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New season pieces I tried and loved from Rachel Gilbert

28th July, 2023

Checking out new season drops is always a fun exercise and it’s something I tend to do with my fave brands. I popped into Rachel Gilbert recently and was so impressed by the new collection. So many great dresses and some gorgeous tailored pieces that I’ve already earmarked for some occasions on the horizon. The selection was so good that I could’ve easily tried on the entire store, but these were the pieces that caught my eye…

Nino jacket and pant

It’s all about an oversized silhouette lately and this suit is right on trend. I love the double breasted jacket which could easily be worn separately with a pair of jeans. The pants would also look cute with a tank or tee.

 

Nova top and skirt

I can’t get enough of sets and this is a great option as it’s such a flattering silhouette. The long length strapless top and skirt is elegant and on point, and a great option for event wear.

 

Briggs jacket mini

This is a great work dress. I’d wear this to a meeting or an event. Love the asymmetrical hem and the long sleeves. Also I like the nod to suiting in the design.

 

Rue dress

I’m always on the look out for LBDs as they’re so versatile so this black dress definitely caught my eye. The simple 90s style slip silhouette feels very now and a big tick for the V cut out on the neckline and the thigh high split. I rate this as it’s the kind of dress that can be worn to different occasions and it doesn’t look immediately identifiable and is a bit of a style chameleon.

 

Ziara dress

The texture on this dress is just stunning! The plisse fabric adds some drama while the vibrant green just adds some vibrancy and fun. Also love the bell sleeves for making a statement.

 

Kalina dress

I wrote about this dress in a What I Wore as I loved it so much. The silhouette is simple but elevated by all the gorgeous texture achieved by the folds. The off the shoulder straps can also be worn higher up like I have, making it ultra versatile.

 

Rue mini

Since Barbie fever is upon us I felt this dress was very fitting for the occasion. I like the fun flared A-line skirt and the V neckline and spaghetti straps. A playful, flirty option for party season later in the year.

 

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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.

I've become a convert to the high waisted straight leg jean

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

Chic blazers that you need in your life

2nd June, 2023

I’m a big advocate of having at least one beautiful blazer in your wardrobe. It’s the kind of thing that can work in so many different scenarios — the polished accent piece that can elevate a look, a topper to throw on over gym gear for Hailey Bieber vibes, or the ideal power piece to finish a work outfit. It’s also really comfortable and can instantly transform an ensemble. I often reach for a blazer most days of the week as it’s quick shortcut for turning in outfit into a polished ensemble. 

If you make a point of investing in a quality blazer it’s the kind of piece that you will get plenty of wear out of and will be with you for years to come. I will often gravitate towards a black blazer because it always looks ultra put together and it’s super versatile. I can’t think of anything that a black blazer doesn’t work with so it’s a worthwhile investment. That said if black is not your thing then you easily opt for navy or white or this season’s big trend, camel, which would both serve your wardrobe equally as well. If you’re feeling adventurous then a printed blazer is also a fun option that can easily dress up an outfit and give it an on trend feel. Also, the blazer silhouette this season is oversized, so skip the super tight or cropped varieties as the vibe this season is very much an effortless, relaxed energy. The only non-negotiable is that you add it to your autumn/winter shopping list.

 

A few of my favourite blazer moments

As I mentioned, blazers are an integral part of my wardrobe. It’s a go-to piece that often ties many of my fave looks together. Here are a few I’ve worn of late, and as you can see I’m not afraid to venture out of my black blazer comfort zone.

 

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8 wardrobe basics that can instantly make styling an outfit easier

21st April, 2023

Wardrobe basics are the lynchpin of your look. I find that owning a few key pieces can in turn make everything else you own just that little more wearable as you can start with the below items and then build an outfit around them. Each person obviously has their own unique style so some of the pieces below might require substituting here and there but overall I think they’re the kind of staples that can be worked in so many different ways. Versatility is key when it comes to a look and having the right wardrobe basics in your closet can really ensure that you are able to take your style repertoire in several different directions. I’ve narrowed down a few key things that I think every woman needs…

Kate Waterhouse wardrobe basics stacked jeans

Jeans are a key part of my off duty wardrobe

1. Jeans

It’s imperative to find yourself a pair of jeans that fit you ridiculously well and are ultra flattering. My go-to styles are a slightly fitted skinny (but not ultra skin tight!) or straight leg as they work with my body shape but be sure to find the right style for you. These days a wide leg, mum jean or relaxed fit are also all popular options so make sure you try a few different pairs on to help you fine the one that works best.

