harbourmaster

la bastard vs la bastard

2012-01-26T03:58:00.000-08:00

I've been working on a few side projects lately & this is the result of a particularly fun one - Melbourne band La Bastard's debut videoclip. As their music combines diverse influences, from surf rock to soul to rockabilly, we pitched them against themselves in a themed band stand off. The two looks needed to be different enough to recognise each version of each band member in a quick shot, so I decided on a 'light' look, 60s surfabilly, & a 'dark' look with a Western feel. The band were great sports & really rolled with the styling ideas (& let's be honest, these particular looks benefitted from full commitment!), I think it turned out splendidly!

La Bastard 'It's not like I'm telling a lie'

Directed by Stuart Simpson

Styled by Claire Mueller

Makeup by Elise Hull / Hair by Jillian Price

Production Assistants Nick Kocsis & Chris Malone

sixties safari

2012-01-25T17:54:00.000-08:00

Someone once said 'it's impossible to be unhappy in a poncho' (ok, it was Vince Noir, much loved fictional character from The Mighty Boosh. If you've never seen it, get onto it. Goes a bit odd by season 3). I've never really been a poncho kind of girl but I do think the same applies to 60s polyester fabrics (Terylene & Dacron & all sorts of wonderfully un-breathable double knits). You may have sweat dripping down your back and a higher chance of static shock but it's totally worth it for the fun.

wearing:

dress - salvos

belt - from another dress

hat - melbourne hats

sandals - zimmermann + fringing

necklace - triskaidekaphobia

flight work

2012-01-24T13:58:00.000-08:00

I took a flying visit up to Sydney yesterday for another interview, which presented a whole new set of outfit dilemmas. What's the weather going to be like? Will I crumple on the plane? Do Sydneysiders keep their 'beachy' style for interviews?

Well, I can now safely say: humid, yes & I only saw one other candidate who looked like she was going clubbing, so something is definitely different. I did rather forget to get outfit photos so here is a wee sketch (in which I daresay I look more chic & confidant than I actually felt, but we'll roll with it). I'm never sure if tshirts are appropriate for (fashion) interviews...probably better to have a nice little shell top or a printed shirt but I don't have either of those in my wardrobe, so tshirt it was.

Was glad to have time to catch up with Fashion Hayley, we read Japanese fashion magazines, wandered around her hood & talked Sydney vs Melbourne (I think I could quite happily live in Sydney, here's hoping I can find a job)! I want to kidnap her adorable dog Hachi. Thanks for all the Japan tips Hayley!

wearing:

t - gorman (orange with magenta print)

skirt - op shop (white with texture)

necklace - estelle deve (black leather with crystals)

shoes - zomp (black leather)

folio - american apparel (nude leather)

heat to lose one's cool over

2012-01-19T17:27:00.000-08:00

I don't mind hot weather, truly. But when Melbourne suddenly decides to be 36 degrees on the rare occasion that I need to look schmick, professional & unruffled, I get a little bit frustrated. Yep, it's interview time again, which means pitting style against expectation, trying to look like I could BE corporate, if necessary, while desperately attempting to display that I actually do have creative flair & wouldn't be caught dead in a suit jacket & collared shirt (well...not at the same time, anyway). This is probably pointless as I am going for jobs in fashion, not corporate law or anything where there are strict/boring dress codes, but if there was a memo about what is ok to wear to a fashion interview, I missed it.

Out the window went my planned outfit (black ponti Willow dress with peplum & DVF tribal suede knee high boots, neither of which have been seen on bloggy which I will rectify as soon as it cools down a bit) & onto the floor went half the contents of my wardrobe. I ended up making this top from a MaterialByProduct remnant a friend kindly sent me, and while I would've liked to have worn it with something a bit more fun (pleated skirt, palazzo pants, printed anything) couldn't find anything weather appropriate. Looking a bit crumpled as this was post interview/rushing around/hating on public transport, but I think it did the trick.

wearing:

top - made by me (materialbyproduct fabric)

skirt - willow

shoes - zomp

clutch - vintage

sunnies - alpha60

Ps. If you want some proper workwear inspiration rather than my vague rambling, go have a squiz at Business Chic. Cheryl hunts down stylish Melbournians on their way to & from work, there's nay an ill-fitting polyester jacket to be seen.

watch the eyes

2012-01-16T00:56:00.000-08:00

I feel a bit odd without my specs, like my nose looks enormous & my eyes are out of focus, but of course I know it must just be my perception as my nose is enormous all the time ;) I think I'd like to get laser eye surgery for the whole being-able-to-see thing, but gosh I'd miss my glasses. Get them replaced with clear glass, perhaps? I do think it's sortof cheating but then again, I've definitely put in the hard yards...anyway, an argument for a time when I find out if I'm actually eligible for surgery or not.

Bit of a pattern clash for a hot day, leopard and tribal AND polkadots (oh my)!

wearing:

t - gorman

skirt - a present

headscarf - random pop up shop

shoes - melissa

necklace (which really deserves its own post!) - triskaidekaphobia

lovelace

2012-01-14T05:04:00.000-08:00

So good to see old things in a new light - I recently lent out this lace gown I made aeons ago for a photoshoot & was very pleased with the result. It originally had a tiered bustle, rose embellishment & a big red bow but I stripped it right back to better suit my current design philosophies. Now you can notice the shape of the bodice, the hand-cut scalloped hem, the different patterns in the lace...subtleties that even I didn't fully appreciate at the time, but see clearly now.

Photo: Shamim de Varax

Styling: Robecca Leyden

Beauty: Justine Bruers & Victoria Martin

Hair: Lauren MacKeller

Model: Gemma @ Viviens

strange creatures

2012-01-10T13:18:00.000-08:00

Those with a keen eye will notice that these were taken in my partially-constructed shower while it was still pitch with waterproofing paint, against which my black jewellery becomes objects in the night sky or strange creatures from the deep.

tourista

2012-01-08T13:17:00.000-08:00

There's something about this outfit that says 'travelling' to me - lightweight collared shirt, sensible shoes & the good old American Express canvas hand luggage - but I felt completely at home in it. A definitely sense of freedom comes with dressing for utility. I'm quite ready to embark on an adventure.

wearing:

shirt - an ode to no one

skirt/bag - op shop

sandals - zimmermann (plus leather fringing tied around ankle)

sunnies - alpha60

shades of shadow

2012-01-04T14:27:00.000-08:00

It's hardly a revelation that a little black dress is a wardrobe essential, but I'm constantly amazed at just how many different types there are. All for different too-busy-to-pfaff-around occasions, of course. I picked up this little number at Alpha60 while exchanging a gift for someone...I couldn't find anything right for them, but with a well executed balance between drape & cinch this was right for me.

wearing:

dress - alpha60

shoes - melissa

earring - vintage with tassel added

emerging from the deep: nye redux

2012-01-03T03:04:00.000-08:00

In all the excitement I rather forgot to take outfit photos on New Years Eve (that, & the fact that I didn't get home from work til after 6, so by the time I'd had a wee nap & done my hair it was practically dark) BUT I've done a cheeky recreation so you can see my costume. With Tiki posing, for extra fun!

Both my hair & the headpiece are looking a little flat, & I did have sea green eyebrows on the actual night too, but you get the general idea. The party went tremendously well - everyone dressed up, the music was swinging, the cocktails were lethal...definitely my new favourite way to do New Years!

wearing:

headpiece - made by me

top - sportsgirl

skirt - willow

sandals - zimmermann (with added leather fringing)

tiki hell

2011-12-30T05:21:00.000-08:00

Looking forward to New Years for once - TIKI PAAAARTYYYYY! Spent today helping perfect the decor, now I'm knocking up the finishing touches of my outfit. The best thing about this particular Tiki bar is that it's just down the road from my place (in a friend's front yard) so it's not a one night wonder, it's going to be a long Tiki summer...

ladies & gentlemen...

2011-12-27T05:19:00.000-08:00

...we have a winner! Congratulations Joanna from the Mint Palace (I am trying to contact you on twitter but email me if you read this)! Thankyou everyone for your lovely words (bloggy has never felt so loved), & of course thankyou Gaby at Hopeless Lingerie for providing the very awesome knickers. Hope everyone had an enjoyable Christmas - the Harbour will be back in full swing when the manic, I mean festive, season is over!

blue, yellow, taco

2011-12-21T17:32:00.000-08:00

Rubi Shoes kindly let me take a pair of shoes at their flagship launch a few weeks ago and I couldn't really pass up the obnoxious electric blue of these wedges. Not something I'd usually buy as am trying to 'curate' my shoe wardrobe (they're hardly what I'd call timeless), but certainly fun to wear! They weigh nothing so are quite ridiculously comfortable, just the ticket for navigating IKEA on a Sunday morning (any height advantage helps, less likely to get lost).

As you can see the bathroom has progressed & is VERY nearly finished (YAY. It's useable, but I still have to chase up the builder every day to finish off a few little details which is a bit of a nightmare). Taco doesn't like it as much because he can't jump up on the sink and knock everything off any more. I like it more especially because of this reason.

wearing:

t/skirt/earrings/belt - vintage

shoes - rubi shoes

Ps. Still 2 days left to enter my 500th blog post giveaway!

whitehouse on parade

2011-12-20T15:54:00.000-08:00

Crystal Wang

Josh Schoolland

Mary Cantsilieris

Kate Brook

Isabelle Heriot

Josh Schoolland

Kajsa Kvernmo

Melissa Mikletic

I recently attended the Whitehouse Institute of Design grad show, held at their incredible Melbourne campus in the old mail exchange centre on Bourke St. Whitehouse, a private design school, has been running for many years in Sydney but is still new in Victoria - I believe the first graduates exited only last year - so there is a certain onus (in the highly competitive world of fashion education) on both staff & students to prove themselves. I've heard mixed reports about their 'Styling & Creative Direction' course (one might suggest that if you need to be taught how to style perhaps you shouldn't be doing it), but from what I've seen the design course is capable of bringing out the best in young designers who put the hard yards in (not unlike other, perhaps more recognised, design degrees).

Either way, I saw some beautiful, innovative work - Josh Schoolland's impeccable contemporary leather tailoring & Isabelle Heriot's awesome porcupine quill skirt (which I would very much like in my wardrobe) stood out. Others perhaps needed a bit more thought - a series of sheer dresses were marred as no regard was given to the underwear the models wore, meaning we saw a vast array of g strings that were truly impossible to ignore (interestingly, the chap who designed these was an award recipient - a case of talent blinding common sense, maybe?) & most unfortunately we saw Romance Was Born's crochet-blanket dress resurface...again. It'll take a few more years to see where their graduates end up, & I wouldn't gush quite as much as founder Leanne Whitehouse likes to do (at length, before the shows), but all in all, I think the institute is finding its feet.

