The Weekend Away - my latest article for Australian Fashion Guide

Click here to read my latest article for Australian Fashion Guide! xoxox

The Weekend Away - Fashion & Beauty, Fashion Designers, News & People - Fashion Directory - Australian Fashion Guide

You get the call last minute. A weekend away with the girls and you need to be packed by this evening in order to make the flight. Don't panic, AFG has you covered. Simply follow this fool proof guide to packing for that ‘surprise trip-out-of-town’, and you'll never have reason to stress again.

The first item on the agenda is taking the right bag. Forget lugging an oversized suitcase through Tullamarine, that’s so 2005. These days it’s all about taking carry-on luggage, so you can quickly skip off to your destination as soon as you hit the tarmac. The Samsonite Carrylite Wheeled Duffle in black is perfect. It is large enough to fit a weekend of necessities and small enough to fit in the overhead compartment. It has even been approved as carry-on luggage by Samsonite.


Shortly after you check into your hotel, it's off to the latest tapas bar for a light dinner and a few cocktails. Work all dress codes in Camilla & Marc's interpretation of this seasons jumpsuit, the "Harmonia" in navy blue silk. Slip on this Charlies Angels inspired piece for a little one-step chic. $550 from Camilla and Marc.


The sun is up and the birds are singing! What better way to spend the day than by hitting up the markets and doing a spot of shopping, and we all know this means wearing something comfortable. In the softest cotton chambray, and cheeky peek-a-boo cut out at the back, select the “Romantic” jumpsuit by Aussie style favourites Sass & Bide $350 complete this outfit with a pair of Tony Bianco ‘Spencer’ flat sandals. As we all know, nothing ruins a shopping expedition faster than a blister!


We all know a weekend away with the girls wouldn’t be complete without hitting up a club for a dance and some mingling with cute boys, so get your flirt on in this super cute Shakuhachi off-the-shoulder wrap dress in the very on-trend blush tone. With black sheer mesh panels for a hint of sauciness, nothing’s sexier than leaving a little something to the imagination!


Exhausted after a night out? Then the only way to spend your last day in town is to go for a splash down the beach and check out the sights. Go for something a little unexpected on the sand in this Seventh Wonderland 7pm Zip one-piece $265 with bandeau wrapping around the bust and contrasting panels that flatter the hips, this is the sort of piece that could take you from beach to bar with the simple addition of a tube skirt.



As the sun starts to set over the sparkling Pacific Ocean, it’s time to cover up, and who better to assist than the Caftan Queen, Camilla. The Waterfall Off-the-shoulder rouched caftan, in silk crepe with Swarovski crystals is ideal. This loose fitting floaty piece is exactly what you want on your salty skin after swimming all day.

Call me patriotic ....

Going through my wardrobe the other day, I noticed a little mini-trend occuring. Stars and Stripes, the Union Jack, you name it - flags and emblems are popping up everywhere! Even furniture brand Domayne have featured them in their 2011 catalogue!

And without being aware of it, I too have fallen for this look!

It all started with this super hot 'straight out of the 80's' vintage jumper I scored at the Camberwell Markets a few months back. A slightly unhinged lady with a bright pink wig and crazy tutu sold it to me, discounting the price from $75 down to $20 after I scared off a nasty pest who was harrassing women as they shopped. Yes, Liberty Harlow to the rescue! Forget the fashion police, the real-deal cops were almost called, so with a story like that, this jumper has a cool history ... along with some fierce shoulder pads!



Next up is my 'Twinkie Goes to Town' singlet by Sass & Bide. The last one left at the Sass & Bide warehouse sale, I had to stalk a girl around Collingwood Town Hall for a good 20 minutes, waiting for her to discard it, and it was definately worth the hunt. Yes, its too big for me, but I make it work by tying a knot in the back.

And then there is my new Union Jack bodysuit from my new favourite store on Chapel, Bronzesnake.

Another purchase that was made and snuck into the house. When I pull this one out of the wardrobe in a few days time, it will be to the tune of 'This old thing? I've had it for aaaaaages!'

Unless of course 'he' reads this, in which case I'll deny everything!

