Browsing Tag

trend

Fashion

How to style wide leg pants

6th May, 2023

Whether you’re sold on them or are still debating whether to dip your toe into the wide leg pant trend, I think we could all agree that wide leg pants when styled right look downright chic. They evoke an effortless vibe about them that feels very grown up and put together. But it does require keeping a few things in mind when you’re styling them to ensure that you’re not overwhelmed by all that volume. You can also wear this pants style for various occasions by making a few quick styling changes, which makes them one of my fave things when it comes to clothes: versatile.

If you’ve felt daunted about wearing this style because you’re a little unsure of how to wear it or what to pair with it then you’ve come to the right post! Having embraced wide leg pants wholeheartedly, I’ve been able to experiment with different looks and have narrowed down what makes them work and what doesn’t.

Tailor them

The key with wide leg pants is to ensure they’re just the right length. You don’t want them too long that they’re dragging on the floor (it’s also a bit of a hazard!) and you don’t want them too short that they don’t look quite right. Being a petite person I usually have to get things taken up and if you’re in the same boat, I would highly recommend taking your pants to a professional to have them hemmed properly. Make sure to bring shoes with the heel height that you’re likely to wear with your pants so you get the absolute perfect fit.

High waisted all the way!

Low rise pants are apparently making a comeback but when it comes to wide leg pants I think the only way to go is high waisted. It looks ultra chic and just gives this style of pant an elevated feel.

Tuck your shirt in (or crop it)

When it comes to wide leg pants I tend to tuck everything in whether it’s a jumper, cami, t-shirt or shirt as it looks more polished and I think the proportions work better. Some people can work a slightly oversized button down shirt with wide leg pants and look amazing but I think you need a little height to get the right effect. If you have a slightly smaller stature I would definitely stick with tucking things in. Alternatively, if you like the look of a crop top but have been avoiding them as you were hesitant about flashing skin, a high waisted pair of wide leg pants is perfect bridge to get you there. You can get the crop top effect but a high waist will offer a little extra tummy coverage.

Layer with a shirt

The ultra on trend way to wear a wide leg pant these days is to pair it with a tee and a button down shirt worn open. It really leans into this The Row look which you may have seen doing the rounds and is a great way to do casual dressing in achingly cool way.

High waisted wide leg pants are one of my go-tos

Experiment with colours

I love wide leg pants in a neutral hue as they are so versatile, and a crisp white pant is just about one of the chicest things you can wear but it doesn’t mean you should ignore colour! Wide leg pants look great in bold, bright hues (think reds, pinks, purples…) and also a loud-ish print if you dare. If you want to temper your look a little bit when wearing colour, pair it with a neutral at the top and you have yourself an outfit formula that works.

Ensure you have balance

Working with volume, my general rule is when you’re wearing something quite billowy at the bottom go for something more fitted at the top and vice versa. This helps to achieve the right kind of balance and will ensure that you’re wearing your outfit and not your outfit is wearing you. Remember to keep proportions in mind at all times when working with wide leg pants.

Work with different silhouettes

The beauty with wide leg pants is that they you can afford to experiment with different silhouettes up top. A shirt with a bold shoulder looks commanding and strong when paired with a pair of tailored wide leg pants and a subtle heel. While adding a white tee and a sandal is the height of effortless, laidback style. Add a sleek bodysuit, statement sunnies and a slide and you have yourself an “I’m just chilling in the Riviera” look nailed. Experimentation is key as you have to work with what’s flattering for your shape and don’t forget that balance is also important.

What do you think of wide leg pants? Fan or hard pass?

Fashion, Shop

Trend to try: The Shacket

1st May, 2023

Image: @comme.cha

It has been doing the rounds over the last few years but this year, shirting has really cemented itself as a key trend this autumn/winter. As far as cool weather trends go, it manages to embrace a utilitarian vibe while also look smart and polished. If you want to take it up a notch (while also staying warm), I’d definitely consider embracing the shacket. As its name suggests, the shacket is a hybrid between a shirt and a jacket, and it’s unbelievably versatile.

