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Fashion, What I Wore

3 trends I’m still very much in love with

30th January, 2018

I know trends are supposed to come and go but sometimes along comes one that just really hits the nail on the head in terms of what I’m in the mood for style-wise. And why stop when you’re onto a good thing? I know there will inevitably be something else that comes along that will catch my eye, but until then these are the three trends I’ve had a love affair with for quite some time…

Feminine Flounces

I don’t know what it is about frills that has me coming back for more but without a doubt I’ve adopted it with great enthusiasm. In particular dresses with frilled trims that add a playful touch and really elevate it into something special.

Slides

I pretty much live in slides all week long. For someone who is constantly in flats, they’re a great style that are ultra wearable and comfortable too. They are so easy to pair with almost my entire wardrobe that they’re just a no-brainer. Loafer slides are my particular faves as they add a polished touch to almost any outfit.

Athleisure

I think I’d be in the minority if I said the athleisure look wasn’t still kicking around in my fashion arsenal. What’s not to love about it? It pretty much gives me permission to stay in my sneakers and leggings all day whilst still being on trend. Plus for someone who needs to spend most of her time in comfy clothes due to having to keep up with two active little girls, this look very much ticks all the boxes.

What are some trends you’re still in love with? Off the shoulder dresses? Bell sleeves? Millennial pink? Tell me!
Fashion

Meghan Markle Style 101: how to steal her look

28th November, 2017

In case you’ve been living under a rock it’s been announced that actress Meghan Markle and Prince Harry are engaged. And while a royal wedding is indeed exciting, there’s also something else to look forward to: the outfit inspo. The princess-to-be has already managed to crash websites around the world with people clamouring to buy her engagement outfit. The white belted coat by Line the Label that she wore to the official photo call at Kensington Palace and bottle green dress by Italian label Parosh worn during her TV interview with Prince Harry, have not surprisingly, both sold out. And while we’ll no doubt see Meghan’s style evolve as she embraces her new life as a royal, there are some elements of her style that you can definitely steal for yourself right now…

Striped tees

A classic striped tee is a fave of Meghan’s and no wonder; it’s a print that works easily with everything from jeans to culottes, skirts and slacks, and adds a stylish touch to virtually any look.

A post shared by Meghan Markle (@meghanmarkle) on

Leather jacket

Leather jackets are a wardrobe staple as they are so versatile. Nab one in a biker style a la Meghan and you’re guaranteed to wear it to death. Pop one on over everything from a dress to a tee and jeans and you’ll instantly add an edgy touch to your ensemble.

Off the shoulder dresses

It’s the silhouette of summer and as Meghan demonstrates it works easily for a casual day out or a glamorous dress for an evening event.

A post shared by Meghan Markle (@meghanmarkle) on

Monochrome

Meghan seems to favour a monochrome colour palette with black and white pieces featuring frequently in her wardrobe. And no wonder—it’s a classic combination that is always guaranteed to look polished.

A post shared by Meghan Markle (@meghanmarkle) on

Pointed flats and heels

The tan Sarah Flint bow flats she wore on her first public appearance with Prince Harry struck just the right balance between comfort and style. While the beige Aquazurra pumps she wore to the official engagement photo call were on trend while still remaining elegant. It’s a classic shoe style befitting a princess and I’m predicting will remain a constant in her wardrobe. 

Relaxed tailoring

Whether it’s a striped shirt dress or an oversized button down shirt like the above, Meghan favours tailored pieces that are just a little undone. It makes for effortless style that always looks chic.

A post shared by Meghan Markle (@meghanmarkle) on

What do you think of Meghan Markle’s style?
Fashion

Yes, the vintage band tee can work for day or night

14th October, 2017

The vintage band tee has been around for eons but there’s no doubt that it’s definitely become a street style fave of late. A roll call of designer brands such as Alexander McQueen, Saint Laurent and Gucci have released their own versions (with the price tag to match!) whilst high street retailers such as Zara and H&M have also jumped aboard the trend, offering more affordable options. If you want the genuine article, visiting local vintage stores and the perseverance to scour the racks can often unearth just the right tee.

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A post shared by TashSefton (@tashsefton) on

Whilst the vintage band tee seems a no-brainer fit for off duty style it can also easily work for a nighttime look when paired with dressy accessories. Just look to Elle Ferguson and Tash Sefton from style blog They All Hate Us for inspiration. Whilst Elle nails the jeans and tee combination easily with beachy waves and layered jewellery, Tash manages to work her tee with black trousers featuring a classic tuxedo stripe, statement heels and a Gucci belt bag to attend an evening event. Versatility with any trend is key in my book and this is one way to ensure you get maximum wear out of your tee.

