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Fashion

The quick styling trick that will update your favourite dress

24th October, 2018

I’m all about a quick styling trick. If there’s something that I can do to my outfit that takes minutes but will do plenty to change its look and feel then I’m all over it. This is why this recent trend towards belting dresses is absolute genius in my mind. It’s something that you can do using an accessory that you more than likely already have in your closet and it will change the whole vibe of a dress. By simply cinching in the waist of an existing dress you completely change the shape, and also give it a strong focal point based on the belt that you choose.

The thing with this styling trick is that most styles of belt will work. You could opt for a classic black belt with statement buckle to give your dress a little edge. A simple skinny belt will add a sophisticated touch to any frock whilst a chunky style waist belt will act as its own bold finishing piece. And it’s so easy. Just pop on the belt and you’re done.

If you have a closet full of dresses that are currently putting you to sleep because you’ve worn them so much then consider adding a belt the next time you wear it. It’s an easy outfit refresh that won’t break the bank and that’s a definite win-win situation.

 

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Cinch in a dress with volume

Give a dress with a voluminous silhouette some shape with a waist belt that will instantly give you an hourglass figure.

 

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Add a statement feature to your dress

By simply adding a belt you can instantly give your dress a new focal point that changes its look and feel.

 

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Pack a punch

You could opt for a belt with a statement buckle (the classic GG belt like the one above is a fave) to give your favourite dress an added lift.

Tell me—have you jumped aboard this trend yet?

Fashion, Shop

What’s on my shopping wish list this month

12th October, 2018

I’ve been so busy prepping looks for spring racing season that it was nice to be able to revisit my regular day-to-day wardrobe to see what beautiful new additions I could make to it. The cold weather has been stubbornly hanging on in Sydney so I’ve not been able to enjoy many spring looks at the moment, but it has directed my shopping pursuits towards some fun trans-seasonal pieces. From a great new LBD, to embellished black flats and a sequinned bustier that’s just made for a big event, this is what’s caught my eye this month.

Miu Miu crystal embellished patent leather flats

A cute pair of black flats is always a welcome addition to any wardrobe, especially when it comes with just a sprinkling of bling.

Roland Mouret caron ruffled chevron top

A great layering piece, with bold chevron detail, I could see this getting plenty of outings.

Elie Saab tiered lace and Swiss dot tulle midi skirt

I’m all about a great midi skirt and this one is a beauty—the colour, the textured Swiss dot tulle and the beautiful layers all work together to make a great piece for work or play.

Mansur Gavriel circle leather shoulder bag

Structured bags have really caught my eye of late. I like the classic, old school vibe of this bag whilst the shoulder strap makes it super practical.

Staud satin-trimmed crepe midi dress

I’ve been on the hunt for a new LBD so I was really excited to stumble upon this number. Love the satin finish and detail at the bust.

Maria Lucia Hohan sequinned peplum bustier top

This is a sequinned showstopper. Love the colour, the asymmetric drape effect and the sweetheart neckline. Plenty of ticks all round.

Valentino crystal hoop earrings

These are a gorgeous take on traditional hoops. Dotted with colourful crystals, it’s the kind of accessory that will elevate any look.

Nobody Denim Bessette Jean In-Love

I’ve been looking for a new pair of jeans and I love the simple silhouette and wash of this pair.

Balenciaga BB printed t-shirt

The cherry red colour of this Balenciaga t-shirt makes it a fun addition to any outfit.

Tabitha Simmons check wool mules

I love the checked pattern of these mules—they are a point of difference that turns this particular shoe into a statement piece.

Ulla Johnson Vienne short dress

I’m quite partial to long sleeved dresses, especially when they feature such a great print. This will be a trans-seasonal weather saviour.

Brock Collection gathered velvet blouse

There’s something about a hit of luxe texture to any outfit that can instantly lift it. I could see this top working back with so many pieces in my closet from casual denim to dressy slacks.

