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Fashion

9 spring racing trends to embrace in 2023

11th October, 2023

Spring racing is one of my fave times on the racing calendar as there’s always plenty of room to have fun with fashion. Whether it’s a colourful Melbourne Cup day look or something feminine and classic for Oaks Day, there’s scope to level up your ensemble with everything from your colour choice to accessories and most importantly your outfit. Luckily there are so many spring racing fashion trends that will resonate with any style or budget.

Adhering to the dress code is obviously top priority but if you want your look to be up-to-the-minute there are definitely some big trends you should have on your radar. From the colours to embrace to the silhouettes that will be huge and the finishes and details that will take centre stage, every fashion lover will definitely want to jump into all the big looks for spring racing this year. They’re all winners!

 

Maxi skirts

If you’re not really a dress person or you just want to change your look up a little, the maxi skirt is a great option for the races. A skirt with a longer hemline looks ultra elegant and put together making it easy to adhere to any race day dress code. Also, there are so many gorgeous iterations of the maxi skirt available now, with everything from prints to ruffles and embellishments all levelling up the look.

 

Suits

Suiting is here to stay. It’s such a sleek look for the races and it’s ultra comfortable too. Also, there’s a plethora of options and styles available right now, from pastel hues to origami folds or just a classic double breasted style, you can’t go wrong with a suit.

 

Fancy flats

If you’re tired of the agony of being in heels for the entire duration of a race day, this spring racing fashion trend is for you. The humble flat has had itself a bit of a makeover and it’s now ready to make a statement. Look for bold embellishment or interesting textures to turn flats into something that can not only anchor a look but turn it into something glam.

 

 

Lace

Look for lace to be a big trend trackside this season. Don’t be deterred however it wearing top-to-toe lace in one garment such as a dress isn’t your thing. You can embrace pieces with lace as an accent piece whether it’s a lace collar an insert detail or sleeve.

 

Red

It’s not for the faint hearted, but red is most definitely one colour that is going to be everywhere when it comes to racewear. It’s big, it’s bold, it has extra personality and it’s the kind of hue that will take any spring racing look and make it one that will most definitely turn heads.

 

 

Art prints on dresses

I wore a piece like this earlier in the year (see above) and it’s a spring racing fashion trend that’s definitely going to be huge this season. What’s not to love about a dress that’s a walking piece of art? Artistic flourishes whether it’s a watercolour print or splashes of paint, will turn any outfit into a standout piece.

 

 

Off the shoulder dresses and tops

There’s always something ultra flattering about an off the shoulder dress or top. Show off your decolletage at the races this season, whether it’s an elegant midi dress or a flirty mini style. It’s definitely one to bookmark for some of the big race days in the calendar.

 

 

Pastels

If look-at-me red isn’t really your thing the other colour palette that’s going to be huge is all things pastel. The soft hues are perfect for spring racing events, and look great in any iteration whether it’s a dress, skirt or even a suit.

 

 

Bows

Details are everything in a winning race day look and this season, you can embrace all things with a bow on it. Whether it’s bow finishes on a dress or bow headwear or playful bows on your shoes, this sweetest of trends will be everywhere.

Fashion, Fashion & Beauty

The winter essentials I’m wearing non-stop

30th July, 2023

During summer I like nothing more than being able to experiment with different styles and tend to embrace plenty of prints and colour and can go from dresses one minute to shorts and skirts the next. In winter however, I tend to favour a few key pieces, particularly strong basics, utilising them largely for layering and forming the foundation for a lot of my looks. This winter, here’s what I’m wearing with great frequency.

A statement coat

Coats are always a key feature of my winter looks and I always tend to go for one statement coat to take me through the season. One coat I love is the above checked Viktoria and Woods coat. It’s a few seasons old but the striking pattern elevates even the most simplest of looks, and with the grey shades, it’s extremely versatile too.

White shirt

It’s considered a fashion staple for a very good reason—white shirts are high on the versatility scale and always look classic and polished. Plus it’s a great layering piece under blazers, jackets, coats, sweaters and cardigans so it’s always something I come back to time and time again.