The great thing about the shacket is that it serves the purpose of both of its namesakes well. It’s light enough to be able to tuck into jeans or pants yet it’s structured enough to be able to wear as a topper. If it still seems a little daunting, just remember that you could sub it in on the occasions where you’d usually wear a jacket. Team it with a white tee and jeans and it’s a casual look with an effortless energy to it. You could also utilise it as a layering piece, wearing it over a cosy sweater or with a ribbed knit dress–both will take you through the next few months with ease.

If it’s a trend you want to slowly dip your toe into, I’d start with a denim version. As many of us know, denim is a style chameleon and so wearable so you’re guaranteed to get plenty of wear out if it. And if you find yourself falling hard for this trend, go for neutral hues such as a khaki or cream as another iteration to embrace. If you want to add a little punchiness to your outfit, look to a checked version which will bring an understated look to life. The great thing about this particular piece is that it can be taken in so many different directions, and works back well with the wide leg jeans/pants trend that’s also blowing up right now.

So, if you’re looking to update the existing pieces in your closet, the shacket could be the missing piece of the puzzle. Versatile, ultra wearable and understatedly cool—what’s not to love?

 

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Charlotte D (@comme.cha)

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by SARA CRAMPTON (@harperandharley)

Shacket outfit formulas

Still unsure how to wear this piece? Here are a few simple outfit equations to commit to memory.

Wide leg black pants + a white tee + a denim shacket

White wide leg jeans + grey knit + a denim shacket

Jeans + a grey rollneck jumper +khaki shacket

Jeans + a white tee + checked shacket

Wide leg black pants + striped top + denim shacket

 

Shop the post

Fashion, Shop

It’s time to update your autumn/winter wardrobe with a cardigan

19th April, 2023

When temperatures drop, there’s nothing I like more than grabbing my cosiest winter woolies to snuggle up in. I’m all about a chunky knit or a gorgeous rollneck jumper, but this season I’m going to be reaching a lot for the humble cardigan. While the cardi has been around for aeons, it hasn’t always been the trendiest of knitwear staples. But expect all that to change as we gravitate towards this quiet achiever in the knits department.

Every winter I always update my wardrobe with some knitwear as I inevitably find some pieces need retiring (they either end up with holes, too much pilling, or they’ve become mishapen). So I tend to snap up 1 or 2 new knits to add to my collection and update my winter look. This season it’s definitely all about a cardigan with a more cropped silhouette.

While there is something to be said for the longline cardi’s role as the perfect cosy piece to relax in and pair with loungewear, for an updated take on the style, definitely look towards something that hits around the waist. This length is worn best with a pair of jeans, or tucked into wide leg pants. Also, ensure you wear it with at least a few buttons done up for a more of-the-moment take on it. The great thing about cardigans is while the silhouette generally remains the same, there’s definitely plenty to choose from when it comes to colours and detailing. I loved this sweet mint cardi with embroidered rosettes for its whimsical feel, plus it works well against structured denim for balance.

So, while you’re on the hunt for some new additions to your winter wardrobe, why not add a new cardi to the mix. It’s the perfect way to update your wardrobe, plus it works great as a transeasonal piece when we head into spring in the second half of the year. Ready to shop? Check out my edit of cardigans below.

Shop the Post

 

Fashion

Transeasonal dressing 101: how to dress when the weather won’t behave

5th April, 2023

I did a What I Wore post that touched on this very topic and with the past couple of days in Sydney going from sunny and warm one minute to torrential downpour the next, I’ve definitely had transeasonal dressing on my mind. That tricky time of dressing for unpredictable weather is now well and truly upon us. As far as fashion goes it’s sometimes hard to decide what to wear when the weather is temperamental but there are a few things I do to help get around it…

Layer, layer, layer

If I have a few layers to my look it’s easy to add or subtract pieces according to the weather. I find that bringing a jacket with me now is a good idea but it’s not really the time for a winter coat so I will use a denim jacket instead. It’s not too heavy, not too light and as a bonus it’s right on trend. I will usually pop one on over a slip dress with a tee underneath and I am set. If it warms up a bit it’s easy to push up the sleeves and leave my arms partially exposed.

