fashion Archives - Kate Waterhouse

2023: My year in outfits

31st December, 2023

What a year! Here I am again doing an outfit round up and I can’t believe it’s time to farewell another year. This has been another big 12 months on the sartorial front. I’ve been lucky to have had the opportunity to wear so many gorgeous looks that when I was scrolling through photos to compile this, I truly found it hard to pick a fave.

There are however always some standouts simply because a look was so much fun to wear or the design was just stunning. I truly loved my look at Melbourne Cup Carnival this year, with the Mariam Seddiq dress a total winner with the springtime perfect lemon yellow hue and the scalloped detailing. I also couldn’t look past the Zimmermann dress I wore to Oaks Day, because how could I forget all those heavenly ruffles and lace? The race days this year allowed me to embrace a number of designers, with my trip to the Kentucky Derby my chance to fly the flag for homegrown designers including Rebecca Vallance, Rachel Gilbert and Toni Maticevski. I was thrilled to be at Royal Ascot again this year, and with it the opportunity to glam up in a stunning Gucci suit which was just tailoring perfection.

Who could forget Fashion Week? It’s the equivalent of the Olympics for anyone who works (and loves) fashion with so many ultra talented established and up-and-coming designers showcasing resort collections that truly cements Australian fashion as a global powerhouse. Pulling outfits together for Fashion Week is always fun and this year I embraced my love of tailoring at the Bec and Bridge show while I dialled up the colour on day one with an Alemais number. Plus I do love the fact that I always walk away with so much fashion inspo.

Reflecting on another big year, I’m truly grateful to be blessed to work in an industry that allows me to classify my passion for fashion as work. I’ve always loved how fashion can be an outlet for everything from how I’m feeling, to who I want to be on any given day to showcasing my personality.

As we wrap up the year that was 2023, I want to wish you all a wonderful 2024. May it be all you want and more. Also may there be plenty of great outfits up ahead for all of us!

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Fashion, Shop

What I’ll be shopping for at the after Christmas sales

19th December, 2023

After the festive season comes the time of year that most avid shoppers count down to: the after Christmas sales. If you’re prepared, you’re almost always guaranteed to find something worth snapping up at a discounted price. The key to winning at sale shopping however isn’t just to look at the tag and buy anything that’s been drastically reduced, it’s to choose strategically. Otherwise it’s likely you’ll end up with less of a bargain but something that will just gather dust in your closet. Which is where my Boxing Day sale tips come in handy.

It’s always worth going in with a game plan, and that means delving into your closet(s) and seeing what gaps you need to fill and what needs replacing. Whether it’s your work wardrobe or your linen drawers, it’s worth pinpointing what you need so you don’t waste time or money looking for things that may end up not getting used at all. While sale prices are great, it’s also worth doing it in a way that won’t be adding unnecessary clutter into your home. And at this time of year, there are certain things that you should definitely snap up.

Here are some things I always wait till sale time to purchase…

Splurge on your big ticket items

If you’ve been wanting to buy some investment pieces now may be the perfect time to snap them up. Shop around to see if the big ticket items you’ve had your eye on have been reduced as you may save yourself quite a bit. Designer bags or shoes are often discounted at the sales so keep an eye out for some gorgeous pieces. Sunglasses are also things I like to buy on sale as there are some great bargains to be found.

Grab your basics

Throughout the year I’ll often need basics such as t-shirts, jeans and underwear and to avoid spending a fortune on restocking my wardrobe, I find sale time is the ideal time to buy them. Also buying staples on sale could mean you’ll be able to buy reduced top quality pieces that are likely to last longer.

Buy key wardrobe pieces

I always have a few things that are on heavy rotation throughout the year, and that includes things like jeans, blazers, and shirts, so I will often wait till sale time to update them. As they’re pieces that I wear constantly throughout the year, the cost per wear is great at sale time, because not only am I paying a discounted price, but I’m going to get plenty of wear from what I buy.

It’s a great time to buy occasion wear

Look for occasion wear

If you’ve got a big event on the horizon such as a wedding or milestone birthday, the Boxing Day sales is a great time to buy your outfit for that occasion. If you spend a bit of time shopping around, you’ll often be able to find some great occasion wear (often by designer brands) at a fraction of the cost you’d be paying throughout the year.