2. Ribbed knit maxi dress

I’m a fan of ribbed knit dresses as they’re such a wearable piece that can easily be dressed up or down. I like wearing mine with slides during summer and then layer it in winter with a jacket, trench or blazer when temperatures drop.

3. White t-shirt

A plain white t-shirt is the kind of piece that will be in constant rotation. I love a crew neck style and wore one here, as I find them it to be a style that can work on its own or act as a layering piece. Start with white, however shades such as black, grey and navy and a good stripe are also a great addition to any wardrobe.

4. Button down shirt

There’s a reason why a classic white shirt is at the top of most wardrobe basics lists — it’s just so wearable and can add a stylish touch to any look. One styling trick I like to employ is opting for a slightly looser fit when it comes to shirts as visually it can make your frame appear smaller.

5. High waisted skirt

A high waisted skirt is a go-to when it comes to office wear but it can also easily transition to your off duty wardrobe. Opt for a simple black or a fun print and pair with a tee or shirt for an easy, out-the-door-fast look. I’m a fan of a midi or maxi pleated skirt in a floaty fabric or if you want to look ultra on trend, try a high waisted denim skirt with a longer hemline.

6. Quality knit

Invest in at least one quality knit in a quality fabric (cashmere is luxe, but oh-so long lasting) and opt for colours such as grey or black as they’re easily paired with multiple items in your wardrobe.

7. Blazer

You can wear a blazer to work or out to dinner on a Saturday night and is such a must when it comes to wardrobe basics. Popping one on can easily dress up a look give it a stylish touch.

8. Tailored wide leg pants

I’ve been wearing wide leg tailored pants a lot lately as I’ve found them to be a great bridge between looking casual and dressy as they’re easily dressed up or down. I’ve worn a pair of black wide leg pants on repeat recently as they’re comfy but look polished and it’s quickly become one of my go-to pieces during the week.

Tell me—what are some of the wardrobe basics you can’t live without? Have I missed any on my list?
Fashion, Shop

It’s time to update your autumn/winter wardrobe with a cardigan

19th April, 2023

When temperatures drop, there’s nothing I like more than grabbing my cosiest winter woolies to snuggle up in. I’m all about a chunky knit or a gorgeous rollneck jumper, but this season I’m going to be reaching a lot for the humble cardigan. While the cardi has been around for aeons, it hasn’t always been the trendiest of knitwear staples. But expect all that to change as we gravitate towards this quiet achiever in the knits department.

Every winter I always update my wardrobe with some knitwear as I inevitably find some pieces need retiring (they either end up with holes, too much pilling, or they’ve become mishapen). So I tend to snap up 1 or 2 new knits to add to my collection and update my winter look. This season it’s definitely all about a cardigan with a more cropped silhouette.

While there is something to be said for the longline cardi’s role as the perfect cosy piece to relax in and pair with loungewear, for an updated take on the style, definitely look towards something that hits around the waist. This length is worn best with a pair of jeans, or tucked into wide leg pants. Also, ensure you wear it with at least a few buttons done up for a more of-the-moment take on it. The great thing about cardigans is while the silhouette generally remains the same, there’s definitely plenty to choose from when it comes to colours and detailing. I loved this sweet mint cardi with embroidered rosettes for its whimsical feel, plus it works well against structured denim for balance.

So, while you’re on the hunt for some new additions to your winter wardrobe, why not add a new cardi to the mix. It’s the perfect way to update your wardrobe, plus it works great as a transeasonal piece when we head into spring in the second half of the year. Ready to shop? Check out my edit of cardigans below.

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Fashion

How to make your fashion budget stretch further

12th April, 2023

While it would be nice to have endless amounts of money to spend on clothes, the majority of us have a designated budget to work with. Having a fashion budget is important for not only keeping your finances under control but it also helps with making strategic, well thought out purchases that have longevity. The impulse buy is the enemy of any fashion budget, as it often results in purchases that might seem like a great idea at the time, but aren’t really all that considered. The result? Wasted money, and a closet full of far too many things that just gather dust. So, if you want to get your budget back in the black, here’s how to make smart shopping decisions.

Have a list

I always have a list I add to of things I’ve noticed I need to buy, whether they are gaps in my closet, more expensive designer things that have to be planned and saved for or just things that may need replacing, or trend updates that I need to factor in to my shopping. Having a list is so important for avoiding shopping blowouts or buyer’s remorse. If I have written down a list of things I need, I always do my utmost to stick to it, and don’t tend to go wayward into unplanned territory.

