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shopping

Fashion, Shop, What I Wore

My favourite new season pieces from Camilla and Marc

21st September, 2022

It’s new season drop time so I always like to pay a visit to my favourite brands to check out what’s in their latest collection. This week, I paid a visit to my local Camilla and Marc boutique to check out what was on the racks. I have a few events coming up that I was looking for outfits for, plus I’ve been wanting to update my workwear wardrobe so I was on the hunt for some elevated separates that I can work back with some pieces I already own. I always like to do a big session of trying on different outfits in store as it really helps to see how everything looks on. I sometimes can’t get the full picture of how something will look if I’m perusing the website so it’s useful to see whether it will work or not. Plus sometimes there are things I spot on the rack that I might have missed online. So, here’s what I uncovered on my shopping trip…

I’m a blazer fan so I love anything that gives the traditional silhouette a fresh spin. This belted blazer achieves a really flattering silhouette with the cinched in waist and looks really polished. The black trousers are also a great staple to have on hand as they’re easily dressed up or down. These knife point pumps are also very cool – they add an edgy touch to any look.

Credits: Ronan blazer; Redford trouser; Antonia leather pump; Marlbury knit bodice

Cut out dresses are definitely here to stay and this simple one shoulder style is a great update on it. I love the simple knot and the elbow length sleeve. I can definitely see myself wearing this to lunch or the beach.

Credits: Wally dress and Antonia leather pump

The colour on this is a lot of fun and definitely a statement piece. Also, how cute is this knit bodice? I could see it being a really versatile addition to my wardrobe as I can wear it with jeans, a suit, with a skirt… definitely worth the investment.

Credits: Paltrow blazer; Paltrow pant; Marlbury knit bodice; Antonia leather pump

Here’s the bodice again in black! Love that they come in two staple colours that I can get a lot of wear out of. A black suit never goes astray in any woman’s closet and the fit on this is great. Also, two great pieces that can be worn separately means double the wear.

Credits: Redford blazer; Redford trouser; Marlbury knit bodice; Antonia leather pump

A trench coat is a great staple to have and I think the oversized fit of this style gives it a modern twist. Also, these furry slides are a little bit cute. Such a quirky shoe option but very on trend.

Credits: Collins trench and Herman sandal

If you love something in one colour, buy it in other colours. This is the brighter take on the black dress and I think it has a great summer energy to it. I’m really loving brights of late and this is a great addition to liven up my existing wardrobe. Which colour do you prefer?

Credits: Wally dress in yellow

 

Shop my Camilla and Marc faves

 

Fashion, Shop

21 tailored pants to update your wardrobe

9th September, 2022

Ah the tailored trouser. It’s definitely become a style staple for me of late. Whether dressed up or down, it’s definitely something that will become a firm favourite.

One of the great things about this trend is that it suits myriad occasions. I’ve worn tailored pants to a launch, I’ve worn it hanging out in the great outdoors, I’ve worn it to events so it’s definitely a bit of a style chameleon. Investing in a pair in a neutral hue such a beige, white, navy or black means you can take a tailored pant in any direction. All it needs is the right accoutrements, plus a top that works for whatever the occasion calls for and you’re set.

Equal parts sophisticated, cool and polished, the key thing about the tailored pant is that it’s well, tailored. Ensure that it’s the right length (choose the shoe that you’ll wear it with often and have it taken up or down) and also that it fits well – not too baggy or tight. The tailored pant has a very understated, relaxed silhouette so it’s important that you honour that vibe. With that said, the sky’s the limit with what you pair them with. You could opt for a tee and thongs for a more casual look or dress it up with a fancy top and heels and you’re all set for a night out. So, what are you waiting for?