Stock up on linens and towels

If there’s one thing I make sure to do, it’s only ever buy bedding and towels when they’re on sale. I always wait till the end of the year and check out what’s been reduced and nab them then. It’s a great opportunity to restock my linen cupboard as I’ll often end up with some luxe pieces for a fraction of the price.

Snap up kids clothing

The girls outgrow pieces fairly regularly so it’s also an opportune time to buy some new things for their wardrobe. Things like pyjamas and basics, along with special pieces are often on sale so I’ll be able to buy a few garments that will last them throughout the year.

What have you got your eye on at the after Christmas sales?

Beauty, Fashion

My tips for New Year’s Eve party dressing

17th December, 2023

Once the Christmas festivities end, it’s time to start thinking about New Year’s Eve. It’s the time to go all out with your look and have a little fun. After all, after a year where many of us having been doing the juggle of everything from work to family and other personal commitments, I know some will be wanting to cut loose and embrace something bold to ring in the new year. So what are my New Year’s Eve outfit tips?

When it comes to New Year’s Eve dressing the brief usually falls under the category of glitzy, glamorous attire complemented by statement-making makeup. And I think you have licence to embrace sequins, vibrant colour and fun accoutrements. If there’s one time of the year you can afford to go a little OTT it’s the eve of December 31st!

So, if you’ve yet to lock your outfit in, I’ve got a few tips below on how to find a look you’ll be happy to farewell this year in, in great style.

Think sexy and sleek when it comes to your party look

The outfit

I think New Year’s Eve is all about the perfect dress. For me I definitely tend to go for something a little sexier for New Year’s Eve. It’s the time to splash out, so if you want to wear sequins or something sparkly or if you want to go for a classic LBD with a statement shoe or with a striking clutch, there’s no better time to stand out and have fun with your outfit.

My go-to party dress designers are largely Aussie designers. I think you can find some really sleek and sexy looks at Dion Lee. And I think Camilla and Marc always do really great party dresses. Rebecca Vallance is also one my go-to designers when I’m looking for something that’s perfect to wear to an event.

A slicked back bun is always a failsafe party ‘do

The makeup

For me it’s all about making a statement whether that be a bold eye or a bold lip, but make sure it’s one or the other. I think a black smoky eye is always a great look on New Year’s Eve. It’s definitely the time to dress up.

When it comes to hair it’s a great time to experiment and do something a little more party ready if you dare. A great bouncy blow dry, tousled curls or going sleek with a slicked back bun are all great options for December 31.

Let it sparkle!

The accessories

No matter where you’re going on New Year’s Eve, it’s the perfect moment to embrace a sexy statement heel. Don’t be afraid to go all out with your choice of shoe. Something flashy, fun and dramatic is definitely in order.

While the rest of your accessories, including jewellery and bag choice can also fall into the category of striking and vibrant. Think colour, think metallic finishes, think details such as sequins—the only rule is that it be all about making a statement.

What are you doing for your New Year’s Eve party look?

Fashion

How influencers approach style

12th December, 2023

Flipping through high fashion magazine shoots and scrolling through their websites and respective social media accounts, I am often in awe of what I see. It’s hard not to be. The styling is immaculate, the pieces used are all ultra fashion forward and everything is just so aspirational. It’s definitely one of the key ways I am inspired in what I wear, and what underpins my influencer style—the aesthetic you see on everything from this very blog to my social channels.

When it comes to fashion influencers however, I find the approach is a little different. The styling is definitely more accessible and translates common trends in a way that’s practical and easy to wear in everyday life. As a fashion blogger and influencer I love being able to showcase looks that are easy and wearable and the type of look most women would be able to use to inspire an outfit that they can wear to work or out with friends. Here are a few things many influencers consider when styling their looks.

Showcase your style

I follow many influencers because their style fits into my aesthetic and how I like to dress, and I think that’s important. It’s about dressing for yourself and what makes you feel confident and happy as opposed to trying to showcase all the latest trends. I think the more authentic an influencer or blogger is to their signature look the more appealing their content. Influencer style is about being genuine.

Versatility is key

For me the wearability factor is also important as I’m often shooting my looks using the back of my car as a portable change room and running between fittings and picking up the kids so there’s definitely a more relaxed approach to how I style everything.

