Local Chick… Olivia Deur from Maroubra

By James Hutton on March 20, 2018 in People

The girl to go to if you want something unique, by James Hutton.

Maroubra’s Olivia Deur is a fashion and costume designer, producing all sorts of beautiful garments. Olivia shares her local favourites with The Beast…

How long have you lived here? I’ve been in Maroubra on and off for 15 years, and in Coogee for 15 years prior to the Maroubra days.

Why do you live here? I’m close to my family and friends and I love waking up to the ocean every day.

What’s your favourite beach? At the moment it’s Coogee. I was living overseas but I’ve been down there a lot recently and it’s bringing back many lovely childhood memories.

What’s your favourite eatery? The Blue Monkey at The Spot serves my regular Thai cravings. Every-thing on the menu is sensational and the tom yum spicy soup is a perfect pick-me-up when you’re feeling a bit run down or fluey.

Where do you like to have a drink? Anywhere close to the water with a sunset is a good start. Spring Street Social at Bondi Junction serves some really decent cocktails and is great for a chilled, underground mid-week meeting.

Best thing about the Eastern Suburbs? It’s the perfect balance of a healthy, fun, fashionable lifestyle.

Worst thing about the Eastern Suburbs? Invasive, pumped up seagulls who want my chips.

Do you have a favourite sporting team? Yes, the good-looking ones.

Who is your favourite person? That would have to be my mum.

What do you get up to on the weekends? It’s a mix of exhibitions, live music and dancing, friend’s parties, good food and wine, beach swims and coastal walks, yoga, painting, shopping for work or inspiration, and meeting clients.

What do you do for work? I’m a fashion and costume designer. I design and produce breathtakingly beautiful garments for all types of people and occasions. I’ve just finished designing some very contemporary ballet costumes for an international film and dance festival while freelancing for another company producing some key costumes for the musical, Muriel’s Wedding. This week I’m designing for a bride and her bridesmaids, and there are always party frocks to create for my regular ladies. I’m the girl to go to if you want something unique! You can check out my website at www.oliviadeur.com.

What’s your favourite thing about work? I get to create and challenge my imagination while making people look and feel fabulous.

Do you have a favourite quote? “Don’t ever let fear turn you against your playful heart.”

Any other words of wisdom for readers of The Beast? Creativity, and life in general, is never straight down the line, so listen to your gut and it will guide you in the right direction if your intentions are good.