What’s currently on your wish list?

Fashion

What to wear for a (long) day of shopping

9th October, 2018

When I’m in need of a retail fix, I know my outfit has to be comfortable and optimised for maximum shopping success. This means bye bye complicated buttons and ridiculous zippers, hello clothes I can slip on and off easily. I’m all about making sure that I can hit those change rooms with ease and don’t want to spend an eternity grappling with my outfit every time I want to try something on. Having the right outfit on speeds up your shopping experience because you’re not spending ages tying your laces, doing up buckles on your belt or buttons on your shirt. Keeping that in mind, here’s what to wear the next time you’re hitting the shops…

Shoes you can slip on and off

I think you’ve got to have comfortable shoes on so I always go in flats (ballet flats, slides or some cute loafers are good options). I avoid wearing sneakers as having to tie my shoelaces repeatedly when I’m trying on outfits during the day is less than ideal. If I want to keep trying stuff on I like to be able to slip my shoes on and off easily.

Nothing with buttons

You should be able to get dressed and undressed quite quickly so it’s probably best to leave that complicated shirt with too many buttons to count at home. Personally I like wearing dresses because I find them easy to take on and off so it speeds up my time in the change rooms. But if dresses aren’t your thing go for something that you can slip in and out of in a matter of seconds—think a tee with bottoms with an elasticated waist.

Avoid light colours

When you’re trying things on multiple times in a day, slipping your clothes on and off can mean you risk your makeup rubbing off on your clothes. This is why I tend to leave any light garments at home if I’ve got a marathon shopping session ahead of me. Also you never know what kind of change room you might encounter and the last thing you want is having to dump pristine white clothes on a dirty or dusty floor.

A hands-free bag

Be sure to bring a bag that leaves your hands free to skim through the racks. Aim for something with a strap that you can easily throw over your shoulder. The last thing you want to do is have to juggle a bag on top of everything else. After all the more you’re able to browse the better chance of shopping success!

 

What do you wear when you go shopping?

Photography: Tumblr

Fashion, Shop

If you’re not already living in printed dresses you will be

7th October, 2018

Spring/summer is the perfect time to take your style into bright and bold territory. And there’s no better way to do it than with the help of dresses in the most vibrant of prints and colours.

Printed dresses will become a wardrobe shortcut over the coming months because of how complete a look they are. They tick all the boxes: statement-making, fun, and so wearable and there’s not much more required. All they need is an accessory or two, a great summer sandal and a place to wear it and show it off!

So take inspiration from some of the most stylish ladies on Instagram below and immerse yourself in a printed dress or two this season. There’s no better time to dabble in playful styles that will take you from beach to bar… or wherever the day may take you!

Shop my edit of printed dresses below…

 

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Easy outfit go-to: the co-ord set

5th October, 2018

Want to look polished without really trying? Then a co-ord set will quickly become a firm favourite. It’s an outfit that gives an air of polish with its perfectly co-ordinated top and bottom. It just screams pulled together. And it’s also one of the easiest things you can wear. No further consideration needs to be given to what to pair with a particular pant or skirt, all the hard work has been done for you. And if you want to change things up you a bit, a set can be split into separates, doubling their wear.

I’ve become a huge fan of late. My love of suiting further extending into everything from a matching shirt and skirt to a wrap jacket with a relaxed pant. When I need to get out the door fast it’s the one thing I turn to that’s guaranteed to have me looking sleek and chic without any fuss.

The great thing about this trend is that it works for casual day wear, office attire to a special event. There’s a two-piece ensemble to suit virtually every occasion and it’s quickly becoming a no-brainer solution to most outfit dilemmas. It’s the easiest shortcut to looking polished you can have in your wardrobe.

Shop my pick of co-ordinated sets below…
MSGM leopard print satin skirt and shirt

You’re guaranteed to steal the show with this bold and bright animal print number.