I’m friends with a few style bloggers and influencers and everyone has an everyday approach to fashion. We use the same bags and shoes multiple times to showcase how important it is to ensure everything you own is versatile and can work back with most of your wardrobe.

I enjoy experimenting with looks but like to keep a core aesthetic with whatever I’m wearing

Mix and match

Also it’s about mixing older pieces with on trend items and giving a look a signature touch. I know I like being able to use a piece I already own and give it a new lease on life by pairing it with a few key accessories of the season such as a particular shoe style or a certain silhouette. The approach is about styling and making a look our own and something we’re comfortable in as opposed to letting a look wear us.

Embrace experimentation

We’re also all about versatility. I know when I’m styling my ‘What I Wore’ shoots I like to find outfits that I can take from day to night just by switching my footwear or handbag and I like to ensure I mix designer and high street pieces. And if there’s one things most bloggers like to do it’s experiment. I know I’ll often try on some unexpected pairings to unearth a new outfit combination I hadn’t considered but that makes me feel great when I walk out the door. And ultimately that’s how I hope all my readers feel whenever they come to my blog or my social channels.

Fashion

Style masterclass: Party season dressing

25th November, 2023

Party season is well and truly upon us which means Christmas parties, catch-ups with friends and lots of festive gatherings. If you have plenty of parties up ahead, it can become difficult trying to figure out what to wear to each occasion, not to mention the fact it can get expensive trying to have a new outfit for every event. This is why it’s important to make your wardrobe work harder and smarter to ensure that not only do you look amazing, but that you can keep using pieces over and over again. Here are some of my key tips for successful party season dressing.

Follow the dress code

It’s only appropriate and respectful to follow a party’s dress code so ensure that whatever you decide to wear is in keeping with what the host has requested. So whether it’s cocktail, casual or wearing canary yellow from head to toe, make sure you stick to what’s required. Plus this gives you the ideal starting point for your outfit—there’s no point shopping for a party dress if you’re off to a casual BBQ.

Think beyond the dress

A great cocktail dress is always perfect for party season, however think outside the box. A jumpsuit teamed with heels and some statement accessories can look equally as glamorous as a dress. A skirt teamed with a silk cami can also be a great option.

An LBD is your fail-safe option

I’ve never ever gone wrong with a black dress for an event. It just works. If you want to avoid spending a fortune, find one really simple black dress, in a great quality fabric such as silk and use it as the foundation for a party outfit. If you want to wear the same dress to multiple occasions, keep it as simple and plain as possible to get the most mileage out of it; an embellished dress with a really unique neckline for example won’t be as versatile as a something that has cleaner lines because it’s so identifiable. Once you have the perfect LBD, mix up your accessories, add a statement heel or pop on a jacket over the top to change up the look. Buy once, wear multiple times!

Accessories are key

Every girl should have a few key accessories she can call on for slightly dressier occasions. A great statement necklace or earrings and a beautiful cocktail ring can really elevate an outfit to something more glamorous.

An LBD and great accessories are your party season best friend

Have fun with your clutch

A clutch is a must for party season. It’s always an aspect of my outfit that I like to have fun with and favour pieces that pop. Often I’ll incorporate colour or interesting shapes or fun embellishments as I find it’s a part of my outfit that I can afford to be adventurous with. If however you favour classic pieces, I also think a great black clutch (I’ve had the one above for awhile and it’s always in rotation) is always a great option to have in your wardrobe. Black is a colour that works with virtually any outfit and for any occasion and the fact that it’s a streamlined design without too much embellishment means it’s a wardrobe chameleon that can be used multiple times.

Shoes! Shoes! Shoes!

The right pair of shoes can really make or break an outfit. I always buy a statement shoe per season that I can wear with multiple outfits, usually in a black or nude colour to really get the most wear out of it. Also be sure to break them in beforehand. There’s nothing worse than heading out for an evening and discovering that your shoes are the most painful things you’ve ever had the displeasure of walking in.

