A Closet Full of Pretty Things

The Magpie Attraction

2009-04-24T00:24:00.005+10:00

For a long time now I've known that I'll pretty much buy anything if it has sequins attached to it...this is dangerous because I've often come home, taken out my latest shiny thing and come to realise that my purchase is hideous and will date within 48 hours...

That being said, I still think its fun to look and play with shiny things, so here are a few of the best new pieces to come out of Spring/Summer 09-10

This also gives me an excuse to enjoy a photo of the one and only CHUCK BASS

Chuck Bass...in Sequins

Our very own Rachel Gilbert, available at www.net-a-porter.com

Diane Von Furstenburg, at www.net-a-porter.com

Raw Talent

2009-04-23T20:41:00.004+10:00

Hobart based artist/illustrator Kelly Smith has an undeniable talent. Her hand sketched pieces are simply beautiful, and each one captures the true essence of what the original photograph intended.

Erin Wasson in Balmain, what more could you want?

Kelly bases much of her art on fashion, thus the basis of its appeal, but its the simplicity of her work which really grabs me. I can imagine my bedroom covered in these pieces.

Kelly has been published in major print format including in Yen, Vice and Modern Bride Magazine...

Gucci Spring/Summer 09

Smith and fellow 'Kelly' Kelly Thompson from New Zealand will be holding an exhibition in Melbourne on the 27th of May....please see below for details, or visit www.birdyandme.com.au.

Images courtesy of Kelly Smith - www.birdyandme.com.au

Feel Good Wrist Bling

2009-04-23T20:15:00.005+10:00

So I'll get all philosophical on you....I'm loving little quotes that just seem to put all the unecessary worries in your life into perspective. Short of getting something inspired tattooed on your arm, why not try one of these beautiful hand carved bangles from Etsy seller ValleGirlDesigns? (Please see link below)

Here are some of my favourites:

Be The Change You Want To See In The World

Breathe...It's Going to be OK

This Moment is the Only One You Can Change...

Images courtesy of http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5245494

Supre Ruins EVERYTHING

2009-04-13T16:13:00.007+10:00

I hate Supre. They have destroyed everything that I may have possibly enjoyed this season. Not that I would wear Harem pants or leggings, EVER, but I must admit that on the right body, I can appreciate this trend. However...Supre has managed to ruin this completely.

As if leggings as pants are not bad enough, Supre have taken the disgustingness one step further by making DENIM print leggings. Couture House Balmain started this shit. I'm sorry Balmain, I love you, but no no no!

Above: Balmain shittiness, Below: Supre shittiness

Harem pants are also something that I am yet to get my head around. I realise they were introduced to the mainstream about a season and a half ago, but shit...they fugliness is astounding. Even my old faithful Gorman can't seem to get it right, so what the hell hope did Supre have?

Above: Gorman poocatchers, Below: Supre poocatchers

The lesson here people? No matter how much you are willing to blow on a seasonal trend, if it's shitty in couture, it's going to be even shittier in a chainstore. Just give it a miss rather than being a slave to the season.

Russell is a Rat

2009-04-01T22:47:00.005+11:00

Us Aussie girls have known about the instant coolness points you get by sporting a pair of iconic Sass & Bide Black Rats leggings. I'm personally against the leggings as pants trend, always have been, always will be.

I'm cringing as I write this because I have an absurd, inexplicable crush on Russell Brand (explanation, he's filthy hot). Despite this, I want to strangle him. What the FUCK were you thinking wearing these during your visit to Sydney Russell? More importantly, did you wash them at all? Or do you own 5 pairs? Every single photo here was taken of Russell in Sydney last month. I do believe he was there for at least 3 days.

I am also concerned as to how on earth he fits his manbits in there comfortably. I know that crack and heroin has a shrinking effect on male addicts, but surely...

Anywho, enjoy the hotness that is Russell, despite the 'pants' problem that he seems to have acquired...and well done to Sarah Jane Clarke and Heidi Middleton for ensuring that Russell no longer can pro-create, which is probably a good thing for the multitude of women that he is sure to bed during his lifetime.