Miguelina wide-leg pant and crop top

A crop top can be a bit daunting to wear but paired back with a wide leg pant it becomes a little more wearable. Bonus points for the gorgeous dusty pink colour.

Koché leopard print pant and blazer

Make a statement in this thoroughly modern and daring take on traditional suiting.

Sister Jane button up shirt and skirt

With its checked print and sweet finishes this is a feminine way to wear a matching set.

Glamorous tweed jacket and mini skirt

A little Clueless-esque, this jacket and skirt is a preppy take on the co-ord trend.

Wild Honey zip front pants and jacket

A cute cropped pant paired with its co-ordinating jacket is a great go-to for days at the office or an important event.

ASOS Design boucle cropped jacket and shorts

Shorts look decidedly grown up when styled with a cropped jacket, even more so in a classic houndstooth pattern.

Wild Honey blazer and skirt

A double breasted blazer paired with an asymmetric skirt is a contemporary iteration of traditional suiting.

Glamorous wrap front top and skirt

This is a sophisticated pairing that I could definitely see as a polished look for an evening event.

Miguelina wide leg pant and tie front top

The gorgeous tropical pattern and tie front top make this a compulsory purchase if you’re about to escape on an island holiday.

Sies Marjan satin blazer and straight leg pant

Pink is one of the biggest colour trends right now and when it’s in the form of a great co-ord such as this, you definitely need to make it yours.

Ports 1961 cropped bandeau top and skirt

Consider for your next event. A top and skirt make for a great alternative to your usual go-to dress.

 

 

Fashion

7 types of shoes that every woman should own

29th September, 2018

When I’m sometimes helping friends do a wardrobe revamp they always ask me about which shoes they need to cull and which shoes they need to add to their collection. I’m the first to admit that I’ve managed to accumulate a number of shoes in my time, all of which I love for various reasons, however there are certain shoes in my closet that I know I definitely couldn’t live without. These are the shoes that have got me through many occasions and I turn to time and time again. This is why I inevitably always give my girlfriends the same list of  shoes — this is the footwear that I guarantee will be used often and will serve you season after season.

So, what’s on the list? These 7 shoes will get you through all kinds of occasions and will make putting a stylish outfit together just that little bit easier.

Black slimline heels

I’ve worn these heels to black tie functions, to work events, to weddings, to social occasions… the list goes on. This is why I think every woman should own a pair of simple black slimline heels as they will become a go-to on more than one occasion.

A black and nude pump

This is the workhorse shoe of my wardrobe. I find I’ll wear a black pump with everything from a cocktail dress to work attire. I love a pointy toed black pump in suede or leather. (Just be sure to waterproof them to help with their longevity.)

Sometimes a black pump will look too harsh with certain clothing so a shoe in a nude colour is a great alternative. You’ll find this shoe is just as versatile as a black pump and will work back with so many different items from your wardrobe.

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Black high heeled boots

Now that winter is on its way make it your mission to find a good pair of black high heeled boots. The right pair of black boots will last you season after season and you’ll wonder how you ever survived winter without them.

A comfy pair of flat shoes

For those days when you’re running around and just need to be comfortable, a pair of ballet flats is an essential (if you prefer a loafer they also fall into the same category). I have a pair of black ballet flats that I’ve had for years and a pair of Gucci loafers that are still in high rotation. They’re my go-to shoes when comfort is key. You don’t necessarily have to go for a neutral either, you can have some fun with flats and experiment with different prints or colours.

A statement shoe

Every girl should have a pair of show-stopping heels that make an outfit. I love an animal print myself (leopard especially) however you could also go for a metallic colour or something with really interesting detail. The only aim should be is that they’re bold and definitely stand out from the crowd.

Sneakers

These have become almost as crucial to my wardrobe as my heels as I spend so much of my time running around, comfort is key. Plus sneakers as just so versatile. From my off duty wardrobe to spending a day at the office, my sneakers are front and centre. I definitely think a pair of classic white sneakers is a must.