Experiment with your hair and makeup

Sometimes an outfit can be steered into party territory simply with the right hair and makeup. For something slightly more glam, amp up the intensity of your eye makeup and opt for a smoky eye or wear a bright, bold lipstick. When it comes to hair, master the art of a great at-home blow dry as this is a great failsafe option for most events. If you’re feeling adventurous there are myriad hair tutorials out there for up-dos such as a polished ponytail or a sleek bun. Natural beachy waves are also big this season, just be sure to add a bit of sea salt spray for grip and texture and always brush out any curls to avoid them looking too ‘done’.

Fashion

Spring cleaning your wardrobe? Here are the mistakes to avoid

2nd October, 2023

Feeling relaxed after my recent wardrobe spring clean

I’ve always found spring cleaning my wardrobe to be quite a cathartic experience. Being able to go through everything, purging things that are no longer used, and implementing organisational systems leaves me with that warm and fuzzy feeling that comes from seeing my wardrobe neat as a pin. I know that not everyone feels the same way about this task as I do, but I’ve always found that going through the pain of doing a BIG clear out (I’m talking going through everything you own) is always worthwhile in the long run. I’ve minimised so many wardrobe dilemmas because I’ve set aside a bit of time to organise! So, if you’re about to embark on this mammoth of tasks yourself, here are a few mistakes to avoid.

Cleaning without a plan

Pulling everything out of your closet and dumping it in a ginormous pile will make you want to cry with how big a task it seems you have ahead of you. I’ve found it’s worth just stopping for a bit to plan what you need to do and how you’re going to do it to make it less daunting. Organise things like how you’re going to categorise what you’re going to keep and get rid of, have the right equipment on hand such as ample hangers to put everything away and garbage bags to get rid of any rubbish and have a general idea of how you want to organise your closet and where you’re going to put everything away.

Rushing it

Accept the fact that doing a thorough spring clean takes time if you genuinely want to do it properly. You’ll have to try on items, inspect garments for wear and tear, sort them into the appropriate categories and properly deliberate each piece. So set aside the appropriate amount of time to do it so you don’t feel rushed and anxious, and also so you don’t have to do it again for awhile.

An organised closet is worth the time and effort- but there are some mistakes to avoid!

Being too sentimental

I’m not suggesting you go and throw out your wedding dress but sometimes we hang onto things unnecessarily because we associate it with a certain time. Of course there are certain items I’ve hung onto because they mean a lot to me but I’ve also learned to let go of things that may bring back a good memory but deep down I also know I’ll never use again and could probably be put to better use by someone else. I’ll always have the memory to hang onto but I don’t necessarily need to keep the outfit that I was wearing at the time!

Not going through everything

I’m a firm believer that when you do a clear out you have to take your entire closet out and go through it all. There’s no point doing some parts and not others because often you’ll end up hanging onto pieces that are just taking up space but not being worn at all. The feeling of an organised closet where you’re not constantly dealing with having to cram everything back in or consistently unable to find anything every time you get dressed is worth it.

Are you a fan of a regular wardrobe spring clean? What are some of your tips?

Fashion

How to do winter layering

1st August, 2023

The one thing I really love about winter dressing is the ability to layer different pieces for a warm and cosy look. I love experimenting with textures and big statement pieces such as a coat or boots to create an outfit that will easily withstand cooler temperatures without compromising on style. Effective winter layering requires consideration of the whole look from top to bottom including colours to avoid looking like you just threw on everything in your wardrobe! Over the years I’ve managed to refine my layering formula to a few key things…

Start with the basics

I always start with a cotton singlet or t-shirt underneath as a foundation especially if I’m going to wear a jumper or some sort of knit. Also I find wearing multiple lightweight layers provides ample warmth without your outfit feeling too bulky and cumbersome. I will always finish the look off with a big coat or jacket – this is a great opportunity to make a statement by opting for outerwear in a strong pattern or colour. If it’s especially cold outside I wear a big scarf, my favourite being an oversized Louis Vuitton scarf which makes for a nice (and warm) finishing touch. One thing to be mindful of when layering is to watch out for materials rubbing together, sometimes certain fabrics don’t work well against each other and can end up getting damaged or causing pilling.

Mix textures

One of the things I always do when it comes to winter layering is mixing different fabrics and textures. I find this adds a bit of depth to your look and helps to break it up. I normally do a cotton t-shirt, a knit and then I’ll do a wool coat or a leather jacket or denim jacket.

