baker. For events, I like Daniel Learmont or Diane Lewis Couture.

Any go-to jewellery? My partner and I wear matching bumblebee pendant necklaces and I have some beautiful Paspaley pieces – pearls with green and gold jewels – that I received when I was on the swim team.

What’s your fragrance of choice? Vera Wang “Princess” for day and Marc Jacob “Decadence” for evening.

What are the three essential items in your wardrobe? I’m not joking when I say I own 25 pairs of yoga pants – they’re essential for wearing around the house. Also, my R.M. Williams boots and Coach trench coat.

Can you remember a favourite outfit from when you were a child? No, but my mum dressed my twin sister I exactly the same until we were eight.

What was your first fashion moment? A couple of years ago I did a shoot for a cover story about transitioning out of swimming into the real world and wore a gorgeous gown next to the pool.

And your worst fashion mistake? When I hosted the 2023 Australian Sport Awards, I wore a beautiful black strapless dress with puffed sleeves. My arms are quite athletic and when I was walking on stage, I realised the sleeve cuffs so were tight that I couldn’t feel my arms. I had to run backstage so my partner could cut them off and get the blood flowing again.

What’s on your wishlist? The Tiffany & Co Schlumberger “Lynn” rose gold ring.

Is there a current trend you like? Sneakers. For someone who loves comfort as well as the difficulties I have with shoes with my prosthetic, it’s very welcome.

What shoes do you wear the most often? My Rollies.

Who’s your favourite fashion icon? Australian Olympic boxer Harry Garside is pretty fab. He’ll wear a gown to a function and paint his nails. He makes a real statement and I’m here for it; it gives me so much joy. It’s great for young athletes to see someone so comfortable in what they wear.

What do you wear on a typical working day? Suit pants and a silk shirt.

What’s your favourite off-duty, casual Sunday look? I’ll be in my garden wearing shorts, a Bunnings gardening shirt and my Akubra.

Ellie Cole will be a commentator at the Paris 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games. She is also a Toyota Australia Ambassador.

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