My mother has forever been into sustainability so between my mother and my stylist grandmother it's only natural my design practice is one which honours the environment and respects Mother Nature.

It's all in the genes for Stylist and TAFE NSW teacher, Natalie Coulter. A third generation stylist, whose passion was sparked in childhood thanks to impromptu vignette sessions with her grandmother.

With a glamorous career working at Elle Magazine in New York City, styling for interior magazines and representing the Reuse movement with her business Belle Flaneur; having been sponsored by Reverse Garbage, Australia's largest reuse centre.

We asked Natalie to share her best style advice, here's her top tips:

Work with what you've got

You'd be surprised how many potentially eclectic style props you're surrounded by without even noticing. Those old family heirlooms or old wares you have stored up in the garage could look amazing paired with contemporary pieces.

Winning combinations

I love to upcycle, my best inspiration comes from artists who can create something beautiful from what would otherwise be churned into landfill. Opposites attract in the style world, old with new, textured with smooth, dark with light. Get creative.

Take risks

Playing it safe is boring. Express yourself! I've thrown myself into the Reuse movement. More recently I've dabbled in the Wabi Sabi style, a celebration of beauty within imperfection. This is my next course of study and will take to Japan and China to research the purity of this design aesthetic.

Creativity on Tap

Every project should start with one part magic, one organisation. A stylist's work always has aspects of chaos and surprise but planning well and closely tracking your project will help you to avoid any disasters. Some projects don't look as marvellous as you envisioned but with great planning you will have the time to edit and refine your work.

We all have style

Style is such a personal expression. Most people just don't know where to start to process, engage and put their creativity and style into anything tangible. The eyes can be taught how to develop a technique and the mind will remember. Then it's just a matter of experimentation and practice.

Be your own trend compass

All stylists curate their inspiration from the world around them but to develop your own, unique style you need to look within. Technique is the ultimate foundation for your artistic expression. There are design rules and principles for visual presentation. But once the technical foundation has been established, follow your own style and forget the ‘trends'.

Want to learn more from Natalie Coulter? If you're based in the Northern Beaches, you can join Natalie at Sabi Studios 17 for an intimate styling workshop > Book Now.