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how-to

Fashion

How to style a tank top

30th October, 2023

When it comes to the big trends for spring/summer expect the humble tank top to be front and centre. This accessible, affordable staple has become quite the must-have. It’s not surprising given how versatile it is. You can take one top and turn it into myriad outfits, all befitting different occasions. It’s also perfect for the warmer weather and can easily be layered with other pieces to combat transeasonal weather.

Like any good basic, the tank top is readily available in a rainbow of colours. Whilst it’s fun to inject a little colour into your wardrobe, if you want to get the most bang for your buck, then you definitely need to invest in two hues: white and black. Both will see you through the next few months with ease and can easily be dressed up or down. The range of outfits you can build with a tank is almost endless. Pair it with jeans and sneakers for an effortless off duty look, or a wide leg pant and slide for an easy, breezy resortwear vibe. If you want to dress it up, a tank worn underneath a blazer cool is cool personified.

There’s a range of different tank tops at various price points available, everything from designer to your local chain store which means you can invest as little or as much as you want into this trend. When choosing however, make sure you aim for a good quality cotton which can withstand multiple uses without losing its shape, something lighter cottons sometimes have trouble with.

So, get ready to unlock a range of different outfits with just one addition to your wardrobe.

 

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Pop a tank on under suiting and you’re all set. It’s a particularly great option to wear under a suit as it’s fairly streamlined and won’t look bulky under a jacket or tucked into pants.

 

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If suiting isn’t your thing, definitely still consider the tank as a top option under jackets. In this instance, this look is given a modern twist by wearing it with denim shorts.

 

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Jeans, sneakers and a tank is one of the easiest pairings you can do. You can pretty much wear this outfit all year round so it’s a great one to have up your sleeve.

 

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For those who want to push the fashion envelope a bit, embrace bike pants with a tank and shirt and you’re set. It’s also a great way to go from the gym to coffee or brunch without missing a beat.

As I’ve already mentioned, a black tank gets equal billing with a white one in any wardrobe. This monochrome look is great for a dressy yet still relaxed look.

 

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A wide leg pant works beautifully with a tank as it helps to achieve some balance with the volume of the pants. A more nipped in silhouette up top complements a more billowy, relaxed fit bottom.

 

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Fashion

How to elevate your date night outfits

7th October, 2023

Heading out for an evening to ourselves is something Luke and I try and do every so often. I think when you have been together for awhile, especially when kids enter the picture it’s nice to be able to reconnect and remember what it was like during the early days. It’s also the perfect time to enjoy the process of pulling a great outfit together and getting all dolled up! Date night outfits are one of my most favourite looks to pull together — here are a few of my tips on how to elevate your next ensemble.

Push your boundaries

I always like to make a point of wearing something that’s just a little more special than what Luke would normally see me in. That could be something such as a great dress that I’ve been wanting to wear or just an outfit that I would never usually wear when I’m just in everyday mode. Also it’s a great time to experiment with a new look — if there’s a particular trend you’ve been wanting to try or something that you’ve been eyeing but haven’t found the occasion to wear it, why not do it during date night?

Pay attention to your accessories

When I’m looking after the girls, simplicity and comfort is key. I don’t have time to fuss around with earrings or bags because kids just don’t wait for things like that! So I always like to make an effort when it’s date night. Statement earrings are always a great option to consider but it’s also the perfect time to introduce a new bag into the mix or a beautiful necklace. I know it’s easy to stick to your tried and tested pieces but consider this the perfect time to do something a little different.

Throw practicality out the door

Date night is the perfect excuse to wear something that’s a little bit sexy and yes, completely impractical. That means letting your fave silk blouse out for the evening or wearing your favourite skyscraper heels—it’s the time to just focus on feeling and looking great and not if you’re going to be able to run after a toddler in your outfit.

Wear amazing shoes

I think wearing a killer pair of shoes is always a guaranteed way to feel great. If you’re always in flats or sneakers then the next time you head out, take it up a notch and let your beloved statement heels take centre stage. Think of it as a way of getting more out of your wardrobe too.

Spend time on your beauty look

Don’t let your look down by forgetting about your hair and makeup. Date night’s actually the perfect reason to stop and take your time with your beauty look. Try a new hairstyle or do a smoky eye or statement lip and enjoy the process of getting all dressed up.