Ps. Still a few days left to enter my 500th post giveaway!

footscray dusk

2011-12-18T23:35:00.000-08:00

I'm getting pretty good at grunging up my work clothes to better fit my after-business-hours appointments. Stu & I met up with a band we're doing a videoclip with the other night, & with 4 seconds to change the old 'tshirt & jacket over my smart frock' trick worked a treat. It sounds silly, but I get nervous looking too conventionally 'fashiony' around people who are ingrained in an alternative scene - I spent years identifying with subcultures (and still do, but can't commit to the image full time), & don't want to lose the integrity I feel I earned. Of course, we all know that appearance isn't everything...
but from a stylist's perspective, it is.

wearing:

dress - willow

t - american apparel

jacket - op shop, customised

necklace & brooch - vintage

sandals - chloe

Thanks Stu for the photos!

topshop downunder

2011-12-17T04:04:00.000-08:00

Photos by Emma Gott

My trip to Perth unfortunately coincided with Topshop's Australian debut...which was in Melbourne. One of (to my mind anyway) the most hotly anticipated retail developments in this country of late, I'm eager to see how one of the UK's most successful fast-fashion brands will fit into the fashion landscape here, among some amazing local labels and fairly substandard chain stores. As we see more and more brands - large & small, local & international - shrinking, flailing, going into administration, it'll be interesting to observe the progression of one that is clearly doing something right. I sent a fashionable friend to the launch in my place and heard good things (especially about the shoes!), looking forward to seeing it for myself soon!

Topshop, 500 Chapel Street, South Yarra, VIC

when we were young

2011-12-14T03:39:00.000-08:00

Spent my last Sunday afternoon in Perth hanging out with old friends in one of my favourite venues - the Rosemount Hotel in North Perth. With so many of my old haunts defunct, demolished or bastardised beyond recognition it's comforting to still recognise somewhere I used to enjoy so much in my (misspent) youth.

wearing:

t - sophomore (my new favourite tshirt brand!)

dress - willow

shoes - demonia

sunnies - alpha60

bag - op shop

(and you can't really see but I have matching blue eyebrows)

PS. Don't forget to enter my 500th post giveaway for some custom made Hopeless Lingerie knickers & a neon vintage necklace!

arabian afternoons

2011-12-12T06:36:00.000-08:00

A recent test shoot, & themeboard I put together to help inspire the creative team. Location shoots can be a bother - I'd originally pictured this look on a balcony with dense foliage behind it, which I planned meticulously & we shot lots of, but erratic weather & the fact the trees were a bit less dense than remembered meant the more successful background turned out to be one we quickly tried at the end, just for fun. Ahh, best laid plans...but I like it anyway!

Photo: Stuart Simpson

Model: Lauren @ Mark Fitzgerald Management

MUA: Rebecca Romanin

Stylist: Claire Mueller

Clothing: Alessa

unseasonable

2011-12-08T17:58:00.001-08:00

NOT the most glamorous of outfits for my 501th post, but it's all about realism here at the harbour. Believe it or not, I wore this in PERTH (yes, Perth of the endless Summers, Perth of coastline as far as the eye can see, Perth of 38 degrees being moderate) this week, pottering around the city & seeing a film (ahh, holidays, you are the best). I'm now glad I eschewed wearing a frock on the plane in favour of these warmer pieces. Thanks Stu for taking these photos in my parent's lovely garden!

wearing:

jeans - dejour

jumper - willow

t - skin&threads

necklace - vintage, a present

shoes - melissa

clutch - mimco

Ps. Don't forget to enter my 500th post giveaway!

it's a party!

2011-12-07T01:58:00.001-08:00

Friends, Romans, countrymen...this marks my 500th post here at the harbour, and it's been a proper adventure so far. I started blogging as a way to catalogue (...define, REFINE) my personal style, encouraged by an old friend who very kindly (even when I was an angst-y eighteen year old with highly questionable taste, thankyou Irene for seeing beyond my attitude!) 'wished she could take a photo of me every day', so I started doing just that. You've all been spared the clothing cacophony of my teenage years, but thankyou so much for joining me along the way as I continue to search for my place on the fashion map.

As gratitude for your support I have some pressies to give away! Melbourne's own Hopeless Lingerie have very sweetly designed a special version of their 'Jeanne' knickers just for the harbour, in delightful stripes with a black bow, topped off with an anchor motif! I am modelling my own pair above but of course the winner will have a pair custom made in their preferred size. I adore Gaby's designs, they're incredibly comfortable as well as being terribly cute.

I also have a (slightly more modest) version of my Tom Binns DIY necklace - those Diva sparkles are hard to come by but this is a lovely vintage piece - painted in the same obnoxious shade of neon orange as it's actually extremely wearable!

To enter the giveaway for these two special birthday presents:

- you must be following bloggy (by Google Friend Connect, or if you don't have it follow me on Twitter, both in the sidebar there)

- 'like' Hopeless Lingerie's facebook page

- and leave a comment below with a way I can contact you if you win!

For an extra entry tweet/share on facebook & leave another comment with a link to it. Entries open until 12 midnight Saturday 24th December, I'll draw the winner randomly & post the result here.
*NOW CLOSED & WINNER NOTIFIED*

Good luck, & thankyou again for your continued support - it'd be lonely sail without you! (I must also give props to Stu for helping me with photos and photoshop without complaint, thanks mdear!)

west urban tribal

2011-12-04T13:54:00.001-08:00

You may notice a change of scenery - I'm way out West (well...not so out, actually very centrally located) in Perth, visiting the family & having a wee holiday before Christmas.

I thought I'd challenge myself and do my 12 day trip with hand luggage only (not entirely sure what my reasoning behind that was, but I do enjoy being able to walk straight off the plane & get home as quickly as possible, I'm quite an excitable traveller). This seemed like a good idea at the time, was daunting while packing & is turning out to be ok. My travel wardrobe is generally much simpler than my everyday attire, though as I've been leaning towards cleaner lines & fewer accessories lately it is looking remarkably similar. I've mainly brought separates - skirts & tshirts, staples of my wardrobe - which are remarkably versatile with a pile of well chosen accessories. And I did still manage to bring four pairs of shoes which I thought was quite a good effort.

wearing:

t - gorman

skirt - willow

necklace - diva, customised

boots - acne

hat (very necessary in the harsh WA sun!) - melbourne hats from top hatters

twentyseven: rmit textiles grad show

2011-12-02T23:13:00.001-08:00

Marie Romano

Sarah Strickland

Dani Pelly

Maya Lillian

Sharnee Thorpe

Jazmine Bradly & Michelle Holik

Emma Sheehy

Cassie McDonald

Hannah Hughes

Erin Reinboth

Marie Romano

I, like many others, I suspect, never fully understood what textiles designers do until I had the opportunity to see their work more closely while at uni. Yes, they screen print & dye & know how to knit better than most people, but it's so much more than that. Skilled illustrators, masters of colour & texture, creators of entirely new aesthetics in fabric and beyond. TwentySeven, the graduate exhibition of students from RMIT's textile design course, is not only beautiful but educational, showcasing a vast array of techniques & approaches, each as unique as the designer behind them. On display until Wednesday December 7th it really is a must-see, particularly if you think that garment designers are the only ones who make fashion...

Fitzroy Gallery, 274 Fitzroy Street (just off Brunswick St), Fitzroy

a new rubi

2011-12-01T07:09:00.001-08:00

Just the ticket for testing out a footwear trend that you might not otherwise commit to (electric blue suede wedges, sky-high colourblocked sandals & glitter brogues spring to mind), Rubi Shoes has just launched a new platform (*ehem*, sorry, should leave the punning to the professionals) in the form of an airy flagship store on Flinders Lane. Quite a departure from the (let's face it, rather dingy) basement-bunker style one has come to expect the new space is a step up (oop that one was unintentional I swear) and offers not only a less claustrophobic shopping environment, but a range of exclusive styles that are not so much tween-centric as easy-chic (on the eye AND the wallet). With shapes & colours, rather than complicated detailling, being the main focus they offer endless customisation potential - I spy some shoe DIY in the future!

Rubi Shoes Melbourne Flagship, 238 Flinders Lane 3000

yellow peril

2011-11-28T23:52:00.001-08:00

There's nothing like a work function to make you question your ability to dress appropriately in public. Especially when they're those tricky afternoon-to-evening numbers (don't want to look you're hitting the town, even if you may be *after* but don't want to look like you've just cruised in from brunch and made no effort either). Especially where there are industry stalwarts and Very Important members of the older generation there.

After indecisively trying on everything in my wardrobe I chose to err on the side of understated for this Sunday afternoon/evening bash (a black perspex Mimco clutch made it less casual, but of course I forgot to photograph that), and felt perfectly comfortable. Being a tribute event no one was looking at me anyway - sometimes blending in is what's called for!

wearing:

t - op shop

skirt - willow

bustier (underneath) - sportsgirl

earrings - vintage, a gift

boots - acne

Ps. Check out my not-yet-complete new bathroom walls! I wanted Breton stripes, but the tile people convinced me it would be more trouble than it was worth so we have excellent yellow instead.

metropolis now

2011-11-24T23:30:00.001-08:00

bodysuit - Willow

playsuit - Hopeless Lingerie, necklace - Rummage

hat - vintage, top - Review, skirt - Willow

jacket - Grace Lambert, bra - Hopeless Lingerie, skirt - Willow

dress - Willow, bra & knickers - Hopeless Lingerie, necklaces - stylist's own

playsuit - Hopeless Lingerie, necklace - Rummage

hat - vintage, top - Review, skirt - Willow

Giving the Blade Runner girls a run for their money, a recent photoshoot exploring robotique-glam. Thanks especially to Hopeless Lingerie and Grace Lambert, it's a pleasure to work with such beautiful pieces!

Photos: Liz McLeish

Model: Kathleen @ FRM

MUA: Avriresta Vi

Hair: Monique Postman

Styling: Claire Mueller

willow warehouse sale

2011-11-22T12:25:00.001-08:00

Starting tomorrow, with stock from past collections including the iconic Eternal Phi and Eclipse.

