Melbourne is synonymous with killer coffee, unpredictable weather and, of course, an inordinate amount of black clothing sported by locals all year round. So when our street style photographer Zoe Kostopoulos happened across Jess Bicanski, dressed head-to-toe in white (bar a pair of rainbow socks), she couldn’t resist asking for a snap.
“When Zoe approached to take my photo, I thought she was going to ask me for public transport advice and all I could think was “Oh no, I am the worst person to ask for this kind of thing!” I was very pleasantly surprised when that wasn’t the case and instead I was being recognised for my style – I also love having my photo taken so we had some good fun.”
Jess’s look went on to top the vote for May and as we got to learn a little more about her, we discovered 19 year old Jess, of Serbian and English decent, had only just moved to Melbourne via Tasmania. We should have guessed!
We caught up with Jess just a few days shy of her 21st birthday for her featured photoshoot with Leonard St, styled by the incredible staff (dubbed ‘retail angels’ by Jess herself) at their Gertrude St store.
“I wasn’t familiar with the work of Leonard St prior to my shoot. However, I had walked past and been transfixed by their gorgeous pink store.
I was so pleased to be asked to contribute suggestions for what outfits we should try for the shoot – I feel pretty cosy in front of a camera but it’s even better when it’s in clothes that you love so it was so lovely to be able to have the freedom to choose my favourite pieces.
I loved the use of print and colour through their collection – lots of beautiful shades of blue, green and my favourite, pink! I thought the garments were made with such thought and care, even down to the lining and the fastening details (did someone say necktie?)”
Jess was in her element as she dodged the rain between poses, our photographer shambling after her with considerably less grace (you see, Jess is a dancer).
With a personality every bit as vibrant as the eclectic prints Leonard St is adored for, our top-voted for May is all smiles – and has us doing the same.
Jess wears:
Look 1: Crushed Funnel Sweater, Autumn Pinafore, Fundamental Raincoat, Mixed Lollies Beanie
Look 2: Manhattan Wide Leg Trousers, Sparkle Top, Frayed Denim Jacket
Look 3: True Colours Velvet Culottes, Snap Top, Augustus Coat, Snake Ball Scarf
Look 4: Eventful Jumpsuit, Pink Lady Coat