Fashion

How to look after a designer bag

4th October, 2023

Investing in a designer bag is such a special thing and given the amount of money spent, you want to keep that bag in pristine condition! I think it’s always worth the time and effort to ensure a special bag is well cared for as the quality of a designer bag generally means you will have it for years to come. If you give it the proper TLC, you’ll definitely guarantee it’s going to be around for decades. On the other hand, neglecting it will mean that you’ll likely end up with a bag that will quickly look worn out and tired.

So, how do you look after a designer bag? Here are a few things you should definitely include in your care routine.

Use the dust bag

Don’t let that dust bag just well, gather dust. It’s there for a reason. Consider the dust bag as your bag’s protective armour. When your bag is not in use, be sure to store it in the dust bag so you can protect it from dust, but also dirt, moisture, and potentially any insects. All of these things can severely damage your bag.

Stuff the inside to retain shape

Bags quickly lose shape if you just toss them in the cupboard and forget about them. To avoid your bag from becoming crushed and misshapen, stuff it with tissue paper before storing (this is why you should keep the paper that comes with it when you buy it). This will help keep its structure and avoid it from sagging when it’s not in use.

Keep bag away from direct sunlight

Don’t store your bag in direct sunlight for prolonged periods of time. The sun can be very harsh and can actually cause the leather to fade. Keep it in a cool, dark place – in the dust bag!

Don’t hang it by the handles

It’s tempting to throw a bag you use often on a door knob to keep it within easy reach but please don’t do this. Hanging a bag by its handles can cause the handles to stretch. If your bag has a metal chain or other strap, tuck it into the bag when it is being stored to avoid any discolouration or the strap being crushed or stretched.

Avoid loose items inside

Try to avoid just throwing things loosely in your bag where possible. You will leave your bag susceptible to things like leaks, ink stains, scratches and dirt when you have an assortment of belongings just moving around inside like a random pen or your keys. Invest in a bag organiser if you really want to keep the inside of your bag in pristine condition.

Don’t put it on the ground

This is a hard thing to do I know, but if your bag doesn’t have the little metal feet at the bottom try not to leave it sitting on the ground. This is the perfect way for dirt, stains and scratches to happen to expensive leather. I know it’s only at the bottom, but I’m of the frame of mind that if you’ve invested in something beautiful, it’s worth the effort to keep it that way.

Beauty

How to do a bronze cat eye makeup look

13th September, 2023

 

 

I’m lucky to be able to work with some great makeup artists as part of my job, but most of the time I’m left to my own devices and have to create a glam makeup look for an event that doesn’t take ages to do. Because of this, I’ve managed to hone in on some go-to looks that are easy yet impactful and don’t take all that long to do.

This bronze cat eye look only takes me a few minutes and doesn’t involve a million steps. It’s quickly become one of my favourites for this reason. Plus, it always looks polished and refined, but didn’t require me to have to employ a number of complicated steps like shading and contouring. As a time-poor mum, I need to get out the door fast!

So, check out my step-by-step guide above and let me know if you decide to try it!

 

What I used:

Foundation: Giorgio Armani Luminous Silk in 5.5

Base eyeshadow: I used a face bronzer called Marc Jacobs O!mega Bronze

Eyeliner: L’Oréal Infallible Gel Automatic Eyeliner in Brown Denim

Eyeshadow as liner: MCo Beauty Eyeshadow Palette in Peachy/Nudes

Brow pencil: Revlon Colorstay 450 Brow Pencil in Soft Blonde

Eyebrow gel: Benefit 24 hour brow setter

Eyelashes: Ardell medium black individual lashes.

Cheeks: Stila Cheek Cream in Peony

Lip pencil: Mac Lip Pencil in Oak

Lipstick: Tarte Maracuja Juicy Lip in Orchid.

Fashion, What I Wore

How to wear wide leg denim

9th August, 2023

 

We’ve been seeing it for some time, but denim silhouettes have slowly been relaxing from skintight skinnies to where we are now with the trend towards wide leg jeans. Wide leg denim might be a little daunting at first, especially if you’re used to more form fitting silhouettes, but if you’ve manage to get into straight leg and tapered denim, you’ll find this style an easy transition. There are a few key things to remember when it comes to how to wear wide leg denim.

