Browsing Tag

hansen and gretel

Fashion, What I Wore

What I Wore: Velvet Touch

23rd August, 2022

Luxe fabrics can often become the centrepiece of an outfit. Case in point: this matching Hansen and Gretel set which features a gorgeous cinnamon hued velvet. I wore this look out to dinner while I was in London and it was very fitting for an evening out, but also felt so illegally comfortable. The pants are elasticated and the shirt is a lovely oversized fit — let’s just say it’s perfect if you really want to indulge! I saw a lot of co-ordinating sets doing the rounds while I was overseas and have always loved the appeal of a matching top and bottom as it instantly looks polished and requires minimal styling. The velvet really took it to another level and gave it a bit of a rock n’ roll edge. I’ve also worn these two separately on other occasions and they work great on their own. The shirt looks cool with slacks or jeans while the pants work well with a great tank. Therein lies the beauty in two-piece sets — you get more bank for your fashion buck.

When working with a look that already features very distinct statement features, it’s a good idea to keep accessories a little more pared back. I went for a simple black Louis Vuitton pump with silver cap toe detail. It has quite a refined feel and worked as a great contrast to the slightly more bohemian silhouette of my outfit, along with the vivid velvet fabric. I think you always have to pick a focal point to look and this time around it was definitely the top and pants that needed to take centre stage.

Evening attire is always something where I tend to fall back on failsafe pieces, like a suit or dress, so I was glad to have take a bit more of a fashion risk with this particular look. It’s fun to experiment with different textures at times, plus explore new pairings and silhouettes to hit refresh on my usual fashion repertoire.

Credits: Shirt and pants, Hansen and Gretel; Shoes, Louis Vuitton

Fashion, What I Wore

What I wore this week: Events looks

28th July, 2022

It was while I was scrolling through my phone that I ended up taking a trip down memory lane and revisiting some of my fave events looks of late. From parties to race days and launches, I’m so fortunate to be able to attend so many great events throughout the year and as a result it gives me the opportunity to frock up and embrace some pretty amazing looks. It’s hard to narrow it down to faves, but these are a few that I’ve worn and loved.

I wore this look to a Dior event and the Love Shack Fancy dress was truly out of this world good. The gold star motif really dialled up the glam but offered a playful edge. Long sleeve dresses are always so classically elegant, but offset by the cut-outs and the thigh high split, the dress evoked just the right balance of sexy. I went for a simple pair of Bottega Veneta heels and in a nod to the event’s host, a Dior clutch.

Credits: Dress, Love Shack Fancy; Bag, Dior; Heels, Bottega Veneta

Designer crossover collabs have become quite the thing and one of my favourite results was this Fendace collection. A partnership between Fendi and Versace, the result was this beyond sleek evening look, with safety pin detail in a nod to Versace’s infamous safety pin dress worn by Liz Hurley in the 90s. When wearing such a knockout style, I knew accessories needed to be kept to a minimum and as unfussy as possible. So, I opted for a pair of black Louboutin pumps and a gold Fendi clutch.

Credits: Fendace dress; Heels, Christian Louboutin; Bag, Fendi

I was attending the launch of Phantom of the Opera on Sydney Harbour and always enjoy glamming up for the theatre. I went with this chocolate Bec and Bridge slip dress. The silhouette and neckline was simple and understated but with a statement detail in the form of the thigh high split, it was definitely event-ready. I didn’t want to take away from the dress so I went for ultra pared back black Jimmy Choo heels and a pair of gold Aje drop earrings to tie it all together.

Credits: Dress, Bec and Bridge (similar here); Heels, Jimmy Choo; Earrings, Aje

In racing mode with this look that I wore to the Crown VRC launch. I’m loving suiting as an events look, and am always into experimenting with different cuts and colours. This Louis Vuitton double breasted suit had ample amounts of polish, but the details gave it some edge. The contrasting pinstripe down the pant legs and the contrast of the mohair trimmed lapel on the double breasted jacket made this look feel quite modern and on trend. And what better way to finish off with footwear than with a pair of black LV heels?

Credits: Jacket, pants and heels (similar here), Louis Vuitton

Fashion, Shop, What I Wore

What I Wore: Elevated Casual

24th September, 2019

What I love about fashion at the moment is that there are so many different iterations of casual. Case in point: this white two-piece set by Hansen and Gretel. Whilst visions of an off duty look usually involve denim of some sort, I love the fact that this skirt and top combination is equally as comfortable but is just that little more polished. As an added bonus both can also be worn as separates with other pieces in my wardrobe which extends the wear of this set.

Who else loves the fact that sneakers are the go-to shoe for myriad occasions? Whilst the Chanel pair I’m wearing below are a little dressier than other sneakers I have in my closet, there’s no doubt that they are equally as comfortable. Plus I love the pink shades which soften the overall silhouette of the shoe.

For an on-the-go outfit, I like to incorporate a bag that allows me to go hands-free so I decided on my Prada bag with crossbody strap to pair with this particular look. I finished it off with white Emma Mulholland frames and layered statement necklaces—adding a stylish touch that’s understated and works for a relaxed look.

