Two weeks of wow

The last two weeks have been flat strap so I do apologise for the disapreaing act, but I'm back. So much has happened in the past two weeks and I've had no time to breathe. Rather than natter on about what I've been doing I've decided to make this post mainly pictures of what I've been doing. I've had two photoshoots, a fashion evening about Womens Place in the World of Fashion, I went to the opening of Dreaming of Chanel, I've had two modelling jobs for two makeup companies and I started on my new collection. I also had a day at the zoo :)

Bling Bow

As promised, as I wear one of my gorgeous new Sydney pieces I will post a picture, but due to the horrible state I've been in this weekend, I haven't really been in the mood for photos (I have the flu). None the less, when I went to work on Friday I did wear my new Bling Bow Brooch. I was wearing my black maxi with a white business blouse underneath with a cute black and pearl knit cardie over the top, just to add a little sparkle, as I was feeling rather like death warmed up, I added my bling brooch. I didn't take any photos of me wearing it, as in every picture I took I looked like Rudolf the Red Nosed Reindeer, but I've popped in a little piccy of the brooch itself. I think it will be one of those pieces I wear all the time.

I had planned on going out on the weekend and showing off my gorgeous Zara dress, but the only thing I donned over the weekend was my favourite pair of slippers and a box of tissues. Serves me right, I stopped taking my olive leaf extract for a week, so what else could I expect but a cold. Hopefully this week I will be able to show off more of my new wardrobe additions as I have a pretty hectic social calender this week and no flu is keeping me in bed any longer!

Sweet Sydney

As you would have noticed I have been slightly lacking on the posting front, but that's just been due to my little trip to paradise (Sydney). It's one of my favourite places in this gorgeous country of ours. Despite the cold and blatant rudeness of the drivers, I still love it more than any other place (with the exception of home). I flew down with my brother and his girlfriend for a race event, mainly I wanted to take a trip to Sydney for shopping and if I went with them not only would I have someone to party with but my accommodation costs were cut in half. So it was decided and I flew down Friday morning, very early start, 4 am in fact but well worth it as I watched the sun rise over the hills, and as the wheels touched down on the tarmac I couldn't hide my excitement.
I had agreed to spend some time with my brother and his girlfriend however so before I could attack the shops it was off to the racetrack. Two days of wandering around the racetrack left with me with a severe lack of shopping bags and so Sunday and Monday turned into my two big shop days, and shop I certainly did. I hit up Voi and scored a paired of D&G Mary Jane's for a tiny price, I scoured Zara for all the best (too much to choose from really) and fell in love with a silver sequined crop jacket and gorgeous floral print dress. I hit up Lindt for a bag of yummies and went to the Rocks Markets on Sunday and wandered from stall to stall finding some gorgeous one offs. I bought a black rose ring, perfect to match with any outfit, a bling slide clip in the shape of a bow (my favourite) and the most divine book on French Couture as well as a bunch of other random little goodies.
I also managed a quick trip to an op shop whilst in Sydney and I picked up a silk scarf featuring none other then Le Eiffel Tower and a handmade silk lace dress, which fitted like a glove, and is just the most perfect dress I've ever seen in my life!
I ate traditional pizza from some of the best pizza places in the rocks, drank plenty of vino, danced in Sydney's hottest clubs and generally had a ball. Thanks to the wonderful people who were with me, can't wait to do it all again!
I'll be posting up pics of all the goodies I bought as I wear them out on their maiden showings, I'm so excited to show them off!

Market love

Ahhh Sunday morning's, provided you don't have to go to work there is usually a certain amount of love one feels on a Sunday morning. A lazy sleep in, a nice breakfast and a fun activity usually encompasses a normal Sunday morning for me, and last Sunday was no exception. I was in the mood for a good old fashioned market so I grabbed my olds and headed to the nearest Sunday Markets for my fix.

Petrie Town Markets welcomed me with open arms, hugging me with the scent of fairy floss, warming me with beautiful sunshine in a cloudless sky and filling me with Devonshire tea and fresh strawberries. I wandered from stall to stall, looking at antique suitcases, random bags of buttons, vintage vogue patterns, 50 cent fabric rolls, homemade pincushions and old fashioned lollies. I love markets for the variety on show, there really was something for everyone.

Starting with breakfast we feasted on homemade scones with jam and cream, then wandering over to the farmers section we picked up our weekly fruit and veg, then mum and I wandered into the numerous little home wares and fabric stores as my dad riffled through old rock vinyls looking for a classic.

I ended up coming home with a bag of goodies including some gorgeous white crushed silk (a steal at 50c for the half metre), two vintage vogue patterns ($3 each), gorgeous new homemade pin cushions (complete with sequined trim) and a bag of lollies to share amongst the family once we arrived home.

I think its one of those things that you always feel you don't have enough time for, so this weekend we're heading back as we only got half the market done before we had to rush home to organise the family Sunday roast lunch.

I wonder what I'll find this weekend. There's always treasure to be found, you just need to know what to look for.

New Dress!

