Welcome to the ESSENtialists, a series where we connect with inspiring creatives, entrepreneurs and like-minded women over the Essence of Less.
For Michelle Bañares, style is second nature—and so is intention. As a Creative Producer working across fashion, beauty and lifestyle, Michelle brings a considered eye to everything she does. Her personal aesthetic blends tailored ease with vintage sensibility, often anchored in pieces that feel timeless, elevated and truly lived-in. Based in Melbourne and grounded by the rhythm of motherhood, Michelle’s approach to luxury centres on presence, quality and comfort. From the way she gets dressed to the way she lives, it’s clear she’s mastered the art of thoughtful layering—both in style and in life.
In this instalment of the ESSENtialists, Michelle shares her styling philosophy, how motherhood shaped her relationship with fashion, and the mindset behind her enduring approach to minimalism.
TELL US A LITTLE ABOUT YOURSELF, WHO ARE YOU, AND WHAT DO YOU DO?
I’m a Creative Producer born in Sydney, based in Melbourne. You’ll see me produce campaigns within the Fashion, Beauty and Lifestyle space.
WHAT IS YOUR IDEA OF LUXURY? WHAT INFORMED THAT IDEA?
Being a mum, ‘time’ is my luxury. I’m a much better mum when I make time to do something for myself.
HOW DO YOU DESCRIBE YOUR PERSONAL STYLE?
It’s definitely a more mature version of what I’ve always worn (which is the beauty of your style evolving). Now, it’s become this mix of both vintage silhouettes (based on the 90’s) and tailored cuts.
WHAT ROLE DOES MINIMALISM PLAY IN YOUR CLOSET?
I try to keep my closet circular and prefer buying a lot of my wardrobe secondhand or vintage. But of course, with what I do for work, part of that includes receiving gifts from brands that I adore. I try to make sure that I am only aligning with brands that I would genuinely purchase from.
WHAT'S YOUR MANTRA WHEN IT COMES TO PURCHASING NEW PIECES?
Always... one in, and one out.
HOW DO YOU SEE YOURSELF STYLING YOUR FOUNDATION FLATS IN BLACK PATENT? WHAT DREW YOU TO THEM AS A STYLE?
By the time this goes live, I’ve already worn them 163134682462 times. The fabric of the shoe reminded me so much of the patent loafers from Chanel, but they’re also so unique in their own way. I don’t own a pair that has a beautiful shine like the Foundation flats, and they go literally with everything I own!
WHICH PIECE IN YOUR WARDROBE HAVE YOU HAD THE LONGEST?
I’d have to say these two blazers I found at a bazaar, back when I was still living in Sydney. As simple as blazers sound, they’re a classic—and so hard to find one that fits well and is the perfect amount of oversized. I took them to my alterationist to get them just right. I’ve had them for about 6 or 7 years now, and I bring them out every autumn/winter without fail.!
WHAT'S A STYLING TIP OR CONCEPT YOUR FIND YOURSELF RETURNING TO?
LAYERING is key. Whether that is physically layering pieces together or as a concept for your outfit. Getting dressed for the day is so much easier when you think about creating layers for what you are wearing.
WHEN DO YOU FEEL MOST CREATIVE?
Most especially after I’ve spent some time off my phone and with my boys, doing pilates in the morning, people watching and cooking.
HOW HAS MOTHERHOOD CHANGED THE WAY YOU RELATE TO FASHION?
After having Zev, getting dressed really became a challenge (this was 5 years ago). I was trying to navigate life in my new body whilst also trying to fit into my pre-baby wardrobe. What was consistent throughout, then (post-baby) and now, is comfort. It’s something I will always ask myself when I get dressed, “Am I comfortable in this?”.
WHAT DOES 'THE ESSENCE OF LESS' MEAN TO YOU?
To me, it’s a mindset. It’s about embracing simplicity and quality over quantity.. It's about curating a wardrobe filled with versatile, timeless pieces that I truly love and that reflects my style, rather than chasing every trend. This also extends to my home and lifestyle — focusing on what truly matters, spending time with my boys and creating experiences and memories that we will talk about forever!
Instagram:
