Nicole Richie in Sydney

She's appeared on countless magazine covers over the last few years, but Sydneysiders got to view a modern style icon in the flesh when Nicole Richie touched down in the CBD this morning.

Wearing a white Uscari dress, her own studded leather jacket and black suede Louboutin ankle boots, Richie confessed she always loves visiting Australia.

"I'm hoping to go to the beach - if the weather clears up," the relaxed mum of two laughed, pointing to the drizzly weather outside. "I'd love to go to the zoo and just enjoy my time here."

Nicole Richie's top 10 style moments

Speaking of Australian style, Richie said she was a big fan of the "beachy and cool, yet very chic" vibe, and singled out sass & bide and Ksubi as two local brands that she wears herself.

In terms of her inspirations right now, the Winter Kate and House of Harlow 1960 designer said she was all about having fun.

"I like to dress up, I like to dress down," she added. "Fashion is something you can have fun with, you really can play with and I encourage people to do the same thing."

Her shopping tip? "Wear whatever speaks to you," she said. "Know yourself and know what looks good on you. Don't let anyone else tell you what looks good and just have fun."

After three years of construction, Sydney's MidCity Centre is the first new retail destination to open in the Pitt Street Mall space.

The centre is home to over 45 boutiques including Forever New, Witchery, General Pants Co., G-Star and Pink Zebra.

Nicole Richie's top 10 style moments

Image: Getty Images. Text: Jade Warne