Oh sunny days, it feels like you only just begun. Now the clouds are creeping out and there’s a faint chill in the air, but I still don’t feel like we’ve seen enough sunshine to prepare us for the incoming winter. Can Melbourne just please continue to deliver days like these until we are satisfied with the level of vitamin D in our systems? Beaches just aren’t as fun in the winter time.
Bikini top: Billabong
Shirt: Wish
Shorts: Forever New
Photos taken by my good friend Tyana at Brighton Beach, Victoria.
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This year I decided to do away with tote bags for university, and instead placed the pressure of 8kg books on my shoulders with a new backpack. Although totes are pretty, I discovered after a three hour-long marathon of a search that backpacks can be just as pretty and provide further convenience.
Asos Backpack
I purchased this Men’s backpack on Asos which is covered in a black snakeskin pattern and basically can fit in everything, including my record player. Most importantly, it can carry all those bothersome law books that cost approximately as much as a new woollen coat.
I took my new backpack out on an adventure and wore my prized gilet dress from Witchery which I doubled as a long vest on this occasion. I paired it with Mum’s old burnt orange pencil skirt to deliver a pop of colour, and balanced it out with a nude singlet top to place the emphasis on the colour of the skirt and the gilet dress. Mum’s wardrobe has honestly given me more than my favourite shops could ever offer me. Thanks Mum for saving me a whole lot of money!
Backpack: Asos
Gilet dress: Witchery
Top: Target
Skirt: Vintage
Shoes: Witchery
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Another fashion week in Melbourne has been and gone, and I am so glad I could find some time to squeeze in a fashion show amidst my hectic uni schedule. Virgin Australia Fashion Festival is the highlight of the fashion calendar in Melbourne due to the stellar line-ups and sophisticated festival atmosphere. I brought my sister and friend along for their first Virgin Australia fashion week, and we had an absolute blast. Nothing beats having a glass of champagne on a balmy summer’s night before heading in to view some beautiful fashion.
The line-up was Alex Perry, Ginger & Smart, Carla Zampatti, Martin Grant, Yeojin Bae and Dion Lee. Martin Grant incorporated plenty of metallic silver into his clothes much to my agreement. Alex Perry popularised mustard yellow, bright orange and bishop sleeves. Dion Lee demonstrated winter wear with woolly coats and to-die-for maroon silk pieces. Carla Zampatti paraded cut-out dresses, tweed and fringed skirts. Ginger & Smart opted for 7/8 length dresses with japanese-style prints. Yeojin Bae showed us class with off-the-shoulder dresses and pencil skirts below the knee. Generally there was a fusion with contemporary fashion and fashion of the 1970’s and 1940’s with stunning results. There were plenty of vibrant colours shown, but also the autumn/winter classics such as khaki, maroon and black.
What I wore: Pre show
Black, white and flecks of silver.
At the Festival
Feeling all ‘tough girl’ in my leather jacket. Leather is one of the best ways to toughen up a feminine look, and even compliments tulle nicely with a tough-girls-can-be-princesses kind of way.
Skirt: Ice
Bandeau: Target
Jacket: Muubaa
Shoes: Diana Ferrari
Bag: Nine West
Necklace: Forever New
And there you have it! More to come soon about the top trends from Virgin Australia fashion week and what to expect on the streets this season!
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Summer has officially ended for us southern hemisphere-ers, so it’s a better time than never to reflect on some of the most noticeable trends of the warm season. This was inspired by the spring/summer 2016 international runways, some serious street-style stalking and painfully careful observations.
Middle-aged Dad sandals
Okay so that’s not exactly the name for them, but I couldn’t find the name for flat sandals with wide straps and a platform which were initially designed for Dads who prefer comfort over appearance. Now these beauties have a more superior standing in the fashion world and are considered the staple sandal for the season with the bonus comfort factor included. Chanel has even approved the notorious socks and sandals duo, complete with illuminating lights to ensure that these bad boys do not go unnoticed.
Tommy Hilfiger, Burberry Prorsum, ChanelRound Toe Sneakers
If there is ever a sneaker to wear with skirts and dresses, it’s this one. Comfort continues to be an overriding feature of shoes this season, and also the simplicity of the plain white enables the shoes to match practically any casual outfit. Just avoid wearing socks with these ones, as the ankles are meant to be visible and socks would add an unwanted schoolgirl element to it.
Adidas, Tommy Hilfiger, JosephSuper Baggy Pants
Long, wide-leg pants appear to be popular for spring/summer 2016. Hopefully they will prove to be more popular than flared pants, because these pants, although resembling trackies, are far more chic and cosy. Match with a fitted turtleneck and round toe sneakers for a perfect day-time look.
Missoni, Tod’s, Ralph LaurenChokers
These violently-named accessories have made a spectacular comeback since the 90’s and have been reinvented through all sorts of styles and diverse fabrics. Throw on a choker to enhance a V-neck top or jacket, tubes tops and over-the-shoulder tops.