Add sleeves

I think dresses are still weather appropriate this time of year but it might start to get a bit too cool to leave arms and shoulders uncovered. In this instance I find things like long sleeved dresses or layering a tee underneath a dress would be ideal as it keeps me warm without being overly rugged up.

Introduce textures

I will start to add heavier fabrics in wool and cashmere as the weeks go by and it starts to get chillier. Right now I find it’s great to utilise breathable fabrics such as cotton and a lightweight wool for those days when it might start out cool but get a little warmer later in the day. 

Swap sandals for closed shoes

It’s still possible to get away with wearing open toed shoes but the further we get away from summer the more likely it is that temperatures will cool down during the day. As such I am starting to swap my sandals for loafers or sneakers. Even if I’m wearing something lightweight, having closed shoes often helps balance it out.

A shirt that can be rolled up is perfect for battling trans-seasonal weather

Wear tops that can be rolled or pushed up

If I’m not quite sure what the weather is going to be like I’ll pop on a long sleeved shirt or lightweight knit. This gives me option of being able to roll up my sleeves or push them up if the weather is a little bit warmer. When paired with something that leaves a little leg exposed such as a midi skirt then I will be quite comfortable and won’t get too hot or cold.

Tie it up

A big trend at the moment is to tie a denim jacket or knit around the waist which makes for the perfect set up for a transeasonal outfit. I love having the option to leave the jacket tied around my waist or popping it on if I’m feeling chilly. It also means I don’t have to deal with the hassle of lugging around a jacket.

Tell me—What are some of your transeasonal must-haves?

 

Shop the post

 

Fashion, Shop

Why you can’t live without a trench coat this season

31st March, 2023

 

 

 

Trench coats are one of those things that are always on fashion must-have lists. And for a very good reason! A great trench is a genuine workhorse when it comes to pulling together an outfit as it can work in myriad ways. It’s an easy jacket option in winter and can be thrown on over pretty much everything. I’ve worn mine dressed up or down, with jeans, with pants, a dress… the list goes on. It’s one of those special items that are a genuine shortcut to looking polished and chic, and is an easy grab-and-go option on those days when you’re not entirely sure what to wear. Also, it layers beautifully in winter, and is a stylish lightweight option almost all year round. A bonafide staple.

When buying a trench, I think beige is always a great place to start. It’s the universally known hue associated with trench coats since forever and works beautifully with so many different colours. If you want to be a little more adventurous with colour, I’d suggest looking into a navy, khaki or camel hue as all are easy to pair back everything from denim, to black trousers, to a crisp white pant. I’ve also embraced a trench in a chocolate and sky blue hue, which goes to show just how many different iterations there are of this classic piece.

It’s a good idea to try a trench on in person as you want to ensure the length and fit works well with your frame, and it can be a little tricky to do this with online purchases. For a modern take on it, go for something that’s a more relaxed fit (you never want a trench to be totally figure hugging) and a long length silhouette that should at least sit below the knee (FYI the current trend is for a mid-calf to just above the ankle). Also you can’t go wrong with double breasted as you’ll find you’ll be wearing it open most of the time, and it just sits better.

You can find sooo many different versions of the trench these days. From the OG Burberry trench which is a definite investment splurge to chain stores like Zara which often do a great trench season after season at a reasonable price. Go with whatever suits your budget as I guarantee it’s a purchase you won’t regret making.

