Local singer Niki Evans won the hearts of millions when she made it through eight weeks of the live finals in the fourth series of X Factor. Since her appearance on the TV talent show she has sung with the likes of John Barrowman, Kim Wilde and Heather Small and has appeared on stage across the UK in the highly successful musical, Blood Brothers. We caught up with her at last week’s Birmingham Style Awards.

How would you describe your own personal style? I’d probably describe myself as a hippy-style Goth. I like clothes with a gypsy feel but I tend to team them with quite a vampish look and I’ve got loads of tattoos.

Which celebrities do you think get it ‘right’? I think Sharon Osborne has fantastic style. I love her combination of high collars, jackets and big cuffs – she’s a strong woman with a strong sense of style and I think she pulls it off superbly.

What’s your biggest fashion faux par? Oh I have hundreds! I think my biggest mistake was the bright orange top I wore to my X Factor audition. I looked so bad that one magazine actually called me ‘Nelly the elephant in an orange suit!’ The funny thing though is that top was actually a raffle prize in a competition so somebody could be walking around in it right now!

What’s the most exciting thing about the fashion industry? The evolution of fashion – I love seeing what designers can make out of a piece of material. I am completely addicted to Project Runway; I watch it religiously and get so excited seeing what designs the contestants come up with.

What item of clothing do you always turn to when you want to feel fabulous? SPANX! I don’t care what they look like, I have them in white, back and flesh colours and they do make me feel good when I’m in them. Plus there’s the added bonus of never accidentally doing a ‘Britney’ and flashing the world!

What’s the most embarrassing CD you own? I don’t think I have any embarrassing CDs, I think it’s all about personal taste. I’m a bit of an 80s freak and love listening to 80s CDs, some people might think that’s embarrassing but I love them. Actually I can confess to owning Land of Make Believe by Buzz Fizz – that’s quite bad isn’t it? I even went to see them perform live.

What item of clothing is still in your wardrobe that should’ve been dumped long ago? I have an old ra-ra skirt, which I’ve had for years but still absolutely adore. It’s really pretty but it’s falling apart now, it’s all holey and ripped but I don’t care. I keep sewing it back together and still wear it with my leggings because it has so many memories attached to it!

Who are your favourite designers? I love Jacob Kimmie, who’s based at The Custard Factory. He uses lots of belts and buckles in his designs which suit my style perfectly – and the fact that he’s a Brummie makes him even better.

What are your favourite high street stores? I worship All Saints and could easily buy the whole shop. Saying that though most of my wardrobe is actually from TK Maxx – it’s got a fantastic selection and I really like the little designers you find there. I’m in my local shop so much people actually ask me where stuff is. The dress that I’m wearing tonight was £24 from TK Maxx and I’ve already had loads of compliments about it.

What’s your top fashion tip? Wear things that suit you and make sure you always feel comfortable.