Tell me—Are you a fan of this trend?
Fashion, Shop, What I Wore

The longline blazer: the trend you need to try right now

8th September, 2017

One of my can’t-live-without items in my wardrobe is a longline blazer. It was a splurge, yes but my black Balmain blazer has been a cornerstone of my fashion repertoire for years and has been able to work with everything from an evening dress to a casual day look without missing a beat. I love the silhouette of a longline blazer as due to its longer length— it sits right at mid-thigh and helps to elongate the body making for a more flattering fit. This season the longline blazer comes in classic shades such as black, navy and grey but if you’re in the mood to be a little more adventurous why not opt for a tweed or tartan print and make it the focal piece of your look. I guarantee this blazer style is one failsafe way to add an element of polish to an outfit and makes it an easy go-to for those days when you need to look your best but also don’t want to get too fussy with your ensemble. Team it with a tee and jeans and you’ve got yourself an elevated casual look with just the right air of insouciance. Add it to your new season shopping list, I promise it will be on high rotation.

Shop my splurge vs steal longline blazer picks below…

 

Fashion, Shop, What I Wore

What I Wore: In Bloom

15th August, 2017

Spring is almost upon us and if there’s one thing I’m definitely planning to add to my wardrobe it’s a gorgeous floral dress. It’s virtually a must with the warmer weather to come and the natural shift to a lighter, breezier look that comes with it. I love this particular dress by Zimmermann because it ticks all the right boxes—the print is subtle yet striking whilst the gorgeous ruffle detail throughout elevates it by giving it an interesting silhouette and the tasseled tie detail adds a bohemian feel. I can see myself wearing this with flats for a casual event and by switching up the footwear to a pair of heels, it can work perfectly for a work event or a special occasion such as a wedding. It’s a versatile piece that I know will definitely have plenty of outings over the next few months.

In the mood to add some florals into your wardrobe? Shop some of my top dress picks below:

Long

Short
Credits: Dress, Zimmermann; Heels, Gucci (similar)

Photography: Sophia Athas

Shop, What I Wore

What I Wore: Spot the difference

1st August, 2017

I was in the mood for a playful look on a recent day out so this Nice Martin polka dot skirt immediately came to mind. The spotty print adds a fun touch to an outfit whilst the monochrome colour scheme still keeps it classic. The wrap top is huge this season and with its ruffled sleeves this particular piece lends an ultra feminine touch to this look and works well with the high waisted silhouette of the skirt. Black and white always works beautifully with a pop of colour so I opted to pair this look with my burgundy Marco de Vincenzo heels and ombre pink Rebecca de Ravenel drop earrings to help liven up this ensemble. The rest of the look needed minimalist accessories so my black Dior chain bag and simple Chanel frames made for the perfect finishing touches without overshadowing the rest of the outfit.

Credits: Top, Nice Martin; Skirt, Nice Martin; Bag, Dior (or mix it up with Chanel); Sunglasses, Chanel; Heels, Marco de Vincenzo; Earrings, Rebecca de Ravenel 

Photography Danielle Castano 

Steal the look

Fashion, Shop, What I Wore

What I Wore: Urban Jungle

18th July, 2017

Walking around the busy city streets of Melbourne during a recent trip had me wanting to channel a look that was all about urban chic. I wanted to work with two distinct tones for an impactful look so stuck to fawn and black which also helped to tie the whole ensemble together. I felt a fitted bodysuit provided the perfect counterbalance to the flared silhouette of my A-line cargo style wrap skirt while a structured blazer gave the look a polished finish (and kept me warm in the chilly Melbourne weather!). If there’s one thing I’m wearing to death this season it’s my Balenciaga ankle boots. The close fit keeps helps to elongate the leg and it’s the perfect versatile shoe to wear throughout winter as it works with everything from pants to skirts and dresses. This look called for sleek accessories so I opted for a gold choker to add a point of interest to the outfit, classic black sunglasses by Dion Lee and a classic Chanel bag for the perfect finishing touch to my urban uniform.

Credits: Bodysuit, Celine; Skirt, Nice Martin; Blazer, Balmain; Bag, Chanel; Sunglasses, Dion Lee; Choker, Eddie Borgo; Boots, Balenciaga 

Photography Danielle Castano

Steal the look

Lifestyle & Social

Fashion Q&A: Deborah Symond, founder of Mode Sportif

24th May, 2017

As the founder of Mode Sportif, the online boutique that specialises in luxe athleisure and leisurewear, it seems Deborah Symond was destined to head up a hugely successful business. Given her father is the founder of Aussie Home Loans, John Symond, you could argue business acumen is in her genes. Along with the website, Mode Sportif now has a bricks and mortar store in Sydney’s Paddington and it seems the brand shows no signs of waning. I recently sat down with Symond, to chat all things fashion, business and her essentials for nailing stylish off-duty style.

How would you describe your relationship with your father?

I am very lucky – Dad and I have a great relationship. Maintaining a strong relationship has been important to both of us since I was very young. We speak on the phone every day and have breakfast together once a week (at a minimum). Father/daughter relationship aside, he is my business mentor and a huge support for Mode Sportif. I’m extremely thankful for him guiding me through the bumps and wins that come with owning your own business.

What is the best advice he has ever given you?

The best advice Dad has ever given me is to trust my gut instinct. It’s something I live by both professionally and personally.

What is your own favourite ready-to-wear fashion piece?

How to pick one?! That could be a crime.

What inspired you to create the ultimate luxury leisurewear destination?