 

A few of my fave trench moments…

 

Shop my trench edit

Beauty

The biggest makeup trends in 2023

27th February, 2023

I love playing around with different makeup styles whenever I get the opportunity so I’m always curious to know what trends are coming up, especially what we can see being huge throughout the year. Makeup inspiration is of course everywhere, from runway shows, to Instagram and TikTok, to TV shows, so it can be hard to keep track of what’s what. This is why I decided to turn to my good friend and go-to makeup artist, Michael Brown who always keeps me abreast of what’s happening in the world of makeup and beauty. When it comes to trends in 2023, it might be time to embrace the 90s and farewell to that contour brush, while it seems a minimalist foundation approach and upping the gloss factor when it comes to lips is going to be top of mind.

Skin-like Foundation

Continuing the no makeup/makeup trend, we are seeing an even bigger pushing to bare faces. Skincare-like tints are IN. Dewy, fresh, less matte full coverage skin is all the rage in 2023

This is also with the rise of skincare knowledge —good skin = less makeup!

Tip: If you have a foundation that is more matte or full coverage and don’t want to splash out on a new purchase, just add a drop of your favourite hydrating serum and mix, this will give that skin-like finish.

Shadow Winged Liner

We saw a big rise in winged liner in recent times, this is still a thing, as it really can define and elongate the eyes! But rather than sometimes struggling with a liquid liner, we are seeing more of a ‘lived in’ eyeshadow applied wing, allowing for a little less polish and more ease in application.

Tip: Use a thin-tipped brush to apply a deeper tone shadow on the top lash line and extend where a wing would go. It’s a good idea to try and do this when your eyes are open, to give a realistic take on placement as you don’t walk around with your eyes closed. Using the upward angle from your lower lash line can be a great guide into the correct placement of a winged look. Blend and smudge with ease, using a shadow.

Vinyl Lips

YAY! I personally am over the matte ‘dry lip’ look. Yes, we have come along way when it comes to matte textures, being more creamy, but unless your lips are so juicy and hydrated, a matte just looks, well matte and often very dry by the end of the day.

Big, bold, juicy, fresh and shine is your lip trend for 2023.

Tip: If you are worried about shine/gloss going everywhere or creeping into lip edge fine lines, just applying gloss or a ‘sheen’ style lipstick on the very centre part of the lip is all you need to get that vinyl look—but go bold in colour to really complete this lip effect.

Michael’s my go-to for on point makeup looks

Brow Art

Brows are kind of always on trend lists, lately for big, fluffy, gel and soap brows being a ‘thing’ but now we are seeing lots of creativity.

From bleach brows (it’s a no from me) or even just lightening them slightly with lighter brow gels than your brow colour, it’s all the rage to add some art and design to brows.

Thin brows are slightly creeping in, thanks to the 90s comeback, but for me it’s not necessarily going thinner, just a more accentuated arch.

Tip: Using a brow product – I am loving the felt-tip brow pens at the moment – accentuate and exaggerate the arch of your brow to create focus. Then, especially for deeper toned brows, try a brow gel lighter than your brows so brow hair can catch the light to give a different dimension.

Go Grunge

Yes, we are seeing it everywhere, a nod to the 90s.

Now we aren’t saying go the full Ghoul Girl trend, as seen on TikTok, but less ‘pretty’ and ‘sparkly’ makeup is a thing. We were obsessed with ‘Euphoria beauty’ last year with face embellishments and metallic eyes, which had a pretty cool girl vibe, now we are seeing a lived-in, smudged black liner, raw fresh skin vibe – think Kate Moss or Courtney Love in the 90s.

Tip: This look is fresh, but with no colour. Think a black pencil liner, smudged up into your eyelid with a brush for a lived-in smoky vibe, less blush, but still fresh beautiful skin.

Lashes On Lashes

With a big decline on false lashes and eye lash extensions (thank god), especially as a nod to the 90s comes into play, we are still seeing big, thick, almost chunky lashes, but with mascara.

That lived-in trend is also on mascara, so using a double or triple layer technique, building up big thickness, rather than the prettiness or overly styled long lashes from falsies or extensions, mascara brands are going BIG this year.

Tip: For this to really work, curl your lashes first then use a lash/brow comb to make sure you still have big, yet full, but separated lashes.

