Sally Manhire is as stylish as they come and her IG account is one of our style go-tos. Since launching her personal styling business on the Gold Coast 7 years ago, Sally has been the go-to gal for hundreds of women looking to level up their look, particularly those fabulous 40-and-above ladies. Known for her laid-back, friendly vibe and an eye that can spot a killer outfit from a mile away, she’s a wizard when it comes to working with all body shapes, budgets, and lifestyles. She’s also a huge fan of Australian labels, boasting incredible product knowledge that makes her the go-to stylist for anyone wanting to upgrade their wardrobe with effortless elegance.

Whether it’s finding those elusive perfect jeans or giving someone a total confidence boost with a new look, Sally’s style mojo is magnetic. We chatted to Sally about her love for the Gold Coast’s outdoor lifestyle, how midlife has shaped her passion for helping women feel confident, and of course, her top tips for elevating everyday style. And yes, she’s got some juicy insider fashion trends coming your way for the Spring and Summer seasons — spoiler alert: jelly sandals are making a comeback!

How long have you been a Gold Coast local?
I have lived on the GC for about 12 years now.

What do you love the most about the Gold Coast?
Being originally from the UK, this feels like the perfect place to live. The mild climate and outdoor lifestyle are a huge contrast to where I grew up, and it truly feels like paradise!

There’s also this laid-back yet lively energy which I love. I live in the middle of Southport and I still pinch myself that I can drive to the beach in 10 minutes for a morning walk and still have access to great dining, shopping and evening entertainment.

Tell us a little bit about yourself.
As a personal stylist, I’ve spent the last decade helping hundreds of women redefine their style and feel confident in their own skin, something I have become increasingly passionate about. Interestingly, I kind of stumbled into this job, but I truly believe I’m where I’m meant to be. When I first began my personal styling business 10 has ago, I was unsure of my target audience but as I’ve moved into midlife, it’s become very clear and I absolutely love it.

It’s fantastic to have Pacific Fair as my workplace, where I get to spend my days enjoying the vibrant atmosphere and immersing myself in fashion and style.

Personally, I’m a mum of two grown children (who still live at home and don’t look like leaving anytime soon) and two fur babies. I am a twin (my twin sister lives very close) and I really enjoy a close knit family. One thing that age has taught me is the importance of connection, whether it’s family or community.

As a relatively new Gold Coaster, I’ve found it refreshingly easy to get involved in the community something I’ve always been keen to do. I am passionate about fitness (I’ve been a member of a brilliant gym for the past 8 years MyFit Health & Fitness Carrara) and I love the community vibe there. I also volunteer for Rosie’s, Friends of the Street, a brilliant volunteer community based organisation that supports Gold Coasters facing challenging times.

What inspired you to pursue a career in fashion and styling?
Fashion and styling has always been in my blood and growing up in London, I was surrounded by a vibrant fashion scene thanks to my mother’s market stalls. Some of my earliest memories are of exploring the eclectic shops and bustling markets across the city. My 20s and 30s were spent working in media, but my passion for fashion and styling was always bubbling beneath the surface. Even while raising my young family, I found myself increasingly drawn to the art of styling, often helping friends and family with their outfits for special events. When the time was right, this innate passion guided me to start my own Personal Styling business. Since then, I haven’t looked back.

Who or what inspires you in your styling work? Are there particular designers, trends, or public figures you look to for inspiration?
I am definitely inspired by the amazing collection of women I get to work with. Midlife can be a particularly tricky time in our lives. A time of much confusion and change. Helping women make sense of this is definitely a driving force for me.

I love classic and elegant styling, which is influenced by both my Australian and UK backgrounds. Australia’s laidback lifestyle really has me pining for effortless, laid-back clothing and my UK influence adds a touch of classic elegance to my style preferences. My style icons are Kate Moss and more recently, Naomi Watts.

I think Australian designers are amazing and I work with them as much as I can. I particularly love Viktoria & Wood and Scanlan & Theodore for high-end and brands like Assembly Label for everyday basics – I prioritize good quality over quantity every day of the week.

6. Do you have any tips or tricks for women looking to elevate their everyday wardrobe without completely starting over?
Absolutely! Here are some tips to elevate your everyday wardrobe without overhauling it:

Stop shopping and get organized! I have seen so many wardrobes over the years that are overstuffed with pieces bought in a panic with labels still intact. Take stock of what you already own and clear out what you no longer wear or need. Putting outfits together is a lot easier when you wardrobe only contains what you actually wear and love. Be ruthless.

Get to know your body now: a woman’s body journey is ever changing and you need to get to know the body you are in now and get your wardrobe working for who you are today. Women are very good at finding their flaws but I like to get women to notice and dress for her strengths.

Reevaluate Your Basics: Think quality over quantity. Invest in high-quality basics like plain tees, versatile sweaters, and jeans. All the pieces you wear the most. Pay attention to these pieces as the are the foundation of any wardrobe. Make sure they look and feel good and work with your lifestyle.