 

Tailored trouser moments

As you can see I’m 100% on board with this trend…

Shop my edit of tailored trousers

 

 

Fashion, Shop

The cheapest designer bag options that punch above their weight in value

18th July, 2022

Designer bags. It’s not hard to have a weakness for them. They’re beautifully constructed, made from quality materials and have that certain something that will ensure their longevity in your wardrobe. That said, it’s a fact that they are expensive. Most designer bags on average will require a four figure investment, and that only climbs north depending on the bag you want or the brand you’re after. If you’ve got your heart set on a particular bag, I highly recommend doing your research on it to ensure it’s designed to last, but ultimately saving up for that one piece. Sometimes it’s just true love and if you try to substitute you ultimately won’t be satisfied. However if you’d really love to splurge but are unsure where to start, I’ve rounded up a few pieces, that while they’re not cheap are on the lower end of the pricing spectrum as far as a designer brand goes. Here are a few of my top picks…

 

 

Givenchy Antigona Nano crossbody bag

A riff on the classic Givenchy Antigona bag, this crossbody iteration is both practical but still taps into the Givenchy aesthetic. I’m a fan of anything that allows me to go hands free and this bag does just that while remaining ultra stylish.

Chloe Marcie leather and straw basket bag

Straw bags are everywhere at the moment but I like Chloe’s take on the basket bag—it offers a slight point of difference to the style. The addition of the strap makes it ultra practical, and I like the contrast that the leather flap provides to the natural texture of the bag.

Balenciaga Everyday XXS leather tote

You can never go wrong with a leather tote and this version by Balenciaga is both utilitarian and edgy. If you’re a logomania fan, the branding is front and centre, while the classic monochrome colour palette ensures that you’ll be able to wear this bag with multiple outfits.

Bottega Veneta Intrecciato leather zip pouch

The signature intrecciato weave is synonymous with Bottega Veneta and this pouch is a great way to embrace the brand without spending as much as you’d need to to buy a larger sized bag. It’s the perfect piece to accompany many an outfit— roomy enough to fit most of your essentials and easily dressed up or down.

Valentino Rockstud medium leather envelope clutch

You can’t go wrong with a Rockstud piece from Valentino. This neutral hue with the iconic studs is a great addition to any bag collection. It’s easily worn night or day making it an ultra versatile piece.

Gucci Petite GG Marmont leather crossbody wallet

I’m a big fan of a wallet on a chain style, and this version from Gucci is ultra sleek and sophisticated. It’s the kind of eternally stylish bag that will serve you well for many years to come.

Chloe Marcie mini leather crossbody bag

A design that’s been part of a brand’s regular collection for years is always a worthy investment. The Marcie bag has become a signature style for Chloe, and it’s not hard to see why—it’s a practical crossbody style, made of supple leather and roomy enough to house all you’ll need for a day out.

Balenciaga Cabas mini canvas tote bag

If you’re after a slightly more casual bag design this is a great option from Balenciaga. I could see this becoming a firm favourite during summer, plus you have the option to wear it crossbody or top handle style.

Saint Laurent envelope quilted textured leather pouch

I think everyone should have a great black clutch in their bag collection. I love the beautiful quilted texture of this bag, plus the fact you can wear it with the wrist strap or without. Also the gold YSL plate is the perfect finishing touch.

Gucci Ophidia small leather crossbody bag

The classic Gucci monogram is always a good investment as far as designer bags go. This one is mini enough for when you want to travel light, but also big enough to house your key bits and pieces. Also once again, big ticks for the fact it allows you to go handsfree.

Loewe small leather trimmed raffia tote

I have this bag in the medium size and can attest to how frequently it gets used. This size is great as it can fit a number of things and is quite sturdy. Plus the best bit? It also comes in at under $1000.

Bottega Veneta The Mini Bulb gathered intrecciato leather shoulder bag

For me, this style echoes the Bottega Veneta Pouch that has been everywhere but just at a much lower price point. It’s also quite an elegant style, which will add a touch of panache to any ensemble.

Tell me—which bag would be high on your wishlist? 

 

Fashion, Fashion & Beauty

Designer items that will never go out of style

5th June, 2022

streetstyle_KW-6

Investment purchases often have a few more zeros in the price tag than your average chain store buy but when you factor in the longevity and its cost per wear you’re definitely getting a bargain. I’ve spoken in the past about my approach to buying designer goods that you won’t regret, but there are definitely certain pieces that will forever remain stylish. Add these to your wardrobe and I promise you’ll have a long and happy relationship.