Apologies for the crappy iPhone pics ... but this blog couldn't wait!

Bragging Rights

I wanted to share this pic of the very gorgeous and talented Zandra Rhodes and I, taken at the Melbourne Cup last month. From Royalty to Rockstars, Zandra has designed for them all and it was an absolute honour to meet her.

How hot is her hair?

Dior Cruise 2011

The scent of freshly cut white roses, softly lit candles and a private suite 30 floors up at the Crown Towers set the scene for last weeks showing of the 2011 Dior Cruise Collection.

Inspired by Parisian New Wave cinematic bombshells such as the devine Brigitte Bardot, the collection showed lots of pastels, candy colours, stripes and subtle floral hints, whether printed on the fabric or through intricate beading.

Even leather with the finest of flowers attached, on close inspection you know you're in the presence of design genius. John Galliano's attention to detail is impeccable, fabrics loomed with the same cross stitch as the original Dior quilted bag and signature bows featured prominently on finer details such as belts and shoulder straps.

The collection flashes back to the past, with the light floral trench being a modern take on an actual 1950's archived piece.

Straight from the runway, were showstopping necklaces, cuffs and chokers, adorned with pearls, swarovski crystals and ebony wood, snapping shut with magnet clasps and pins.

And then there is the metalicised goat skin leather handbag and matching wallet. Drool.

I had to try a few pieces on, all in the name of research of course! And as you can see, I felt like Alice in Fashion Wonderland!

Watch the collection being shown here, as shown in Shanghai earlier this year. Enjoy! xoxox

Huge thankyou goes out to my photographer at Shh .. you know who you are!

Dior Cruise 2011 - available from late December 2011.

longing for lashes

Devestated after hearing my favourite show, 'The City' had been cancelled, I had a little re-run marathon party last week. It's funny watching a program the 2nd time around, you become obsessed over the smallest things.

Firstly, I love Whitney Port. As a fellow blonde with brown eyes, I often use her for style inspiration. And dont even get me started on her arch-nemisis Olivia Palermo. Does she ever put a perfectly manicured fashion foot wrong? From her Birkin to her Balenciaga, I have to contain a little squeal every time she appears onscreen.

But fashion aside, its her peepers that have caught my attention. Those big bambi lashes of hers are breathtaking, and when I found out she does her own eye makeup, I couldn't believe it! Even more exciting is the thought I could re-create this look at home, after sourcing an interview from US Glamour Magazine where she swears by Revlon Fantasy Lengths Maximum Wear eyelashes.



Now, I consider myself a connoisseur when it comes to false lashes for a big night out on the town, but I'm not a fan of messy glue that I always seem to get on the carpet, or worse, my robe. With that thought in mind, I was pleasantly surprised to find these lashes are self adhesive. Like little stick on nails for your eyes, they were easy to apply and held fast all night!


I think I've just found my new favourite beauty product!

Revlon Fantasy Lengths Lashes $10, from Kmart, Target and leading pharmacies.

photo courtesy of www.revlon.com

Cuff Stuff

Going through my phone the other day, I came across this pic I took as I was sitting backstage at the Design Awards for the Melbourne Cup. I can't remember the designer of this decadent cuff (which is really bugging me ... although I do remember she was based in Brisbane) but thought I'd share this little piece of heaven with you all the same.

Loving!

Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds

I just had to post this super cool pic my photographer friend took of me today as I was racing to an appointment at Crown Towers. The foyer of this place is amazeballs. Seriously.

From Runway to the Streets

Click here to read my latest article on Australian Fashion Guide! xoxo

From Runway to the Streets - Fashion & Beauty, Fashion Designers, News & People - Fashion Directory - Australian Fashion Guide

Harness Your Style

Right now everyone is talking about harnesses. A little bit bondage and a whole lotta rock'n'roll, this is one versatile look that can go from coffee to cocktails. Sienna Miller shocked the critics back in 2006 but in 2010, every girl is trying to get her hands on one. Blake Lively looked ravishing earlier this month in her straight-off-the-catwalk Lanvin and Roberto Cavalli recently showed off his interpretation for Spring 2011, incorporating the new season trend of nude colors, as seen below.