Relaxed denim

I’m favouring relaxed denim styles this season, particularly straight leg and boyfriend styles. The silhouette is modern and fresh and works brilliantly with everything from a white tee to a tank and button down shirts. Plus it’s the kind of style that can be worn year round and is all kinds of comfortable.

Cosy knits

I wear knits all throughout winter so I have managed to build up a collection in key colours that can be mixed and matched with a variety of different looks. I often go for staple colours including neutrals such as white, cream, camel and tan, along with navy, khaki and black.

Loungewear sets

Largely inspired by living in lockdown for months, I’ve really been getting into matching loungewear sets. I’m really loving that tracksuits in particular have become a thing as I can wear them to stay comfy and on trend. The great thing about sets is that the pieces can be worn separately or worn together with a great coat for a smart casual look.

Tailored pants

While I am in jeans quite a bit I have been loving tailored pants such as this and this which are as comfortable as being in denim but have more polish. Additionally they’re also as easy to work back with a variety of different pieces and are easily dressed up or down.

What are some of your favourite winter pieces right now?

Fashion, Shop

Style update: 10 things to add to your summer wardrobe

7th December, 2022

Summer is without a doubt one of my favourite times of year to dress for and to shop for. I think the warm weather means there’s more scope for experimentation and having fun. I love working with different silhouettes, and during summer there’s so many outfit options to choose from, from dresses to skirts, shorts and pants. It’s a great time to mix and match existing pieces with new season updates, and there’s just something about resortwear dressing that’s synonymous with this time of year that makes styling looks even more enjoyable. Here’s what your summer wardrobe needs.

 
Brights

There’s always a place for neutrals but summer 2022 is going to be about vivid, vibrant shades. Think bright shades of yellows, oranges, pinks and greens as being the key colour palette of the season. Now is not the time to be a wallflower!

 

 
Cut-outs

Cut-out details have been around for awhile but it shows no signs of waning. Expect to see them featuring a plenty in many summer drops from various brands. 

 

 
Linen

Linen isn’t exactly new but therein lies its appeal — it’s timeless. There’s something about it that’s perfect for summer and the holiday vibes it evokes. It’s lightweight and effortless, making it the ideal option for soaring temperatures. Expect to see linen featuring in everything from dresses to pants and shorts. 

 

 
Raffia accessories

Whether it’s a bag or shoes, or both, expect raffia to be one of the fabrications to watch out for this season. It’s a great way to inject a little more of a summery vibe to your look. 

 

 
Geometric sunglasses

Sunglasses are one of the easiest ways to update a look for the new season ahead. If you’re on the hunt for new frames, this summer look to embrace a slightly geometric vibe with strong angles. 

 

 
Feathers

A little drama is always a great thing when it comes to a look, and you can’t get more theatrical or dramatic than feather embellishments. Whether it’s a showstopper pair of heels or a trim on a pair of pants, feathers are definitely having a moment. 

 

 
Crop tops

Baring a little midriff is going to go hand in hand with summer dressing this year. There are plenty of options to choose from whether it’s a tank or part of a co-ord set or an off the shoulder number, flashing a little skin is definitely one way to add an on trend feel to an existing look from your wardrobe.

 

 
Chunky shoes

From a pair of wedges, to a platform heel or a dad sandal, expect shoe silhouettes to be on the chunkier side this summer. A slight nod to Y2K dressing, shoe options are definitely heading into slightly more statement-making territory.

 

 
Vests

Who would’ve thought something like a suit vest would become a trend to watch out for? But lo and behold, it’s definitely one way to add both a polished feel and an on trend touch to a summer look.

 

 
Pyjama dressing

Yes, you have permission to wear your “pyjamas” in public! Pyjama silhouettes, from wide leg pants to button down oversized shirts are one of the looks to watch out for this season.  

What’s currently on your spring shopping list?

Fashion

The shirting options you need in your life

21st October, 2022

When it comes to versatility there’s nothing like good ol’ fashioned shirting. A great button down shirt is such a great staple to have in your closet. It can be worn tucked into denim, styled open with a tank underneath, even as a cover up at the beach. And therein lies the beauty in a versatile piece, it works in so many different ways and you can really tailor it to whatever the occasion may be. The beauty in shirting is that there are several different options available from prints to bold hues or a classic crisp white. If you’re planning to embrace these, definitely look to these four key styles.

