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The Aussie labels I’m shopping for spring

18th September, 2023

Shopping for my spring/summer wardrobe is always one of my favourite things to do because I love the lightweight, easy breezy pieces that are around this time of year. I have my go-to labels when it comes to pieces that are perfect for the upcoming warmer weather and they’re all homegrown. Australian brands do resortwear so beautifully and really know how to build a collection that’s perfectly suited for long balmy days without compromising on style.

Before buying anything I always review what I already own to see what gaps I need to fill, or where I can use new pieces to build on existing looks. For me, it’s all about beautiful dresses, simple cuts and breathable fabrics. I live near the beach so I tend to favour lots of relaxed pieces that I can easily wear from home to sand then out to drinks or wherever the day may take me. And this spring, these are the brands I’m all about.

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Bondi Born

If you want elevated swimwear that’s sleek and sexy you can’t go past Bondi Born. I think Aussie brands just know how to do swim so beautifully and I’m never disappointed with what I see from this brand. The swimsuit I’m wearing above is from a previous collection and it’s so perfect for relaxing by the pool or at the beach, but it can also double as a bodysuit by pairing with with wide leg pants or a skirt or shorts. The cuts are super flattering and I love the simple colour palette they have in their range.

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Steele

My go-to for summer dresses! Whenever I post an outfit shot of me wearing a Steele dress I will inevitably always receive DMs about it. The label just does great prints and their silhouettes are always so beautifully feminine. They really know how to create a dress that ticks all the boxes.

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Camilla and Marc

I’ve been a fan of Camilla and Marc since the very beginning because without fail they always do great on-trend pieces that are perfecting for topping up my wardrobe. I find they always nail the silhouette of the season and will bring out a print or style that’s guaranteed to have people lining up to snap it up! If I’m looking for something new that’s guaranteed to be worn to death and still make a statement I know I can rely on this brand.

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Venroy

Simple lines and styles is what Venroy does best and it’s why I keep coming back. They do such wearable, versatile pieces that I can wear over and over again, and will see me through season after season. I have a weakness for their linen pieces as they’re always so beautifully soft (and perfect for transitioning from spring to summer), but I also can’t go past their slightly bolder pieces. I have a striped set from Venroy that I wore non-stop last summer and will continue doing so this summer.

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Aje

I can always rely on Aje to deliver designs with a healthy injection of fun. Signature puff sleeves, vivid colours, a touch of drama and modern flourishes is why I keep coming back to the brand. I always inevitably end up with an Aje dress or two every season and end up wearing them constantly. A definite go-to brand of mine, I keep coming back to them again and again because I can always rely on their statement-making designs.

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One brand that’s constantly in rotation in my wardrobe is Viktoria and Woods. They do really gorgeous basics, that are versatile yet look and feel elevated. My favourites include their tanks and tees, and tailored pants and jeans. I mix and match so many of their pieces in all my looks, and it’s a brand that is a consistent go-to of mine for not only spring pieces, but also year-round.

What are some of your go-to brands for spring?

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If you like my coin necklace…

6th September, 2023

One of the things I get the most DMs about whenever I wear it is my antique gold coin necklace. It’s something that’s very sentimental to me as it was a gift from my dad and it’s a piece of jewellery I wear almost daily. It also goes with pretty much everything and can be dressed up or down so I honestly can’t live without it. I’ve often worn it back with just a plain white tee and jeans or dressed it up here with a three piece suit! I think that’s always the sign of a great accessory — if you can wear it in multiple ways then you have a winner on your hands.

While I unfortunately can’t give you an exact match for my necklace as my dad had it custom made, there’s definitely plenty of style adjacent options out there to fill that coin necklace shaped gap in your wardrobe! I’ve been doing the rounds of some of my fave sites and have found some great options, with some having a special meaning behind them to make your necklace feel even more special.

My tips for choosing a necklace is to make sure you get a long enough chain that you can wear it with various necklines. Also, a long-ish chain means you can layer it with other shorter necklaces to achieve the perfect jewellery stack. I’ve rounded up gold options in my edit, but I did come across some silver versions in my search if gold isn’t really your thing. I do tend to favour gold though as it has a certain warmth to it that works well with most skin tones. Happy accessorising!