Get on it early for samples, from past experience these go super quickly!

the tone of summer

2011-11-21T12:17:00.001-08:00

This outfit really captures what I think Summer will be about for me. A bit of black (this particular piece is silk cotton, the most beautiful fabric to wear), a bit of print (I'm definitely jumping on the neo-tribal bandwagon, this month's Africa edition of Vogue Australia was a vision), decent shoes (I haven't worn thongs for years & don't intend to start now) & a bit of playfulness (do I have to say? Ok, blue eyebrows).

Worn last Friday when it was 30+ degrees this got me through a meeting, a catch up, a haircut, & the Monash Art & Design grad show launch, & I didn't feel out of place anywhere. That's what I want from a Summer outfit.

wearing:

blouse - aurelio costarella

skirt - present

shoes - zomp

rmit on parade

2011-11-20T04:21:00.001-08:00

Natasha Fagg

Nixi Killick

Amanda Lee

Awesome spider monsters stuffed in a box, couldn't find a credit for these but I like them a lot!

Chris Ran Lin

Helen Pappas

Bernadette Francis

You may recall me waxing lyrical about the RMIT fashion exhibition I helped set up last year - do yourself a favour and go see the 2011 incarnation, CLOTH, beautifully curated in the old Belinda space at the GPO. The work is creative and exciting, and it really is a rarity to be able to see it up close. I believe the closing date has been extended until the 23rd of November so get in quick!

the world repeats itself somehow

2011-11-16T03:19:00.001-08:00

And again! (Told you I'd been wearing it non stop).

Thanks to the gorgeous Liz McLeish for street snapping me like a pro!

wearing:

necklace - diva (customised)

tee - skin&threads

jacket - acne

skirt - willow

boots - old gringo

summer in colour

2011-11-14T23:29:00.001-08:00

These were taken after an 11 hour work day so I'm not looking super fresh but, as advertised, here is the DIY Tom Binns necklace in action! It seems to go with EVERYTHING in my wardrobe which is both excellent and annoying, as I can't wear the same necklace every day (or perhaps I can, until I get bored of it...)

The polish is a little chipped, testament to me impatiently blobbing it on in the first place. When I do this again (and believe me, I will - there are some vintage diamante pieces in the post just waiting for improvement) I'm going to thin the colour out with some turps and paint it on neatly with a fine brush.

So there we go! Certainly not as schmick as the real deal, but it fooled a lot of people, and you can't help having a glint in your eye when you wear something this unabashedly fluoro.

wearing with:

dress - made by me

shirt - an ode to no one

shoes - melissa

tom binns diy

2011-11-12T14:35:00.001-08:00

I bought this necklace with the intention of Tom Binns-ifying it (my rule of thumb with designer 'inspiration' is if I can afford the original I'll happily support the label, but if it is going to remain 'aspirational' for the forseeable future I have licence to DIY), but then got a bit sucked in by its vintage style charm and left it as is. I have, however, realised that it's far to shiny to exist in my everyday wardrobe without modification, so I set about making it a bit more wearable.

To say my method was basic would be an understatement - it's just nailpolish slopped on top of the diamantes - but the result is pretty satisfying. I've been wearing it non stop so can guarantee it'll be in the next outfit post.

necklace - diva

nailpolish - from MSFW giftbag

Ps. The gorgeous Geneva over at A Pair & A Spare is queen of DIY necklaces (and everything else), she's pretty handy with the neon spray paint so I'd definitely recommend checking out her blog if you don't already know it!

borrowed from the boys

2011-11-08T23:08:00.000-08:00

It's too hot to even contemplate a jumper today, but I pinched this one off Stu to wear on Monday. It has a knitted in (I believe the correct term is intarsia) grim reaper on the front which I rather like. As a curvy girl I've never been a huge fan of the 'wear your boyfriend's jeans/jacket/whatever and you'll look perfectly edgy & relaxed' theory (pretty sure I'd look like I was unaware of the concept of fit), but the oversized jumper is easy enough to tweak. I just wish there was some way to make the sleeves shorter, I was pushing them up all day!

wearing:

jumper - Stu's, from Villain

skirt - metalicus

collar/belt - vintage

eagle epaulette pin (worn on collar) - army disposal

boots - old gringo

petit pastel

2011-11-07T03:57:00.000-08:00

Denim minis have always fallen into the category of 'comfort clothing' for me (definitely a hangover from the pre-jean days). I'd never don one without tights, so without any worry about falling into Bondi territory or flashing my bum I feel properly casual in one. Perfect, with a jumper thrown over, for lazy Sunday evenings watching cult films at the pub (at Cult Cinema Sundays filmnight, should you wish to do the same you can come next time)!

wearing:

skirt - tsubi (yes, that old!)

shirt - an ode to no one

jumper - agneiszka

boots - old gringo

necklace - present

mimco winners

2011-11-03T00:44:00.000-07:00

Roll up, roll up...the random hat picker has chosen comments numbers 1 & 9 for the Mimco vouchers, which is the lovely Teer and the fabulous Emma from Dropstitch, lucky lasses! Email me your addresses & I'll post them out to you.

Thanks everyone for entering and of course Mimco for their generosity! You can still sign up for the MimCollective program (which I'd recommend as they're pretty fruitful with rewards), and I've got another exciting giveaway coming up for my 500th post pretty soon so keep your eyes peeled!

the calm before the (desert) storm

2011-11-03T00:27:00.000-07:00

Easing my way from a minimalist (well...at times) Winter to what promises to be an eccentric Summer. I was glued to the new issue of Vogue Australia on my way to work this morning, seriously excited by the neo-tribal looks within its glossy pages. Time to raid the drawers at my parents' house, I'm on the hunt for bold African fabrics, natural textures, beads my Granny used to wear...and I quite fancy a pith helmet.

wearing:

top/belt - vintage

dress - willow

shoes - zomp
necklace - diva

win with mimco

2011-11-01T04:22:00.000-07:00

Surprise parcels are the best parcels, and good ol' Mimco (and their crack PR team at Taboo) sent me a corker the other day. Those who had celluloid childhoods will no doubt be familiar with the viewfinder, but I'd never laid hands on one before so was most excited to click-clack the wheel and reveal the treasure inside. And treasure it was! I have two 'MimCollective' memberships to give away, each of which has a $50 gift voucher attached, so go have a squiz at Mimco's website, see what catches your eye & comment below for a chance to win one!

(The vouchers can only be used in the Australian boutiques or at mimco.com.au, open until 6pm EST Thursday 3rd November, I'll randomly draw two winners & post their names here).

-ENTRIES NOW CLOSED-

colour by number

2011-10-28T01:19:00.000-07:00

Can't decide if I love or hate this - a little bit 'on trend' for my usual taste, but having rediscovered this fantastic purple leather pencil skirt (oh yes, you heard correctly) in the shed I couldn't resist a bit of maximal/minimal-colourblocked-workwear action.

The skirt is a winner, I know that for sure, but the blazer is teetering on the 'not for me' edge...love it in theory - rich amber colour, nice fine wool, big lapels, made in Australia (!) - but the shape doesn't quite suit me. I should know better than to buy jackets online (especially ones I can't return!), I KNOW they're the hardest thing for me to fit, but I live in hope... sighhhh, off to eBay it goes.

wearing:

jacket - arnsdorf (in all seriousness it will be going on eBay, if you suit blazers and would like a bargainous one hit me up)

bodysuit - willow

skirt/necklace - vintage

shoes - melissa

dropping anchor in my own domain

2011-10-25T06:00:00.000-07:00

So if you are lovely enough to have it linked anywhere you may want to update it!

(On that note, I've lost all MY links, and was due for a refresh anyway, so please let me know if you'd like to be on the list as I'm bound to forget some of them!)

she came from outer space

2011-10-25T02:49:00.000-07:00

My gorgeous & talented photographer friend Liz did a shoot a little while ago featuring white painted hair & eyebrows, a look that (clearly) captured my attention. I find that white-out brows give a certain alienesque quality - something to do with elongating the forehead and pronouncing the eyes? Whatever the reason, I'm pretty happy to look like a long-lost (boring) cousin of Ziggy, so will definitely be keeping this on call for days when I feel a little too down-to-earth...

wearing:

necklace - estelle deve

t - american apparel

jeans - dejour

boots - old gringo

coloured brow tutorial

2011-10-22T21:55:00.000-07:00

This is pretty simple but lots of people have asked so here you go!

(Picture heavy...)

My brows are dark brown but not too thick so it works ok without bleaching them, I'm sure you'd get a much stronger result if you did though. Looking into it, my stylin' friend Sacha has assured me bleached brows are fun anyway!

You need:

Some kind of base for the colour to stick to. I am using an old white pearlised lipstick that I had lying around, primer or concealer would probably be fine too.

Coloured eyeshadow with a high pigment

Brushes

Makeup Remover/Cotton Buds

Get a fair amount of the base on your brush

Paint onto your eyebrows, making sure you completely coat the hairs, not just smear over the top

Pick a colour! I've decided cool tones suit me better.

Paint the colour on. Be heavy handed, it doesn't matter if you go outside the lines.

Whoa crazy messy green eyebrows!

Time to neaten up. Soak a cotton bud in makeup remover

and tidy up so you have nice sharp arches.

Kapow!

party for a lady

2011-10-19T14:46:00.000-07:00

I had the pleasure of attending Lady Melbourne's fabulous 1000th blog post celebration last night, and it was so exciting to see someone who is so pivotal in the Australian fashion blog scene achieve such a milestone - Lady Melbourne was one of the first blogs I ever read, and I happily continue to do so. In amongst the cupcakes & cocktails I saw some lovely familiar faces including Carly from Smaggle, Maryanne from Esme & the Laneway, Sarah from Style Melbourne and Sacha from Stylexicon (all of whom have excellent blogs) and met some new ones too! Read the 1000th post (published live from the party!) and see how everyone frocked up here.

I wore black & white, as that always reminds me of Lady Melbourne's classic ladylike style, with blue brows for a touch of colour.

wearing:

t - skin&threads

dress - willow

necklace - rummage

shoes - vw x melissa

green girl

2011-10-17T13:24:00.000-07:00

If you follow me on Twitter you may have seen me pondering it, and now, with full technicolour photo evidence, I present to you:

STRANGELY COLOURED EYEBROWS!

