The one, very affordable high-street knit this interior stylist can’t live without

Ruby Shields, an award-winning interior stylist known for her vibrant and eclectic aesthetic, has revealed the one high-street knit she can't live without. This piece, described as essential to her daily routine, is a Uniqlo merino turtleneck. Shields, who recently won the best single residential interior category at the 2026 Dulux Colour Awards, emphasized how integral this simple yet versatile item is to both her professional and personal life. She often pairs it with a variety of outfits, from paint-stained workwear to more refined ensembles, highlighting its adaptability and comfort. Shields' wardrobe is a blend of op-shop finds, vintage pieces, and contemporary additions. Among her latest acquisitions is a custom-made jacket by Melbourne-based design studio Speczmen. Inspired by a 1987 Yves Saint Laurent opera coat, the jacket features a Victorian-style silhouette crafted from Mokum curtain fabric infused with stainless steel, giving it a shimmering, crushed-gold appearance. This bespoke creation stands out as a highlight of her collection, reflecting her affinity for historical fashion periods such as the Victorian and 1960s eras. Her style is deeply influenced by family history and cultural references. Shields recalls her great-grandmother's collection of Women's Weekly magazines, particularly a 1960s issue featuring a powder-blue bridesmaid's dress adorned with yellow flowers. These nostalgic elements shape her appreciation for bohemian styles and intricate detailing. Her favorite designers include Etro, Ulla Johnson, and Julia Allert, whose creations she admires for their unique textures and colors. For special occasions, she dreams of a custom-made ensemble by Dolce & Gabbana, envisioning a dramatic and luxurious red-carpet look. In terms of accessories, Shields favors jewelry by Melbourne-based designer Tessa Blazey, including a peridot diamond ring and a multi-stone necklace. Her fragrance choices reflect a blend of sophistication and warmth, combining Tom Ford's "Tobacco Vanille" with Maison Margiela Replica's "By the Fireplace." Personal anecdotes reveal a fondness for childhood attire, such as a magenta corduroy dress with pockets and a pink Puma tracksuit, despite acknowledging past fashion missteps like fluoro-painted jeans from her teenage years. On a practical level, Shields relies heavily on three key items: her Alpha60 "Ishi" tapestry cocoon-style pants, the aforementioned Uniqlo turtleneck, and a collection of fur jackets she believes she has rescued from op shops. Her weekend attire typically includes paint-stained pants, a Uniqlo turtleneck, a Paris op-shop knit, and Camper slippers, showcasing her preference for comfort and practicality outside of formal settings. Her influence extends beyond her own style, drawing inspiration from figures like the late Iris Apfel and the visual storytelling of Sofia Coppola's Marie Antoinette. These influences manifest in her approach to interior design, where she blends runway aesthetics with street fashion elements to create spaces that are both functional and visually striking. As she continues to evolve her personal and professional style, Shields remains committed to curating a wardrobe that reflects her individuality while staying rooted in the rich tapestry of fashion history.