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10 ways to style the ballet flat

4th September, 2023

The ballet flat has had a bit of a resurgence of late and it’s very much the ‘it’ shoe to have. From the classic two tone Chanel ballet flat to the various iterations of the Alaia ballet flat, there’s definitely no shortage of options as far as this shoe style goes. The great thing about it is that it not only delivers on the style front, it’s also the perfect way to do a polished shoe that doesn’t sacrifice comfort. I love that it looks so effortless and you could wear it to so many different occasions. So, how do you style ballet flats?

If it has been awhile since you’ve done a ballet flat, and are a little lost on how to style it, never fear because there are so many different ways to wear it. You don’t need to bookmark it for occasions when you need something dressy, because the 2.0 version of the ballet flat is all about wearing it as you would sneaker. Pop it on with jeans and a tee, pair it with a casual spring dress or event wear it with a suit — the options are endless and you can really have fun with it. This is particularly the case when it comes to colour and embellishments. The black ballet flat will forever be chic, but don’t be afraid to be a little more adventurous. There’s everything from a fishnet style, to a vibrant colour (Valentino fuchsia anyone) to embellishments… this is definitely the ballet flat but with a fun, modern spin.

As with any new shoe, it’s always a great idea to have some inspo up your sleeve when it comes to how you’re going to wear it. That’s why I’e rounded up the below outfits for you to bookmark and call upon for when you’re stumped on ways to wear a ballet flat. Check it out below!

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Vests are a summer must-have

25th August, 2023

The trend towards suiting infiltrating more casual wear has now made its way to the vest/waistcoat. And I have to say, I’m here for it. It’s such a great way to add a polished touch to an outfit whether it’s a pair of jeans, or a wide leg pant. While the pairing of a vest with the matching suit pant, has the put together feel of a suit, but with a more relaxed feel.

As we head towards spring/summer, treat the vest as you would a regular top. Pair it with Bermuda shorts (another big trend to look out for) and sandals or slides or pop it on over denim for an easy breezy look with a polished undertone. I’ve worn mine as part of a matching set which has to be one of my favourite ways to wear it as it just has a cool, effortless feel to it.

Also, it might have a dressy feel to it, but don’t be afraid to pair a vest with slightly more casual pieces. Think a dad sandal or thongs (the dressed up version, not the rubber kind!) or a pair of denim shorts. Also opt for a fabric such as linen (looks particularly great as a matching set) for a style staple that will take you through summer.

Ready to add this to your shopping list? Scroll down for my edit of great vests to add to your spring/summer wardrobe.

A few of my fave vest moments

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The essentials of a great workwear wardrobe

21st August, 2023

With more and more people heading back into the office, there’s never been a better time to revisit your work wardrobe. There’s been an update when it comes to silhouettes and the necessary staples to keep you looking professional, yet on trend. So if you’re still working with the pieces you had pre-pandemic you might be feeling like an update is in order. If you are, it pays to shop smart and hone in on the pieces that are going to make getting dressed for work a little bit easier. These are the must-haves of any workwear wardrobe.

A blazer

The blazer is something that is forever going to be a staple for an office wardrobe. However the current silhouette is all about a boxy fit, or the up-and-coming blazer style of a longline with a nipped in silhouette at the waist. Either will work well when it comes to putting together your looks everyday as they can be paired back with a number of pieces from a midi dress to a wide leg pant and shirt. It’s an easy way to update other existing pieces in your wardrobe too.

A pair of wide leg pants

Wide leg pants are a bonafide staple. They’re perfect for work too as they look smart, feel comfy and can work back with a number of different pieces. When it comes to colours, a black pair is going to take you far, being able to be dressed up or down, however a pair in a neutral colour is also a worthwhile investment. Opt for a button down shirt tucked in (or untucked if you were in a more casual environment) with a blazer thrown over the top for the ultimate office uniform.

A midi dress

The midi length is the perfect hemline for a work dress as it looks polished and put together. However it doesn’t have to be boring! If you’ve been afraid of wearing a midi length – don’t be! Worn back with a heel or a sleek flat, and with a jacket on top, it feels very contemporary. You could stick to plain colours such as black and neutrals or add a subtle pop of colour or print if you’re feeling more adventurous.

A pair of classic pumps

Work shoes should be comfortable and polished, but most of all, it has to look professional. This is where a classic pointy toe style shines. A black pair is going to be on high rotation simply because it’s so versatile, but a nude pair is also a worthwhile choice as it will get equally as much air time. If slingback style is also a very modern choice, and is easily worked back with a number of different outfits.