 

Stripes

I don’t think you can ever really go wrong with a striped shirt. It can be dressed up or down, is ultra flattering and is even majorly trending right now. Embracing a stripe adds a touch of polish to any outfit, plus it’s eternally stylish.

 

Bold colour

Dare to go bold when it comes to the hues you choose for your shirts. From sunny yellows to vivid pinks and all the colours of the rainbow, dialling up the colour when it comes to shirting is definitely one way to make a statement. You could also use it as the focal point of a look or pair it back with similar hues for an ombre vibe.

 

White

The eternally chic style staple that is a crisp white shirt is a guaranteed long term investment. A white shirt can have so many different uses, both casually and even super dressed up (who could forget Sharon Stone in that Gap button down at the Oscars or Zendaya’s achingly cool cropped Valentino shirt at this year’s Academy Awards). The white shirt has also had so many iterations, from pared back to ultra feminine with puffed sleeves and the gorgeous oversized collar, there’s definitely a style to suit anyone.

 

Denim

I’ve always been a fan of denim shirting and it’s definitely a style that has showed no signs of waning. Whether it’s a traditional shirt or shacket style (a shirt/jacket hybrid), it’s piece that will have a place in any wardrobe. Bookmark it for your next weekend look — it’s the perfect way to inject a fashion element into your off duty style.

 

Fashion

Hottest spring racing trends you’ll be seeing trackside

19th October, 2022

Spring racing is here and with it all the upcoming trends you can expect to see trackside. What I love about dressing for the races is there’s so much scope to tap into what’s currently very “now”. While I always adhere to the dress code, there is something quite fun about being able to unleash your individual style into every outfit. It’s also the perfect opportunity to roadtest a few of my fave trends. There are a few below that I’m embracing now, and a few more that I have my eye on. So whatever race day you’re heading to (don’t forget Melbourne Cup Day is just around the corner!) here are a few trends to bookmark.

Suiting

I’m all about suiting when it comes to events and you can definitely do it for the races. Try to embrace a little extra flair by opting for vivid, bold colours and always make sure that the suit fits perfectly. It can make or break the look so make sure you get any jackets or pants tailored beforehand.

 

60s vibe minis

You can thank Valentino for this trend. You can feel comfortable embracing 60s inspired minis trackside, just make sure to strike the right balance with the rest of your look by taking a slightly more conservative approach with what you wear up top.

 

Long dresses

At the opposite end of the spectrum to the mini are the longer hemlines you can expect to see trackside this season. There’s something about a longer dress (think midi or maxi) that always strikes the right elegant note.

 

Pink

Once again, thank you Valentino for this particular colour making a splash this season. Think bold and bright — go forth and embrace your inner Barbie! Whether it’s a dress, a skirt, a suit and more you can’t go wrong with embracing a vibrant pink.

 

Platforms

Don’t be deterred by the height! I’ve actually found platforms to be quite comfortable for the races as they give you slightly more support than regular heels. I’ve seen some really fun iterations of this trend but my fave would have to be the Mary Jane style heel.

 

Textured florals

Zimmermann have done some really beautifully textured florals and it’s certainly inspiration for a great race day look. ‘Tis spring after all! Look for pieces embellished or printed with gorgeous blooms — think ultra feminine and romantic.

 

Fashion

How to get more wear out of your wardrobe

28th August, 2022

Have you ever bought something only to find that you wear it once and it ends up collecting dust in your wardrobe? It’s easy to fall into this trap when we’re flooded with options and an impulse purchase is so easy to make. If you’re in the situation of having an overflowing wardrobe with absolutely nothing to wear then it might be time to rethink your shopping strategy. I’ve managed to hone mine down over the years to pinpoint the purchases that I know will have multiple outings. If you want to avoid buying something that’s a one hit wonder it pays to keep a few things in mind—it’s what I use when I’m considering buying something and I guarantee it works…

Stick to neutral tones

I always try to keep items like dresses and staples like coats in neutral tones. With dresses I’ll always opt for a little black dress, a white dress, denim or khaki. And with a staple like a blazer or coat I always opt for black because it’s a colour that’s really versatile. When it comes to basics (my everyday wear such as t-shirts and jumpers) I always stick to neutrals. Whilst a pink t-shirt is fun I’m guaranteed to get more than a few wears out of a plain white tee. Also if you want to add a bit of colour to your wardrobe it’s easier to work back with a simple muted colour palette than try to work with multiple bold hues.