Balenciaga did it for RTW 2010 but I've yet to see it in the real world...this is possibly because it looks freakish, but I've never minded a bit of that. As one would expect reactions so far have been mixed.

wearing:

skirt - made by me

shirt - vintage

jacket - willow

bow - alannah hill

riding boots - grange

design DNA

2011-10-16T17:56:00.000-07:00

Nettie Kent Seaweed ring $176

Young Lovers Dancing Shoes tee $60

Geronimo Oui shorts $60

Sophie Monet Ebony Bar earrings $84

Geronimo Jenny bikini $100

I do love a good collective, and DNA (designers+artists), who work with young creatives on pop up shops & events to help them gain exposure in the the daunting US retail market, seem to be doing it right. They have a nice little online platform too, and are offering 25% off anything over $50 until Friday night (21/10) so have a squiz and support some up&comers!

Discount code: SHOPDNA

slopabilly

2011-10-13T04:19:00.000-07:00

One of the reasons I could never be a proper Rockabilly girl is that I'm not very good at being polished. My stockings always have rips, I tend to smudge lipstick the second I put it on and although I love heels, I can't do stilettos for night, let alone day. I'll always admire those delightful creatures who look perfectly put together in their skintight pencils skirts and rolled fringes without a hair out of place, but I know I'll never be joining them. I'm calling it. I'm a Slopabilly.

wearing:

jacket - route66

skirt - vintage

t - nude lucy

creepers - demonia

necklace - william llewellyn griffiths

stockings - sportsgirl (I have quite a few pairs, I promise I'm not wearing the same ones every second day)

hopeless floral fancy

2011-10-11T20:10:00.000-07:00

I'm glad I got in quick on these gorgeous floral knickers from Hopeless Lingerie as they've now sold out! But never fear, Gaby has heaps of other fetching designs, which are all made with love in Melbourne. I wore mine today while mowing the lawn (not JUST those, I hasten to add), and with flowers in the air and on my derriere it finally felt like Spring.

monotone madam

2011-10-10T02:29:00.000-07:00

Prada Spring 2012 RTW from style.com

I love when fashion is having a 50s moment, there's always a new twist on the style to try out. Roused by Prada's delightful 2012 RTW (luxury hotrod honeys with nay a sweetheart neckline in sight, completely modern but perfectly vintage inspired) I gave a bomber, pleated skirt & drop earrings a whirl. My wardrobe sadly didn't have the necessary accoutrements for Pradaesque prints, but I quite like the monotone effort.

wearing:

skirt/earrings - vintage

jacket - alice mccall

t - gorman

stockings - sportsgirl

shoes - vw x melissa

headscarf - some pop up store that isn't around any more

minor clash

2011-10-05T03:05:00.000-07:00

If someone asked me what my favourite thing to wear is I'd probably say 'Prints!', as I imagine that I have a delightfully eccentric wardrobe full of them. I actually don't even remotely. Sure, there're a few polkadot dresses floating around, and the odd printed skirt, but certainly not much to layer with. The largest section in my wardrobe is, of course, black, closely followed by blue vintage dresses.

wearing:

jumper - dion lee x cue

t - gorman

skirt - made by me

necklace - dive (worn underneath to counteract the obnoxious shine)

shoes - melissa

you wang?

2011-10-03T13:16:00.000-07:00

Getting my Americana on in pastels, pleats & my eBay-win-of-the-century, Alexander Wang's 'Trudy' tote. On the wishlist for a while, it's the right size for my daily flotsam & jetsam and works perfectly with my current bordering-on-minimal vibe.

wearing:

jumper - agnieszka

skirt - vintage

boots - old gringo

monster mash

2011-09-28T05:18:00.000-07:00

Bands! Babes! Blood & guts!

Do I have your attention?

El Monstro Del Mar!, film of films, project of years, has taken another step into the big wide world and is being released on DVD in Australia VERY SOON by the good people at Monster Pictures! To celebrate we're having a slap up party THIS FRIDAY at the Bendigo Hotel (coincidentally the same venue as film night which is this Sunday, double fun!) and, quite frankly, it's going to be great.

Get down early and we can have a boogie to The Perfections then I'll sign your DVD (haha). But seriously, we have pre release copies, and they'll be a super-cheap $15 on the night.

Ain't no party like a Monstro party!

right dandy

2011-09-26T03:08:00.000-07:00

There's something about this outfit that makes me feel like a Regency page. Or a jockey. Something in the realm of short-and-masculine, anyway. Perhaps not quite the style I should be emulating, but one doesn't learn these things without trying them out, I suppose...

Pretty keen on the accessorising though! This necklace, three delightful strands of irregular glacé cherries that matches my lipstick so perfectly, is one of the vintage treasures that was given to me recently. The rings are also a relatively new permanent addition - Toby Jones' silver bandaid on my left and two textured bands that used to be my Mums on the right - happily balancing my desire for something striking and something subtle.

wearing:

jacket - willow

shirt - op shop

t - gorman

jeans - dejour

boots - old gringo

my work (in progress)

2011-09-21T15:32:00.000-07:00

You may have noticed a new button on the side of the page, which takes you to my new online portfolio. It's not quite perfect yet, it loads a bit slowly and it doesn't work on mobiles or iPads (serious pet hate of mine) but I'm working on it!

I'll update this to contain a selection of what I consider to be my best current work, so if you want to know what my real-world skills are please take a squiz!

plastic coloured rainbow

2011-09-20T02:32:00.000-07:00

It was so refreshing to dress like Summer yesterday! No tights, no cardigan, no layering, no fuss. Pity it only lasted a day, but I daresay I'll be whinging about the heat in no time...

These beads are actually all individual strands (included in a parcel of vintage jewellery that was recently bestowed upon me by my fabulous coffee guys, I AM a lucky customer!), and with my more-is-more attitude of course found a way to wear them all at once. Some of my favourite jewellery is makeshift, it's amazing what you can create with bits & pieces that are lying around.

wearing:

t - skin&threads

skirt - made by me

shoes - melissa

they're eating her...and then they're going to eat me!

2011-09-17T17:23:00.000-07:00

Troll 2. Touted as the worst film ever made it sounds like a sequel but isn't, and doesn't have trolls in it.

When a film is bad enough to have a documentary made about how bad it is (Best Worst Movie, 2009), you know there must be some kind of magic amongst the mayhem. I, for one, am planning to find out TONIGHT at Stu's new & improved filmnight, Cult Cinema Sundays.

We'll be down at the Bendigo Hotel on Johnston St every second Sunday with an endless supply of cult classics and *ehem* not yet classics for your cinematic education. Film starts at 8pm, but I guarantee we'll be there early for $5 burgers & cider & a chat.

Check out the website for the upcoming program!

colour dropping

2011-09-15T03:04:00.000-07:00

Not as good as the primary red & blue outfit I recently saw on a fabulously stylish 60-something woman (red pants, blue blouse, black coat, I die), but then again I'm not sure that full colourblocking is for me...

jumper - agnieszka

dress - willow

earrings - classic hardware

belt - op shop

boots - old gringo

mimco's mid-teen

2011-09-11T23:24:00.000-07:00

Anyone who's ever gotten post from Mimco and their lovely PR team at Taboo will tell you that they do the BEST parcels, how's this invite to their MSFW parade & 15th birthday celebration?? It's a message in a bottle!

The parade, showcasing a selection from their Wilderness Manifesto collection, was fresh and well styled (I was please to see they'd learnt a thing or two since the last one at LMFF, where the models were piled with SO many baubles you could barely identify individual pieces). Bags, jewellery, shoes, scarves and hats were paired with simple jersey garments that didn't overshadow the accessories.

Favourite pieces included a red patent envelope clutch & strings of bright yellow faceted beads (worn intertwined with chain & diamante necklaces, I love a good mash up), and I spied a killer little bag that looked suspiciously like it was made from hessian and patent black leather which I am dying to see up close!

next big things: renee le hunt

2011-09-08T05:42:00.000-07:00

3: RENEE Le HUNT

There's nothing more satisfying than seeing a friend find their feet and excel at something you know they really love. I was lucky to be in classes with Renee throughout my time at RMIT and saw her talent bloom during our 2nd year lingerie studio and 3rd year swimwear studio classes. Renee is showing swimwear for 4th year parade and I can honestly say that each individual piece is a beautiful thing - she's pushed herself to master the challenges of patternmaking, sewing and fitting Lycra (no mean feat) and has created a highly resolved, commercially viable and spirited collection.

All photos courtesy Renee Le Hunt

Runway Show 1/2/Exhibition: Runway 2 @ 8:30

Title of Collection (if applicable): Embodied

Menswear/Womenswear/Mixed: Womens Swim

What are some of the inspirations behind this collection? Throughout my design process I experimented with the elements that are used to create a print from an image - reflection, rotation and repetition - which I think comes through in my final outcome. My collection took a very hands on approach and evolved during the production process as I gained stronger technical abilities. Swimwear relies so intrinsically on fit that it's important to to fit the pieces on both the mannequin and the body at every stage of construction, making alterations that lead to a perfect shape.

What features & techniques should we be looking out for? Have you tried anything new? I created a digital print, built from an image I photographed, and have used it in two colour ways. I printed this on Lycra and silk but haven't made any outerwear out of the silk yet! I'm also using a Macrame knotting technique which was developed by experimenting with knots my dad learnt when he was a diver in the Navy. My design is focused on working around the body, considering the look from all angles. Panelling in the swimsuits was informed by this three dimensional view, working with shapes created by the print. I also used placement prints which dictate the shape and size of panels to a degree.

Favourite garment or look in the collection? It chops and changes but at the moment I am most in love with the white print bra and high waisted bikini with triangular cut outs!

How long did it take to make? My capsule collection probably took 2-3 months to toile, fit and produce which included things like getting my fabric printed and maintaining a part-time job (only just!). Each final piece took 2-4 days to produce as cutting and hand work is extremely time consuming. It pays to be a perfectionist when working on swimwear which prolonged the process!

Is your style commercial, avant guard or somewhere in between? This is an interesting question - I don't want to pigeon hole myself into a category because obviously all the fourth years have capabilities in each area. This year I have produced a capsule collection that is commercial to a degree. My swimsuits are all wearable and functional, depending on the wearers main intention - they'd certainly leave more tan lines than a standard bikini! The swimwear I've produced would be considered to be feature pieces in the collection - the ones a label would use for publicity or to create a signature look, but not necessarily the high volume sellers. I think understanding your customer and market gives you a stronger basis for design.