Lisa Mitchell

2009-04-01T21:47:00.005+11:00

Apart from being an absurdly talented musician and song writer, Lisa Mitchell has began emerging as someone of an Australian made style princess. The 18 year old possesses a kind of effortless 'just got out of bed' beauty, with her fair skin, sprinkled freckles and intense eyes.

In the April issue of Madison magazine, Lisa's charm and grace was truly captured when designer Aurelio Costarella dressed her for a shoot based around some of Australia's up and coming talents.

Haute Couture probably isn't Lisa's normal choice, preferring ripped jeans and a flowy blouse. She has perfected effortless feminine style, choosing vintage pieces and coupling them with an on trend leather jacket to update her look.

Whether it be on stage or just hanging about, Lisa is one to watch in the style stakes.

A Lesson in Geometry

2009-03-31T22:24:00.008+11:00

To be honest, I failed year 10 mathematics. I can't work out percentages unless I have a calculator, therefore I hope that any clients that I have looked after in the past 2 years aren't reading this, because odds are your account balance is a couple of million short of what I claimed it to be.

Today I bring you a lesson in geometry, FASHION geometry people...shape, this season it is all about SHAPE.

Whether it be a bias cut dress, body con, voluminous sleeves or a bit of pouf (you know who you are) if you only make one indulgent purchase this season, make it a piece with a dramatic silhouette.

AS seen on the LMFF runway, the amazing, bold cuts of local designer Maus Cat Berlin provided a true feast for the eyes for those lovers of dramatica.

If pretty is more your style, Alexander McQueen may just be the answer (not so much for your credit card but thats ok). The bias cut of this dress is sure to flatter most shapes, and the wild colour is so this season.

In paying homage to my favourite student designer of the past few years, Ms Sarah Schofield did not fail to impress all those in attendance at the Metamorphosis Runway (LMFF). I first spotted Sarah at the Caulfield Fashions on the Field last year with a simply amazing frilled collar top paired with a sleek pencil skirt. She didn't win that day, however she went on to win the Derby Day FOTF with her memorable black shift adorned with laser cut plastic...with matching headwear by the one and only Richard Nylon of course. Below is a sample of Sarah's most recent work. This is one girl who obviously passed geometry.

Thanks to Style Melbourne, APL Photography and Net-A-Porter for images

The Resurection

2009-03-31T21:57:00.008+11:00

So it appears that all the cool kids are getting on the blog train, and although I boarded nearly 12 months ago (proving my superior coolness rating) I have failed to give this blog the love and respect that it obviously deserves.

I blame this entirely on the absolute shit storm that life has handed me these past six months, some good, some bad and some fucking atrocious. I'll list them here:

-September 2008, www.stylemelbourne.com came to life much to my delight. I am working with a fabulous team and love them all for the amazing effort they have put in over the last six months. My editor rocks my socks and it's so wonderful to be an underling to such a talented writer and all round top chick.

-December 2008, so called 'best boss in the world' rained fire and brimstone upon me for the last time, causing me to morph into a hermit who was so sad and miserable I literally had to be dragged to a winery (the happiest place on earth - under normal circumstances) on Christmas Day. I have finally managed to move on and quite cheerfully told him where to shove it two weeks ago, which was possibly the most liberating experience of my life thus far.

-January 2009, Boyfriend of 7 years (or some similar length of time that is equally terrifying) abandoned me to take the trip of MY DREAMS....bastard...he's in Zanzibar right now, and bitch, if you're reading this....here is me flipping you off....luv ya kid xoxo

-March 2009, Got myself new job. Starting early April. Thrilled, despite the paycut, I figure my sanity is the number one priority. NO more dreaming about stock portfolios and the Dow Jones Industrial Average thank you very much ... bitches.

-March 2009, First Loreal Melbourne Fashion Festival for our baby, Style Melbourne. It was a week of insanity, lack of sleep, amazing fashions, amazing people and extremely beautiful models. I can't remember much of it, as I remained intoxicated for as much of it as possible (making up for the fact that I didn't touch a drop during the Melbourne Fashion Festival last year.)