Burberry trench

If you’re going to splurge on a trench coat make it one by Burberry. The coat was designed by Thomas Burberry for military personnel in World War One to keep officers protected against wind and rain and the design has been around ever since. The hardware and fabrication are of course top notch but one glimpse of the iconic checked lining sets this trench above the rest. I promise a trench coat is one purchase that you will get plenty of use out of all year round.

A photo posted by Burberry (@burberry) on

Chanel 2.55 bag

Everyone knows the quilted 2.55 bag by Chanel and whilst its ubiquitous it’s also one of the few designer bags that will not only appreciate in value (research has shown that the bag has increased in value by 70 per cent over the last six years) it’s also the kind of bag that will not date, will go with virtually everything you own and will always be a classic staple that you’ll be proud to carry. It’s a hefty investment I know, but if you’re going to splurge on a designer bag this one is definitely worth considering.

A post shared by CHANEL (@chanelofficial) on

Cartier LOVE Bracelet

The ultimate in wrist candy the beautiful Cartier LOVE bracelet first came to prominence in the 1970s and has only grown more popular since its inception. Available in a variety of metals including yellow gold or rose gold, and if you’re really looking to splurge there’s also a version studded with diamonds this is one piece of jewellery that you’ll remain in love with.

A photo posted by Cartier Official (@cartier) on

Hermès Oran sandal

While the Hermès Oran sandal comes in a number of different colours, the tan is by far the most popular. There’s a very good reason for that! If you’re going to splurge on a designer sandal this would have to be it. The classic, understated style works for so many different occasions, from beach to bar to a long lunch… it goes with pretty much everything and has been in style for forever making it a worthwhile buy. Also, you can never go wrong with anything from Hermès.

 

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A post shared by Hermes No.1 Fan Page (@hermes.addict)

 

Chanel ballet flat

Ballet flats will always be a wardrobe staple but add a pair of interlocking Cs and you venture into truly classic style territory. Whilst they’re not the type of shoe that you’d wear daily to run errands (they’re definitely a bit more special than your average ballet flat) they are an easy and stylish footwear option for those days when you just want to take a casual look up a notch. A close runner up in the shoe department would be the classic Gucci horsebit loafer. Almost 70 years on and it’s still going strong.

A photo posted by TashSefton (@tashsefton) on

Gucci loafers

First released in 1953, the Gucci loafer has been around for 68 years and whilst it has never ever really gone away it has experienced a huge resurgence in popularity. Whilst the range now encompasses everything from floral print to an array of colours, fur trim and a version with a collapsible heel, this style is a forever shoe. Translation: if you invest in this you’ll be wearing it for the next few decades without it ever dipping in style cred.

A post shared by ✖L a u r e✖ (@sevenaugust) on

Tell me—which designer items do you think will always be in style?
Fashion, Lifestyle

What to wear on your next flight

29th May, 2022

Whether it’s for a holiday or for work I’ve found myself in transit enough times that I’ve managed to lock down the key pieces that I will always travel with, including what I will wear. My criteria is always comfort above all else (being stuck on a long haul flight constantly readjusting our outfit is no fun) while still maintaining an element of polish. If I’ve managed to tick both those boxes then I’m a happy traveller. If you’re about to head off on a trip (how good is being able to travel again?!) check out my travel outfit checklist below to ensure that you’re nailing airport style.

My travel outfit checklist

Natural fabrics

You want to wear clothes in fabrics that will breathe. This is really helpful when you’re dealing with the unpredictable temperatures on a plane. Often you can find yourself dealing with arctic temperatures one minute and feeling really hot the next so natural fabrics such as cashmere and wool are great as they can keep you warm without risking overheating.

Cosy, cosy, cosy

I will always opt for soft cosy garments when I’m travelling as there’s nothing like snuggling into a warm cardi or oversized sweater when you’re settling in for an inflight movie (or in my case tending to two little girls). I also particularly love flying in dresses and popping on a cardi over the top as there’s a certain freedom of movement that comes with it. I don’t mind wearing jeans or relaxed fit lounge pants either but dresses have become a go-to.

I always pack a cosy sweater whenever I fly

Go crease-proof when you can

Linen is wonderful but it is a nightmare to fly in as you’ll inevitably always look like a crumpled mess. Go for cashmere or a great knit which will likely stand up to hours of flying. If you want to wear cotton that has a chance of getting wrinkled be sure to have something you can pop on over the top such as a cardigan when you disembark at your destination.

