Q&A with Emma Kalfus

We sat down with Emma Kalfus, the stylist, Creative Consultant, and Founder of Side-Note Magazine.

For those outside the fashion industry — how would you describe what you do?

I produce and edit a magazine called SIDE-NOTE and freelance as a stylist and consultant across a broad range of fashion, beauty and lifestyle brands.

You’ve worked across some of Australia’s most respected titles and brands. What first drew you to fashion, and how did you find your way in?

I started out as an intern forever ago at InStyle magazine and then as time went on I began assisting some great stylists in their freelance work to get ‘on set’ experience. I then got a junior role at InStyle as the fashion assistant (assisting about 4 Fashion editors and the broader team) and slowly moved up the chart jumping from there to the Sunday Times Style and back into monthly titles, Elle, Vogue and now SIDE-NOTE which lives more like a coffee table book and is biannual.

Your work is grounded in strong visual storytelling. Where do you find inspiration — and how has that evolved over time? 

I generally get most inspired when I’m travelling the world, so currently I’ve been feeling a little road blocked as it’s been a while between big trips abroad (I’ve also been in the thick of raising two small humans) however I have a couple of trips planned that should help to broaden my creativity again. I think I get most inspired by just being in different places, eating different foods, seeing different architecture and experiencing new art and forms of life and that keeps me going.

Is there a particular shoot or project that stands out as especially meaningful or memorable?

I shot a fashion story in and around Rome with an Italian team when I was at Elle and it was so much fun. I think shooting abroad just feels so special and you're so thankful that that’s what you get to do for work!

Your role straddles both the practical and the conceptual. What does personal style look like for you — on set and off duty?

My style has always been very classic and streamlined. I don’t think it has altered much since my early 20’s or even my teens. I still have a black vintage shirt I thrifted when I was 19 on high rotation, but I love finding a great new tailored piece or introducing a chic long line skirt that will see out more than a few seasons…On set I try not to go too casual as I definitely think people take you more seriously when you dress for the role, but that’s not to say I won’t wear a jean or a t-shirt. I just make sure those relaxed pieces are really well made and fit extremely well!

And finally — your favourite Elka Collective piece this season, and why does the brand resonate with you? 

I actually have three. The Odin Jean in blue — such a flattering fit and good gutsy denim that feels elevated enough for almost any occasion. Wilde boot in espresso — I love a boot under a pant and this shape works so well with all the wide leg fits I’ve been wearing. The Ellie trouser worn slouchy — I will be wearing these every other day.
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