-Today, 31st March 2009, Bought an amazing dress, top and top....retail therapy is good for the soul, should you disagree with that statement, you clearly have never fully given into your shopping addiction.

So there you go kids, the coolest kid on the block is back, and time permitting I will bring you love every single day...maybe.

(Thanks Allan at Fashionising for the pic of the amazing hot Hannah Glasby)

Our New Baby

2008-09-28T10:36:00.003+10:00

Today is the day that www.stylemelbourne.com comes alive!

My Editor Sarah and I are so excited that our hard work has finally paid off and we now have a fashion website to call our own. Despite numerous setbacks, we were determined to make this happen, and now its alive!!!

After branching out from another Australian online publication, we've set up our very own baby and are extraordinarily proud parents!

The website will cover fashion events throughout Melbourne, feature the latest catwalk looks and have a focus on primarily Melbourne style and local designers.

We will be updating constantly so please stop by every so often and check out the latest.

You can also sign up to receive our fortnightly newsletter, which will keep you informed of the upcoming events around our wonderful city.

www.stylemelbourne.com

Enjoy!

Some More Milan

2008-09-25T10:53:00.011+10:00

Marni

Marni's collection screamed graphic prints, sharp design and an unusual clashing of prints. The colour palette ranged from crisp white all the way through to dirty mustards. Pieces were edgy, and accessorised with Marni's trademark acrylic jewelery and statement handbags.

Roberto Cavalli

Cavalli put on a show fit for a princess this season, or perhaps he actually designed each piece with the intention of making every woman who donned a Cavalli outfit feel like a princess. Pretty pastels dominated, adorned with lace, sequins, ruffles, feathers and all things pretty, with several stunning corseted ballgowns featured throughout the parade. Cavalli is renowned for beautiful, feminine pieces that flatter women of all shapes and sizes, and this Spring is no exception.

Dolce and Gabbana

I stayed up waaay to late last night so I could watch the live feed from Milan on Fashion TV (this is the best time of year to get Foxtel!). The Dolce and Gabbana show was on at about 11pm, and yes, it was worth the difficulty I had getting out of bed at 6.30am this morning!

The show featured luxurious Japanese inspired satin wrap shirts with matching pants, beautiful brocade structured skirts in rich hues of red wine and navy. The obligitory D&G ballgowns were adorned with floral rosettes in a colour palette of stormy greys, blues and purples.

Fabulously jewelled clutches featured with almost every outfit, along with highly embellished wedges and heel sandals. Toward the second half of the show, a Russian Babushka theme was subtly created through scarves, ruffles and the deep colour palette.

Enjoy!

Milan ... The Pick of the Pack So Far

2008-09-24T12:29:00.012+10:00

Missoni

I've long been a Missoni fan, the whimsical prints, the intricate weaving that features on all their knitwear, and this season is no exception.

The range is so princess like, very floaty and primarily in delicate pastel and earthy tones with each piece having a arty/watercolour feel to them. Enjoy...

Moschino Cheap and Chic

Colour! Moschino's latest collection was alive with bright prints, certain to get you in the mood for a colourful Spring season. Dresses in simple shapes dominated the range, in ultra wearable colours and styles - all thats needed to wear almost any piece from the range is a snazzy pair of heels and perhaps a cute piece of jewellery. Simply Delightful!

Pringle of Scotland

This season, Pringle focused on floaty fabrics that fell softly around the body to create an ultra feminine collection in tones ranging from fairy floss pink to subdued stormy greys. Pringles cropped silk manstyle pants looked fantastic teamed with delicate blouses and slouchy cardigans. Pringle certainly managed to turn androgenous into undeniably pretty.

Pictures courtesy of Vogue

My First Polyvore

2008-09-21T20:47:00.001+10:00

If I one day become a very rich woman, this is what I'd be wearing to the office.
Moschino Skirt
Stella McCartney Blouse
Bally Heels
Johnstone Cashmere Cardi
Chanel Bag
Paspaly Pearls

London ... Best on Show

2008-09-21T17:26:00.006+10:00

I couldn't resist browsing through the runway pics from London Fashion Week and selecting a few favourite looks that I hope to use for inspiration this season...and what do you know, its all pretty, poofy and pastel (well, almost).