Hyper Glow Skin

So, we know that the super raw, fresh faced, tint like skin is in and we are seeing way less contour and bronzer used in makeup trends – I mean probably a good thing, as faces were starting to look muddy!

The glow factor we all love hasn’t changed, well in terms of placement – on an area you want to enhance and bring forward – it’s the textures that have changed.

Powder highlights are out, unless they are super fresh, creamy-like and no shimmer. Fresh, mirror-like, reflective but less shimmer is in to make skin look so transparent and glassy, this will give you a natural contour, now that bronzer contour is fading.

Tip: Always apply highlighter to the frontal points of the face, where light will hit naturally first… Peak of brow, cheekbones, centre of nose, cupids bow of the lip etc. But, if you are naturally a shiny/oily person, make sure you balance this glow with a touch of powder in the shiny/oily T-Zone areas.

Fashion

How to navigate the micro mini skirt revival

14th December, 2022

The mini is back with a vengeance. The micro mini to be exact. While wearing a skirt with the briefest of hemlines was a staple in the late 90s/early 2000s with everyone from Britney Spears to Paris Hilton and Destiny’s Child all rocking the trend, it has been awhile since we’ve seen it doing the rounds. However with the super short mini a staple of Miu Miu’s recent spring/summer collection, there’s no doubt that we’re about to see it back on the red carpet and in-store in no time. So, if you were a teen/tween the last time micro mini skirt was in vogue, how can you wear it now in a contemporary and stylish (and age appropriate!) way? Here are a few of my tips on how to nail the micro mini skirt trend…

It’s all about balance

Whenever I’m planning an outfit I always make sure to strike the right balance. This means I will often pick a focal point to feature, and when wearing a mini it’s most definitely all about the legs. This is definitely one of the key things to keep in mind when wearing the micro mini skirt trend. So, to allow that to take centre stage I will often wear something that’s a little more covered up up top. This could mean a great jacket thrown on over the top or a billowy blouse tucked in or a lightweight sweater which I find balances the entire look.

Play with proportions

If I’m wearing something form fitting at the bottom, I’ll tend to wear something with volume on top, and vice versa. This is actually one of my favourite ways to wear a mini. I’ll often wear a top that is voluminous as it helps to achieve a balanced silhouette. If I’m wearing a mini dress, then I’ll look for something with a strong shoulder or a great puffy sleeve.

Prep it up

The mini hemline looks particularly great when worn in a preppy way. This could mean pairing it with a longline blazer or teaming it with a perfectly crisp white shirt. It also looks great worn with a loafer or ballet flat and topped with the aforementioned blazer or button down shirt.

Do a trial run

Whenever I’m wearing a mini to an event I always do a trial run before I head out. I like to know I can manoeuvre my way in said look without encountering a wardrobe malfunction! So, I’ll always make sure that I can sit, bend, get in the car (!) quite easily without having to spend all my time trying to readjust myself.

Opt for a high waisted style

While the low waisted mini made its way down the catwalk, this 90s/00s way to style a brief hemline isn’t for everyone. I much prefer a high waisted number. It provides a little extra coverage, it looks ultra chic when worn with a tucked in blouse or sweater and it feels really modern and on trend.

 

 

Shop the post

Fashion

How to style platform shoes

9th November, 2022

After years of flat shoes reigning supreme, it was only a matter of time before things would swing in the opposite direction. This season, platforms are very much the shoe of the moment. You can probably thank the recent Valentino A/W show which saw sky high pink platform shoes making their way down the runway. If you’re on the petite side, this is definitely one trend that will add a few inches to your stature!

So, how do you “do” platforms? Well I think it’s about striking the right balance between proportions. I wore a pair just recently to Derby Day in Melbourne and decided to do a more form fitting dress up top, with a shorter hemline to really take advantage of the elongating effect of this style of shoe. However you could also embrace a longer hemline, with some wearing the style with a maxi dress and making the shoe the star of the show. I think platforms by nature are always going to be quite striking so make sure you don’t overwhelm the look by having too many elements. They’re also generally chunkier than a regular heel so it’s often better to play with volume with elements that hug the body rather than too many loose layers, otherwise you risk your whole outfit looking like it’s swamping you.