A pared back tote

You’re going to need a stylish carryall to cart all your things around and a tote is a good option. The silhouette never dates and it’s roomy enough to be able to house everything you’re going to need to take to work and on your commute. Opt for one in classic black if you want to be able to wear it with most of your outfits, otherwise, a tan or cream is also a good style to have.

A midi skirt

This is in the same family as the midi dress, looks smart and put together. If you’re looking to be able to wear it in a variety of different ways then opt for a plain hue, such as black navy or a classic neutral like cream, white or camel. However it’s also the ideal way to add a bit of personality to an outfit so you could also wear a printed version or one in a more adventurous colour.

A button down shirt

You can’t do a workwear wardrobe roll call without a button down shirt. White is obviously the first choice as you can wear it in so many different ways. The next contender would have to be anything in a stripe — it looks polished and adds an element of interest to an ensemble. The best part about this style is that you could also work it into your weekend wardrobe.

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The best Afterpay Day sale offers

18th August, 2023

It’s Afterpay Day sale time! If you’ve had your eye on something, whether it’s a new season piece for autumn, an outfit for a special occasion or restocking a few beauty staples, now is the time to take advantage of the discounts on offer. To help you get started, I’ve done a quick round up of the best online offers available right now. Ready to add to cart?

Fashion

The Iconic – 30% off Afterpay Day

Asos – Up to 70% off, extra 15% off with Code Afterpayyay

White Fox – 30% of everything with Take30.

Decjuba – 20% off everything

Sheike – 30% off full price

Cue – 20% off almost everything

Veronika Maine – 20% off everything

Kookai – 20% off sitewide

Seed Heritage – 20% off store-wide

Meshki – 25% off Sitewide

Glassons – 20% off everything

Gorman – 20% off storewide

Princess Polly – 25% off sitewide. Use code: 25APD

VRG GRL – 30% off sitewide

Peppermayo – 30% off storewide

I AM GIA – 75% off everything

Petal & Pup – 25% off sitewide. Use code 25OFF

Tigerlily – 20% off all styles

Bonds – 40% off sitewide

Peter Alexander – 40% new arrivals and full price

Glue Store – Up to 50% off

Billy J – 30% off A/W collection

Universal Store – 30% off selected styles

Zulu & Zephyr – Shop up to 60% off sale

The Undone Store – 15% off sitewide. Use code: 15AFTERPAY

Designer retailers

Aje – 20% off The Edit

P.E Nation – 30% off

Blanca Shop – 30% off sitewide

Shona Joy – 30% off select edit

Rebecca Vallance – 30%* off on now

Camilla – Take a further 20%* off all sale

Rachel Gilbert – Extra 10% off sale with code: SALE10

One Mile – 20% off

Sass & Bide – 20% off selected styles

The New Trend 20% off selected styles + additional 20% off sale

Tuchuzy – Spend $200, save $30. Spend $400, save $100. Spend $600, save $160

Pfeiffer – 25% off the edit

GlamCorner – 25% off storewide for one time rentals. 60% off sitewide for preloved

Mossman – 25% off selected styles. Enter code: Afterpay25

The Dom – Extra 15% off sitewide. Use code: 15foryou

Ginger & Smart – 30% off selected styles + take a further 30% off sale

Ena Pelly – Up to 50% off selected products

Marimekko – 30% off storewide

Eliya the Label – 20% off storewide. Use code Save20.

Dion Lee – 20% off sitewide*. Use code DL20.

Faithfull the Brand – 25% off sitewide + extra 25% off sale

Manning Cartell – Up to 80% off online warehouse sale

Coco & Lola – 20%* off selected styles

Fashion Bunker – 20% off sitewide

Perlu – 25% off instore and online site wide *excluding accessories and selected new arrivals

Leo Lin – 20% off Winter edit

Ngali – 30% Saving for orders of $100+. Enter Code: MKTG_AP30

Shoes and accessories

Sol Sana – 25% off. Use code AFTER25

Steve Madden – 30% off just dropped. Use code: ADDTOCART

Tony Bianco – 30% off selected styles

Novo Shoes – 25% off full price

Wittner – 20% off storewide

New Balance – Up to 30% off the Everyday Edit

Hype DC – Up 30% selected new styles

Platypus Shoes – Up to 50% selected styles

Vans – 25% off selected style

Nine West – Take 20% off storewide

Billini – 20% off full price heels

Adidas – 30% off full price

Ugg Express – 15% off storewide with code AFTERPAYDAY15%

Furla – Get 15% off when you buy 2 items. Exclusions apply.