What’s one pair of shoes that you simply can’t live without?

Photography: Tamika Keioske and Sophia Athas

 

Fashion

12 Insta-outfit ideas to steal: the dress edition

10th September, 2018

I’m a big believer in the effortless wardrobe staple that is the dress. If I’m having one of those days where I don’t really want to have to think about pulling an outfit together I’ll often go for a dress as it requires minimal styling. I don’t have to worry about matching tops to bottoms and all I really have to do is pick out my shoes and accessories and I’m done. This spring/summer we’re going to be spoilt for choice as far as dresses go. From the sleek slip dress to dresses with statement sleeves or a relaxed, boho vibe there’s definitely a frock option to suit everyone. To get you inspired here are a few stylish Insta-options that you’ll definitely want to add to your fashion repertoire.

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This spotted wrap dress is perfection. Anything featuring a polka dot print is guaranteed to become a classic in your wardrobe.

A slinky slip dress is always a great go-to for day and night. The cowl neck on this style gives it a point of difference and the print gives it a touch of sweetness.

If you’re looking for a dress style that you’ll live in this summer this is it. The colour, the stripes, the ruffles all give it relaxed vibe.

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A maxi dress is one way to make an impact especially when it features a split and a super flattering cinched in waist.

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Broderie anglaise is always guaranteed to look chic and polished. When in a crisp white such as this dress it’s absolute heaven.

A classic white dress is a great option for warmer weather but add a splash of colour and it looks modern and fresh.

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A cute button down dress is an easy outfit for days where you might be heading from beach to bar – easy to pop on and off, you’ll be ready for cocktails in no time.

A simple midi dress is a handy option to have in your closet because it’s so easy to change it up. Pair it with a great blazer or denim jacket or a tied up shirt like the above outfit and you can instantly change the entire look and feel of it.

The great tie-up sleeves on this particular dress make it an ideal LBD—a streamlined style but with just a touch of interesting detail to make it stand out in a crowd.

I love the corset feature of this particular dress and how it’s perfectly balanced by the short balloon sleeves, giving it just the right amount of volume.

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A blazer dress is a business/party look all rolled into one. Love the polished meets sexy feel of this particular ensemble.

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A crisp white dress that borrows elements from a traditional kaftan make this one style that’s definitely work bookmarking for when temperatures start to rise.

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Have fun with punchy prints

31st August, 2018

Classics have a definite place in any wardrobe but I think there’s always room to have a little fun. Enter vibrant prints. Usually incorporating loads of colour and punchy patterns that are guaranteed to lift any outfit consider these your go-to when you want to bring a little sunshine into your look.

You can approach this trend in two ways: choose one statement piece and team it with pared back pieces or go for a clashing effect and team a few different colours and prints. If you’re opting for the latter you’ll need to choose an element to tie everything together whether it be the same colour or similar prints. Often accessories are a helpful way to bring cohesion to your look and give it a more finished effect.

There’s only one way to carry this look and it’s to wholeheartedly embrace it because if you’re going to wear something that’s eye-catching, you need to own it. So whether you go for a beautiful printed dress or a statement coat, a pair of showstoppper shoes or a striking bag it’s important to not shy away.

Sold on this trend? Before you jump on it scroll down to check out how über stylish women like Glossier founder Emily Weiss to blogger Blair Eadie and Farfetch’s vice-president of style and creative Yasmin Sewell are rocking this look. There’s plenty of easy-to-do examples of how to rock vibrant prints in a totally wearable way. Once they’ve won you over, check out my edit of the best punchy styles to introduce into your wardrobe now.

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Shop my edit of fun punchy printed pieces to add to your wardrobe…
Fashion

Simple ways to elevate denim

27th June, 2018

I am the first to admit that I would be lost without denim in my wardrobe. Jeans often make an appearance in many an outfit that I wear throughout the week and it’s a staple when I’m in off duty/mum mode as it’s just so easy. That said, I can also attest for how simple it is to elevate it with the right accessories and statement pieces and make it ideal for an event or a special occasion.