Fashion school is a hard slog, what good/bad/ugly moments will you never forget? Ugly is definitely the word to describe a few of my disasters…In 1st Year Studio we had to make a skirt for assessment and they had this crazy rule that the minute the class ended they would wheel away the rack and if your garment wasn't on it you'd have nothing to show in the assessment. We were under heaps of pressure to finish on time and I was already highly emotional because my dog had just passed away, so I was desperately trying to sew on this stupid waistband on, concentrating so hard to do it perfectly, and I sewed right through my finger! My teacher showed no compassion and I ended up in tears, insistent I'd finish the damn skirt. Looking back on it it was kind of funny and my finger wasn't that bad but I can tell you I never did that again!

Favourite designer, icon or person you want to be when you grow up? There are so many designers I idolise for different reasons but I think the most obvious that reflects in my work would be Nicky Zimmermann from Zimmermann. I feel I have a similar appreciation for things she places importance on in her label. It has an element of classic style and wearability yet is of the time and has a fashion forward edge, quality in fabrication, construction and fit, always flatters the female form and experiments with colour palettes and print. I enjoy her collections as they embody the fun of summer. The collections that Zimmermann produce are always well resolved and I hope one day I could be that successful.

Where to after graduation? A nice tropical holiday would be lovely but I think I will be working hard trying to find a suitable full time job that is right for me. Sydney has always been on the cards so that is a possibility! There are a lot of great Australian labels based there and exciting opportunities for swimwear especially.

Dream job? It's weird a lot of people have dream jobs but I don't so much...instead of fantasising I sort of look back and thinking wow how did I get here what an amazing opportunity it's been to do this!

Get all the details on the RMIT Student Runways and Exhibition on the MSFW website!

channelling my inner degrassi kid

2011-09-07T15:12:00.000-07:00

Thankyou ever so for the lovely feedback on my last post - it seems all are in favour of wearing whatever makes us smile when we catch a glimpse of our outfit reflected in a window, age appropriateness be damned. (Emmi - I turned 25 a few weeks ago, first public admission of being a quarter century haha!)

Cracking out the white denim, neo-Lennon specs and fishing tackle for a day running errands. The lady at the op shop was most impressed by my impromptu earrings.

wearing:

jacket - op shop

dress - vintage

shoes - old gringo (must do a proper post on these, seriously awesome)

sunnies - alpha60

earrings - squiddy lures, attached to (earring, rather than fishing) hooks

in which i wonder if i'm too old to wear...

2011-09-05T02:01:00.000-07:00

...things like this.

Of course, I'm all about anyone of any age wearing whatever they feel comfortable in (I practically applaud when I see fabulous oldies, they're one of my very favourite things), but I got a bit of a shock when I took these pics and realised that my face looks rather mature, and my outfit does not. They were taken the day before I succumbed to the hideous flu so perhaps that has something to do with my Golden Girls patina. Gosh, I hope so, I still want to dress like a young'un sometimes!

wearing:

skirt/wraparound - metalicus

cardi - temt

stockings - sportsgirl

shoes - demonia

earrings - jubly umph (local and rockin', check them out)

next big things: jon cordiano

2011-09-02T19:04:00.000-07:00

2: JON CORDIANO

Jon, known on Level 10 for his faultless personal style and constant willingness for a chat (not to mention hero status for avoiding security guards and spending the night under a desk in the studio in 2nd year - a feat usually unheard of until at least 3rd year!) is doing a collection based on bondage. It's a tough call. People get that strained look on their face when they hear about the inspiration and you just know they're picturing leather strapping, studs and a gimp mask. Jon has, however, approached this potential cliche with delicacy and created a series of intricate, elegant garments for his 4th year collection, which are as beautiful in their detail as they will be striking on the runway.

Jon meets Danni Minogue, MSFW ambassador for 2011. Photo pinched off his facebook, let me know if you took it fashion kids!

Runway Show 1/2/Exhibition: Runway 1 @ 6:30

Title of Collection (if applicable): I Tie You Up to Let You Fly

Menswear/Womenswear/Mixed: Womenswear

What are some of the inspirations behind this collection? This is my interpretation of fetish wear and it looks at the psychology of BDSM (Bondage/Discipline/Domination/Submission/Sadism/Masochism). More specifically the outer body experience, which is ultimately the goal of engaging in this act.

What features & techniques should we be looking out for? Have you tried anything new? A lot of the methods I've applied in this collection are new, including knotting rope with a traditional bondage technique to create garments. Other features to look out for are the human silhouettes used in panelling and hand dyed silks and ropes.

Favourite garment or look in the collection? The 'Outer Body Dress' (*Note* I'm a bad interviewer & forgot to ask Jon which one this is! I'll check and let you know…)

How long did it take to make? I honestly lost count of how many days it took. I think I blocked it out because it was a traumatic experience!

Is your style commercial, avant guard or somewhere in between? I have some wearable pieces and some purely made for the catwalk. I like a combo of both.

Fashion school is a hard slog, what good/bad/ugly moments will you never forget? I'll never forget the endless amounts of fun I've had with the very dear friends I've had the privilege of getting to know over the last four years, the tears and fits of rage at the craziness that is Level 10 but most importantly the uncontrollable laughs we have all shared. I think we have all bonded over this shared trauma.

Photo by Monty Coles from theloupe.org

Favourite designer, icon or person you want to be when you grow up? I honestly admire too many designers to pick just one…plus I think I'm already grown up being over 30! Well, maybe not too grown up.

Where to after graduation? All I know is that I want to travel and work overseas, maybe London or Italy? Anywhere really!

Dream job? Wow, dream job would be as an assistant designer to one of the "greats" like Issey Miyake or Rei Kawakubo.

Hit up the MSFW website for details of the RMIT Student Runways and Exhibition!

fluoro leopard in the night

2011-08-31T21:28:00.000-07:00

Apologies for being a bit quiet on the home front, I'm sick and have been confined to bed for the past few days, but luckily have a few outfits up my sleeve I hadn't got around to posting yet!

I made this skirt to wear for my birthday a couple of weeks ago and I think you'll agree that it is SOMETHING ELSE. I can't take any credit as the amazement is purely due to the fabric, which caught my eye at one of the infamous Sydney Road fabric stores last year (I stupidly only got 1 metre as was meant to only be buying fabric for my collection at uni, I went back later hoping to get more but, of course, it was all gone. Someone out there has some awesome acid-yellow leopard bathers and I am jealous).

Looking through my wardrobe I've realised I'm very much about the statement skirt. I suppose I like the versatility it affords one (but I barely have any tops so may need to work on that theory), plus a skirt, no matter how fabulous, always feels a little more 'daytime' than a dress.

wearing with:

jumper - agneiszka

belt - op shop

stockings - sportsgirl

shoes - vw x melissa

next big things: helen pappas

2011-08-29T02:38:00.000-07:00

As some of you may know, I opted to finish my fashion design degree after three years, rather than going on to do fourth year honours like many of my chums. One of the biggest projects in fourth year is creating a self-directed collection, the best of which are shown on the runway or in an exhibition at Melbourne Spring Fashion Week. I popped in to visit the eponymous 'Level 10' crew recently and was blown away by the work that is being created there.

As an introduction to some of the designers you will see at the RMIT Student Runways & Exhibition I'll be presenting a series of interviews, welcoming you to the world of the fashion student.

1: HELEN PAPPAS

Helen is, quite frankly, the sweetest person you'll ever meet. It's easy to imagine her designing whimsical poufs with delicate pastel embellishment, but don't let the sunny disposition fool you. This girl does menswear, and she does it really bloody well. Quirky yet wearable, intelligent yet lighthearted, it combines traditional tailoring methods with contemporary cuts and fabrications.

Photo courtesy Helen Pappas

Runway Show 1/2/Exhibition: Runway 1 @ 6:30pm

Title of Collection (if applicable): "Dress in the Afternoon" which in a way is a collage of words and a play on Ernest Hemingway's novel "Death in the Afternoon".

Menswear/Womenswear/Mixed: Menswear collection.

What are some of the inspirations behind this collection? I've been looking into Collage, and how as a practice and concept it influences designing. I've come to realize that the layers we dress in are much like the making collages for the body. I've also been using collage to mix my ideas together, and have chosen to blend masculinities, such as the Matador, the metaphor of the bull, the classic suit and decoration.

Photos courtesy Helen Pappas

What features & techniques should we be looking out for? Have you tried anything new? Yes! I have actually ventured into developing my own textile and my own print! which is very exciting. Through developing my collages I was inspired to create a digital print. I'm very excited by it, because the colours and fabric look wonderful together because they both have a grainy and almost pixilated look. Last year I also developed my own technique of making fluffy fabric! So I'm loving the pom-pom textures now!!!

Favourite garment or look in the collection? The Digital print ensemble, its a little crazy-fun! And there's everything in it, the print, fluff and colour!

How long did it take to make? Not including pattern making: about 3 days to sew up, now just for the finishing touches!!!

Is your style commercial, avant guard or somewhere in between? Hmmmm..... somewhere in between! Being witty, humorous, and intellectual about design is so important to me. And I think there is great validity in designing something that people lust after a little, and actually want to wear. To me this is good design. I also enjoy well crafted and made clothes, and in the end everything has a market!

Fashion school is a hard slog, what good/bad/ugly moments will you never forget? haha! Oh! there are a few. But maybe the other week takes the cake. I had just had a horrible day were everything had gone wrong, pattern-making, projects, organizing events and friendships. And it all dramatically ended with me crying my eyes out at the bottom of the fire-escape stairs, during a real fire evacuation, looking like a bag lady with all my work and so many people around. But there is one good things about horrible days like this, .... the rest of the week is always so much better! ;D

Favourite designer, icon or person you want to be when you grow up? My favorite designers, Muiccia Prada, Dries van Noten, and Christobal Balenciaga, and i wouldn't mind being a little like when i grow up. ....but I'm looking forward to being me when i grow up too!

Where to after graduation? Relaxing and enjoying Melbourne life! ...maybe a Europe adventure too! and of course finding a job, which i'm very excited about.

Dream job? Ahh! so many! I'd love to be a designer at an fashion house like Prada (...or starting my own). But to go and review cafes, coffee and create designs, all while being super fabulous seems to be very enticing right now! ;D

red white & blackout

2011-08-26T00:30:00.000-07:00

A long week of work nicely wrapped up with a day of shoot fun.

The lovely Kathleen rocked some fab gear including this adorable playsuit from Hopeless Lingerie - too cute!