Be mindful: Stop the impulse buying and only shop when you genuinely need something new. When you do shop, arm yourself with a list of what you need, try it on and if you are not sure, take a breath. Walk away and put some space between you and the purchase. Do you really need it? Can it be worn with multiple outfits?

Play with Accessories: Accessories like scarves, belts, and jewelry can quickly refresh your wardrobe. They add a new dimension to your outfits without needing to buy new clothes or break the bank. It’s also a great way to play with trends without committing.

Update Shoes and Bags: Sometimes, a new pair of shoes or a stylish bag can refresh your entire wardrobe. Choose styles that compliment your existing clothes and have fun with them. The simplest outfit can be transformed by a great pair of statement shoes or bag.

What are some of your go-to wardrobe essentials that every woman should have in her closet?
If I’m putting together a hard-working everyday capsule wardrobe for a client, I always start with the following:

Great Jeans. I believe there is a great pair out there for everyone. The biggest tip I can give is to try on as many pairs as you have to. It’s a process.
White Button-Down Shirt. Timeless and versatile, it can be dressed up or down.
Tailored Blazer. Perfect for adding a polished touch to any outfit.
Everyday dresses. I love a “one-and-go” outfit and our lifestyle here in the GC offers the perfect climate and lifestyle for great, throw-on day dresses. With pockets, obviously.
Comfortable & Stylish Flats. Essential for everyday wear. I love every part of midlife but the foot situation is tricky. Those heels you squeezed into back in the day will come back to haunt you! Almost every midlife woman I work with has foot issues, so I am constantly on the look out for super stylish flats.
Style tip: Sneakers are always a good idea and look great on everyone.

As a professional stylist at Pacific Fair, what’s the process like when working with a new client?
I truly relish the opportunity to work with new clients. My approach starts with a deep dive into understanding who they are. Of course, details like body shape, sizes, and coloring are essential, but I believe the heart of great styling lies in grasping their lifestyle and personality. By getting to know what makes them tick, I can tailor my recommendations to fit in with their lives and leave them feeling confident and comfortable.

Once I have done this, I pre-shop for my client and have everything waiting for them to try on. It’s very simple, collaborative and fun.

What trends do you predict will be huge this year coming into Spring and Summer?
So many great trends already coming through. I find this time of year quite exciting and although I relish winter styling, I love the colours and fabrications of Spring and Summer.

One of the biggest trends this year is leopard print, whether that’s tops, dresses, slip-skirts, or jeans as well as cool accessories; bags, belts and shoes. Crochet and lace are more popular than ever this year, especially with return of boho-chic and Chloe inspired trends. The sporty athleisure trend is still going strong and Adidas are definitely still having a big moment with sneakers and apparel.

Footwear has been dominated by Mary-Jane’s, mesh-ballet flats, kitten heels and loafers. Summer will also see the a resurgance of flip flops and yes, I kid you not, the return of the jelly sandal!

I am already shopping spring/summer with my clients at Pacific Fair and pastel coloured linen is everywhere and just works so well here on the GC.

What are your Gold Coast favourites?
Café: Bumbles Cafe, Budds Beach
Restaurant: Blowfish Ocean Grill & Bar
Bar: The Garden Bar, The Star
Beach: Nobbys.

How do you choose to spend your days off?
When I’m not working, I am spending time with my two dogs, Dexter and Peanut, at one of our fantastic dog parks or shopping (at Pacific Fair of course).

There are many things we Gold Coasters are fond of. A new beachside eggs benny brunch spot. Bottomless long lunches. Farmers Markets. Finding the last park at Burleigh Hill on a Sunday. Heading out on the town in a brand new ‘fit #thanksitsnew.

We’re pretty spoilt for choice when it comes to local boutiques frilled to the brim with incredible Aussie designers and labels #luckyus. Plus, we get the added warm and fuzzy feels of supporting local small biz #winwin. So, we’ve rounded up 9 of our fave GC boutiques for your spending pleasure. We’re not sure what’s harder, narrowing this list down to just 9, or walking out of any of the below empty handed.

GIRLS ONLY

Halo & Grace
Creating a boutique that both appeals to and attracts women of all ages is quite the undertaking, but Halo & Grace have done just that. Nailing that sweet spot of timeless, luxe slow fashion from fancy trackside frocks through to your fave new farmers market ‘fit – their brand new, and downright stunning Mermaid digs are chock full of goodies for you and your abode.
Where: 43 Alfred Street, Mermaid Beach

Homebodii
What could bring a better night’s sleep than your fave pjs? Perhaps knowing they were consciously created right here on the GC (oh, and the fact that they’re cute AF sure doesn’t hurt). Making their debut in 2012 with luxe bridal loungewear, and Homebodii has been keeping us chic, cute and cosy ever since, with their range quickly expanding to sleepwear, intimates and effortless basics. Weekend sleep ins never looked so good.
Where: Pacific Fair Shopping Centre, Shop 2708, Hooker Blvd, Broadbeach

