WOMEN WHO INSPIRE: MELISSA SINGER.

Fashion journalist, editor, cultural observer.

With over two decades in media, Melissa Singer has become one of Australia’s most trusted and thoughtful voices in fashion journalism. As Associate Editor of Sunday Life and former Fashion Editor at The Sydney Morning Herald and The Age, she has spent her career exploring not just what we wear, but what it means — how fashion reflects who we are, how we live, and what we value.

Known for her sharp eye, honest commentary and deep respect for craft, Melissa’s work has always struck that rare balance between style and substance.

We first crossed paths when Melissa was working on a story and I contributed in a small way — but what struck me most was how down-to-earth and generous she was with her time and energy. In an industry that often moves fast and looks outward, she leads with warmth, intelligence, and a quiet confidence that stays with you.

She’s also a mum to Aria, nearly four — a role she speaks about with the same grounded honesty that runs through everything she does.

In our conversation, we spoke about motherhood, evolving style, and, of course, jewellery — all with the subtle humour that makes Melissa so uniquely herself.

 

If you had to describe yourself without mentioning work or motherhood, what would you say?
I’d like to think people would describe me as a good friend. I’d describe myself as engaged, curious, sporty, strong-willed (but not stubborn) and maternal. Oh shit, that’s kind of mentioning motherhood, but I mean it more how I treat my friends and colleagues.

When do you feel most like yourself?
After a great workout, when my glutes are slightly on fire and I can walk without any pain in my back/hips. Blame motherhood and age! Also when I nail an outfit that is 100 per cent true to my personal style - you feel like dynamite. And when I am having a deep chat with a friend - I am really not great at small talk, though I can of course do it well after more than 20 years in the media.

In a few words, what would you say is your personal style?
Refined, with a hint of drama. Today I am wearing a knit, miniskirt, loafers and cherry-coloured tights to the office.

Has your style changed since becoming a mum?

Definitely. “Park pants” are a thing - I have to consider what my daughter, who’s nearly four, may need from me before I get dressed for the day. But sometimes, Mummy needs to say, “Please don’t pull on the collar of my expensive jumper, sweetheart (why do they always know?!).

What’s one item in your wardrobe and beauty kit you’ll never part with—and why?

I have so many treasured pieces, but those that belonged to people who are no longer with us are my most special; I have a jacket that belonged to a dear friend who passed away in 2023, as well as trinkets and things he gave me throughout our friendship.

What does “dressing for yourself” mean to you in 2025?

Finding my holy-grail pair of jeans, no matter how many try-ons and false starts it takes. I am not there yet, but I have had some close matches.

What’s your relationship with jewellery—are you an everyday wearer or a ‘for special moments’ type?

I wear my engagement ring most days – it contains a sapphire that belonged to my Nanna, so it’s very special, plus a diamond for my husband and one for our daughter. I feel naked when I don’t have it on. And I love having fun with layering necklaces and statement earrings.

Is there a particular piece that holds extra special meaning?

I still have the chain my great-grandmother gave me on the day I was born. It has been misplaced so many times but it always finds its way back to me.

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 think we can say things with our jewellery that sometimes we can’t with our clothes because of social mores or dress codes. I tested the limits of my high school’s rules around jewellery many times.

If you could design your dream pair of earrings, what would they look like—or how would they make you feel?

I don’t know if they would be a perfect pair. I once interviewed Christian Louboutin wearing mismatched earrings and he was so taken with my style choice he took photos and sent them to a jeweller friend of his. It was quite a buzz to have an icon of fashion admire my style in that way.

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 a feral AFL supporter. My team is the Sydney Swans. Don’t come near me if we are behind in the last quarter!

What has motherhood taught you about yourself that you didn’t expect?

That you actually can survive on little sleep, if you can practise kindness and compassion to yourself. The washing can wait.

How has becoming a mother influenced the way you define success?

I was introduced to the concept of the “good enough mother” by my therapist (and, later, by the amazing book Matrescence, by Lucy Jones - read it!), and I have been leaning into that as much as I can. For such a long time, my identity was so tied up in my work, but having a child has definitely challenged that. I have also embraced the idea of “seasons” in life, and accepting that we can’t always keep surging forward, and that progress (or success) isn’t always a straight line. I am in a dream job right now, so I am also just trying to revel in the now.

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?

Exercise is my leveler, and cooking (and maybe a bit of stress-cleaning - ask my husband!).

What would you tell your pre-motherhood self now, with the clarity you have today?

You’re always doing a better job than you think you are.

What’s a moment in your career that felt like a quiet triumph?

A few years ago I had a run of a few big investigative pieces in the papers, including a collaboration with A Current Affair. It felt like I showed fashion writing in Australia could be hard-hitting and world-class, if it’s given the resources and credit it deserves.

Best advice you ever received—and the advice you now give most often?

An editor from early in my career always used to say, “If in doubt, cut it out.” I still live by that mantra at work. My best advice to young people is take the opportunity, even if it scares you.

How do you stay creatively inspired in an industry that’s constantly evolving? 

I try to read as much “non-work” stuff as I can. That can include other publications in the lifestyle field, but also books, and I really need to get better at taking in films and art. Those are on my to-do list. When something I read punches me in the gut, it’s inspiring.

What do you hope people remember about the way you moved through the world?

That I was honest, gave a quick no, returned calls, and usually delivered on my promises – and often went beyond the call of duty. 

Who are the women who inspire you—and what is it about them that leaves a mark?
My mother. She has suffered a lot of loss in the past few years, and, still, she always shows up for us. I am also inspired by the female founders I meet and the other women who are doing amazing things for our industry, while also keeping planet and community at the forefront.

What is your favourite Allegra Allure creation and why?
I love the modular earrings - it’s clear how much consideration of wearability and longevity has gone into the design.

THIS OR THAT?

Asymmetry or symmetry? Asymmetry

Gold or Silver? Gold, by a whisker

One statement piece or a curated stack? Statement

Minimalism or quiet maximalism? Minimalism

Timeless or trendy? Timeless

Wine or coffee? Coffee

Sunrise or golden hour? Sunrise

City energy or coastal calm? City

Intuition or routine? Routine

Be seen or be felt? Seen (but not in the look-at-me way!)