When it comes to the extra height, I’ve always found a platform a little easier to walk in than a regular heel. I think it’s that extra chunky sole that makes it a little softer underfoot. However, I can’t stress this enough — practise walking in the shoe before you wear them out. This is especially the case if you haven’t worn a high heel in awhile. Platforms can take some getting used to again so do a little walk around the house first!

Most importantly have fun with this trend. They’re definitely not the most practical of shoes, but they are a lot of fun. Plus you get the added benefit of a little extra height…

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Aimee Song (@aimeesong)

Take advantage of the elongating effect of platform shoes and pair them with a mini. It ticks two current trend boxes, plus your legs will look like they go on forever…

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by (@xeniaadonts)

A Mary Jane style platform looks really cute paired with a slightly more conservative look. The preppy skirt and sweater pairing in this outfit works well as a contrast against the more on trend feel of the platforms.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Caroline Daur (@carodaur)

When it comes to evening wear, don’t be afraid to swap out your usual minimalist stilettos for a chunkier platform heel. They achieve a slightly more fashion forward feel, plus they can add a little extra grit and attitude to an ultra feminine style.

 

Shop this post

Fashion

The ballet flat is back!

14th October, 2022

The ballet flat is officially back! While our love affair with comfy shoes only showing signs of going from strength to strength this is one style that was due for a comeback. While ballet flats never really went away, there’s no doubt we’ve mostly been turning to styles such as sneakers, slides and loafers when it comes to our footwear of choice. However it seems the ballet flat is making a triumphant return. With Miu Miu’s iteration of this most classic of footwear is quickly becoming the go-to shoe of the season, and the Chanel ballet flat has always been the lynchpin of many a classic ensemble, never fear as there are plenty of option to suit every budget.

There great thing about a ballet flat is that it can work with myriad outfit styles. Quickly turn it into a staple by pairing it with your favourite denim and a crisp white button down for the chicest of smart casual looks. It also works beautifully with cropped pants, tailored shorts, gorgeous midi skirts, dresses, even a boiler suit! Let your imagination run wild, but don’t compromise on comfort in the process.

Let me just say, you’ll want to jump aboard this trend quicker than you can say plié.

The ballet flat has always been a classic style

 

Shop my edit of ballet flats below

Fashion, Shop

How to style one blazer three different ways

10th October, 2022

If I’ve learnt anything over the years, versatile items are a must-have in your wardrobe. With a busy lifestyle, one item you shouldn’t live without is a blazer! I’ve always found it to be a workhorse in my wardrobe as it can work for myriad occasions and styled in so many different ways. The great thing is you only have to invest in one once and you have a plethora of different looks at your fingertips. One blazer can take you a long way, no matter the colour or fit. Whether you’re working our or headed to a meeting, here are three ways you can style a blazer (I’ve worked with the Camilla and Marc Wembley style), paired with my current favourite brands.

 

The Blazer

 

Wear it to work

There’s nothing quite as polished or chic as a blazer, so it’s a definite must when it comes to workwear. Wear it with a matching pant to embrace the suiting trend and switch out the top from a smart blouse to a fashion forward top to take your office look to the next level.

 

Dressing up activewear

Have a coffee date after Pilates? Elevate your look by popping on your blazer. This simple styling trick will enable you to get more wear from your current activewear pieces. My go-to brands when it comes to the activewear space is PE Nation, as I love the splashes of colour they incorporate into their designs. If you’re all about sporting a neutral clean look, Alo Yoga is certainly the pick.

 

Edgy dressing

Need an extra layer of warmth or an element of chicness? A boxier/ oversized blazer looks divine with a slip-dress. It’s a great event look, plus it’s perfect for navigating your way through transeasonal weather.