Looking forward to seeing the final shots, stay tuned.

boot scoot

2011-08-21T05:14:00.000-07:00

This is my very favourite kind of casual outfit. A bit grungy, a bit fashiony, warm, easy to wear & all set to go in under 10 minutes which has been my main criteria of late. This jumper has been a winner, wish I'd picked up another while they were 75% off...

wearing:

dress - willow

jumper - dion lee x cue

belt - op shop

boots - old gringo

earrings - diva

elegant/attitude

2011-08-14T15:24:00.000-07:00

Sarah wears shirt - Route66, jumper - Willow, skirt - vintage, earrings - Darling James, shoes - her own and dress - Route66, jacket/boots - Willow, fur/clutch/collar tips - vintage.

Results of a recent test shoot. We were going for an elegant eccentric vibe - the look got bolder as we went. These are outfits #5 and #2, the rest are still to come.

Photos by the gorgeous Liz McLeish

Makeup by Avriresta Vi

Hair by Nina Ratsaphong

Modelled by Sarah Festini

Styling by me

home turf

2011-08-12T18:57:00.000-07:00

wearing:

jacket - route66

jumper - op shop

jeans - dejour

boots - general pants

necklace - made by me

colour (self)conscious

2011-08-09T02:21:00.000-07:00

Ignoring the awkward expression (still not really down with getting my photo done in public), check out my layering skills! It's taken me years in Melbourne to grasp the way/need to layer, but I think I've finally mastered the basics. Now, if only I could work out how to do it without looking like I've put on 10kg...

wearing:

trench/skirt/belt - vintage

t - nude lucy

knit - dion lee x cue

shoes - melissa

bag - furla

(in the interest of layering disclosure I'm also wearing footless tights but high-angle Stu didn't get them in the photo. And a half slip, but you wouldn't've seen that anyway!)

the stuff (plastic) dreams are made of

2011-08-06T02:20:00.000-07:00

Installations by Shayni Harrison

Pink! Plastic! Westwood! Bubblegum!

It's been a long time coming, but you can now get the full Melissa experience at their pop up store in Melbourne Central, located on the ground floor between Londsdale & Little La Trobe streets. The space is small but well merchandised, with illustrations by Vanessa Di Silva lining shelves and rainbow shoe-wheels by Shayni Harrison (who has a pretty awesome blog too) adorning the entrance. I was hoping to see a range of older & limited edition styles but for now it's just (some of) the new collection - regardless, it's more than you'll see in any other retail stockist, and certainly nice to be able to try them on rather than buying online and hoping for the best! I'm desperately in love with the Westwood Skyscrapers in the first picture, but they don't seem to love me and my silly high arches, sighhh...

soft & sharp floral

2011-08-02T23:01:00.000-07:00

Frocked up for a day out with the family. We ate at The Brown Fox (I had terrine and an eel salad, very delicious), then wandered over to the Constitutional Centre of WA and had a good chuckle at Behind the Lines, an exhibition of the best political cartoons of 2010. Much fun was had. I'm a bit sad to be saying toodle-oo to Perth tonight, but real life beckons.

wearing:

dress - vintage

jumper - dion lee x cue

necklace - rummage

shoes - melissa

bag - furla

hair & shoulders

2011-07-31T23:00:00.000-07:00

Feeling back on track after my recent fashion/creative/life-the-universe-and-everything slump (holidays, family & getting enough sleep is good for that, I suppose). Mum suggested it may have had something to do with the jeans and I must say, I'm inclined to agree. Let me explain.

I've always enjoyed the ritual of dress - deciding which look to sport each day then meticulously matching shoes & accessories, balancing colours and creating a hairstyle to complement the theme (well...less so themed these days, but I DO have a costume background and believe me, once upon a time it showed) - getting dressed up for me was adopting a persona, putting up a front. I may not have always felt confident, but I'd dress as if I was. In the same way you'd never trust a hairdresser with a dodgy 'do, I have far more respect for designers who show us their style through their own dress, not just on the runway. Fashion, to me, has always been about more than just the latest clothes. Dressing well genuinely changes attitudes, both your own and people around you.

But, with the relatively new experience of full time working hours, trying to maintain a functioning household and grasping at every extra project that comes along in the eternal fight for career advancement (ie being an adult) I'd been finding it harder and harder to make time to dress the way I want. The reasoning is simple - less time to play around with things in my wardrobe, more restrictions on dressing in a 'work appropriate' manner, valuing warmth over style (shock horror!), preferring to sleep for an extra 15 minutes than do nice makeup - all things that, in themselves are excusable, but together form a slippery slope into jeans territory. My aversion to jeans is not purely aesthetic. Jeans as a garment undeniably have a solid place in fashion history, they've stood the test of time and will continue to do so. It's rather that, to me, they represent a certain formula, a cookie-cutter approach to dressing that takes the fun out of it. It's all too easy to fall into a jeans-and-tshirt hole and never come out, and I was teetering on the edge. The jeans were definitely depressing me.

Having been reminded that I dress to make me happy, and that I've been just as busy at other points in my life and worked around it, I'm making a conscious effort to stop dressing effortlessly (who decided that was a good thing anyway? I'm looking at you, Kate Moss. I LIKE looking like I've made an effort). That doesn't mean jeans are banished, it just means I have to counteract them with something a bit more fun. Feeling pretty FAAA-shion with my super quiff and power shoulders, I reckon that'll just about do the trick.

wearing:

jeans - dejour

jacket - willow

tank - temt

belt - op shop

shoes - melissa

colour block holiday

2011-07-29T03:14:00.000-07:00

I'm not very good at holiday dressing. Every time I come back to Perth (which is not the most exotic of holiday destinations, but anything that gets me away from the eternal busy for a week counts in my book) I WITHOUT FAIL pack a (carry on) suitcase full of ridiculously frivolous party pieces. Not sure if my brain is in slightly esoteric must-look-good-on-home-turf panic, or am still burnt from once bringing only boggy things then being unexpectedly invited to a bunch of fashionable events, but I'm definitely in dress up, not down, mode. This has been slightly marred by the fact that the one pair of heels I brought had to be returned to their international place of purchase for another size, leaving me with only my trusty but rather overworn black flatties. That'll learn me for being so restrained with footwear.

wearing:

jumper - agnieszka

skirt - willow

necklace - lanvin for h&m

stockings - sportsgirl

shoes - melissa

bag - furla

ps. Thanks Mum for the photo, and do take a moment to admire the Day of the Dead Dog mosaic she made in the background. Pretty great.

clothes without a face

2011-07-27T23:17:00.000-07:00

Gah, self timer fail! Tripod also failed l so I couldn't take another one haha.

I'm in Perth for a few days, chilling out, taking stock, gearing up.

I need to start making some things happen - I've been a bit like this photo lately, hiding away and not getting myself out there - but that is going to change. Watch for it.

wearing:

dress - darling james

t - nude lucy

jacket - op shop

shoes - melissa

perfect plastic

2011-07-25T01:36:00.000-07:00

I've been wanting to upgrade to something a bit more subtle than the patent red Alannah Hill purse I usually tote for a while now as, although it's a great shape, my style is changing and its uninhibited femininity (not to mention the colour) is limiting. I needed something that could do both sophisticated and fun, smart and casual, retro and futuristic. It needed to be top opening (can't abide fiddling with foldover flaps when I've got a coffee in one hand, a sketchbook in the other, a jacket over my arm and need to get a tram ticket out), big enough for everyday and hopefully be made of something I'm not allergic to.

It's no secret that I love a bit of high gloss plastic (I've been championing Melissa shoes ever since I bought my first pair at 18), so couldn't really go past the Furla Candy Bag! I've been a bit in love with these ever since Susie posted about them, and it absolutely is as fun as it looks. My only minor qualm is that there are no internal pockets, but I've just been keeping little things in zip pouches and managing fine. Don't know if you can get these is Australia - I had to order from the US then use HopShopGo to post it to me - but it was well worth the hassle.

wearing with:

coat - cohen et sabine

jumper - agnieszka

skirt - willow

stockings - sportsgirl

shoes - melissa

crumples & curls

2011-07-20T04:19:00.000-07:00

Gosh, around here it's blink and you miss a week or two! Roll on Summer, daylight saving and pretending more light actually means more hours in the day.

I have substantial internal conflict when I wear things like this.

My inner Serious Fashion voice: 'I can't believe you're wearing that skirt when you KNOW you'll be sitting down. Look how crumpled it is! No one will take you seriously.'

My inner Westwood Wannabe voice: 'But it fits so well! Can't stand up all the time...bet even Jackie Kennedy looked crumpled when she wore linen...'

SF: 'And that jacket is held together with safety pins! What do you think you are, a punk or something?!'

WW: 'It kinda works with the psychobilly vibe? The hair, the stripes...Kamilla would totally approve. I can't abandon my roots!'

SF: 'You should abandon that bow.'

WW: '...you're probably right.'

Yes, well. We all see which won out! (this time, anyway). It's funny, the people I admire most in fashion are the ones who dress exactly how they want to, without worrying about trends or designers or what they 'should' be wearing, but more & more I find myself worrying that I'll be judged for not being 'fashionable' enough, or on the flip side, not being 'properly alternative'. I never used to have these hangups, really need to get over it. My style is suffering!

wearing:

t - metalicus

jacket (customised) - op shop

skirt - aurelio costarella

stockings - sportsgirl

shoes - vw x melissa

bow - darling james

conquer dejour

2011-07-11T02:48:00.000-07:00

Never thought you'd see this eh? I finally bought jeans AND willingly left the house in them. Whoa.

Jeans and I are generally not friends. I've tried to be, once or twice, but it never worked out, and I decided that they weren't my style anyway so they could bugger off and leave me to wear cute little skirts and dresses and be a lady all the time. Except that it's difficult to be a lady in the middle of winter when you have to get dressed in the dark, brave public transport and head to a work environment where you could be sitting on the floor hammering press studs into camo gear all day, so I decided it was time to try again.

I usually prefer to shop on my own, I don't uhm and ahh over things and I rarely need help from sales assistants, but when it comes to jeans it's a different story. My automatic reaction when I try on jeans is 'eep! inverted pyramid!' (the curse of those wide of hip & slim of ankle) which, to be fair, isn't really the look I'm going for, and I tend to bolt after one pair. No, I need an experienced voice to guide me through. I'd had some great recommendations of brands to try, but I decided that to get over the initial hurdle I had to pull out the big guns. I had to make a trip to Mr. Dejour.