Keep your closet organised

If your closet is a disaster zone it’s going to be hard to remain on top of things and keep track of what you’re actually wearing, what the gaps are and what you really genuinely need. Also, if you aren’t able to easily keep track of your clothes and accessories, you’ll often find yourself doubling up unnecessarily and that’s when you end up wasting money. Organising your closet is one of the easiest things you can do to save cash in the long run.

Borrow event clothes

If you’re going to an event, consider borrowing from one of the number of companies that lend event clothing out for a fee. You’ll often find up-to-the-minute designs from top brands, but renting means you don’t end up having to fork out a lot of money for something that may or may not just end up being worn once.

Don’t buy just because it’s on sale

Yes, you may be technically saving money but there are times that buying things during sale time can result in purchases that are questionable. I always find that I will ask myself if I would buy something full price. If the answer is no, then why do I want to buy it just because the price has been reduced? By not wanting to buy it for its original cost, it’s highly likely it wasn’t going to work in my closet to begin with.

Spend more, buy less often

This is where I do my sales pitch for investment purchases. I think investing in quality from the very start means you won’t end up having to do repeat purchases down the track. So for example, instead of buying a cheap-ish black bag, which with enough use will likely show wear and tear quite easily, or worse, break, I think you’re better off saving until you can buy something of a really great quality which has longevity. Because really, having to replace certain things time and time again, can end up costing you more.

What are some of your favourite ways to make your fashion budget stretch further?

Fashion, Shop

Why you can’t live without a trench coat this season

31st March, 2023

 

 

 

Trench coats are one of those things that are always on fashion must-have lists. And for a very good reason! A great trench is a genuine workhorse when it comes to pulling together an outfit as it can work in myriad ways. It’s an easy jacket option in winter and can be thrown on over pretty much everything. I’ve worn mine dressed up or down, with jeans, with pants, a dress… the list goes on. It’s one of those special items that are a genuine shortcut to looking polished and chic, and is an easy grab-and-go option on those days when you’re not entirely sure what to wear. Also, it layers beautifully in winter, and is a stylish lightweight option almost all year round. A bonafide staple.

When buying a trench, I think beige is always a great place to start. It’s the universally known hue associated with trench coats since forever and works beautifully with so many different colours. If you want to be a little more adventurous with colour, I’d suggest looking into a navy, khaki or camel hue as all are easy to pair back everything from denim, to black trousers, to a crisp white pant. I’ve also embraced a trench in a chocolate and sky blue hue, which goes to show just how many different iterations there are of this classic piece.

It’s a good idea to try a trench on in person as you want to ensure the length and fit works well with your frame, and it can be a little tricky to do this with online purchases. For a modern take on it, go for something that’s a more relaxed fit (you never want a trench to be totally figure hugging) and a long length silhouette that should at least sit below the knee (FYI the current trend is for a mid-calf to just above the ankle). Also you can’t go wrong with double breasted as you’ll find you’ll be wearing it open most of the time, and it just sits better.

You can find sooo many different versions of the trench these days. From the OG Burberry trench which is a definite investment splurge to chain stores like Zara which often do a great trench season after season at a reasonable price. Go with whatever suits your budget as I guarantee it’s a purchase you won’t regret making.

 

A few of my fave trench moments…

 

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Fashion

My favourite new season pieces from Viktoria and Woods

15th March, 2023

With a change of seasons upon us, I wanted to check out what autumn/winter pieces are in store at one of my favourite brands, Viktoria and Woods. I’ve become quite the fan of the label, as I find they do great classic staples with a twist. I find myself wearing pieces from Viktoria and Woods quite frequently so I know I can always rely on them when it comes to seasonal updates that are going to be super wearable. When it comes to autumn/winter looks, I’m all about layering so I was after pieces that can be worn easily under a beautiful coat or trench, but also transition into spring/summer to get maximum wear.

The new season drop at Viktoria and Woods features some traditional hues for autumn/winter such as navy, burgundy and chocolate brown. However I loved the splashes of pastel colour throughout, including the below lilac and a lovely shade of baby blue. So, here’s what I tried on and is currently making its way onto my shopping list…

Daisy Polo and Carraway Skirt

Matching sets are still huge and this skirt and polo combination is a fun take on it. Love the slight 70s vibe of the polo, and it’s a great silhouette for pairing with jeans and pants when not worn together with the skirt. The knitted skirt also works as a separate, and I could see myself wearing it with a long sleeved top and a coat, or transitioning it into warmer weather with a tank.

Daisy Polo in white and Twilight Pant

This is the polo in white and I think it has a lovely classic feel to it. I could also see this working with denim, but I like the fact it looks ultra polished when worn with the beige Twilight pants. It feels very preppy and put together as a look with a tailored pant, but both can easily be worn separately too.