However, we are more inclined towards Australian label Sass & Bide – who seem to have been showing them for two seasons now – many attached to dresses and tees. ‘The Answer Harness’ made from a combination of crocheted lace and leather with gold stud detailing. In black and ivory (RRP $290). Wear this regal piece of body jewellery over long simple maxi’s and plain scoop neck tee’s or tanks for maximum impact. Remember, this item is the statement piece, so keep the hairstyle & extra bling super simple, or risk looking overdone.



Next up on the hit list is by independent Sydney based brand, Metallic Dreamer. Exclusive in their form, these intricate works of art are hand crafted by the very creative Tanya Arlidge. Think mysterious & somewhat tribal, this brand is so on-trend it had clothing label, Tallulah, use pieces to style out their lookbook. This brand isn’t for the meek – with Tanya describing her collection as less jewellery and more styling/layering tools. The pick of the collection? The ‘Black Ceremony’ harness (RRP $120.00). Picture the perfect mix of black leather, crochet appliqué with dirty silver pyramid stud detail & ostrich feather trim Work them back with bodysuits and form fitting shifts. http://www.metallicdreamer.bigcartel.com



Now you know you’re on to a good thing when the likes of Miranda Kerr, Gwen Stefani, Kate Bosworth, Emma Booth and Megan Gale are wearing their pieces, so look no further than Damselfly. At the helm is Melbourne based Christianna Heideman, with the ‘Mesh Body Chain’ (RRP $189) from her new range "I hate myself for loving you". Ultra sexy and rock inspired, this adornment is an intricate web of silver plated brass based chains and will be available from www.damselfly.com.au from early December, or check out her pop up store - Shop 20-28 Chatham Street, Prahran.



More Kaleidescope than Casio (Digital Print Dresses)

Digital print dresses are a breath of fresh air for Fashionistas in a sea of played out Boho and overdone Retro. Finally, something that hasn’t been done to death and it seems that the fashion savvy are embracing the look with gusto.

Josh Goot pioneered this look here in Australia for his Spring Summer collection in 2008, using a more neutral colour palette, as if to be testing the buying public. These days he’s confidently made a bigger commitment in his collection to Digi prints – using brighter, almost fluoro tones, his fabrics are like a dream of acid paint swirls and lightening strikes that make for a bold statement. Of his latest collection, the pick has to be the Mirrored Sleeveless Mini Dress (RRP$945). Keep accessories to a minimum and let this piece speak for itself.



Moving on to my love of this Kaleidoscope inspired look is design sensation Dion Lee. Bursting onto the Australian fashion scene only last year, the 24 year old LMFF Design Award finalist presented an impressive and highly anticipated collection showcasing Ultraviolet coloured Rorschach (ink blot) prints, as seen here Dion is certainly the designer to watch, invest in his pieces now to pass down to future generations.



And finally we have the scandalous Sydney based fashion trio ‘Illionaire’ with their interpretation – the ‘Worshipper Frock’ (RRP $638) available in the very wearable tones of peacock emerald and bronze. This dress has very structured tailoring with its layered and folded hemline – work this back with ankle boots and a blazer for a softer look.

Once you go black, you'll never go back

Muchos grazias to Tony Bianco for inviting me to attend their Black Card launch earlier this month. Guests were greeted on arrival with a glass of Veuve Clicquot and the most delicious cupcakes known to man - so much that I had to go back for seconds!

Invitees were provided with the new Black Card - offering a 30% discount off purchases, which set the room abuzz. The only problem? Too many options as I just loved EVERYTHING! From the most devine peep toe stacked heels, to rock n roll inspired handbags and statement making jewellery, Tony Bianco is the perfect 'go-to' for building an outfit! See my pick of the bunch above - the Alexis - which retails at $169.95 and comes in 6 colours! Pick up a pair here - http://tonybianco.com.au/product.asp?page=8&categoryID=26&productID=1637&colourID=4393

And with the news that 'model-of-the-moment' Bambi Northwood-Blyth has taken over from Jodi Gordon as face of the brand, get set for fresh inspiration for all things Bianco!