About a Girl
About a Girl boutique is all about YOU! They always have the cutest threads for every occasion AND if there’s anything you can’t find or a product or label you’re dying to get your hands on, let them know and they will try their best to track it down for you. Extra good.
Where: 2/2211-2215 Gold Coast Highway, Nobby Beach

The Freedom State
The Freedom State is a women’s clothing store that is inspired by bohemian creativity (because boho is life y’all) with a gypsy attitude of freedom. The team has carefully curated labels to offer a stunning selection of women’s fashion inspiring you to show off your very best self.
Where: Shop 12/50 James St, Burleigh Heads

Bird on a Wire
Bird on a Wire is set amongst the exceptional coffee shops on the Lower Gold Coast Highway in Burleigh. The chic boho boutique offers a diverse range of beautiful but affordable fashion and homewares and is the perfect stop after a swim and a coffee.
Where: 5/1840 Lower Gold Coast Hwy, Burleigh Heads

Emte
A must visit store in the Burleigh area, Emte Boutique was founded by a Gold Coast girl who felt that there was a gap to be filled for fashion jewellery and accessories that are cutting edge, stylish, on trend and affordable. We concur. And also spend a lot of dollars here.
Where: 3 James St, Burleigh Heads

White Bohemian
As the name suggests, White Bohemian is all about boho style. Clothing, accessories, bohemian inspired homewares and the very best gifts for the free spirited gypsy wanderer. Love all the things.
Where: 1160 Gold Coast Hwy, Palm Beach

BOYS ONLY

Alfred’s Apartment
While we’re still sad Alfred’s Diner is no more, the lads are still providing our local men with an ever growing range of curated fashion and accessories. Plus they do serve great coffee and Milkman’s cookies, so we mostly forgive them #beingbacktheburrito. Even the fussiest of men will love their limited-release tees.
Where: 2225 Gold Coast Hwy, Mermaid Beach

UNISEX

Sean Scott Boutique
A fave little boutique in James Street, the space showcases Sean Scott’s breathtaking photography as well as clothing and accessories for the fashion forward folks. You can also find one of the biggest displays of (local legends) Valley Eyewear sunnies here on the Coast.
Where: 21c James St, Burleigh Heads

If there was ever a time you deserved to treat yourself to some sparkly accessories, it is now. You know it, we know it, everybody knows it.

Not to mention doing so would mean supporting local businesses who now, more than ever need some love.

So, in honour of all that we’ve made you something special. It’s a list of Gold Coast jewellery businesses and there are some goodies friends.

You’re welcome.

Violet Gray
She’s been around for a little while now and it’s easy to see why. Violet Gray by Alex Olsen, creates handmade, bespoke gold pieces made with stunning Earth-grown stones that will last for lifetimes. Each piece is absolutely breathtaking and unlike everything you’ve ever seen before. Perfection.

Australian Outback Opals
Found in Mt Tamborine, Australian Outback Opals specialise in what some of us believe is the most stunning stone in the world (they’re like little galaxies guys). You can purchase one of the stunning pieces in store or have something custom made, which we highly recommend. All opals are sourced from outback Australia and they’re all so beautiful. We love.

Frankly My Dear
Beloved label Frankly My Dear create sterling silver and gold plated pieces you are sure to absolutely love. From layered necklaces to delicate earrings and a stunning bridal collection, it won’t be hard to find a few things to treat yourself to. We personally love the Zodiac Wheel pendant best.

YCL Jewels
We’ve been following local brand YCL Jewels for many years now and the brand, by self-taught designer Fabienne, has grown to win countless awards and become absolutely adored by women all over the world. Designs are made in small batches and inspired by the art in every day and all consciously created. We’re big fans.

Cort Jewellery
Husband and wife team, Ashley and Dean started Cort Jewellery to create handmade pieces in epic designs and they have become much-loved worldwide. Specialising in edgy signet rings that break the mould of traditional design, the pair also create pendants and bracelets and have recently launched reloved collection, made from restored jewellery. Do yourself a favour.

Jewellery by Kim
Handmade jewellery by a local gal who’s been passionate about creating for the past 25 years, JBK was born from the desire to create everyday jewellery for the woman who doesn’t want to feel everyday. The collection is filled with sterling silver pieces, some with precious stones and they’re all very lovely.

Gems and Minerals
Specialising in Australian Opals, Baltic Amber, Pearls and gemstone jewellery, the team at Gems and Minerals, upstairs at The Oasis Broadbeach, have been serving the Gold Coast community with quality jewellery for many years. There you’ll find unusual pieces and a very knowledgeable team.

Deer Honey Jewellery
Custom-made, fine jewellery including diamond bands, engagement rings, earrings, cocktail rings and pendants, Deer Honey Jewellery can absolutely create something special for any need. Their designs are unique and there’s nothing they can’t do.

Ribs & Dust
As seen in Vogue (fancy), Ribs & Dust make bespoke jewellery including engagement rings and you’re going to want to get your hands on some quick smart. There are custom signet rings and double-sided pendants in 18k gold, opal engagement rings and all kinds of beautiful goodness. Choose your own adventure here, the world is your sparkly oyster.

Words by Kirra Smith