The first thing to remember with wide leg denim is that proportions are everything. So when you’re working with a lot of volume at the bottom, you need to be mindful of what you’re wearing up top. Something closer to the body like a tank or tee is great as it helps provide some balance with the more relaxed fit of wide leg jeans. You could also embrace a button down shirt, but make sure it’s tucked in to achieve a cinched in silhouette. The most important thing is to not go with too much volume as it can look overwhelming.

Next, let’s talk footwear. I tend to favour doing a more dressed up look with wide leg denim so I’ll often pair them with heels. I find this works best on my frame, as I’m quite petite so this way wearing heels gives me a little extra height. If you’re on the taller side, you could probably afford to go with a chic sandal or flat as the wide leg silhouette doesn’t feel too squat on someone who is a bit more statuesque.

When it comes to washes, go with what suits your style and works back with the rest of your wardrobe. If you’re dipping your toe into the trend, I actually think white is a great place to start as opposed to blue as it works back with a lot of different hues. It’s a bit easier to make it more wearable. However, you can’t ever really go wrong with a blue wash as it’s eternally classic, whereas black looks chic and a little more dressy. Either way, make it work for you and what you already own.

I think this is one trend item that’s worth experimenting with so don’t be afraid to mix and match different tops and shoe options to create the look that works for you. Either way, this season, it’s definitely about pumping up the volume.

I like the more polished feel wide leg jeans gives to the classic white tee, denim and sneakers combination. Definitely make sure you’ve hemmed your jeans to work with the shoes you’re going to be wearing it the most as when wide leg denim is too long it can look sloppy.

 

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What did I say about white denim? Paired with a great tank and accessorising with a top handle bag (straw is perfect for summer) you’ll easily create a casual go-to look for events that require a little more polish, but don’t want to look too overdressed.

Love the 70s vibe of this outfit. A button down is great paired with a pair of wide leg jeans, but I’d opt for a higher heel (in this instance they’ve gone for a wedge) for a more flattering finish.

 

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Fashion

How to… elevate neutrals

5th March, 2023

If there’s one thing that I think every wardrobe needs it’s a great assortment of neutrals. They’re ideal for mixing and matching and are ultra versatile, but because of this, they might be considered a little flat or boring. But I think they’re anything but. In fact I think they’re the ultimate workhorses of any wardrobe because not only can they be treated as a blank canvas but they can also be quite impactful by employing accessories or various textures into the mix.

The benefit of working with neutrals is that it provides the perfect base to start with and allows you to elevate them easily with a few simple style tricks. Here’s how to elevate neutrals with ease.

Mixing textures

A great way to bring neutrals to life is to mix textures. By bringing a tactile element into your look whether it’s mixing a soft cashmere with a luxe linen in a neutral shade, you can instantly add a little depth to your look. Also incorporating fabrics like denim and leather into your outfit can easily amp up any neutral tones.

Accessorising

As always accessories are key. Given that neutrals tend to be quite pared back, they can easily be lifted by adding strong accoutrements like jewellery, shoes or bags. This will also allow you to incorporate a few contrasting colours and textures into the mix making for a more impactful outfit.

Colour is a great way to increase the impact of a neutral piece

Adding touches of colour

The beauty of neutral tones is that it acts like a blank canvas and you can easily incorporate touches of colour into it. Choosing strong shades like punchy pinks or deep blues act as the perfect complementary hues, instantly lifting a palette featuring beiges, creams, tans or whites.

Block and ombre styling

Playing with a neutral colour palette and its various shades makes for an eye catching look. You could try working similar neutral shades together for a colour blocking effect — something that was quite prominent at this year’s Fashion Week. Another alternative is working with one neutral colour and incorporating varying shades of it for an ombre effect.

Embrace neutrals in its various iterations

The beauty of neutrals is that it works in almost any form. A sleek neutral blazer adds an elevated seasonal touch to a spring/summer look and works beautifully when layered with other neutrals such as beige, white, tan and fawn. Alternatively a lightweight neutral summer trench works as a great topper with most outfits. Wide leg pants or a simple basic tank or tee are also perfect for this time of year. 