Buy separates

I think separates are always a really good option because you can mix and match them. It’s much easier to wear something like a quality silk blouse or a great skirt in various ways as you can just switch out the top or bottom when you want to change up your look. One thing I’m loving is that more and more labels are releasing matching separates which not only look chic when paired together but are great when worn with other pieces too.

Keep statement pieces on top

If you find something that’s a bit of a showstopper, find something that sits on top such as a jacket or coat, which you can throw on over an outfit. Everyone remembers if you wear a really bold dress but if you wear a striking  jacket you could mix and match it and nobody would really even notice if you wear it multiple times. I’m a fan of pieces that have a bit of personality and are a standout piece but if I want to guarantee maximum wear out of it then outerwear is the best way to incorporate it into my look.

Don’t be a slave to trends

There are multiple trends each season and while it’s fun to try them you don’t always have to wear a trend from head to toe. You can incorporate a trend into your look with a really great jacket or small accessories. For example if you want to get tap into a 70s vibe, buy one trend piece such as a pair of flared jeans. It doesn’t mean that you have to look like you stepped off the set of Saturday Night Fever. Exercise a bit of restraint when it comes to trends as invariably they will come and go.

Avoid too much embellishment

If you want certain pieces to last season after season avoid having too much embellishment on it. Having a lot of detail on a particular garment makes it more difficult to work back with other items in your wardrobe. Not only that, it also it makes it easily identifiable so it’s harder to have it be a chameleon piece that can be worn for multiple occasions. If you look at the celebs who tend to outfit repeat, they’re always wearing a classic piece that’s simple and streamlined.

What are some ways you get more wear out of pieces in your wardrobe?

Fashion

The biggest trends I spotted overseas

1st August, 2022

I thoroughly loved the fashion in Italy

One of the great things about being able to travel again is having the opportunity to check out what everyone else is wearing on the other side of the world. Most of my trip was spent in places known for their style and this vacation certainly delivered as far as wardrobe inspiration goes. From London to Paris and various parts of Italy, it was a non-stop sartorial journey as I saw great outfit after great outfit, and started spotting trends aplenty. Also, as I was able to enjoy European summer, I got a sneak peek at what’s to come later in the year and I’m already prepping my wardrobe for it! While I loved so many things, these are the trends that I predict will be huge come spring/summer in Australia.

Matching sets

I’m a huge fan of matching sets so I was very pleased to see that it’s a trend that doesn’t seem to be waning in popularity. I saw co-ordinating pieces everywhere, but in particular it was all about a silk shirt and matching silk pants in bold prints and patterns.

Anything mesh

Believe it or not, it looks like mesh is going to be huge. I saw mesh in various iterations from dresses to tops, but it was absolutely everywhere! I do like this as a trend for summer because you can wear a mesh dress without a slip and turn it into a swimsuit coverup.

Woven handbags

A woven handbag is still the go-to when it comes to a summer bag. I saw some beautiful designer options (check out brands like Celine, Chloe, Loewe for some fun pieces) but there were also some great non-branded pieces that made for great carryalls.

Feathers

Want to add a touch of fanciness to your outfit? Definitely embrace the feathers trend. From a feather cuff detail or full on feathers, it adds glamour to your summer look.

Crop tops and mini skirts

While it’s not entirely my thing these days, I did see the crop top and mini skirt combination everywhere. If it’s not entirely your thing, you could tap into it by wearing a crop with high waisted shorts or a mini with an oversized button down.

Which trend do you think you’ll get on board with this summer?

Fashion

The trends I loved at Fashion Week

26th May, 2022

I often like to play favourites when it comes to Fashion Week. I always have a mental list of looks I loved to trends I’m planning to embrace. Given the focus of Australian Fashion Week is resortwear, there’s always plenty of summery looks to fall in love with. This year was no exception. I saw so many fresh, modern, fun trends to get behind when the warm weather kicks in. If you’re a fan of prints, colour and flirty silhouettes then you’re definitely going to be happy with what’s to come. Check out a few of the standout Australian Fashion Week trends that caught my eye.