Photography by Sophia Athas, Hatrik

Shop the Look:

Top – Joey Top Ivory, Hansen & Gretel

Skirt – Brenton Skirt Ivory, Hansen Gretel

Shoes: CC Logo Pink Suede Sneaker by Chanel

Bag: Leather Bucket Bag, Prada

Sunglasses: Pared Stargazers, Emma Mulholland (similar)

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Fashion, Shop, What I Wore

What I Wore: Gingham Girl

20th August, 2019

We’re really spoilt for choice as far as suiting goes these days and I’m loving all the different silhouette variations I’ve been been seeing in my ongoing quest for the perfect suit. Whilst you can get everything from a relaxed suit to one that’s perfect for a dressy occasion, I tend to gravitate towards the styles that have a little personality, whether it’s a great print or an interesting cut. This suit by Bec and Bridge ticks both boxes. The checked pattern gives it a certain energy and vibrancy, whilst the flared, bell bottom pants give it a fun, 70s feel. I could easily see myself wearing this suit to an event or out to lunch with my friends or even a meeting, so it’s definitely a versatile addition to my wardrobe. Underneath I popped on a simple white ribbed top, complementing the hints of white on the suit.

Working with such a busy pattern, I wanted to let the suit take centre stage so opted for accessories that were a little more pared back whilst also staying within the colour palette of the check print to give my outfit some cohesion. I went for a black quilted Dior bag with chain strap and minimalist cat eye sunglasses by Poppy Lissiman. I always like to wear heels whenever I’m wearing a suit so I paired this particular look with Giuseppe Zanotti heels with the most amazing crystal covered heel—elegant but glam all at the same time.

Photography by Sophia Athas

Shop the Look:

Blazer: Gingham Girl Blazer, Bec & Bridge 

Pants: Gingham Girl Pant, Bec & Bridge 

Top – Joey Top Ivory, Hansen and Gretel

Bag – Dioraddict Lambskin Bag, Dior 

Shoes: Farrah, Giuseppe Zanotti

Sunglasses: Le Skinny – Black, Poppy Lissiman 

Earrings, vintage 

Necklace, top: Dior, bottom: custom made

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Fashion, Fashion & Beauty, What I Wore

What I Wore: Orange

28th May, 2019

On a recent girls’ trip to Orange, we had quite a varied itinerary from checking out vineyards one minute to dinner and drinks the next so I needed to take the kind of pieces with me that could work for different occasions. Enter this checked Hansen and Gretel dress. The fitted silhouette and maxi length meant it looked quite polished and on the dressier side, but when I paired it with a pair of sneakers all of a sudden it had a more casual feel. As a bonus it was comfy enough to ride a bike in! I’m definitely on board with any dress that’s so versatile. 

I think accessories are key when you want to dress a look up or down and in this instance I opted for silver Gucci sneakers. They’re casual being sneakers and all but in a metallic shade I think they’ve got a more elevated feel. By incorporating some of my go-to jewellery, particularly my absolute fave gold necklace, I feel that it helped tie the look together and give it a polished vibe. 

Credits: Dress, Hansen and Gretel; Sneakers (similar here), Gucci

Photography Ashleigh Larden

Fashion

What I Wore: Orange You Glad

25th September, 2018

Co-ordinated sets really are my new favourite shortcut to looking super polished. I loved this checked jacket and skirt by Hansen & Gretel for its 60s feel and Jackie Onassis vibes. Also the check and vibrant orange really make it pop and make a statement. A skirt suit is always a great go-to for work or play, and I for one can attest to how easy this particular look is to wear to the office, a function or to a special lunch.

I wanted the rest of my look to echo the polish of the suit so I knew I needed sophisticated accessories to add as finishing touches. As far as shoes went I knew I wanted something dressy but stilettos would have been too much so a great compromise was my new slingback Dior flats. It maintains the polished feel of the jacket and skirt without me looking just a little too dressed up. I maintained the 60s aesthetic by opting for a structured top handle bag in a complementary orange shade which really added a fun touch to the whole ensemble. And what better finishing touch than a pair of cat eye sunglasses which was also a reflection of the era.

Credits: Skirt, Hansen & Gretel (not out yet); Shirt, Hansen & Gretel (not out yet); Bag, Espie Roche; Shoes, Dior; Sunglasses, Poppy Lissiman

Photography: Ash Larden

Fashion, What I Wore

What I Wore: Matching Pair

3rd July, 2018

A touch of linen is always a welcome addition to my wardrobe as it’s so comfortable and understated yet with a luxe feel. This co-ordinating set by Hansen & Gretel has a suit-like feel with the wrap blazer and tailored pants but is a little more relaxed, making it work for everything from a day at the office to a work event.

I’m a huge fan of all things neutral and I like the fact that this set can easily be dressed up or down and is not too distinct in design that I can wear it to multiple occasions quite easily. A quick change of accessories and I could instantly transform it, making it one of those amazing multi-purpose go-tos that I love having in my closet.

