Marle Women is created to celebrate our philosophy of designing pieces for women of all ages and stages of their lives. We hope each interview inspires you, the same way in which these women do to us.
 
Writer, model and dancer, Laura Roscioli is a Melbourne based creative that instantly became a Marle muse and friend since the day we were first introduced. Laura embodies an innate confidence that is a joy to witness, and in-turn, inspires other women to find that place in themselves. Championing a pivotal movement within fashion and beauty, Laura has become an ambassador for the equal representation of diverse people and bodies within these industries.
 
Here, we speak to Laura about her role as an ambassador, life achievements along with her long standing love affair with fashion.
 

Name: Laura Roscioli

Location: Melbourne, Australia

 

Please share a little bit about yourself - including your background, noting some of the defining aspects that have contributed to the woman you are today.

My family is a mix of Egyptian, Italian and Australian, so I was very lucky to be born into some beautifully rich cultures. My parents have always inspired creativity within me, teaching me to cook from a very young age and allowing me to express myself in whichever way made me happy. My mum especially is a big lover of fashion and bought me my first Vogue when I was 12, along with always encouraging me to read, write, perform and dance. I feel as though I was able to learn how to express myself throughout childhood and it’s definitely given me the confidence to continue doing so in every way I can.
 

You’re a hugely successful model, writer and dancer. Tell us about some of your career highlights? 

When I was fourteen, I won my first national Ballroom Dancing competition; the same one I’d watched on TV every Christmas night for as long as I can remember. That moment was, and still is, very surreal and inspiring to me, because it was from then that I started to believe in dreams. As a writer, I’ve only recently grown into my voice and sharing it with a public audience. Last year, I wrote a series of pieces on size diversity in fashion, which were published in some of my favourite Australian fashion publications; RUSSH and Fashion Journal. Those were big moments for me. Also last year – a strange time for things to be going well – I was signed to Chadwick Models here in Melbourne, as a plus sized model, which was an incredible feeling. A few years ago, that would not have felt possible.
 

It was our honour to have you feature in our latest shoot for Autumn 21, ‘Writing you now’. What were some of your favourite styles that you wore at the shoot, and how did they make you feel?

Thank you! It was an honour for me too, I adore Marle. Honestly, Marle is one of the only brands I have ever worn, where all the different pieces make me feel beautiful and suit my body, no matter the style. They make me feel comfortable, confident and sensual; like a real woman. 

"I think that it’s really important to back yourself, first and foremost. No matter how much encouragement or support you get, you need to believe that you can do it before you can receive help from others" Laura Roscioli

You’re a celebrated writer and within your work, have written important pieces for Russh, Vice and She Defined about diversity in fashion based upon your own personal experience. Using your voice to lead this conversation in Australian fashion has inspired many. What has this experience meant to you - both personally and professionally?

Personally, it’s been therapeutic. It’s a harsh truth that Australian fashion is behind in accepting bodies that aren’t sample size, and it’s had an impact on my life and how I see myself for so long. I was just ready to be rid of it, to tell my truth and be shameless about it. I was surprised and delighted to see how it connected with so many others and it has truly inspired me to always share my experiences, in the hope of opening up conversations that need to be had. Professionally, it was really beautiful to be able to write something so personal for others to read. It was a challenge that I hadn’t faced before and felt very lucky to be able to do. 
 

You’ve mentioned that power comes in numbers. Who are the people who have supported both you and this narrative?

I think that it’s really important to back yourself, first and foremost. No matter how much encouragement or support you get, you need to believe that you can do it before you can receive help from others. But yes, I 100% believe in the importance of having positive and supporting forces around you! My parents are amazing, they continue to be my biggest supporters, reading every article, watching every dance competition. My boyfriend and my friends are powerful and positive forces in my life, that always lift me up when I’m down and make me feel as though I can do anything. The women I work with that inspire me every day, fellow creatives that believe in diversity and different types of beauty. And of course, there are the pivotal people that have helped shaped me in the paths I have chosen to take, they know who they are.
 

Tell us about a day in the life of Laura Roscioli and what are the go-to Marle pieces you reach for when you have a very full day ahead?

My life is a busy one! A typical day would see me rise early, have a coffee (always strong) and go to work, whether it may be my full-time writing job, a casting, an interview or a shoot. For my writing job I go to a lot of media events, so I always need to be dressed for success. I’m an absolute dress lover, and I love something fitted over my curves, so my current Marle favourites are the Anouk Dress in Taupe and the Rita Dress in Charcoal. Dress them up with a pretty heel and you’re ready for anything! I strive for effortless elegance, so I’m comfortably dressed for any occasion. By night, I have dance training. Sometimes I feel like I live a double life… it’s quite exciting!

You’re a self professed lover of fashion. How would you describe your personal style? And how has it changed over the years?

I’d describe my style as “classic European”, but it definitely changes with my moods. I always keep a taste of euro in my outfits, but they range anywhere between loud and upfront, to understated and classy. I’ve always had a soft spot for op shops. I love the creativity of finding something that someone else has owned and being able to make it your own. I also love the unique-ness of buying secondhand; you’re never part of a trend, brand or fad, and no one can ‘copy’ you. I still buy a lot of my clothes secondhand, but I am definitely more selective than I used to be, and I have a newfound appreciation for Australian and New Zealand brands.
 

Is fabric important to you when purchasing a garment and if so, what do you look for?

Absolutely! One of the most important things about a garment is its fabric; it totally dictates the feel of the piece. I always look for fabric sources sustainably and organically made. I love pure silks, cottons, linens, wools, cashmere and merino. When a garment is made with good quality fabric, not only does it feel amazing, but it wears well and lasts longer. Its a very worthwhile investment.
 

Quickfire Questions 

 

What is your most treasured object and why? It’s funny, I’m not very sentimental with objects. I would say the most treasured thing I currently wear is my Nonna’s ring, which belonged to her mum before me. It’s just such a beautiful reminder of where I come from.   Do you prefer texture or colour? I love both, but I think I’m a colour girl. I love playing around with different colours in different seasons, I’m never afraid to go for a bold lippy or shoe and I just love the way colour affects your mood so drastically.   Spring/ Summer or Autumn/Winter? Autumn. I think it’s the most beautiful season of all. I love the falling orange leaves and the weather, that’s not too hot, nor too cold. Also I really love Winter fashion and Winter activities, so knowing that Winter is around the corner is always a nice feeling.   What are you reading right now? Ghosts, by Dolly Alderton. As of last year, she is my favourite author and podcast queen.   Favourite Melbourne restaurant? It changes weekly! Gimlet is my current fave, it’s both beautiful and delicious. And Embla is always consistently fantastic.   What are you most looking forward to in 2021? I’m just looking forward to living my life, drinking mimosas, tango-ing up a storm, hugging my family and friends, writing some boundary-pushing pieces, working with new modelling clients and doing things that I love.

 

Laura wears the June Tank, Enrika Skirt, Sofia Top and Mila Pant. Photographed by Nelly Skoufatoglou