Actor, producer, mother, and master of transformation—Kat Stewart is one of Australia’s most beloved and versatile performers. From razor-sharp satire to emotionally raw drama, she’s built a career defined by substance, intelligence, and fearless range.

I’ve been fortunate to know and work with Kat for years through my styling work, and she was one of the very first people to champion Allegra Allure. Her support—and style—have meant the world to me. So when I thought of starting this interview series spotlighting women who inspire me, Kat was the obvious first choice.

In this conversation, we touch on personal style, the quiet rituals that keep her grounded, and how motherhood has shaped her sense of self and success, and, of course, jewellery.

If you had to describe Kat without mentioning work or motherhood, what would you say?
Curious, well intentioned, clumsy.

You’ve played so many richly complex women. Has stepping into their shoes changed how you see yourself—or others?
I think every role I play amplifies certain aspects of my character that are already there. I have played some women who on paper at least are pretty unsympathetic or who make what appear to be unlikely or unwise decisions. But my job is to fight for them so a great reward of this profession is to open your perspective. I think being an actor has made me a more open minded compassionate person. It’s impossible to hate a person if you know their story.

How do you come back to yourself after inhabiting someone else’s story for so long?
I can feel tired after a big day or performance but I never feel like I’m anybody else. Once I’m out of costume I’m okay. I think the ritual of taking off costume and make up is really helpful.

When do you feel most like yourself?
When I’m hanging around at home with my family with nowhere any of us need to be.


PHOTO: CAMERON GRAYSON

How would you describe your personal style and has your style changed since becoming a mum?
I love getting really dressed up, or I’m in jeans and runners. I’m not great at the in between. When I first had kids I got a lot more aware of dry cleaning! Baby vomit was a baptism of fire – I avoided wearing anything silk for years – then there were the little fingers covered in avocado or yogurt or Vegemite! I also ditched high heels unless going out with grown ups!

What does “dressing for yourself” mean to you in 2025?
I think it means feeling great – whatever that means to you. Sometimes I want to be cinched in and sometimes I just want comfort. I think I genuinely only dress for myself.

What’s your relationship with jewellery—are you an everyday wearer or a ‘for special moments’ type?
I wear jewellery every day. My wedding rings, a watch and I always wear at least one Allegra earring – either in gold or silver depending on the mood – sometimes with pearls sometimes not. I love the asymmetry of the modular earrings. I think they have been part of my uniform for about 5 years now. Bolder pieces at night. And I often wear my mum’s ring too.



Is there a particular piece that holds extra special meaning?
My mum left me her wedding ring.

Do you think the jewellery we choose to wear reveals something about who we are—or who we want to be? Is what we wear on our ears, neck, or hands a kind of silent introduction?
I’ve never worn dainty jewellery. I’ve always wanted to signal a kind of feminine steeliness. I love pieces that are beautiful, striking and strong.

If someone were to design a piece of jewellery inspired by your essence, what might it look like—or feel like to wear?
Something sculptural – a ring or cuff.



At Allegra Allure, we explore the beauty of contradiction—soft and sharp, minimal and bold. What’s something about you that feels like a contradiction, something that doesn’t fit neatly into one box?
I am very easy going and accommodating but I will dig my heels in when it matters.

We also believe we’re never just one thing. We evolve, we shift—we carry many versions of ourselves. What are the main characters or alter egos that live within you?
I am both a people person and an introvert. Depending on the day!

What has motherhood taught you about yourself that you didn’t expect?
How big your heart can get and how vulnerable you can feel when you have so much to lose.

How has becoming a mother influenced the way you define success?
Entirely! That adage is true: you are only as happy as your least happy child. My family factors in every decision. I’m still hugely passionate about my work and my family are the other part of the essential puzzle.

What helps you feel grounded when motherhood and work feel like too much at once? Is there a ritual or habit that helps you reconnect with yourself?
No – but happy to take suggestions!

What would you tell your pre-motherhood self now, with the clarity you have today?
Nothing would have prepared me. But I would maybe have told myself not to be too hard on myself if I didn’t know everything straight away. I thought motherhood was some mystical knowledge or instinct that would just be there – but it is a steep learning curve! Just do your best!

Best advice you ever received—and the advice you now give most often?
Best advice from Michael Caine: ‘Die expensive” (i.e., go out swinging – never give up!).

PHOTO: CAMERON GRAYSON

How do you stay creatively inspired in an industry that’s constantly evolving?
When I’m working it’s easy, and when I’m not working I make sure I am out in the world seeing other people’s work.

What do you hope people remember about the way you moved through the world?
I hope I am remembered for being kind and genuine.

Who are the women who inspire you—and what is it about them that leaves a mark?
I love fierce women – which is ironic because I am quite gentle really. I love the work and generosity of Meryl Streep and Olivia Coleman and the fierce intelligence of Viola Davis and Judy Davis. In real life, my mum.

What is your favourite Allegra Allure creation and why?
The Allegra Modular Earrings I’ve been wearing forever. The Amelie Pearl Earrings I last wore on red carpet and the Lila Pearl Earrings that I wore to Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf Comedy Theatre opening.



THIS OR THAT?
Stage or screen? Both.
Rehearsed or improvised? Both.
Character-driven or story-first? Both!
Understated or a little extra? A little extra.
Red carpet glam or off-duty denim? Denim mostly.
Sentimental jewellery or sculptural statement? Statement.
Asymmetry or symmetry? Asymmetry.
Timeless or trendy? Timeless.
Sunrise or golden hour? Golden hour.
Intuition or routine? Intuition.
Be seen or be felt? Felt.