I'm starting to feel like my blog should be renamed "the poor girls wardrobe" but I just happen to find such nice clothes at affordable prices. I am a firm believer that you don't need a massive bank account to have style, it is simply a matter of finding what works for you and making the most of what you can.

I'm currently working back at the magnificent Hilde Heim Designer Bride and Cocktail and everyday I drive past a little boutique; A Formal Affair who are currently having their EOFY dress sale. I've been there before when I was looking for a formal gown for a wedding but found everything either too "Princess Puffball" or too "slinky/provocative" for the occasion, but today was a different story. Like any female I'm naturally lured to any shop window displaying a sale sign, but when one boasts formals gowns from $50, who am I to resist? I am that moth to a flame, and today I was glad I was! I of course went straight to the cocktail section as I have very little need to long formal gowns, but have a large component of my wardrobe dedicated to cocktail frocks and can't live without them.

My new purchase is a champagne one shoulder bubble hemmed dream, although it's a little big on me (mum's going to take it in) I couldn't be happier with this cute little frock. It's fully lined, and the material has a gorgeous sheen to it, best of all was the price! I was expecting (and would have been happy to pay) at least $100, considering the material and the fact that it was fully lined, but in fact my new addition only cost me half of that. I'd urge anyone on the hunt for a new party frock to check out A Formal Affair in Alderley, you never know what you might find!

Cinderella Moment

Saturday night saw Brisbane's convention centre play host to the Mater Children's Hospital Charity Ball, and who else should be in attendance but lucky little me. I was so excited as I've never been to a Ball before and I only had two days notice to organise my dress, hair, nails, shoes, bag and makeup. Even worse, I was working the day of the Ball and only had about 2 hours to get ready (including having to drive to my friends house) but I think I pulled it off OK.

I wore a long Grecian style silver gown that I had worn to my brothers Wedding last August so at least I had the dress covered. The gown is from Pink Mint and I think we fell in love the first time I tried it on. It's strapless and all the material gathers into the bust and falls to the floor. I love the style as the bodice is boned and gives a great shape and then falls softly over the rest of the dress. I wore my hair in soft curls and donned some beautiful lashes complemented with smokey eyes. My shoes were from Zu, they're a gorgeous champagne with black lace cover which matched my Olga Berg clutch, it's quilted in the same champagne colour. I finished my look off with some crystal huggies from Swarovski and a statement ring from Lovisa.

I had an amazing night and I can't wait for my next Ball. We danced, sang, drank and enjoyed a truly memorable night.

This Weeks Obsessions

Those that know me, know I'm quite obsessive, usually I'll fall in love with something for a week, obsess, love whatever it is fully and completely and then move on to the next thing a week later. This weeks crush comes in two forms, firstly my new black maxi skirt and secondly of the amazingly talented Adele. Although Adele has nothing to do with my passion for all things fashion related my new maxi skirt does.

I bought it on the weekend and thought it was a bit of a cheap, impulse buy. I figured it was something I'd probably only wear once but I've actually had such fun with it, I've worn it three days in a row.

First outing was work (at Politix) and I thought I'd just throw it on for work as it would be comfy, but after spending 10hrs in my new purchase I fell deeply in love with it. I teamed my new love with a white long sleeved tee, and red and gold silk printed neck scarf with my cream and white pearl flats. I was told I looked very French, always a flattering comment when referring to someones outfit, I feel.

Second day was at my new-old job; Hilde Heim. I've decided to go back and leave my beautiful friends at Myer to pursue a part time position as designer assistant with the beautiful Bridal Boutique. Being a Bridal Boutique my dress must reflect the professionalism of the establishment (so it says in my contract) so I teamed the maxi with my Bettina Liano top and one of my own creations; a cream jersey and black lace jacket. Finished off again with my pearl flats, what can I say, they're cute as hell and comfy to boot!

Today I had an appointment but it was fairly casual so I thought I'd put some colour with my maxi as my last two outfits had been pretty neutral colour-wise. I decided on a magenta tee which I added a little black satin bow to and threw on my biker jacket to keep me warm, and wore my silver flats to give it some sparkle.

I don't know if I'll wear it tomorrow as my wardrobe is bursting with new clothes after my holidays so I think it's time try something else. I put in a picture of today's outfit but forgot the other days, sorry guys!

Does anyone else experience obsessive trips with a certain item of clothing? I think we probably all have it in Winter with our UGG boots, but I want to know if anyone has it with ordinary items of clothing...perhaps I'm just odd.

We love Wednesdays!

Today was a massive day, I created four new headpieces and a new bangle then finished off the day with a mini photoshoot to capture my new little lovelies. I'll be definitely making more to accompany these little treasures, I think it will be named the Princess collection, as they're all so precious and pretty with pearls, ribbons and rhinestones. I seem to be having a love affair with baby pink, pearl and black, I hope you like them as much as I do!

Inspiration

What's yours?

I made this inspiration board for my new design studio, it includes everything and everyone who influences my creative way of life. I've got all my style icons including the classic starlets; Audrey Hepburn, Marylin Monroe and Bridgette Bardot, as well as my new favourites including; Rachel Bilson, Blake Lively, Charlize Theron and Jessica Alba and before you ask, yes I also have my favourite designers. My board is covered in Chanel, Dior, Balmain, Lanvin, Valentino, Alex Perry, Alannah Hill, Oroton and even Hilde Heim (after all she played such a massive influence in my life last year, i could hardly leave her off).