Dejour Jeans is, I think, fast becoming a Sydney Road institution. The frontman Nam (who Stu & I call Mr. Dejour) is one part used car salesman, one part game show host, knows what he's talking about and isn't afraid to tell you. As he was busy when I got there I just tried on a fairly standard straight leg (usually my preferred style, evens out the proportion a bit) and Mr. Dejour quite literally yelled at me 'No no! Wrong, all wrong! Only 70% good!', then scooted out the back then thrust another pair at me ('Much better, hard to do up but worth it'). Suitably chastened, I followed orders, maneuvered my way into a pair of very skinny high waisted jeans and lo & behold, was happy AND they got the Mr. Dejour tick of approval! At Dejour tailoring is all part of the service, and while I politely declined Mr. Dejour's suggestion that he make the legs a bit narrower (they are rather tight already) I did get them taken up to the right length. At a beyond reasonable $40 a pop I got black pair too, and am excited about how easily I'll be able to get dressed for work tomorrow morning!

Highly recommended.

Dejour Jeans, 600 Sydney Road, Brunswick

wearing:

t - nude lucy

creepers - demonia

bag - vintage

scarf - dangerfield

pirate ship brooch - present

can't go wrong in uniform

2011-07-07T05:27:00.000-07:00

Evidently, my very favourite thing to wear this winter is a no-frills jumper, polkadot tights & a short skirt. Well hell, if it works...

wearing:

jumper - agnieska, from fat. (There is a website woven into the label but it doesn't seem to work. Pity, because it's Australian wool, Australian made, awesome and cosy. I'd like to see more.)

skirt - present (cheers Biff!)

socks/stockings - sportsgirl

boots - grange via ebay

bag - vintage oroton via ebay

necklace - vintage, my granny's

in ghost colours

2011-07-05T02:50:00.000-07:00

An unplanned moment of beauty that made me smile after an 11 hour work day. It reminds me of a ghost photo, yet has a certain potential rather than pure stillness. I'd love to create a series like this, fashion has always been one of my favourite art forms.

Dress, knit & necklace by Willow

Vintage tripod lamp

Plastic sheet to protect from renos

tulle hunter

2011-07-04T03:36:00.000-07:00

I've always been one for the thrill of the chase, hunting down that coveted piece you desperately need to complete your wardrobe (for now, anyway). It's why I love op shopping so much, but let's face it, there are some items that are just never going to show up in your local Good Sammys.

This silk tulle draped skirt (from Willow's AW10 collection Eclipse) is a piece I was enamored by as soon as I saw it - the detail is incredible, it is at once sculptural and fluid, it looks unique from every angle - but the thousand dollar price tag was well beyond my means. While I resigned myself to pouring over the runway snaps of it forever, I kept wistfully checking eBay...watching it sell out on Net-a-Porter...checking eBay some more, seeing one remaining size pop up on The Outnet (heavily reduced, but still more than I could justify), checking eBay again, sure that no one would ever let such a standout piece escape their clutches but LO & BEHOLD! The eBay gods have rewarded my patience - and for the exact amount I sold the 'gladwrap' dress for. Seems like a fair swap to me!

wearing:

skirt - willow

jumper - cheap monday

shoes - melissa

necklace - william llewellyn griffiths

winter wedding

2011-07-03T01:27:00.000-07:00

Frocked up for a gorgeous wedding yesterday at Montsalvat, an historic artist's colony with spectacular grounds. Froze a bit but much fun was had. Stu looked very schmick in a vintage charcoal suit, green flannelette shirt & custom made green flannelette tie. I DO love a bit of matchy-matchy when the occasion warrants it!

wearing:

dress - route66

jacket - willow

stockings - sportsgirl

shoes - vw x melissa

bag/earrings - vintage

bow - alannah hill

shiny shiny

2011-06-26T04:31:00.000-07:00

Problem Child

Drown

Damselfly

There's no pretending I don't love shiny things, and Alegorie.com is full of glinting metal to tempt the magpie inside. Alicia & co have brought together some fabulous local and international jewellery labels - I'm a big fan of Alicia's own label, Drown, and freakin' LOVE Problem Child (who I never would have known about if Alegorie didn't stock them!) - and they're kind enough to be offering us 10% off full priced stock with the code HARBOUR10. They also know how to put on a sale, and everything reduced is now FURTHER reduced by 40%, score! Only until the end of June though, so chop chop.

go, pussycat, go! go!

2011-06-22T04:10:00.000-07:00

Photo by Lauren, thankyou!

I DO love a good themed event, despite the fact that they always come with a moment of trepidation (is anyone else going to dress up? Will I look like a wally if I do? What if I don't then someone asks me what my job is? No one trusts a costumier who doesn't wear costume!), and despite the other fact that I always DO, then am always overdressed.

Last night I joined a colleague at Eat Street, a fundraising event for...something to do with children (not really clear from the signage or the speeches), which had a 'retro' theme (the vaguest of all mid/late 20th century descriptors), held in the Sofitel foyer/ballroom/stairwell (partially, but not entirely, disguised by panne velvet drapes). Of course, I rushed home from work to get ready and stressed about my hair not doing an authentic bouffant and my bag being of a different era to my coat and, of course, I needn't have worried, as of the 700 or so attendees only about 12 had dressed up (and most of those were staff). Typical.

The premise was that you wandered around sampling tiny food and wine from various restaurants and suppliers who had little booths set up, perusing items donated for auction. While I had little interest in the standard offerings (signed football photos and a desperate Neighbors actor trying to spruik a tour of the Neighbors set) there were a few more thoughtful elements, including a series of aprons created by Australian designers, inspired by signature dishes at associated restaurants. My favourite was by up-&-comer Jack Loder (a recent RMIT fashion grad, no less!), who covered his apron with adorable organza prawns, far outshining some of the more established designers whose efforts, quite frankly, looked a bit half-arsed (*ehem* Sass&Bide *ehem*).

All in all, not my cup of tea, but it was worth bumping into the lovely Sarah and finally meeting the terribly stylish Cecylia (whose boutique I keep hearing about but haven't yet visited).

Plus, yknow, any excuse to dress up.

wearing:

dress - willow

coat - vintage

earrings - made by me (at uni, from plastic scraps and cable ties, hahaaa)

shoes - vw x melissa

clutch - op shop

two tone stockings possibly voodoo?

cold comfort

2011-06-19T17:58:00.000-07:00

Two of my least favourite concepts are 'the seventies' and 'on trend' (bad enough individually, potentially catastrophic when combined), but I couldn't help feeling like I was playing into it with this outfit. Worn with a trenchcoat and yellow envelope clutch for that chilly-Sunday-afternoon comfort before fashion vibe.

wearing:

pants/blingy clip on earrings - op shop

t - nude lucy

jumper - dion lee x cue

shoes - vintage

extra watch - pinched from mum

point/dress/shoot

2011-06-16T05:33:00.000-07:00

It's been a smeg of a week - and you know it's dire when I'm introducing Red Dwarf lingo into my regular speech. I haven't quite broken the ice at the morning tea table at my new job (would love to grow out of my sporadic social awkwardness one of these days) and it's just teetering on that point where if I don't get a bit of chat in tomorrow I may have to be silent FOREVER, I'm feeling severely under-appreciated at my other job and my gluten intolerance has come back to haunt me (hahaaaa, how White Girl Problems of me).

The minor stresses, however, are swept away when I have the opportunity to do what I love best - creating beautiful work with like minded people. I worked on a great shoot the other night with a fantastic team and, as lameo as it sounds, really felt like I was doing the right thing. Final pics are still a way away, but my blurry behind-the scenes shots are reminding me that the hard yards are building towards a bigger picture.

Megababe photographer Liz shooting gorgeous model Sarah.

dark days, denim ways

2011-06-13T02:20:00.000-07:00

Invariably, every pair of jeans I've owned (not that there have been too many) have ripped, right in that unflattering spot where the leg joins the bum, and have had to be turned into shorts of the shortest variety, worn only for schlepping around the house with big jumpers and no makeup. I've given these a head start as cutoffs, but for reasons beyond my comprehension, can't stop thinking about proper, all encompassing, full length jeans.

Have I gone mad? I hate jeans, I NEVER wear jeans...but I keep noticing people, of all shapes and sizes, looking great in them, and I'm craving warmth that stockings aren't giving me, and layering options that aren't working with high-waisted skirts...seriously, somebody. Send help.

wearing:

shirt - vintage

cutoffs - dejour denim (cheapest jeans on the block - an awesome guy who is half pimp, half used car salesman peddles them out of his factory on Sydney Rd, $40 a pop & he'll alter them on the spot at no extra cost)

shoes - vw x melissa

necklace - gala curios

driveway dork

2011-06-09T03:58:00.000-07:00

Prints, bow, creepers, easy.

(I usually dress VERY BORINGLY for work as I get changed when I get there, but it's more fun not to & have suddenly realised it doesn't actually take any more time...)

wearing:

t - AA

skirt - friends of couture

belt/scarf - op shop

brooch -present

creepers - demonia, from Faster Pussycat

entrenched

2011-06-07T03:24:00.000-07:00

I had a really satisfying day today, starting my new job (err...in addition to my other job, and freelancing, and stuff, and other stuff) as a wardrobe assistant at the Melbourne Theatre Company. It feels like I've come full circle - I studied costuming at the Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts straight out of high school and had the time of my life. It's exciting to get back into a real wardrobe full of vintage shoes and regency suits and wigs and wonderful things! The role of a costumier is so varied, I'm looking forward to putting all my old skills to use, and no doubt learning some new tricks too!

wearing:

trench/belt/jewellery set - vintage

dress - carly hunter

tights - jonathan aston

shoes - melissa

pink on pink

2011-06-06T00:02:00.000-07:00

One of the side effects of growing up in Perth is that I can't quite get my head around it being sunny and cold AT THE SAME TIME. On days like today I'm forced to dress with a foot in both camps, hence shorts with jumper.

wearing:

jumper/shirt - op shop

necklace - lanvin x h&m

shorts - saba

shoes - melissa

black&blue

2011-06-01T15:26:00.000-07:00

Between you & me, the sunnies are just for show. I've run out of contact lenses and am hovering somewhere between wanting laser surgery and knowing my eyes haven't quite levelled out to get it yet, so am locked into my specs.

I'm so sick of them, I can't even tell you. Un-nerd me already!