How do you elevate the neutral tones in your wardrobe?

Fashion

How to get more wear from your event wardrobe

22nd May, 2022

While event wear is a lot of fun to wear, it’s also usually the kind of thing that can end up collecting dust in the back of the wardrobe as you wait for the next event to roll around. And it’s such a waste. Event wear is usually extra beautiful because it’s designed to be worn for special occasions, and it can be expensive as a result. The problem with this is that the cost per wear plummets if it’s just going to sit in your closet until a wedding invitation arrives or the next milestone birthday rolls around.

So, it’s time to let them come out and play on a more regular basis. The key is what to pair it with so you don’t feel ridiculously overdressed. I’ve managed to collect a lot of dressy pieces because of the races and other events so, I’ve had to learn how to re-use and recycle. If you’re not entirely sure where to begin, below are my tried and tested methods for turning event wear into day wear.

Mix with casual items

If you’ve got a closet full of dressy pieces such as cocktail dresses and suits, never fear, you can definitely still wear them in your weekly rotation but you just need to temper their dressiness with casual pieces. So for example you could take a pair of suit pants and wear it with a tee and sneakers for a smart casual look. The same goes for a glitzy top which can be worn back with denim, or a dress which can be paired with sneakers or slides.

Layer with other pieces

Layering is a really valuable styling tool because it can instantly transform a look. Wear a denim jacket over a cocktail dress and it tames its event vibes. The same goes for wearing a suit blazer with a denim. Or popping on a white shirt over a dress and knotting it, to achieve an effortless, yet polished look.

A basket bag like this is a great way to dress down event wear
Add natural textures

By incorporating more relaxed textures into a dressy ensemble you dial down its glam factor. So if you want to take your fave LBD out for a spin during the day, pair it with a wicker basket to give it a more casual spin. While pairing a linen shirt with dress pants can make it slightly less dressy and far more everyday wear.

Dress it down with flats or sneakers

Your choice of footwear is everything, so if you want to tame an event look, ditch the heels and pair it with flats or sneakers. The beauty of this is that shoes like slides, sneakers and sandals are so commonplace now that you can get away with wearing them in virtually any setting. A midi dress usually designated for fancy dinners can all of a sudden be work appropriate by pairing it with a pair of leather slides and a lightweight jacket. While a skirt you’d reserve for a night out can be dressed down with a plain tee.

Tell me—how do you recycle your event wear?

Fashion, Fashion & Beauty

The beginner’s guide to wearing brights

23rd March, 2022

Bright, vibrant colours are perfect for when you want to inject some energy into your look or want to make a statement but it can understandably be quite daunting. If you’re usually a neutrals girl or favour dark hues then rocking a punchy shade of yellow or red can feel a little unfamiliar. But rest assured it doesn’t have to be scary! If you want to dip your toe into a little colour but are not sure where to start, then read on for how to make it your friend and all you need to know on how to wear bright colours…

Use it as an accent

If you don’t want to jump straight in with bright clothing then try incorporating a colourful accessory into your look as a first step. You could wear a colourful head band, a pair of vibrant heels or a bold hued bag. It will instantly lift your outfit but it’s not such a huge leap that you’ll feel uncomfortable.

Work it back with neutrals

If you don’t usually wear colour make it a little more wearable by pairing it with neutrals. Think shades like white, cream or grey which allow a bright hue to pop.

Try it with denim

The thing with denim is that you can wear it with everything — particularly bright shades. Whether you wear a skirt or your fave pair of jeans, treat denim as a neutral and pair it with a colourful top for a look that you’ll feel instantly comfortable and confident in.

Don’t wear it from head to toe

As a beginner you may be tempted to throw caution to the wind and just go all in with colour. The thing with brights is that you need do it with some restraint to avoid it from being too overwhelming. Wearing a bright orange from head to toe can feel a little over the top rather than look fresh and modern.

Tell me—are you a fan of bright hues or are you a neutrals or all black girl through and through?