Opt for fuss-free and hands-free 

A backpack or a crossbody bag is one of the best things you can carry when travelling as they will keep your hands free. Also don’t bring a bag that has a million buckles or zippers to get into it. You don’t want to be having to constantly deal with them when you’re trying to access things such as your passport and boarding pass.

Pack a scarf

I always travel with a pashmina or a large scarf as it can double as a blanket if I get cold. It’s also great for popping on over an outfit to instantly dial up the chic factor.

Fashion

Winter cardigans to add to your new season wardrobe

27th May, 2022

If there’s one thing that I love about winter it’s being able to throw myself into my collection of cosy knits. There’s something about layering up and popping on a sweater that I love — even more so when there’s such a great range out there right now. One of the big trends for winter is definitely the humble cardigan. Whether it features a neutral hue, a touch of embroidery or a bold splash of colour, you can definitely rely on winter cardigans to be one of the most used items in your wardrobe once the weather cools down.

One of my fave ways to style a cardi of late is to wear it as top paired with jeans. I often wear it buttoned up with a tank or tee underneath, but it’s also a great piece to wear open and over a dress or other jeans and tee combo. The key thing is to have some fun with it. The mint green Love Shack Fancy cardi I’m wearing above is ultra feminine and a little old school, and that combined with the embroidery and pastel hue make it one of the pieces I turn to when I want to dress something up or elevate some basics in my closet.

So, if you’re in the market for a new cardi (or maybe several winter cardigans), definitely keep scrolling because no doubt you’ll find something to add to your new season wardrobe!

 

 

Fashion

Questions to ask before making a designer purchase

25th May, 2022

I love a designer purchase but it’s not something I take lightly. A lot of thought goes into every single investment piece I buy. As most designer purchases aren’t cheap, it’s always worth spending time thinking it over, and asking myself key questions to ensure I’m making a worthwhile spend. Because while I’m all about quality not quantity, designer purchases require a significant financial outlay so it requires the appropriate amount of consideration. These are a few questions I think are worth asking…

Can I really afford this?

This is probably the most important question of the lot! Designer purchases are great but not if it puts you under financial stress. Answer this question honestly as no matter how beautiful something is, if it means you’re scrambling to pay your other expenses, it’s not worth it. If you really want something it’s definitely worth saving up for rather than putting yourself in debt.

Will I wear this a lot?

Clothes, accessories, bags, shoes… they’re all designed to be worn. The more the better I say. I always make sure that anything I purchase will end up getting used plenty of times as it then makes the cost per wear worth it. Also, why spend a ton of money on something that you’re going to just keep in your closet?

Do I already own something like it?

It’s easy to fall in love with something and not realise that you have multiple other pieces in your wardrobe that are very similar. When you’re spending a fortune on something expensive, you need to either be filling a gap in your wardrobe, or if it’s something that you will wear a lot but is similar to other pieces, perhaps consider selling the others to fund your new purchase.

Will this last more than one season?

There are some designer items that are a signature piece of a particular collection or season. These are great, but unfortunately come next season they’ll be out of date. I always make sure that if I’m buying something designer that it’s not a one-off and that it will appear in future collections. That way I can guarantee it will have plenty of longevity and it won’t date.

Is this really me (or do I want it just because someone else made it look good)?

A quick scroll through Instagram often results in me falling in love with myriad outfits and pieces. While this is great for inspo, it’s not so great if you end up buying something that doesn’t really fit in with your style aesthetic. I always take a step back and honestly ask myself if something is me. Because I don’t want to waste my fashion dollars on something that won’t feel “right” later on.

If this wasn’t [insert designer here] would I still want it?

There’s often a halo that can come with designer goods and something that doesn’t look great can sometimes seem okay simply because it’s got a particular brand attached to it. Don’t fall into this trap! Fall in love with the design, as opposed to the brand. Because even if something is Chanel, if it doesn’t fit in with your style, if it’s not something you’d reach for in your closet right now it’s not worth the money—interlocking Cs or not!

Do I have room for this in my closet?

