Meet Byron Bay Stylist Jesse Arifien

Jesse Arifien is a fashion stylist and creative director based in the beautiful Byron Bay hinterland. She is also the founder of Oliver Grand – a visual diary and go-to destination for the modern man, inspiring a luxury lifestyle celebrated through fashion, travel, food and the arts.

Jesse and her husband @trevorkingphoto worked together to produce a beautiful campaign shoot for Bird & Knoll on their recent travels to Europe (you can view the journal here). So we thought it was only fitting to sit down with Jesse to discuss her top 3 travel essentials when travelling to a warm destination, as well as her favourite hidden gem in Athens...

Jesse wears the matisse maxi in chocolate

What is your favourite destination to escape to and why?

I am happiest anywhere by the ocean. In saying that, travel has become more precious for me since the pandemic and therefore my perspective has shifted a little. Now I really consider what destinations resonate with me and hold sentimental value rather than escaping to places I have seen all over Instagram.

As a family, we are always wanting to see new places and experience different cultures, but Greece holds a special connection as we have had many special family holidays there and it is part of my family heritage.

Jesse wears the kahlo dress in black, shop here.

What are your top 3 travel essentials when traveling?

It depends on the climate and whether the kids are in tow. On our recent trip to Europe, we were shooting in Italy, Greece, Croatia, and Spain and it was insanely hot. I packed a pair of my chunky black sandals, my black B&K Kahlo dress, and a potable steamer everywhere I went.

Pictured is Nafplio on the Greek Peloponnese

What is your favourite local or international hidden gem?

Nafplio on the Greek Peloponnese is such a beautiful underrated place. It’s only a short drive from Athens yet it feels very remote. It is also devoid of big crowds and the beautiful pebble beaches are filled with locals. And, obviously the food!