J'adore Vogue Français!

I just had to post a pic of my new baby. No, not a real baby, child or even a puppy. Im talking about a copy of French Vogue, signed by the editor Carine Roitfeld! I die x 100!

This is going straight to the pool room! Well not really ... it's getting framed and will hang in my dressing room, but you get the idea! And a huge thankyou goes out to stylist Mia Jones for this kind and generous gift! xoxox

follow Mia on twitter! http://twitter.com/mia_jones

Aussie Models Making an Impact Overseas - My latest article for Australian Fashion Guide!

Australian models are taking the world by storm right now, snagging some of the biggest international campaigns right out from under the noses of seasoned professionals. Gone are the days of 'one look' being in vogue (think back to heroin chic, wide spaced alien eyes or even exotic Amazonian sized bronzed bombshells) as we Aussie seem to have a little something for everyone.

Our first example is the pixie-esque crowd pleaser Abbey Lee Kershaw. Discovered on Bronte Beach in 2005 by Kathy Ward of Chic Management, then going on to win the Girlfriend CoverGirl Model Search, she was catapaulted to international catwalks within the year, debuting in the Fall of 2006.

At just 23, she's got quite the lengthy resume, with campaigns for Gucci, Chanel, D&G, Ralph Lauren, Chloe, Fendi, Calvin Klein & H&M, just to name a few.

This is one young lady who epitomises the ideal of a true model, being able to morph from an ashen haired beach babe, to a mod-chic sophisticate with a sharp bob and then on to a rock'n'roll platinum blonde within a matter of months, never losing her appeal.

Managed all over the world by various agencies, her mother host being Chic Management here in Australia, however is managed by 2pm Model Management in Denmark and Next in Paris, Milan and New York.

Alice Burdeu is the flame haired winner of Australia’s Next Top Model who has gone on to huge international success with her Grace Coddington style of beauty. Becoming the face of Napoleon Cosmetics and then being the only ANTM winner to achieve a Vogue cover, she’s proven to be much more than a one-trick pony - debuting at New York Fashion Week in February 2008.

Since then she’s walked for Marc Jacobs, Proenza Schouler, Christian Lacroix, Louis Vuitton, Alexander McQueen, Dolce Gabbana, Lanvin, Sonia Rykiel, Jil Sander and Alex Perry (who was very vocal in his support of Alice during her stint on ANTM).

This exposure has led her on to some very high profile campaigns with D&G, Blumarine, Sonia Rykiel and Mimco. Alice was awarded the title of one of the ‘Top 10 Newcomers’ by Models.com and the ‘Latest Rising Star’ by Style.com in 2008 With a look that is dissimilar to others, the quietly spoken model is kicking goals on the international scene with a career that looks to be a long and successful one

Standing at 5’11, Brisbane girl Catherine McNeil shot to international fame after signing an exclusive contract with famous photographer Mario Testino in 2006. Another winner of the Girlfriend CoverGirl Model Search, this self titled ‘Bogan from Logan’ then went on to debut on international catwalks in 2007, and has since appeared in campaigns for Versace, John Paul Gaultier, Givenchy, Carolina Herrera, and Narciso Rodriguez.

A high profile romance with MTV VJ Ruby Rose ensued, with the lovers tattooing each others initials on themselves before ending their relationship citing ‘they’re better off friends’, much to the relief of her Sydney agent at Chic Management, sources suggest. Claims ‘working on cars’ is her favourite pastime the controversial model recently took time off from the international modelling scene, only to return refreshed and better than ever in 2010.. She is currently ranked No.12 of the Worlds Top 50 Models.

Holier than thou!

I die for these dominatrix styled Stella McCartney perforated over-the-knee boots from the Fall of 2009. Perfect for cold weather, they're almost an alternative to pants or hosiery. Being a Melbourne girl, I do love my layers, however with these babies, you can just throw them on the look is complete!

Perfect with chunky knits or simple mini dresses. And Blake Lively, I salute you! Even Victoria Beckham is jumping on the Dominatrix bandwagon in her Antoinio Berardi PVC leather legging boots as seen here.

I want!