From a practical perspective, this is always a question worth asking. I like ensuring that everything has a place in my wardrobe so I will always keep in mind whether a new purchase has a place to go. If it doesn’t, then it might be time to do a wardrobe tidy to see what pieces are no longer being used. If there isn’t room it also forces me to ask the question of whether I really need something or not.

Is this the best price I can buy this?

You don’t always have to pay retail. I will always sign up for sale alerts on my fave websites to let me know when one of my wishlist items has been reduced. Also there are plenty of resale sites such as Vestiaire Collective and The Real Real which sell designer products (some with tags still attached) at a fraction of the price that you’d get them in store. It’s worth shopping around to ensure that you get the best price possible.

Fashion

18 gum boots that will save you in a downpour

15th April, 2022

Photo by sydney Rae on Unsplash

We’ve had weeks and weeks of rain in Sydney so I’ve become quite attuned to trying to find the perfect wet weather gear of late. I’ve found I definitely need it to get me through everything from running errands to doing school pick up in torrential downpour. I was initially on the hunt for a raincoat which my followers on Instagram kindly gave me plenty of suggestions for and then someone had the great idea to suggest I do a post on gum boots. Along with a rain coat I think stylish gum boots are a rainy day essential. It actually makes navigating your way through the pouring rain a little easier and more pleasant when you don’t have to deal with soaking wet feet.

Luckily, it’s not that hard to find stylish gum boats as they have in fact come a lot further than I once remember. You can now find gum boots in various styles and colours, while still remaining practical. I think it’s well worth the investment, particularly if you find yourself having to do multiple things outside and you don’t really want to have to battle with an umbrella to stay dry. That said, it’s key to find the a style that will work with your existing wardrobe. There are so many different iterations of gum boots these days from the quintessential knee high pair, to a shorter Chelsea style boot to an on trend lace up variety. You’re definitely guaranteed to find a pair that can easily be incorporated into your everyday looks. If you want to look ultra put together, you can also consider your boots style alongside your raincoat colour and silhouette for the ultimate in wet weather looks.

I’ve rounded up a few options that suit any style below. From a lilac pair for those want to embrace a little more colour to a classic black pair of Hunter boots to get you through soggy days, while ticking the fashion box.

Scroll through my stylish gum boot picks below

Fashion

How to buy a designer bag that you’ll love for years to come

10th April, 2022
Kate Waterhouse carrying Chanel designer handbag

My Chanel bag has been with me for years and is still going strong

I’ve spoken in the past about the importance of cost per wear for me and there’s no area that I apply it more to than my handbags. I am all about quality over quantity. I will often hold out for a designer bag as I know that it will withstand everyday wear and tear as they’re so well crafted. Also, I’ll often go for classic styles so they have longevity. Case in point: I’ve had the above Chanel handbag for years and it’s still going strong.

If you’re going to splurge on a designer bag it’s important to make sure you get it right. After all you are spending not an insignificant amount of money so it’s the type of fashion purchase that needs some planning behind it first. Here are some things to consider before buying:

Think of your lifestyle 

What kind of lifestyle do you have? For me I have to carry everything from Sophia and Grace’s snacks to my phone and wallet so I need something that’s quite roomy for everyday wear. However as I do have to attend various events and race days through the year, I can opt for a smaller bag that’s more event appropriate for those occasions.

It’s crucial to tailor your bag to suit your lifestyle and needs. If it doesn’t then you’re never going to use it as often as you’d like and that’s a lot of money that’s wasted.

Consider the brand

If you’re going to have a bag that you use every single day you want a classic style. I think you can justify splurging on a bag if it’s something that can be used every single day. Everyone has their own favourites but if I was going to splurge on a designer bag I would definitely go for Céline, Balenciaga, Jil Sander or Chanel because they do classic, timeless styles.

Check out it’s extra features

Little details can mean you get double the wear out of a designer bag. For example it may seem a small detail but consider the handles on your bag. I like two handles on a bag—smaller handles so I can just carry it on my arm and a longer strap so I can carry it on my shoulder. Having the option to do both expands the use of a bag. Also some bags now come with detachable pouches that can be used to carry things like cosmetics but can be used as separately as a clutch. Win-win!