Kirstin Ash – 20% off sitewide

Bevilles – $50 off $500

Thomas Sabo – 25% off sitewide

Sunglass Hut – 20% off sunglasses*

Ray Ban – 20% off

Bailey Nelson 20% off non-prescription sunglasses. Use code: AFTERPAY20

Kate Spade – 20% off select styles

Reliquia Collective: 30% off sitewide. Use code: AP30

Shiels – Extra 10% off Storewide*

Fossil – 30% off sitewide. Use code: APD30

Colette – $40 off when you spend $120 with code TAKE40

The Daily Edited – 40% off select TDE styles.

Beauty, Health and Wellness

Adore Beauty – Up to 40% off select brands

ELF Cosmetics – 40% off sitewide

Victoria’s Secret Beauty – Further 15% off

Sephora – Beauty Pass exclusive, save 20% off with a minimum spend of $120. Use code AFTERPAY

Go-To Skincare – Free full size The Repair Shop face mask with Go-To orders over $59. Use code: AFTERYAY

Esmi Skin Minerals – 30% off Sitewide with code: AFTERPAY20

Glo Skin Body – 25% off Dermalogica; 20% off other brands

Napoleon Perdis – 20% off sitewide

AMR Hair & Beauty – 20% off sitewide. Use code: Afterpay20

Bath and Body Works – 10% off your entire purchase

JS Health – 20% off sitewide. Code AFTERPAYDAY

Wild Secrets – Up to 70% off toys and lingerie

Eleffect – 30% off sitewide. Use Code: AFTER30

Hismile – Up to 50% off storewide. Use code: Smile

SkinCeuticals – Spend $200 and receive an anti-ageing gift

GHD – Up to 20% off award winning ghd styling tools

Tropeaka – Up to 30% off sitewide

Life Botanics – 15% off sitewide

The Beauty Chef – Up to 30% off sitewide

Oz Hair & Beauty – Up to 30% off selected brands. Prices as marked.

Priceline – Save Up To 50% Off Selected Blackmores Vitamins Range and 50% Off Olay Skincare Range

Look Fantastic – Save up to 40%

RY – Save up to 40%

Cosmetic Capital – Up to 80% off select products

Hairhouse – 10% off styling tools

Kiehls – Buy two, get one free. Add three formulas to cart and receive the lowest priced free

MAC Cosmetics – 20% Off sitewide! Available online and in MAC Freestanding Stores only.

Giorgio Armani Beauty – 20% off sitewide. Giorgio Armani Members unlock access. Excludes Armani Prive and Crema Nera.

Lovehoney – Up to 50% Off Toys, Lingerie & More

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I’ve rounded up some great Alaïa ballet flat dupes since they’re virtually sold out

16th August, 2023

Image: @fashionguitar

In case you’ve missed it, the one shoe that’s high in demand and near impossible to get a hold of right now (unless you’re willing to play shoe detective) are Alaïa’s new range of ballet flats. You can’t go wrong with its various iterations – whether it’s the edgy fisherman’s net style, the uber cool studded version, or the dainty suede style with eyelets, everyone is wearing them. And is it any wonder? They’re ballet flat perfection.

I think the reason why it has generated so much buzz is that it’s such a modern take on a ballet flat. The almond shape is so flattering, has just the right amount of skin peeping through and let’s not forget the strap which takes the traditional ballerina shape and gives it a more contemporary twist. I’ve seen so it worn in so many different ways too, which makes it high on the versatile scale. And if you’re going to spend four figures on a shoe, it’s great that it can deliver on the cost per wear front.

However, as I’ve mentioned before, they’re also really difficult to find right now and let’s also not forget that they retail at just over $1000. If you don’t really want to spend that much money on a shoe that may just be a trend item, it’s also worth exploring options that are Alaïa adjacent. As with any popular style, there are so many options out there now that have a similar vibe. So, here are a few dupes to check out that will no doubt still give you the ballet flat energy you’re after.

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Little known makeup tricks you might not know

12th August, 2023

Over the years I would have spent numerous hours getting glammed up for shoots, getting ready for the races and prepping for events so I’ve managed to pick up some great tips from the professionals along the way. There’s nothing quite like watching a makeup artist at work, simply because they’ve got some amazing shortcuts and tricks that are definitely worth copying and pasting into my own beauty routine. Also they have an almost encyclopaedic knowledge of cosmetics so I inevitably end up with some great recommendations for everything from the best lipstick to foundation that achieves a flawless finish. Plus all the makeup tricks they’ve shared, I’ve tested in my day-to-day routine and they 100 per cent work.