When it comes to denim I’m a skinny jeans girl all the way as I think it works best with my frame. However with the numerous styles available out there it’s not difficult to hone in on the ideal style for you—it just pays to persevere and check out a few different cuts (check out my tips for buying denim here) as what works for one person may not work for another. I also tend to gravitate towards a formfitting style as I find it works with most of my go-to items in my wardrobe. All my jackets to blazers, shirts and heels all work back with a pair of skinnies.

While jeans, a white tee and sneakers are an eternally stylish combination it can sometimes be hard to think beyond that and see how to dress up denim in a modern way that doesn’t require too much fussing around. I think elevating your it is a simple as it comes if you know the right pieces to turn to. Once you’ve pinpointed those key items you’re guaranteed to always find a way to turn your old faithfuls into something special.

Killer shoes

Great shoes can make any outfit look great. A pair of amazing heels teamed with denim can instantly make it look dressy and polished.

Printed blouse

Swap out your fave tee for a blouse instead. This is a great combination that works dressed up or down—all you have to do is switch your shoes according to the occasion.

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Statement jacket

One way to lift trusty denim that requires minimal effort? Turn to the most amazing jacket in your closet. Whether it’s a tweed number or an edgy leather moto style you can never go wrong with outwear that pops.

Classic blazer

I can attest for how unbelievably handy blazers are to have in your style arsenal. And while they go with most things in my wardrobe they’re a dream to pair with denim. A simple black blazer can really turn jeans into something special. Add a pair of knockout earrings and you’re done.

Understated flats

A pair of loafers is a no-brainer pairing with jeans. When you want to be comfortable to run around all day but still need to maintain an element of polish, stylish flats will fit the bill every time.

Fashion

Are you into wide leg pants? Because you should be. And here’s why

8th April, 2018

If you’ve been faithful to formfitting pants without ever having tried their voluminous counterparts then you don’t know what you’re missing out on. Wide leg pants are flattering on virtually everyone. Tall, petite, curvy, boyish—whatever your body type you can make them work for you. They’re also versatile and can look perfect as an off duty look when paired with a simple white tee or dressed up with a cami or silk blouse. You can wear them to work, on the weekend, to dinner or to brunch so you’ll definitely get plenty of use out of them and won’t regret investing in a pair. Also, a pair of wide leg pants just looks polished and chic so it’s ideal if you want an easy shortcut to looking like you spent a few hours styling yourself when really you rushed out the door in five minutes. If you want to try out this look, remember to…

Make sure they’re the perfect length

When you try on a pair of wide leg pants make sure that the hem isn’t dragging on the ground. You shouldn’t have a pool of fabric at your ankles. Instead make sure that the hem is ever so slightly off the ground and that you can see your shoes peeking through. Alternatively if you want to wear them cropped then get them hemmed to the ankle.

Decide on the shoes you’ll pair them with

This brings me to the next crucial thing to remember with wide leg pants: your shoes. You can’t really go from heels to flats with wide leg pants as the hem will be all wrong. So think of where you’re most likely to wear your pants and the type of footwear you’ll be pairing them with and have them hemmed accordingly. The exception to this is if you’re choosing to wear your pants cropped, in which case you have a bit more freedom to switch up your shoes.

Avoid volume up top

As you’re dealing with a lot of fabric on your bottom half already, it’s important to keep your top quite streamlined for balance. A button down shirt, a lightweight sweater, a t-shirt or a cami are all great options. A top with bell sleeves for example might not make for the best pairing as you’re going to have a lot of loose, flowy fabric up top too.

Have fun

Whilst a pair of white wide leg pants looks fresh and navy or black looks forever chic don’t overlook prints. A playful polka dot or a classic stripe can look amazing and really makes a statement.

What do you think of this trend? Will you wear it?