I was becoming more and more aware of emerging and exciting brands in the athleisure space and a lack of retailers providing a one-stop shop for designer sneakers, off-duty fashion and luxe activewear. It was upon identifying a gap in the market that the first concept of Mode Sportif was born!

What are your top 5 favourite pieces for ‘off duty dressing’?

Fresh, white kicks – Common Projects sneakers add an athleisure edge to any off-duty look.

A relaxed pant – a designer jogger pant in a luxe fabrication is a timeless staple in your off-duty wardrobe. Wear with sneakers and a t-shirt, or style with heels and a knit for drinks and dinner.

A monochrome tee – A favourite amongst the street style crowd, a graphic t-shirt in monochrome tones is an athleisure essential. The Sandrine Rose t-shirts are amazing quality with subtle, fun details.

 

A cross-body bag – athleisure fashion lends itself to practicality. The ultimate statement accessory for your off-duty look is the black leather cross body by Alexander Wang. The statement silver hardware makes this bag a must-have.

Statement sunglasses – the cherry on top of off duty cool is a pair of statement sunglasses. I personally love a round frame with gold tones to elevate my leisurewear wardrobe. This Chloe pair is everything!

What exotic trends are we seeing in the market?

Across both active and leisure, floral prints are trending. We are seeing brands like 3.1 Phillip Lim, Ganni, Clare V, Iro and The Upside incorporate florals as a key theme in their collections this season.

What are the struggles of owning your own business?

No two days are alike when owning your own business. As much as that keeps me motivated, it can be challenging at times. My biggest struggle is finding a work life balance. An online boutique never sleeps, so no matter what I am doing or where I am Mode Sportif is always on my mind. Everything in life presents struggles, and I wouldn’t change a thing!

What has been your greatest achievement so far? 

Evolving the business to an omni-channel model. Creating a physical presence, and seeing Mode Sportif come to life at The Intersection in Paddington has been incredibly rewarding.

Where do you hope to see yourself in 5 years?

Happy, healthy and surrounded by passionate and driven people!

What growth do you think we will see in the activewear/ lifestyle category? 

We are consistently delighted by new and emerging brands coming out of the activewear space such as LNDR and Vaara. Activewear is growing to be equally as fashionable as it is technical and ready-to-wear labels are continuing to be inspired by sport. This sector has surpassed denim and has become a staple in women’s wardrobes.

 

Fashion

12 Insta-outfit ideas to steal

3rd April, 2017

A brand new month calls for some fresh outfit inspo to help you sidestep every wardrobe dilemma you may have. To help make outfit planning a little easier I’ve rounded up the best looks to suit every occasion to make looking amazing every day a cinch.

A post shared by Emma Hill | EJSTYLE (@emmahill) on

Embrace the ultimate high-low mix and team a blazer with a vintage tee for a look that taps into the season’s statement t-shirt trend. Pair this combination with a pair of black pants and heels and you’ve got yourself a winning look.

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When it comes to accessories try out all things studded for a look that’s edgy and of the moment.

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In this tricky trans-seasonal period make like blogger Brooke Testoni and layer a dress with a turtleneck for a look that’s spot on for battling unpredictable weather. The bonus? Your summer dresses don’t have to go into hibernation just yet.

The sock boot is a key shoe to add to your wardrobe this season. It’s slimline silhouette is the ideal pairing with a voluminous pant for a look that’s very of the moment.

Be adventurous and mix and match different textures. Plisse pants and a lurex top are a bold pairing – unlikely but one that looks fresh and will make your outfit stand out in the crowd.

If you’re going to buy a pair of jeans this season make it a pair with a raw hem. It’s the ideal way to update your denim wardrobe as this particular finish will be everywhere.

A pair of knee high boots worn back with a slip dress make this look not only weather-appropriate but so sexy and stylish. Elevate this ensemble even more by topping it with a gorgeous faux fur coat.

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Leather is always a key wardrobe staple during the cooler months but why not venture further afield than trusty black and embrace a touch of colour. A burgundy leather jacket looks sleek and sophisticated.

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Knots, draping, and origami style folds will be making its way in-store this season and is just the finishing detail to take a standard shirt or dress and elevate it into something more.

Did you live in cropped flared jeans during summer? You don’t have to bid them adieu quite just yet by swapping your open toed sandals for ankle boots instead.

For the ultimate laid back casual weekend look pair your trusty denim with a trench coat. It’s an easy go-to outfit for everything from brunch to a day running errands.

Tap into your ultra feminine side and embrace shades of lolly pink. It’s surprisingly easy to wear too – whether its a blouse or a dress and even wide legged pants, this hue is ultra flattering.

Fashion, Shop

The must-try print this season

24th March, 2017

Image: @karliekloss

Make like Karlie Kloss this season and adopt a little plaid into your wardrobe. Whilst the print has in the past come across as quite traditional be prepared to see it in a more distinctly fashion forward light with it appearing on everything from vibrant cut-out skirts to origami style deconstructed shirts. Also, whilst monochrome checks are a guaranteed fashion yes don’t be shy in trying its vibrant counterparts – when in red, blue and soft baby pink make this print certainly speaks volumes.

Shop my fave checked pieces below (take note of the Gucci jacket that’s guaranteed to become a wardrobe classic!):