Etro, Versace, DiorLingerie-style Clothing
Louis Vuitton’s fall/winter 2013 collection introduced the idea of day lingerie, and I experienced mixed emotions about it. Lingerie is beautiful, feminine and sexy and I just didn’t believe that it had a place in casual day wear. Despite my reservations, the trend has persisted and was a popular style for Balenciaga, Calvin Klein, Chloé, Givenchy and Celine just to name a few.
Chloe, Givenchy, CelineLace up Shoes
Lace-up sandals and heels were a highlight of the spring/summer collection and were purchased by essentially every girl I know. Chloe and Valentino employed similar styles when opting for the lace-up shoes, going for wedges that were infused with the 90’s factor. But whether you choose stilettos, wedges or flats, lace-up is the way to go.
Balmain, Chloe, ValentinoMetallic Silver
Hints of metallic silver ran rampant on the runways and were displayed through bags, shoes, dresses and jackets. If you have been following my blog then you would recall my affinity with metallic silver and my persistent need to add a bit of silver to every outfit I wear. And this is because it automatically adds some shine and a futuristic element to an outfit. Metallic silver shoes have been a particular standout this season, particularly in sneaker-form and flat sandals.
Dior, Givenchy, Milan Fashion WeekSnakeskin Print
Alongside the metallic silver trend there is snakeskin; arguably one of the less tacky prints in the fashion kingdom. Snakeskin-printed bags have been around for long enough, however this season could not get enough of the reptilian print as exemplified by Fendi’s snakeskin jacket, and Louis Vuitton’s stunning snakeskin heels. It is an edgy addition to any outfit that is reserved for those who want to bring their outfit to the next level.
Fendi, Louis Vuitton, PradaFringe
Fringed garments have remained a favourite on the runways for a while now and it does not look as though it’s planning to slow down anytime soon. It was a favourite on suede clothes in autumn/winter 2015 in light of the bohemian trend, however the sky’s the limit as designers have shown with inspiration drawn from western, tribal, flappers and bohemian perspectives. Think Cate Blanchett at this year’s Golden Globe awards in Givenchy: fringe is daring, fabulous and incredibly flouncy.
Dion Lee, Prabal Gurung, GivenchySo, those are my picks for some of the top trends that spring/summer ’16 had to offer! If there are any that I missed, please comment below!
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I was the quintessential wannabe princess in my early years when I would don my princess dresses, tulle skirts and tiaras whilst dancing to the dreamy tunes of Cinderella and Sleeping Beauty. Never mind whether I was playing in my bedroom or walking up to the coffee shop with mum; a full skirt with the corresponding jewellery, bags, wands and glittering tiaras would always be in order. And apparently you can never take the princess out of the girl (minus the magic wand and tiara) as full tulle skirts and fabulous accessories are exactly what I want to be wearing nowadays too.
The tulle skirt has made a comeback since Autumn 2015 on the streets with fabulous results. The femininity of the skirt can be contrasted with leather to create a tough-girl look, matched with wool and knits to cater for winter, and worn with denim to downplay the formality of tulle to offer a day-appropriate outfit. No longer should it be aligned with tiaras and sparkling bodices, because the opportunities for versatility don’t solely resign it for wear at a royal ball. The tulle skirt, as of recently, has been unleashed.
I found a relatively inexpensive one at a chain store and thought ‘why not?’ It resurrected so many childhood memories. On a day out in the city I wore it with a simple black and white stripped sleeveless top, a vintage leather choker and a contemporary clutch bag my sister bought for me on her travels in Europe. Oh, and a new haircut I recently coerced myself into having.
With my newly-short hair, princess skirt and continued love for Disney musical scores, it almost feels like I haven’t grown up. But I suppose my previous career plans to become a princess and marry Aladdin have changed dramatically.
Skirt: Ice
Top: Witchery
Shoes: Forever New
Bag: Atmosphere
Sunglasses: Chloe
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It has been a little late, but I just finished watching the entire series of Gossip Girl in the space of about three months. I was pretty into it and not because of the superb acting or completely realistic drama plots, but due to the amazing fashion I was exposed to in every episode. Although they may not have been great people, Serena Van der Woodsen and Blair Waldorf were the ultimate style queens who I most definitely bowed down to. With their Chanel this and Prada that, those ladies tossed me into a great big pool of green envy I would never be able to escape from. And there is no doubt that Serena Van der Woodsen was the object of the majority of that envy from girls around the world. So to demonstrate my appreciation of her unwavering beauty and formidable fashion, I compiled a top ten list of my favourite formal fashion she wore through-out the entire series. You may acknowledge that it was not an easy task to undertake. So, in no particular order:
The dress that made Dan Humphrey fall in love with Serena Van der Woodsen. She established herself as the golden girl in Pamela Dennis couture, and undoubtedly the best dressed at that ball.
2.
Looking like an ethereal rockstar with the waist embellishment and tulle skirt with the varied length.
3.
Grecian gowns will always be in fashion, particularly with the modern twist of the thigh split and grey sandal heels. Oh S, why were you such a grecian goddess?
