Few people can list fashion designer, model, actress and TV presenter on their CV but Virginia Macari is a truly versatile vixen. Fans of Podge & Rodge will know and love her for her new role as co-host with the boys on RTE 2′s Stick-it Inn. We caught up with her to talk fashion.

What five words best describe your style?
Feminine, Strong, Extravagant, high-heels, Fun.

Best style tip?
I don’t believe clothes have to be comfortable to look good. I’ve worn fabulous dresses I couldn’t even sit in. If I love something and know it looks good on me, I’m more than happy to suffer for it. My tip for that is to just rock it with confidence.

Favorite item in your wardrobe right now?
It’s almost impossible to choose! I have a hand embroidered silk formal kimono and obi from Kyoto. I wear it at home while entertaining. But right now it must be my Chanel skis I got from my boyfriend for Christmas. He picked them up in Paris while on a business trip. I can’t wait to hit the slopes with them in Norway this month. I’m a terrible skier, but at least I’ll look stylish!

What’s in your handbag right now?
I would never leave home without my iphone, Swarovski headphones, Crème de la Mer handcream, Moleskine notebook and pencils, make-up bag and macaroons from La Duree (my guilty pleasures!).

Worst and or best shopping experience?
One of the best experiences is in the isle of Capri. I go every year. Stepping off the boat to walk around the sunny picturesque cobbled streets of Capri you will experience what La Dolce Vita is all about. You’ll find lots of designer boutiques such as Dolce Gabbana, Sergio Rossi, Gucci, Versace etc. I always come home with unique pieces to add to my wardrobe. And after a hard day shopping its great to sip limoncello in one of the piazzas and watch the fashionable cognoscenti walk by. You will end up coming home feeling truly inspired. Oh and I totally recommend staying in Hotel Quisisana. Its luxury at its best!

Best high street store?
One of my fashion philosophies is too mix high-end pieces with street smart styles. Topshop is certainly one of my favorites, especially their flagship store on Oxford Street in London. Their collaboration with the super talented Christopher Kane has brought their store to another level. Also Hughes & Hughes bookstore on Dawson Street is a place I like to get lost in. I’m an avid book collector.

Favourite place to shop?
The romantic city of Paris is definitely my favorite place to shop. Rue Cambon where you will find Chanel and Avenue Montaigne for Dior. I’m a big fan of Art Nouveau. The buildings are so beautiful. You almost feel like you are in a movie. I love their architecture, style and service that are only synonymous in France.

Favorite sites on the web?
For Art: http://www.tate.org.uk/modern/
For shopping: http://www.victoriassecret.com/
For Fashion: http://www.style.com

Worst Fashion moment?
I will always wear what I like however daring it is. Women should not be afraid to push more boundaries. They could have more fun if they did! Anyway, a bad fashion moment for me was being photographed at a party in a beautiful Couture gown while smoking. Now that’s très uncool!

Who epitomizes great style?
Sofia Loren is the true definition of a Roman Goddess. In an age where thin is in, it’s refreshing to turn back the time to see how real curves are truly sexy. Sofia is a fashion icon and a big inspiration for me. And I must not forget my mother Clara, she was born near Rome and grew up in Paris. My mama is the queen of elegance! She always taught me that style comes from within.

What era would you like to see return to fashion?
I always love the timeless appeal of the 40’s. The nipped in waists and structured bodices. That era was full of elegance, fantasy, romance and charm. Cecil Beaton is one of my favorite fashion photographers and he captured the forties perfectly. One of his best portraits was of the debutantes wearing Charles James evening gowns. Wouldn’t it be wonderful if women still dressed like that!