Suiting

Suiting has firmly planted itself as a trend for the upcoming season. If you’re not really a suit person, I definitely think the current crop, with ultra flattering silhouettes and fun prints will change you’re mind. It’s a great way to do a polished look with a healthy injection of fun.

Bold colours

You can expect colour to be dialled up plenty come spring/summer. From sunshine yellow to forest green and vibrant pinks, it’s all about turning up the saturation.

Print on print

I saw plenty of gorgeous prints throughout Fashion Week, and loved the print on print trend. It’s definitely a statement making look and one way to refresh an outfit by working two prints together.

Cut outs

I have always been a fan of cut outs so was happy to see that they’re still a firm fixture with many designers’ collections. A cut out is one way to add an injection of sexiness to a look, while being an interesting design feature and breaking up a block silhouette.

Shift dresses

I have quite the soft spot for shift dresses so was pleased to see them come down the runway a number of times. It’s such a simple, classic silhouette but I love the fresh spin they were given be featuring everything from embellishments to bold colours.

Maxis

Look for the maxi dress to take centre stage come spring/summer. Whether it’s a print or a bold hue, it’s definitely an easy go-to when we welcome the warm weather again.

Voluminous sleeve

There’s something about a voluminous sleeve that adds a touch of drama to any silhouette, whether it’s a dress, a top, a jacket… It instantly makes a statement and is one way to ensure that your look is anything but boring.

Mini skirts

If maxis aren’t your thing then you’ll be pleased to know that we can also expect hemlines to get shorter if Fashion Week was anything to go by. The modern mini looks fresh, and works beautifully when worn as a matching set. I’m definitely embracing this trend.

Tell me-which trends do you see yourself wearing?

Fashion

The 2022 trends I’m loving

19th January, 2022

The start of a new year is always a fresh slate in the wardrobe department—I look at it as the perfect opportunity to road test new trends and embrace different styles. Seeing what’s coming up in the trend department is one of my favourite things about working in fashion and it’s always exciting to find something that really aligns with how I like to dress. It also opens up a world of new possibilities when it comes to different outfit combinations and how I can refresh existing pieces, which in turn injects some excitement into my closet. So, what 2022 trends am I jumping aboard?

While I love embracing trends, I also believe in not adopting one simply because it happens to be in fashion. Ultimately a trend still has to intrinsically feel like you. I think trends should be used to sprinkle a bit of freshness into your wardrobe but not completely overtake it. Also, I know not every trend will work for me, and I’ve now become secure enough in my style that I know what I will definitely be able to pull off and what won’t. That said, when I do see a trend I love, I do wholeheartedly embrace it, like these…

 

Feathers

I’m loving feather trims. They’re quite out there, and I know they’re not to everyone’s liking but I love how flamboyant they are and how they add a decadent touch to a look. There’s also something about the bold textural element it adds to a piece, and how it can turn something quite classic and traditional and dial up the fun. Case in point: the above black suit.  Black suits are obviously nothing new, but when you add a feathered trim, it feels fresh and just that little more exciting. And ultimately that’s what I think a trend item should do: inject some excitement into your wardrobe.

Corset detailing

I’ve embraced corset detailing in its various iterations from tops to dresses and I’m on board with it all. The thing I’m loving about the corset trend this time around is how it has become an overt part of the design of a garment. Instead of being hidden away, you’re able to see the boning and detail, making it feel a whole lot more modern and less 1800s!

Cut out dresses

Sure it’s not exactly a new trend but I’m still very much in love with cut out dresses. I’ve worn them over the last few years and love how they can instantly change up the entire silhouette of a dress. My fave is a midi dress with a cut out as it has the polished look of a midi hemline but with the fashion forward feel of the cut out feature.