4.
You can never put a foot wrong when wearing a black, sleeveless long gown with a hint of sparkles. Instant class and seduction.
5.
Zuhair Murad created a masterpiece with this transparent grey lace dress. The satin sash provides a unique and elegant touch which perfectly balances out the intricate lace.
6.
Fierce and fresh gown by Jenny Packham. That aquamarine beading is on point. At first I found the peek-a-boo at the front slightly distasteful, but eventually I decided that it compliments the long sleeves and the entire visual of the dress is gorgeous.
7.
Perhaps even overshadowing the bride herself, Serena looked like a high-class couture model in this ivory pink chiffon gown as a maid of honour. That one-shoulder touch practically makes the gown.
8.
Is there a colour she can’t wear? This periwinkle blue gown looks fairytale-esque with the frilled bottom of the transparent skirt and blue flowers decorating the bust and waist area.
9.
So simple, yet so elegant with the subtle lace and faced yellow. The belt offers a modern touch to a feminine gown.
10.
….And she always remained the golden girl in Georges Chakra. It’s only fitting that she married the love of her life in gold, the colour that caught Dan’s heart. Yes that was cringingly corny, but so is the whole of Gossip Girl. After six seasons of fantastically bad drama it was sure to rub off on me. Ahh, that golden train. Probably constructed from real gold, too.
So, what are your thoughts on my top 10? Did I miss any staggeringly gorgeous S moments? Let me know in the comments below!
This summer in Melbourne has been odd to say the least, and definitely has not been warm enough to store away my jeans for three months. For those days that seemed more like autumn, 3/4 length jeans were the obvious choice. I usually align 3/4 length jeans with mums who do the school drop-off, but for occasions like these they are so practical and even (dare I say it) chic. This outfit was inspired by my struggle with those in-between temperatures, where it isn’t necessarily warm but still isn’t categorised as cold. Note the sleeveless turtleneck and picnic rug/vest, giving you maximal space to experience a nice breeze on your exposed skin but enough coverage to keep you from getting the goosebumps. The 3/4 length jeans also served the same purpose, enabling a part of my legs to breathe if there was a bit too much heat building up. Yes my descriptions come across as comical, but I’m sure you are familiar with those in-between temperatures and understand exactly where I’m coming from. You need that crucial balance which is easy to achieve with sleeveless items, cardigans, light maxi skirts, maxi dresses and shortened jeans.
Vest: Cotton On
Top: Forever New
Jeans: Levi’s
Shoes: Betts
Clutch: House of Secrets
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Clearly I think I nailed 17-19 degrees celsius fashion.
About a month ago, I was in the Gold Coast and visited one of my favourite places on the coast for some afternoon tea: the visually stunning Palazzo Versace. The setting proved irresistible for photo-taking, especially with this white belted gilet I had recently purchased after christmas. I had my eye on this piece for a couple of months before I purchased it, but being the typical economically downcast student I forced myself to wait until it became half price. Poor student note: A good piece of advice is that everything will be on sale in due course, and if you don’t need it urgently then it is ALWAYS more satisfying to purchase it when the price tag is halved.
Being an exuberant fan of white clothing, I knew I needed this gilet despite not exactly knowing where I’d wear it. Its versatility allows you to wear it as a dress with a slip underneath (as seen below) or as a sleeveless summer jacket with the belt hanging loosely across your stomach or by your sides. Hence I justified buying it through all the ways I could wear it, and most importantly, by how refreshingly classy it makes me feel.
I wore it with light tan gladiator sandals, rose gold jewelry, a black Guess bag and I even threw in my Chloe sunglasses to make me feel as designer as the hotel.
Belted Gilet: Witchery
Shoes: Lipstik
Bag: Guess
Sunglasses: Chloe
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If you’ve been following my fashion escapades, you would have been informed about my obsession with onesies. Playsuits, jumpsuits, pantsuits…they’re just so comfortable and cute. I purchased this particularly summery looking playsuit featuring pastel tones and complicated shoulder straps at Gearbox boutique in the Gold Coast, which is fundamentally my go-to store when I’m staying in the sunny state. The contemporary design with the thick straps, skort and neoprene material makes it one of the most unique while flattering playsuits I have discovered, which fortunately happens to fit like a glove.
On an outstandingly sunny Australia Day, I coordinated the playsuit with metallic silver shoes to emphasise the futuristic style which the playsuit brings. It was also perfect for playing some backyard cricket in.
Playsuit: Ministry of Style
Shoes: Witchery
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Impulse buys are the best. About six months ago when I was in New York, I was shuffling through the racks and H&M and came across this skirt for an unbeatable $10. With bargains like that, you can’t think twice. I especially love the fitted waist and the flare at the hips, presenting a straight-then-curved silhouette which provides hip shape.
Top: Kookai
Skirt: H&M
Shoes: Lipstik
Necklace: Lovisa
Bag: ?
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Backpack: Asos
I Like Your Shirt 