Fashion

Commit this The Row outfit to memory—it’s going to be your new go-to look

9th June, 2021

 

 

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A post shared by Kendall (@kendalljenner)

Every so often an outfit comes along that’s just so simple in its execution that you know it’s going to be copied the world over. Because while this look from The Row’s latest spring/summer collection may be pared back, it evokes style by the bucketload. Kendall Jenner wore the above head-to-toe look from the brand while out and about in New York City and it has now been dissected and analysed by major fashion outlets and no doubt screen shotted in abundance. Why? The beauty of this outfit is that it’s so damn accessible.

If you looked in most people’s wardrobes you’d be able to source most if not all of Kendall’s ensemble. Everyone has a white tee, most people would have a white shirt and beige pants are the kind of thing that you don’t have to move heaven and earth to find, nor completely max out your credit card to buy (well, unless you’re actually buying the same pair from The Row!). And the accessories of minimalist sandals and a black belt, are easily sourced, and so great for working back with other existing looks in your wardrobe. It’s all about a high end look that’s so incredibly wearable.

Also, don’t be afraid to take the basic principles of this look and replicate it with other pieces you have in a different colour palette. You could pop on a white shirt virtually over any coloured pant, while you could eschew beige and go for something darker or go all the way to a crisp white (Kendall was also spotted in such a look). As long as you’re doing a shirt nonchalantly thrown over a white tee and worked back with tailored trousers and wholeheartedly evoking a minimalist aesthetic, you’re good.

And let’s not forget just how comfy this look would be to wear! It’s unfussy, and also who wouldn’t want to be rocking a white tee and relaxed trousers, all day, everyday. Think of it as servicing your lockdown loungewear addiction but with a way more stylish twist. I don’t know about you, but if I can wear an outfit that’s polished, but would be comparable to my fave relaxation pieces (yes, even the sandals are a really low heel and so walkable)  in terms of wearability, you can bet I’m going to give it a five-star rating.

Scroll down to start shopping your must-have The Row inspired pieces or shop the OG look from head-to-toe!

The Original Look

 

The Look For Less

 

Fashion

How to do biz-leisure

6th July, 2020

One of the best things to come out of living in iso for so long was that loungewear has become a legitimate option for workwear. Enter biz-leisure, a trend recently highlighted by US Harper’s Bazaar which sees the amalgamation of business wear with comfortable loungewear.

Plenty of us would be quite familiar with this way of dressing. It’s the kind of style that’s made for Zoom calls which often involves working dressy pieces with more relaxed options. Think a blazer and shirt worn back with leggings and sneakers. It’s polished but isn’t overly so and strikes a nice, comfortable balance.

If you’re finding yourself slowly emerging back into the workplace, and straddling working from home punctuated with days at the office then here’s how to master this trend.

Balance is key

As great as tracksuit pants are, it’s likely you won’t just get away with wearing your trackies to work and declaring that you’re doing biz-leisure. It’s still important to strike the right balance between relaxed pieces and work-appropriate items, so be sure to incorporate polished separates into the mix like blazers, button down shirts, luxe knits and tailored pants.

Choose polished loungewear

Believe it or not, not all loungewear is created equal. While your fave hoodie from year 12 may be as comfortable as it gets, it’s probably not the kind of thing that you can get away with wearing as office wear. Opt for matching sets, go for fabrics such as wool, cashmere, silk and cotton and make sure that at least one element maintains a structured silhouette to avoid it looking unkempt.

Blazers and shirts are a key addition to any biz-leisure look

Go for neutral pieces

A colour palette that involves neutral shades such as beige, white and cream along with classic hues like navy, black and grey are ideal for workwear, and also so versatile for a casual look. Pieces such as this ensure longevity and allow you to create so many different looks.

Sneakers are key

If there’s one thing you absolutely need in your biz-leisure wardrobe it’s a pair of white sneakers. If you want to keep them work-appropriate, opt for a minimalist option that’s plain white, with minimal, if any embellishment or decoration.

Opt for classic and neutral palettes

Keep it comfortable

The beauty of biz-leisure is that it’s designed to be comfy. So embrace relaxed pieces such as buttery soft silk pants or a cosy wool knit. The silhouettes shouldn’t be too rigid, but evoke an understated nonchalance.

What do you think of biz-leisure? Will you embrace it?