I didn’t want to overpower the beautiful pared back sand hue of this suit but I also needed strong accessories to provide some contrast. My favourite navy Bulgari top handle bag added a dressy element to this look whilst the colour worked well with the neutral palette of my outfit. My round frame Chloe sunglasses provided a fun touch, maintaining a laidback yet polished vibe.

Credits: Blazer, Hansen & Gretel; Pants, Hansen & Gretel; Sunglasses, Chloe; Bag, Bulgari

Photography: Sophia Athas

Fashion, What I Wore

What I Wore: A Fresh Approach

8th May, 2018

I love the fresh look of an all white outfit and don’t get to wear it nearly as often as I’d like (two kids and white = potential disaster!). However I couldn’t pass up this top and skirt by Hansen and Gretel. I’ve worn the skirt in a different shade previously and loved it so much that I had to try the white option. It’s still got a slightly bohemian flair, with the shirring and front tie details but I find this version feels a lot more dressy. In keeping with the vibe of this particular ensemble I opted to carry the shirred effect throughout and this top was the perfect option. The puffed sleeves add a touch of drama and tie back with the slightly ruffled hem of the skirt.

Whenever I wear white I like to go for interesting accessories—whether it be a textured finish or embellishments. I found this bamboo clutch by Heidi Klein was the ideal option as it added some depth to the look, however it’s neutral tone meant it didn’t clash too much. My favourite white Gucci sneakers meant I was able to keep the colour scheme going from top to toe. Minimalist  gold frame Ray Ban sunglasses and a pair of playful star earrings by Holly Ryan round out my look, and give it a slightly more modern, up-to-the minute feel.

Credits: Top, Hansen and Gretel; Skirt, Hansen and Gretel; Sunglasses, Ray Ban; Clutch, Heidi Klein; Sneakers, Gucci; Earrings, Holly Ryan

Photography: Sophia Athas

 

Fashion, What I Wore

What I Wore: Tie Details

24th April, 2018

Since the weather in Sydney insists on remaining balmy then I figure, why not squeeze in a few more summery looks to take advantage of it? This top and skirt by Hansen and Gretel has a polished yet slightly bohemian feel that’s perfect for weekend dressing. The broderie anglaise ruffled top with exposed back and tie detail works well with this skirt but could transition to work with other pieces such as a culottes or high waisted pants. I absolutely love the ruching on this skirt as it helps give it some texture along with a great fitted silhouette. The sweet lace up feature adds an element of interest and really lifts this piece.

I wanted to dress this look up so I opted for lace up heels (there’s a common thread to this whole look!) to add a bold element to my overall ensemble. I love having fun with sunglasses so I decided to embrace a bit of colour with my choice of eyewear—a vibrant pink to be exact. These oval shaped frames in a bubble gum hue offered a playful touch and is in keeping with the trend towards downsizing sunnies. My favourite Miu Miu clutch featuring a striking herringbone pattern remained in the understated neutral colour palette I’d chosen for the top and skirt, whilst adding a polished feminine touch.

Credits: Top, Hansen and Gretel; Skirt (in Sage), Hansen and Gretel; Heels, Aquazzura; Sunglasses, Le Specs; Clutch, Miu Miu

Photography: Sophia Athas

 

Fashion

Australian Fashion Week 2017 Day Three Wrap Up

16th May, 2017

The Shows: Hansen and Gretel, Bec & Bridge, Christopher Esber

Where: On site at Carriageworks for Hansel and Gretel; Offsite at David Jones for Bec & Bridge and The Clothing Store for Christopher Esber

My day started… bright and early at 9am.

My outfit today… was all about pink hues and velvet. I’m loving the velvet trend at the moment so today I literally wore it from head to toe!

Favourite show… Christopher Esber.

The one look I fell in love with… a candy striped top and skirt combination at the Christopher Esber show (pictured below).

Big trends I saw… vintage floral prints, feminine silhouettes, midi skirts and ruffles but with cheeky side of sheer and swimwear at Hansen and Gretel. Meanwhile at Bec & Bridge it was all about structured ruffles, shirting, polka dots, bare shoulders, bright colours (namely bright red and electric blue), silk shifts and short party dresses. Christopher Esber’s show focused on shirting, tailoring, trenches, pops of colour and figure hugging knits.

Big trends I saw on attendees…there has certainly been no shortage of great outfits on show. I’ve been seeing a lot of suits on women, skirt and top combinations, knits with longer skirts, combining casual with luxe and lots of layering.

What I ate/drank… I squeezed in a Date with Kate interview with TV personality Jessica Kahawaty over lunch at Catalina in Rose Bay in between shows. We ate fish and pasta which helped keep my energy levels up!

I stopped at Bambini Trust in the CBD for an afternoon wine with my team to recharge, download pics, edits and catch up on some work. It was so good I went back to there for dinner with Ksenija Lukich, Nadia Fairfax, Rey Vakili and Hoda Waterhouse before heading to the Christopher Esber show.

Photography and Video: Sophia Athas