Josh Goot

Luella

Mulberry

Nicole Farhi

Temperley London

Images courtesy of www.thedailymail.co.uk

A Coupla Basics

2008-09-21T17:02:00.003+10:00

I decided that my wardrobe was lacking two essential items.

1. A quality pair of black stiletto heels
2. A quality pair of cream stiletto heels.

I have been hunting high and low for the perfect pairs...and stumbled across a nifty new website known as www.runwaygirl.com.au

I scored myself two pairs of PeepToe heels (on sale I might add) and here they are for your viewing pleasure:

Peep Toe Miss Dejour in Sand

Peep Toe Miss Coco

Runway Girl also just had a Karen Walker drop...very exciting as it is now another avenue for us KW lovers to find that coveted piece, I'm lemming...

Karen Walker Constance dress at www.runwaygirl.com.au

Tan Leather Fetish

2008-09-19T12:05:00.002+10:00

Hmm, seems to me that I've got an obsession with tan leather shoes at the moment...here is my latest buy... I'm thinking they'll look lovely with a pretty dress, shorts, under jeans, pretty much everything, and best of all, I'll be able to walk more than 50 meters without tears welling up in my eyes...yay for the block heel!

Witchery 'Tori' Block heel, on sale from $189.95 to $99.95

Lisa Ho Spring/Summer 08-09

2008-09-16T18:53:00.014+10:00

I was lucky enough to score an invite to an exclusive preview show of Lisa Ho's new Spring/Summer Collection

It was held at the oh so impressive Aria room at the top of Melbourne's GPO building.

Champagne was served as guests mingled in eager anticipation of what was sure to be a magnificent show. Celeb sighting assured, the room was abuzz with Fashion Week excitement.

Rather than trying to put the whimsical elegance of the show into words, I think a photo essay is far more appropriate.

Perhaps one of the prettiest pieces in Ho's new collection, the ruffled detail and exquisite silk fabric made this dress a favourite - also available in navy.

Simple tailored pantsuits in flowy silks featured throughout the show. Teamed with simple tees and strappy sandals, this suit makes perfect office attire in between Melbourne's cold winter and ultra hot summer.

Gorgeous, artistic 'painterly' pieces came in the form of draping tops and fun, wearable frocks.

Perhaps the signature pieces of Ho's S/S range, the floral, tie dyed silk maxi dresses. The amount of fabric used in each piece was astounding, they simply floated down the runway. This print is also available in a knee length dress, as well as cute tank style tops.

All Images Courtesy of www.six6photography.com

Frills and Spills

2008-09-15T19:55:00.008+10:00

What is more feminine and girly than sweet frill details on a top, or a dress with a voluminous ruffle trim?

A black option for evening

Moschino Frock www.net-a-porter.com

Frills, ruffles and all things sweet are on trend this season, allowing all of us to channel our inner princess once more.

Great teamed with denim and sandals

Rebecca Taylor Silk Ruffle Blouse www.frockshop.com.au

Whether you're into simple style staples or love to make a statement, there are so many ways to channel this fashion this Spring.

Simply gorgeous, already has a cult following! (Vogue Australia Forum)

Camilla & Marc Adelia Frock www.mycatwalk.com.au

Fading Away

2008-09-15T11:27:00.005+10:00

It seems that we're not quite revisiting the 70's, not yet back to boho, but almost back in the 90's...

I'm a wee bit confused as to exactly what trend era current fashion seems to be channeling, however I must admit I'm loving the revival of faded denim.

www.six6photography.com.au- Nevenka @ MSFW 08/09

I shocked myself over the weekend and impulsively bought a faded denim jacket. I'm normally a careful shopper who thinks out each purchase carefully, however the Beverley Hills 90210 nostalgia must have got to me because before I knew it I'd dropped $100 or so dollars on this jacket which I have come to simply adore!

I teamed it with a lace trimmed shirt tucked into a black skater style skirt, opaques and heeled brogues on Saturday night and I received so many compliments...yay for 90's fashion...I'm with ya all the way!

www.six6photography.com.au - White Suede @ MSFW 08/09

There are rules though...