Strummer Vest and Twilight Pant

I adore the current suiting trend of vests and pants worn together as a set. I love the masculine/feminine vibe it evokes, and it just looks ultra chic. I could also wear these two separately quite easily and both would work back well in my current wardrobe. I do love it as a set though!

Twilight Pant

Layering pieces are important to me during autumn/winter as it helps keep me warm and toasty but also looks put together. I wanted to try these pants on with an alternative top and with a coat on top and think it’s a definite winner. I also like the beige tone of the pants as it’s going to make it easy to mix and match it with a variety of different pieces.

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What I ask myself to ensure I’m making a good purchase

6th March, 2023

I’ve always tried to work towards a wardrobe that’s versatile as it makes pulling outfits together every day a little easier. This requires some major editing and also some savvy shopping. When faced with so many gorgeous things in a store it can be easy to get caught up in the moment and just purchase something purely because you like it but I think it pays to ask yourself a few questions before buying anything as it can help you avoid wasting money on an item of clothing that won’t get much use. These are the five questions I always ask myself before I buy anything.

How will this work with the rest of my wardrobe?

I always think about how I will be able to wear something with other items I already own. To do this imagine your wardrobe and identify at least five outfits that you’ll be able to wear with a potential purchase. A cohesive wardrobe that can be mixed and matched in different ways will extend the number of outfits you can make as opposed to buying one item, for one purpose and having it sit in your wardrobe gathering dust.

How many times will I wear this?

If something is expensive I’ll think about how many times I’ll wear it and how many seasons it is going to last. I aways consider cost per wear. If I think “I will wear these shoes the whole year, and they’re something that I will keep in my collection for years to come”, I consider them an investment. If I’m only going to wear something once and it’s outrageously expensive I won’t buy it because it just doesn’t make sense to spend so much on something with minimal wear.

Is this adding to my wardrobe?

I sometimes fall into the trap of buying too many black shoes. And while I do wear black shoes quite often, if I find a pair of shoes that I like but I have five other pairs like it I won’t buy them. The same approach applies to the rest of my wardrobe. If I buy something it’s got to add to my wardrobe by bringing in a new element rather than just purely adding to my wardrobe.

Is the fabric and make a good quality?

I always look at something and consider the fabric and how well it’s made. I believe if you spend a little more on good fabrics and good construction then you’ll be able to have something for many years to come and get plenty of use out of it. Where possible always look for natural fabrics such as cotton, wool and silk.

Do I really need this?

Most women will identify with this question! And often the answer to this question will negate all the other questions before this one. While there will always be exceptions (a girl can never have too many bags, right?) generally if you answer this question honestly you’ll be able to stop yourself from buying something that you’re not really going to use.

What do you consider before making a big purchase?

Fashion

Hermes Oran sandal: Are they worth it?

30th January, 2023

Designer pieces generally come with an investment sized price tag ie they’re expensive so I know I want to be 100% sure that I’m going to be happy with what I’m purchasing. I tend to ask around amongst friends and colleagues if I know they have a similar piece to gauge how happy they are with it, or I’ll do a Google search to see what comments pop up online. Reviews are often a great way to see whether something is going to work and whether it’s worth the splurge.

With that in mind I thought I’d start a series reviewing popular designer styles, whether it’s shoes, bags or other accessories that I currently have in my closet and give you my honest review. The first cab off the rank is the Hermes Oran sandal. This style is super popular, and a staple in many a fashion lover’s wardrobe. You’ll also often see it popping up in outfits all over Instagram. It’s a simple style featuring the signature ‘H’ strap and comes in a variety of different colours. Currently, it retails in Australia for $1155.

So, is it worth it? Well, here are my answers to some popular questions asked about this particular shoe.

Do they run true to size?

Yes, I went with my usual size. If you can though, definitely try them on in store as sandals, particularly slides have to be such a snug and perfect fit.

How versatile are they?

I’ve found them to be really versatile. I’ve been wearing them all summer with a matching set like the above to pants and a top.

Are they comfortable?

This is the million dollar questions with shoes. Yes, the leather is very soft so I never get an blisters or anything but they don’t have much support so I wouldn’t recommend doing a big day of walking in them.

What is the wear and tear like?

Good. I haven’t had mine for a long long time but they have kept their shape so far.

Which colour is the most versatile?

I have the yellow which I love but if you are looking for something really versatile I would suggest a neutral colour like black tan or white to ensure you can wear it with more items in your wardrobe.

Would I buy them again?

Yes, I’d love them in other colours.

If you have this shoe in your closet, what are your thoughts? Do you rate them? What are some things people should keep in mind when buying them?