Here are a few things that have definitely changed my makeup routine…

Freeze your eyeliner

This is one of the best eyeliner secrets that I have been told! If your eyeliner is getting crumbly pop it in the freezer. After just 15 minutes the eyeliner tip becomes firm which allows you to apply the liner smoothly.

Use concealer on and around your lips

Prepping lips is super important (especially during winter). Applying concealer to your lips will create a neutral and even template for your lipstick. Apply concealer around the border of your lips to prevent your bold lipstick from bleeding.

You can use illuminator on more than just your cheekbones

A touch of illuminator on your cheekbones will give you a healthy glow and is a quick pick-me-up for tired skin. However did you know it can also double as a shimmering eyeshadow when applied to the eyes? Try it the next time you want show-stopping eyes on a night out.

Dust out towards your hairline with blush

To perk up your skin brush blush out toward your hairline and create big strokes in an upward motion by following the natural lines of your face. The colour will give your skin a healthy glow. To spread the colour evenly be sure to use a soft blush brush.

Use white eyeliner pencil as an eye shadow primer

If your eyeshadow tends to vanish prime your lids with an eyeliner pencil first. The white eyeliner will create a contour for the eye shadow to stick to which will extend the wear of your eyeshadow. The eyeliner will also give you guidance as to where the eye shadow should go.

Fashion

There’s lots to love about the knit dress

4th August, 2023

Who says you have to put dresses on the backburner during winter? One of the staples I often turn to during the cooler months is a great knit dress. They’re great at keeping you toasty, are easy to style and can transition in to spring quite easily so they definitely earn the tick of approval when it comes to pieces that are super versatile. A knit dress for winter is a worthwhile addition to your wardrobe simply because it can be in rotation constantly.

Having a knit dress on hand opens up a range of different outfit options. You could layer it with a beautiful statement coat and a pair of sneakers for an elevated take on casual dressing. Alternatively you could pair it with a pair of knee high boots and oversized blazer for the evening and you have yourself the ideal outfit to wear to dinner. And once the weather starts warming up, simply pair it with a pair of slides or sandals and you’re ready to walk out the door.

When you’re shopping for a knit dress, I think one of the most flattering options is one in a thick ribbed fabrication. It sits well and has a bit of structure to it. There are some lighter options available in slightly thinner wool which is great if you’re planning to use it as a layering piece as you can throw on some thicker outerwear over the top. My personal preference is a ribbed option which just looks effortlessly polished and put together, plus it drapes nicely.

So, if you’re looking for a way to revamp a few pieces in your wardrobe, from coats to jackets, a great knit dress is a beautiful option to see you through the next few months. Once spring is here, wear it on its own for an effortless look.

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Fashion, What I Wore

What I wore on my Euro holiday

4th August, 2023

One of the best things about being on vacation is getting to embrace “Holiday Kate”. I’ve always loved this about going away because it’s a chance for me to experiment with looks I wouldn’t usually get to wear all that often at home, and have a lot of fun with my outfits. I still like to look polished of course, but it’s about injecting some playful touches whether it be a bold print, a splash of colour or some statement eyewear or accessories.

Doing Euro summer is also licence to go big and bold or all out glam, so my wardrobe consisted of a lot of Aussie designers, vibrant accessories, textural elements and a whole lot of colour. I’m always in such a great mood whenever I’m on an overseas getaway, particularly when I’m in a spot such as Taormina in Italy which is a special place for me and has been since I was a little girl so my wardrobe reflects that. I’m all about layering prints and colours, with slightly more muted tones to achieve the right balance for all my holiday looks. Holidaying by the water is also a great time to showcase a lot of Aussie resortwear. From swimsuits by Bondi Born to loungewear pieces by Venroy, there’s definitely a lot to love about the way Australian brands do pieces that work beautifully when you’re in relaxation mode.

We also went to London and Paris on our trip so I embraced a lot of feminine pieces during that leg of our trip, once again largely comprised of Aussie designers. Whether it was a summery striped shirt dress to sightsee or a slinky textured LBD with cute bow embellishments (both pieces by the wonderful Rebecca Vallance) for a night out at the iconic Annabel’s in Mayfair I went for polished looks underpinned by feminine silhouettes and finishes. There’s definitely something magical about holiday dressing…