1. NO double denim under any circumstances...no need to explain further.
2. Vintage is nice, but don't allow yourself to wear anything that has that yellow crud stained look to it, that's just nasty.
3. If you're blessed with hips of the child bearing variety (like myself) you're prob best to go with the faded denim jacket or vest, as we all know dark denim is far more flattering on our lower halves than bleached out jeans.

The faded jacket would look gorgeous over this seasons pretty pastel tops and dresses...experiment, play around and you're sure to end up with something stunning be it for a casual Sunday lunch or a night out on the town.

www.six6photography.com.au - White Suede @ MSFW 08/09

Feel free to add your comments on this 90's revival, do you love it? do you hate it? have you got any ideas as to how you'd work it?

Bunnies...

2008-09-15T11:10:00.004+10:00

Ok - totally un-fashion related but I have had an obsession of late, it's been going on for about a month, with no signs of disappearing...

I want a rabbit. Not just any kind of rabbit, a BIG HUGE giant sized rabbit with huge paws and a grumpy expression on its face - simply adorable!

Pic courtesy of www.disapprovingrabbits.com

The idea is to get a nice big hutch for him or her and put it under our bullnose verandah out the back near the veggie patch (never fear, the veggie patch has a fence!) I would probably get a Guinea Pig (obbsession number two) to be its friend so when I'm not around to play with it they'll both be happy.

Problem is, I'm concerned that because we have two dogs (very placid I should add) would this upset the bunny? I can close off one section of the yard so that bunny and pig can run around safely, but still...

Pic courtesy of www.disapprovingrabbits.com

Any other bunny owners have cats/dogs? What are your experience? I will NOT be going through with this if it comes to my attention that dogs (and cats, though my cats are inside most of the time) upset bunnies, because I wouldn't want to cause any stress for the rabbit.

Pic courtesy of www.disapprovingrabbits.com

Also, should I decide that this would work out well, anyone know of any reputable bunny breeders? My first stop will be the RSPCA in Burwood, because I rang them the other day and they said they have alot of unwanted bunnies at the moment (breeding season = out of control bunny baby numbers). But just in case this doesn't work out, I'm after a quality breeder in Victoria.

I'd appreciate your comments/advice!

xo

NYFW...Personal Highlights

2008-09-13T14:18:00.011+10:00

To be honest, I was a little nervous about covering NY Fashion Week, its just so damn big and so spectacular, I had no idea where to start! So I figure I'll just go with what I know, and bring you a snippet of my personal faves.

ANNA SUI

Gorgeous, simply magnificent. Anna Sui's collection of Indian inspired silk frocks, blouses and skirts certainly bought a colourful injection of glam to the weeks parades. Amazing attention to detail in the way of beading, sequins and embroidery made this show a dazzler.

ERIN FETHERSTON

Heavenly pastels dominated Fetherston's collection of whimsical frocks. Comfy jersey dresses adorned with oversized ruffles and bows floated down the runway. Watercolour print skirts teamed with casual tanks gave a the hippie vibe a new beauty.

CYNTHIA STEFFE

Steffe bought real ladylike feel to NY Fashion Week with beautiful giant sized bloom prints adorning 50's style waisted dresses. Ultra feminine tailoring means that Steffe's current collection is wearable by women of all ages, shapes and sizes - a truly versitile range.

All images courtesy of www.mbfashionweek.com

Building Blocks

2008-09-12T15:18:00.002+10:00

I'm so glad that the good bits of the ninties are returning. I was only a wee tike (primary school) back then but I loved all my mums clothes, particularly her shoes.

These lovely Jodhi Block Sandals from Witchery remind me of a pair my mum used to wear with cropped white widelegged pants and a pretty top to Summer BBQ's...cute!

Cute Tees for Spring

2008-09-12T09:43:00.005+10:00

A failsafe outfit for a casual weekend is a great fitting pair of jeans, comfy shoes (trusty converse are a particular fave!) or sweet ballet flats teamed with a plain white tee and a simple black blazer.

But, plain white/grey/black tees can be boring, which is why I went on a mission to find some alternatives.