(Disclaimer: I know specs ain't nerdy. I love them in theory. I love them on other people. I just want to see the world without black rims for a bit...)

wearing:

jacket - op shop (customised)

dress - vintage, from Mint Condition in Sydney

boots - Grange, via ebay

sunnies - sabre, thanks to westfield

necklace - diva

new light

2011-05-30T21:28:00.000-07:00

The process of design can be a grueling thing, particularly when your imagination outruns your physical skill. You pour your heart and soul (and sweat and tears and generally a bit of swearing and too much coffee) in to create something beautiful, considered, creative...only to have it turn out a bit wrong, a bit stodgy, because you can't decipher that one thing that isn't quite right, or your method of construction was a bit off, but you didn't know how to do it any other way. It is, quite frankly, depressing.

When I finished my swimwear assessment last year I felt exactly like this - I was stoked with my bather designs in theory, but they didn't look quite how I'd pictured them in my head. I was ready to chuck them into a drawer, never to be seen again, when my ever inspiring friend Bergs asked to use them in a photoshoot with her team at All of the Above Creative. I tend to forget that other people see your work with fresh eyes (not bogged down with the memories of pattern pieces than never fit and endless unpicking) and am enlivened by the result. Sometimes all you need to buck you up is a bit of new light.

Photography: Libby Edwards

Styling: Emma Bergmeier

Beauty: Rebecca Joanne

all represented by All of the Above Creative

Model: Stacie @ Scene

See the rest of the shoot on Canada's String Magazine, including pieces from the fabulously talented Jamie Lee and Angela Bollam.

schoolkids stare but I don't care

2011-05-25T03:17:00.000-07:00

It's cold, it's grey, it's windy and horrible and you have unfathomable hours of public transport ahead of you - clearly, the only sensible course of action is to dress like all the different characters in Cabaret combined. (For the record, the only way you'll ever see me in sequins is if there's khaki involved).

I might adopt this method of dressing for every day. I could be all the characters in Swiss Family Robertson, which would have a nice Colonial/Island/Pirate feel, or try a Stormtrooper/Leia/Ewok/Obi Wan mashup. Could be onto a good thing here! If anyone gives it a go, DO send photos.

wearing:

t - nude lucy

scarf - pinched from Stu

skirt - willow

belt - alannah hill

cape - granny's, then mum's, now mine

boots - vintage

clearing the closet

2011-05-22T05:29:00.000-07:00

I DID have a great set of photos of my favourite vintage dress ever but I accidentally deleted them so we won't talk about that... instead, perhaps you can help me curb my shoe shopping guilt by checking out my mass wardrobe exodus on eBay!

Stu bought me these boots in Texas and they don't fit. DEVASTATED!!

Best Westwood for Melissa shoes ever (but I already have 2 pairs and the very specific occasion for the outfit I was planning with these is over).

Melissa! You're done it again! I die. These are amazing but sadly, a fraction of an inch too small for my wide clompers. I WILL be acquiring the right size but it would be greatly appreciated if someone took these away from my line of sight so I don't feel tempted to wear them and cripple myself.

Is there anything sadder than buying a FABULOUS dress, then your boyfriend saying it makes you look like you're wearing gladwrap? Ouch. (This IS fabulous, perhaps just not on me).

The problem with tops that look best with jeans is that you actually need to own jeans to wear them. I don't.

will to shop

2011-05-19T02:52:00.000-07:00

I unpacked all the stock and I can tell you this:

Gorgeous grey cashmere leggings for $50

Especially good stuff for size 12 & 14

Sequins & silk tulle galore!

I'll be there on Saturday, come & say hi if you're frock hunting!

friends of gypsies

2011-05-18T03:52:00.000-07:00

I braved the cold last Friday night to join the Friends of Couture team for the launch of their AW/11 collection 'In Dreams'. An enthusiastic troupe of thespians joined the models on stage in a performance that fused fashion with folklore, soundtracked by live music - including a piano accordian, no less! The overall impression was, I imagine, comparable to being swept up with a group of Romanian pikies.

Although I often find Friends of Couture's dresses to be a little overdone for my taste they do adorable separates, with quirky detailing and great prints. The cream cardigan and polkadot velveteen skirt above could definitely find their way into my wardrobe!

hogan's hero

2011-05-14T06:15:00.000-07:00

There's nothing better than character dressing (and kilts). I spent yesterday scouring op shops with military precision, armed with a magic letter that let me take whatever I wanted - even from the elusive 'out the back' regions - without having to pay a cent. No, I'm not in the habit of knocking off charity stores, I'm working on a Salvo's campaign (but I wish it were always that way!).

wearing:

jacket - route 66

kilt/belt - vintage

t - gorman

stockings - sportsgirl

epaulette pins (worn on collar) - army surplus

boots - ebay (a bit big but I just can't win with shoe sizing)

rule brittania

2011-05-11T16:46:00.000-07:00

Phew! I've been really busy this week and have been completely neglecting Bloggy. Just a quick one to ask to you to please, if you don't think it's complete rubbish, 'like' my entry in the Project Diva competition, which offers the opportunity of an internship at Diva (a high street jewellery chain, for those of you OS) and them putting your designs into production.

(I HATE these facebook popularity contests, but I only need to get into the top 20 and then real judges will choose the winner on merit)

Thankyou! (and thankyou Teer for pointing out I didn't put the link in, duhhh. It's here but I can't actually link off my phone so just copy & paste like in the olden dayshttps://projectdiva.com.au/?p=1226!)

bluebeard

2011-05-06T22:33:00.000-07:00

Orrite, trying out this Flickr business, hoping it works.

wearing:

t - gorman

cardi - sportsgirl

skirt - made by mum

clogs - funkis

necklace - made by me (plus vintage brooches)

into the woods

2011-05-03T15:26:00.000-07:00

Sometimes the obvious choices work the best - red, white & black is a colour combination I hate in theory but usually love in practice.

wearing:

dress - darling james

t - acne (which is pilling to buggery, not super impressed with the quality considering how much they cost)

jacket - willow

necklace - gala curios

bag - alannah hill

shoes - melissa via ebay (I spend half my life looking for these shoes - plain black ultragirls in a 38. For some bizarro reason they don't make the plain ones any more and they really are the best everyday shoe. Melissa, if you're out there, I don't want flocked or printed or little bambis on the side, just plain gloss black!)

PS. I'm going to set up a Flickr account tonight and do something about this ridiculous photo compression.

darkness be my friend

2011-05-02T04:34:00.000-07:00

As much as I love Winter approaching for overcast days, endless steaming soup and long socks with tights I find it more and more difficult to get photos in before the light outside has faded, which is super frustrating. The lighting in my house is tolerable at best so I really should get my act together a bit earlier in the morning to get outfit snaps (which will never happen as I'm always in a rush, no matter how early I get up! Why is that??).

Not sure what I'm doing wrong but the compression on these photos seems to be getting worse & worse - if you can make out anything, I am wearing:

dress - willow

belt - vintage (sam brown army belt)

boots - from the salvos many years ago, tragically on their last legs and, sadly, I don't think I'll be able to replace them for the measly $7 I paid originally...

clutch - vintage, ebay

fur collar - vintage, bazaar in Daylesford

our house (is our castle & our keep)

2011-04-28T20:00:00.000-07:00

L-R: Faux militaria badge from Sportsgirl (with back missing, otherwise I'd wear it), 'Best of the Fest' award from New York's Royal Flush festival (for Monstro), wooden fan from a lucky dip at a gig a while ago, wood-slat skull from Mum

I love how Hayley colourcodes her books and I've tried to do the same, but it doesn't really have the same impact when it's on a little shelf. The gap is for Kelly Doust's A Life in Frocks which is, to date, one of my favourite fashion memoirs. The blue book on top, Flowers for Mrs. Harris by Paul Gallico, was loaned to me by a friend so it's there to remind me to give it back next time I see him. If you haven't read this TRACK DOWN A COPY, it's about humanity and Dior.

This crocodile is COMPLETELY BRILLIANT, I got him at the Salvos. The top shelf of DVDs is the 'unwatched pile', the lower two shelves have been watched and are categorised alphabetically. Each shelf holds over 100 titles. I have probably only seen 30% of them.

(I don't know how 'new' it is but this new Blogger photo uploader compresses the buggery out of everything! How do I fix this??)

bow diggity

2011-04-27T05:42:00.000-07:00

Firstly, thankyou kindly for the words of encouragement about my style rut, I'm feeling better already.

Being creative in other areas definitely helps. I've been doing some rough designing and remembering how much I enjoy it. By the end of uni I was almost scared to put anything to paper for fear that it would be lame, or I wouldn't be able to make it well enough, or it wouldn't be inventive or commercial enough. I practically convinced myself that I couldn't design AT ALL, and while I'll continue to admit that I don't consider it my strongest point, it's good to remind myself that I didn't get through two tertiary design courses by sitting on my hands. I forgot that I used to make myself a new outfit every weekend without fretting about the correct procedure for creating jet pockets or inserting an exposed zip, and I loved what I wore and always got compliments and never dressed the same way twice. I miss that feeling.

wearing:

jacket - made by me (a toile...I seem to have a habit of wearing those)

coney island t - a present from lovely bf

necklace - gala curios (very recent anniversary present from lovely bf, aww, thankyou!)

skirt - willow

boots - vintage

PS.

You may notice some changes to bloggy (it was having a style crisis too). Bear with me while I fiddle with the layout, it's clearly not quite there yet...

slump

2011-04-24T18:11:00.000-07:00

To put it as the ever-eloquent boys from the Mighty Boosh once did; I'm having a bit of a shocker. I'm completely unexcited about my style at the moment, and can't seem to get out of the rut. I've lost my cute.

My wardrobe is in constant battle - between eccentricity and 'serious' fashion, vintage authenticity and contemporary comfort, cheeky and age-appropriate, alternative and conservative - but the only thing winning is boring.

I can pinpoint some of the problems - I'm sick of wearing glasses, I have to dress a particular way for work, my disposable income is minuscule, my hair only does one thing - but I've dealt with all of these before. Not being at uni is another. I'd become so accustomed to being surround by creative people, in an environment where I could experiment and dress up for no reason, that I'd forgotten that the real world is rather more judgmental.

I know I shouldn't care what other people think, but in an industry where first impressions are vital I'm constantly worrying if I'm giving the right one.

Uurrgrggghhhhh.
I'd better snap out of this soon or my career aspirations will go down the toilet.

wearing (yawn):
dress - vintage
shoes - zomp
cardi - temt
belt (actually a necklace) - karen walker