Choose a base colour

Great winter layering for me requires wearing similar tones. I might choose to go with various shades of grey or stick to neutral tones. If I’m wearing black I won’t do all black, I’ll actually add another piece such as a charcoal knit to help break up what I’m wearing. The same with camel colours – I might do beiges or cream and mix the tones up. Whilst I’ll play with various shades I’ll always ensure that there’s one base colour to ensure the whole look works together.

Finish with a great coat

The final finishing flourish of any winter look is a great coat. It’s easily one of the first things people see but it’s often relegated as an afterthought, so I’ve always tried to build up a few go-to coats throughout the cooler months. I always go for a statement coat, and then some plain, failsafe options in black, navy, cream or camel—I’ve found these to be so effective at finishing off a look, and also maintaining cohesion from top to bottom.

What are some of your tips for winter layering?

Fashion

5 questions I always ask myself before buying anything

29th July, 2023

When I’m shopping for anything I always make sure that what I’m buying will be a worthwhile and practical addition to my wardrobe. Sounds easy enough, right? I’m the first to admit that in the past I’ve been guilty of buying something because I just like how it looks but have found that it hasn’t really worked with what I already own. There’s really no point wasting money on something that won’t necessarily be used all that much and will just end up gathering dust in my closet. I’m all about maximising the use of everything in my wardrobe and to ensure this happens there are five questions that I always ask myself before I even consider buying anything. By going through this mental checklist I’m sure I’ve saved myself from buyer’s remorse many times!

What will this go with?

It’s important that I can immediately think of a minimum of 10 pieces that I can pair a possible purchase with. And they have to be 10 pieces that I already wear a lot so I know that it will definitely have plenty of outings.

How can I dress it up or down?

Versatility is key when it comes to anything I own so I have to make sure that I can dress something up or down quite easily. I need to guarantee that I will get multiple wears out of it so it has to be able to have many outfit incarnations.

Is it going to last the test of time?

On trend pieces are great here and there but generally I always make sure that the bulk of my wardrobe is comprised of things that I can see myself wearing years down the track. Classics will always last so I can justify spending the money on it. Also with the question I consider whether it is suitable for work and when I’m off duty so I know how much wear I’ll realistically get from it.

Fabrication is a key consideration for me when making any purchase

Is it good quality?

I take into account what materials something is made from and how well it has been made. Construction is important as I don’t want to end up buying something and only wearing it a handful of times because it’s falling apart. Also quality materials such as cashmere or silk may cost a little more initially but it wears a lot better over time so I’m not having to replace a garment soon after buying it.

How many times will I wear it?

I always visualise how many times I’ll wear an item and how often but even more so when I’m thinking of buying something that’s a bit pricey. It’s all about cost per wear so I want to ensure that I’m getting value for my fashion dollar.

What’s the best purchase you’ve ever made?

Fashion

How to buy jeans

20th July, 2023

Jeans are a cornerstone of my wardrobe

I can’t live without denim. It’s a key part of my wardrobe all year round so it’s key to find the perfect pair. I buy a lot of stuff online and while I have purchased jeans from a website before, usually it’s when I already own a pair in the same brand and can feel a little more confident in the sizing. I think jeans are one thing that you really need to go in store to try on to make sure the cut, fit and colour all work well. My key criteria is that it works with my body shape, has some flexibility and isn’t too stiff, isn’t too low rise (yes, even if they’re back in fashion!) and is generally high-waisted and has to be of a good quality so it lasts. When you find the perfect pair of jeans you just know! If you’re in the market for new jeans, here’s my foolproof plan to find The One…

Buy the right size

It may sound obvious but I’ve been caught out before by the whole “it will stretch” claim. I’ve learned that you should always just buy a size that’s firm but not super tight. It should feel comfortably snug but not so much that you feel like you can’t breathe!

Take the time to try things on

Yes, you may have a pair of old faithfuls that have served you well but it pays to try on different cuts, styles, washes and brands when you’re buying jeans. It can be a tedious process, I know, but taking the time to actually try things on outside of your denim comfort zone may help you unearth a pair of jeans you never knew you always wanted.

