Leah Blackford: Calexico Muse

Leah Blackford is the fierce force behind Furious Finance and our Calexico Muse Of The Month. With two decades of mortgage broking under her belt, she’s redefined what it means to be a woman in finance, merging sharp wit, sharp tailoring, and unstoppable grit. Inspired by her fashion-loving mother, who made her own mark as NAB Roma’s first female bank teller, Leah’s love of finance and flair was practically hereditary. 

Diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes at just six, Leah knew early on that freedom, both personal and professional, would be non-negotiable. Founding her own financial firm gave her exactly that. But as a young woman navigating a traditionally male-dominated industry, she discovered that power dressing wasn’t just a style choice, it was a strategy. Today, her wardrobe continues to do the talking (with help from our stylist Rose, who masterfully camouflages Leah’s ever-present insulin pump beneath every look).

Tell us about your upcoming trip to Africa? We hear you’ve got quite the itinerary. 

“This trip has always been about seeing the mountain gorillas in person. I have been captivated by them for a very long time and I am aware that Arica has a lot to offer, and there is a lot of territory to cover, but this trip is specifically about gorilla trekking.” - Leah

Your upcoming trip to Africa is a thrilling next chapter; what’s one Calexico piece you’re packing that’s both luxe and travel-ready? 

"One!? Rose has really nailed this brief and my suitcase is full of Calexico. I will be travelling in the Soft Goat cashmere set and arriving in the L’Agence Idy Button Down Denim Dress!” - Leah

“Yes absolutely. I have always believed in quality over quantity however now I believe in both! It is hard to edit Calexico pieces because many are timeless however my preferred look has changed more in the last 2 years than it did in the 10 prior.” - Leah

“This answer has changed over the years! I now wind down with weekends at the beach. In all honestly, I am usually planning a holiday.” - Leah

“Be bold. Homes need a heartbeat of their own. Everyone seems to make decisions based on resale and people pleasing, even if they have long term intention to owner occupy and as a consequence most homes are now bland. If you plan on living in a property, make sure every decision sings to your own soul. My wildly bright wallpaper makes me happy every day.” - Leah

“Vivienne is my little silky x toy poodle and she is pure joy. She is affectionate and cheeky and very loved by everyone she meets.” - Leah

Your Dream Travel destination? 

“No surprises here. This gorilla trip has been my dream now for more than 20 years. Once this trip is complete, I will have to create a new bucket list! Likely anywhere that involves sunshine, heat, water and views. That said, I feel like I will fall in love with Africa and want to go back. I am intrigued by Botswana, Kenya, Tanzania and Zimbabwe.” - Leah