Bold colours

There’s no better time than summer to embrace bold hues! While I know neutrals definitely have a place in a cohesive, functional wardrobe there’s something fun about embracing pops of colour. I think there’s always time to dial up the saturation and go big with a bright, vibrant hue. It feels very now, while also adding some energy and vibrancy to a look. Use it as an accent piece or embrace them as the focal point of a look—either way, definitely give it a try. The one thing like about wearing something bright is that it instantly lifts my mood and helps energise me for the day ahead.

Suiting

I’ve fallen very hard for suits. They’ve had a bit of a renaissance, going from humble corporate staple to a bonafide fashion item, and they’re now a go-to beyond the confines of an office. The options now are way more fun than the suits of the past—they now come in virtually every rainbow colour you can imagine, and have embraced sleeker cuts and bold detailing. They’re also able to be dressed up or down according to your choice of accoutrements. Whether it’s sky high heels or a pair of sneakers, a statement necklace or a simple tee, there are so many directions that you can take a suit depending on how you choose to accessorise it.

Fashion

All the trends I fell in love with at Australian Fashion Week

21st June, 2021

One of my fave looks from Rebecca Vallance

 

One of the best things about attending Fashion Week is the sneak preview at the biggest trends to come in the months ahead. I always inevitably end up with a lengthy list of styles I want to bookmark for my new season shopping, and that’s based on seeing what’s coming down the runway, but also the amazing street style that I see at every show. I always end up trying to find looks that I could potentially wear to upcoming race days, and also any big events I know are on the horizon. And then there are just the pieces I love so much that I simply have to have them! Here are some of the big trends I’m going to be all about in the not so distant future.

 

Trenches

I love a trench for its versatility and classic appeal, so I always sit up and take notice whenever I see it making an appearance during. What I learned over the week, was that trenches, from the traditional silhouette to those with a modern twist are going to be huge.

Elevated details

The one thing that really struck me as I watched show after show was the detail on all the looks. There was some seriously adorable bow detailing at the Rebecca Vallance show while some designers such as Alice McCall and Romance Was Born sent some gorgeous sequinned looks down the runway, some looks even featured it from head-to-toe. I also love the glam feather detailing I saw at the Rebecca Vallance and Alice McCall show, it was both theatrical and just so much fun.

Crop tops

If you think cropped silhouettes were going to quietly disappear then think again. They’re huge again next season. I saw some great crop tops at the Manning Cartell and Alice McCall show that demonstrated that the midriff is most definitely still a key accessory.

Cut-outs

Cut-out details aren’t new, they’ve been around for a few season, but as the Manning Cartell show proved, they’re sticking around. I love cut-outs as they can add a sexy element to a look and can add a contemporary touch to any look.

Suiting

You all know how much I love a suit, and thankfully it’s not going anywhere any time soon. Suiting was quite prominent in the Manning Cartell show, and the were done with a fresh, modern spin. I can definitely see myself adding to my suit collection over the coming months.

Suiting at Manning Cartell

Ultra Minis

There were some fun micro mini hemlines to come down the Anna Quan and Rebecca Vallance runway.  I know it can be a tricky one to pull off, but when paired with the right pieces and accoutrements, it’s really quite the statement-making look.

80/90s Vibe

Fashion is cyclical and the 80s/90s aesthetic is definitely back. If you remembered wearing it the first time, you’ll be glad to know that your fave trends from back in the day including chunky boots and punk-inspired pieces are making a comeback.

Linen

Would it be Australian Fashion Week without some truly beautiful linen? Given the week is all about resortwear, there were definitely some luxe linen looks to love from Bondi Born, Bassike and Anna Quan that just scream summer. I’m counting down the days till we welcome the warm weather again.

Sunshine yellow at Bondi Born

Shirt Dresses

Anna Quan sent some great shirt dresses down the runway and it’s cemented my love for them as a truly versatile style staple. Keep an eye out for the shirt dress, it’s definitely going to be one to watch, and one to welcome into your wardrobe, stat.

Luxe Leather

Bassike is know for its relaxed leisurewear, but what I fell in love with then I saw their show were their leather looks. There were some amazing relaxed leather pants that beautifully meld comfort and style, and I can see them being quite the ‘it’ item.

Monochrome

As always white and black are a winning combination and it’s one I saw a lot coming down the runway throughout the week. The best bit about a monochrome trend is that it’s just so easy to do.