Identify your go-to style

I used to favour skinny jeans over every other cut, but more and more I’ve made a high waisted straight leg my go-to. Occasionally I’ll still wear a skinny silhouette but I’m definitely favouring straight more and more. While this works for me and my style, your perfect match might come in the form of a wide leg or a boyfriend cut. The key is to try on as many different styles as you can and once you’ve found the perfect pair invest in a few different washes.

Know your denim

A heavier denim has more durability than a lighter denim. So if you’re after a pair of jeans that will last a few seasons, it pays to go for something a little thicker. Also a heavier denim will generally offer better support than lighter, thinner denim which can be a little less forgiving. However if a stiff denim isn’t for you, look for a pair that is made up of around two per cent lycra and 98 per cent cotton—it’s got enough give to be really comfortable but is able to hold you in where you want it to.

Expand your denim wardrobe

I love light denim jeans but I also like black denim and white denim. I find that having all three shades in my wardrobe covers all the bases and allows me to have options for plenty of different outfit combinations. Also, know that some washes will show wear and tear a lot sooner than others. For example dark denim will show obvious “whiskering” a lot sooner than lighter denim so keep that in mind when choosing the colour of your next pair.

Don’t be a denim snob

I’m not too stuck on brands—I’ve bought jeans from ASOS and loved them as much as a designer pair, but the most important thing is how it fits. I’m picky when it comes to the colour or the cut but apart from that I’ll happily wear any denim label. Even if you’ve got your go-to brand, it’s a good idea to try on a few different brands each season in case you find another one that works better for your body. There’s SO much new denim each season that you need to keep on top of what’s out there in case there’s a new range that would perfectly suit you.

If you’re getting jeans hemmed, bring the shoes you’re wearing with them with you

If you’re going to get jeans tailored it should only ever be the length that you alter. You should keep looking until you find a pair that fit you around your bottom and your legs rather than trying to do anything with the waistband or legs. I’m not that tall so jeans can be quite long for me so I’ll take them to be professionally altered. I like my jeans to sit on my ankle bone. When I’m getting them hemmed I’ll normally take the shoes I’d wear the most with them to the alterations place so I can be sure to get the correct length. If you really want to wear them with multiple shoe heights, I think if you get the right length for high heels they can work with sneakers, flats and most other shoes quite fine.

What are your favourite go-to denim brands?

Fashion

How to keep your clothes looking pristine

17th July, 2023

We all invest a fair amount of money on our clothes over time so it’s important to ensure they last season after season. If your clothes don’t tend to go the distance it may be time to tweak your clothes maintenance routine. Adopt some of these basics and you could well give your clothes a new lease on life.

Say goodbye to wire hangers

If you want to keep your clothes’ shape be sure to invest in wooden hangers or flocked hangers. Wire hangers tend to end up misshapen and don’t provide enough support so you’ll end up with wrinkled, bunched up clothes. Additionally you don’t want to have delicates such as a silk shirt snagging on a hanger. Plus when you’re flicking through your clothes rail it’s highly likely wire hangers will end up in a gnarly mess which will make it much harder to find what you’re looking for.

Folding and sorting

When it comes to closet organisation be sure to fold anything that can easily be stretched out such as t-shirts and knits. Hang garments that tend to wrinkle easily such as dresses and shirts.

Follow care instruction labels

Yes, they might be a pain to follow at times but going rogue when a garment clearly states dry clean only or throwing something in the washing machine when it specifies hand washing it will compromise the quality of a garment. If you want your clothes to stay in the same condition as when you first bought it it’s important to launder it as instructed.

Always separate your clothes into whites, brights and dark colours

Failing to separate your clothes will mean that your once bright white t-shirt may end up looking dull and grey as a lot of garments aren’t colourfast which means colour molecules will end up settling on lighter coloured garments.

Examine where you do the most damage to your clothes

Are you constantly damaging your clothes in the same spots? It’s time to look at how you can minimise it. For example if you’re always getting frayed hems it could mean that you need to hem your pants a little higher to avoid it dragging on the ground or alternatively you may need to limit the shoes you wear to a particular height. Pinpointing how you damage your clothes the most means you’re better able to avoid it.

Don’t ignore stains

Deal with a stain immediately to avoid it setting in. A baby wipe or soda water will help temporarily treat a stain if you’re out and about but be sure to dab it with a pre-stain treatment and wash immediately when you get home.

What are some ways you keep your clothes in great condition?

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