First up is this adorable tee by Luella. The simplicity of a grey basic with the added cuteness of a bunny. Yay! (www.net-a-porter.com approx $120AU)

Up next is another Luella creation, for all you ladies out there who were deprived of a pony when you were little...enjoy! (www.net-a-porter.com approx $120AU)

Finally we have another bunny tee (yes, I'm loving cute furry things right now...make of that what you will). This 3/4 sleeve spring essential is from See by Chloe, available at Net-A-Porter for a price that I can't remember...

I Shouldn't...But I Will...

2008-09-11T21:40:00.002+10:00

Could this dress be any more perfect?

One Shoulder CHECK
Ruffle CHECK
Flowery CHECK
yet Painterly CHECK
Super Pretty CHECK

UNDER $200? YES!!!

Its a done deal.

MSFW - The Luxe Collective

2008-09-11T20:28:00.004+10:00

Luxe - a great and wonderful event short for Luxurious - Urban Dictionary.

That pretty much hits the nail on the head. The Luxe Collective Parade, at Melbourne Spring Fashion week was nothing short of Luxe. From flowy silk gowns at Jayson Brunsden, to strong black tailoring at Nicola Fenetti, each and every designer brought their own sense of Luxe to the occasion.

First up was Christine, the mecca of all accessory stores in Melbourne. Known for bags, shoes and statement jewellery, the Christine parade exceeded all expectation in the Luxe department. The look itself was primarily monochrome, with patent and quilted details adorning bags and shoes. Headwear played a huge role, with flowers, feathers and sparkles a plenty atop each models head. I'm sure after being at this parade, the upcoming Spring Carnival was at the forefront of everybody's mind - now only if I could afford those Marc Jacobs pumps...

Jayson Brunsden stuck with the black and white pallette for the mostpart, delivering slimline pants teamed with artisticly printed cropped jackets, fitted LBD's with sweetheart necklines and on occaision, branched out into the colour spectrum with my personal fave, a flirty little number which is pictured below...

To be honest I've never really followed Nevenka, but I will be splurging on a few pieces out of their deliciously girly collection this season. Each piece was beautiful detailed, be it ruffles, splashes of colour or a simple flowing maxi dress crafted from a devine length of silk. Nevenka's range this season is figure flattering and wearable. Vibrant colours with and ethnic, but not quite boho feel makes Nevenka a must have addition to your Spring/Summer wardrobe.

What else could we have expected from Maticevski other than beautiful gowns that made us all silently ooo and aahh and wish like hell that we had the limbs to pull them off. A basic colour palette of black and beige with the odd injection of reds and blues made for a sophisticated yet romantic collection. Layers upon layers of folded fabrics and intricate tailoring made Maticevki's current range of opulent dresses and floor grazing gowns the ultimate in lustworthy this season.

Nicola Finetti stuck to his signature of elegant tailoring, and let us all know that body-con is back with a vengeance (yep - diet is on my 'to do' list). Finetti's range this season was all black - no exceptions, which concerned me slightly as I've always associated Spring and Summer with pretty colours...no matter, what the collection lacked in colour it made up for in gorgeous details. Pleats, embroidery, sequins and the overall complexity of each piece allowed me to forgive Finetti for his lack of colour, and rejoice in what was no doubt a salute to old faithful - the LBD.

White Suede upped my love for colour and prettiness another notch. This collection - without a doubt was an absolute pleasure to view. There was lace teamed with faded denim, feminine prints upon pretty silk frocks and intricate embroidery adorning many of the pieces. Sohpie Wittingslow, of Top Model fame, opened the show - and I've since discovered that she is the face of White Suede this season - congrats to Sophie!

The finale of all finale's was Aurelio Costarella. Known for beautiful evening gowns, this collection was sure to have left a lasting impression upon those present at the Luxe Collective. A basic colour palette of black and grey hues kept the line simple, yet beautiful details and magnificent accessories glammed up each outfit. Costarella's collection was a highlight of the first of four feature parades at MSFW, and we are sure to see the label back next season with a range just as beautiful.

All Images Courtesy of www.six6photography.com