Kate Waterhouse street style designer bag Gucci

When it comes to designer bags aim for classic and timeless to ensure maximum cost per wear

Opt for simplicity

A statement bag with lots of embellishment is great but if you’re going to have just one designer bag that you’re going to carry all the time make sure to keep it quite pared back and stick to neutral colours. A subdued colour palette makes it easier to work back with your wardrobe. Minimal amounts of detailing also makes it less likely to look overly on trend. Also keep in mind that plain leather generally won’t date as easily as patent leather.

Avoid ‘it’ bags

When it comes to designer bags I like to have something that no one else has. For this very reason if there is an ‘it’ bag I tend to steer clear of it. However I might get inspired by a brand and choose something that is within that collection. If you can afford to have a new designer bag each season then definitely go for the ‘it’ bag. If however, you are buying a designer bag that’s intended to see you through season after season I’d steer clear of the bag of the moment and opt for something that’s not as common so it doesn’t date as easily.

Choose an ongoing style

I will always ask a shop assistant if they’re continuing a particular type of bag the following season because some are just one-offs and I think that can really date a bag. When choosing a bag opt for one that’s a signature style to the brand because then it is recurring every season rather than being the bag of a particular year, which everyone will know is a couple of years old.

An example of a signature style is something like Chanel’s 2.55 black quilted leather handbag or the Hermes Birkin. It’s a bag that’s done every season which means it won’t date and it’s great quality so it lasts year after year. I’ve had my Chanel bag for 10 years and I still wear it all the time so the cost per wear is great!

Tell me—what designer bag do you have your eye on?

Photography: Sophia Athas

 

Fashion

What to wear as a wedding guest

9th March, 2022

If there’s one thing I love it’s a wedding! I’m always so thrilled/honoured to be invited to share someone’s big day, and I know having gone through my own how important it is to have your nearest and dearest there. That said, I do take a very considered approach to what I wear to a wedding because I know how much time, effort and cost goes into such an occasion. I always like to look polished, but at the same time very much in keeping with the couple’s wishes. Here are some things I always do whenever I’m planning a wedding guest outfit.

Steer clear of white

Unless it is the express wish of the couple getting married, I never ever wear white to a wedding. This rule may have relaxed in some way over the years but I don’t ever want to encroach on what the bride is wearing so I always avoid white at all costs. There are so many outfit options out there, I definitely think taking white off the table doesn’t limit your options at all! I tend to go the opposite direction and embrace bold hues—it’s a joyous occasion, I want my clothing to reflect that sentiment.

Follow the dress code

I can’t stress enough how importantly I take this into account whenever I’m planning an outfit as a wedding guest. I always dress for a wedding according to the dress code and follow it to the letter. Whether it’s dressing up in feathers from head to toe or a black and white theme or barefoot and relaxed by the beach, whatever the dress code is I make sure I always abide by it. A dress code is a reflection of the couple’s vision for the day and I want to respect that. Recently I went to a wedding with a dress code that was black tie and colourful so I went all out, the result was the outfit above: a riot of colour and a long length hemline that ticked both requirements.

Consider your accessories

Accessories should never be forgotten when it comes to wedding attire. I always make sure that I stick to a small-ish bag (usually a clutch) to carry all my essentials. I think going down the diminutive bag route is always advisable as far as weddings go, because you don’t want to be carrying an oversized bag with a dressy outfit, there’s something about a small bag that’s a little more elegant. If you need to, downsize what you’re carrying! Also, I think it’s always a great time to embrace fun, bold accessories. Whether it’s a statement earrings or a beautiful cocktail ring or standout necklace, a wedding is the time to step it up as far as your accoutrements go—within reason of course, you never ever want to go so over the top that you threaten to steal the couple’s limelight.

Know your designers

I have a list of brands that I know I can look to whenever I’m looking for an outfit for a wedding. My go-tos are usually Rebecca Vallance, Rachel Gilbert, Bec and Bridge and Camilla and Marc. I highly recommend pinpointing a few different labels whose aesthetic ties into your style and check out their even wear offering. I find the more I stick to brands that work with my regular style the more comfortable I feel in what I’m wearing.

 

Shop my edit of wedding guest outfit options!