I feel like everyone should have inspiration boards on their walls, I intend to have many more as I get more time (they take about a day to put together). I feel being creative isn't something that just happens, you have to stimulate yourself, and you also have to want to be creative. I've transformed my whole room to evolve around my craft so that everyday I wake up I am involved and connected to what I'm doing.

I remember being told once that if you love what you do (your job) then you'll never feel as though you have worked for a day in your life. Fashion is my everything, it is my passion, my drive, my inspiration and my motivation to get out of bed everyday. I hope everyone feels this way about something as it truly is the only way to live life.

Don't just wait for inspiration to happen to you, surround yourself with it, and make it happen for yourself.

Threaded Fashion Show

Wow! What a night! Alumbra in conjunction with New Addiction (Fashion Sweethart) and Threaded really know how to hold a party.
It was my first show of the year and I could not have been happier with the turn out, in fact there were so many people I almost missed getting to my models to dress them backstage as it took me so long to get through the 500+ crowd.
There were copious amounts of bubbles and vodka flowing, impeccably dressed fashion followers from all over Brisbane and designers and models galore!
I found the night really increased my labels recognition and having my name flashing in lights not only boosted my ego, but the labels following too.
Since the show I have gained more followers on my Facebook page and enquiry from several other fashionably orientated individuals wanting to know more about my label and some even wanting to collaborate with me on new projects.
The show has been an amazing push for me to kick start the year that will be the biggest (and most likely the hardest) for the label. I'm currently setting up my new design studio so I have even more space to keep creating. Here are a few snap shots of the amazing night that was, I can't wait for my next show and thank you to everyone who was involved in making it such a success!

EmPLAYment!!

Well it has finally happened! I am back in the working world and happier than ever! Not only am I employed but I have decided to pursue designing full-time so I suppose you could say I have two jobs (as per usual with me). After securing a management position with a reputable men's clothing line I decided that retail management wasn't really my calling in life and I made what one would call "a major life decision". I did end up accepting a job with said company but decided to go Permanent Part-time so I have time to design and sew three to four days of every week and I begun involving the label in as many things as I possibly could.

This Sunday will be my first taste of the market life, I will be at the Suitcase Rummage in Reddacliff Place from 12pm selling my wares. This will mainly be old clothing and accessories I've been wanting to get rid of for a while, but I will have a small amount of handmade things that I will be selling too.

Next week will see in my first show for the year, I've managed to get into Threaded's Young Designer Night (11th Feb, Alumbra in the Valley) which is shaping up to look like a very fun night.It will kick off at around 7pm with a 2hour meet, greet and purchase with pop-up shops being set up for the designers to sell their garments (I'll be selling my last collection)to the public then a big catwalk show and lots of bubbles, photographs, socialising and networking long into the night.

So it's safe to say I'm officially back in overdrive; organising models, make-up and hair artists and my very own photographer for the night, it's all keeping me very busy and I'm loving every second of it, not to mention putting together a new collection. I am loving that I am sewing most days and other than waking up at 6am because my brain has thought up some new design, life doesn't get much better than it is right now.

I would love to see everyone at the show, I am positive there is a glass of free bubbles on arrival, so frock up and come celebrate!

To check out the Suitcase Rummage go to their blog >> http://suitcase-rummage.blogspot.com/

Interested in Threaded's Young Designer Night? View all the details here >> http://www.facebook.com/home.php#!/event.php?eid=159328410782565

Melbourne

New Year’s saw me jet setting off to the majestic city where I oohed and awed over not only the beautiful clothes, shoes and bags (we’re talking Alexander McQueen, Christian Louboutin and Chanel just to name a few) but the amazing culture that embodies Melbourne for all it’s worth. Everything about Melbourne nonchalantly hushes “come explore me” and I found myself feeling as though I was wandering around with a giant ball of string, unraveling my journey through the maze known as Melbourne.

My first day (the day before New Year’s Eve) I meandered around the city center buzzing with excitement and posing in front of giant buildings, and audibly gasping at beautiful architecture till my mouth went dry. We hit up Lygon Street for an amazing dinner and I truly immersed myself in the rich culture Melbourne is so famous for. We drank sweet wine, nibbled on crunchy bruschetta, feasted on fresh pasta and bugs in a quaint Italian restaurant (one of many on Lygon Street) and after dinner we exploded onto the bubbling street and into another thriving restaurant. This was a Lebanese place where we smoked mango Shisha (while watching the boys cough and cry) and drank tea and shared more stories and laughter. Eventually we stumbled through the streets till we reached our hotel and collapsed into a giant cloud of a bed, and as I closed my eyes that night I knew it had happened, I had fallen head over heels in love, with Melbourne.

My second day was all about the fashion as I delved into the Chanel store (just for a peek) then literally wandered up and down Chapel Street till my feet refused to walk anymore. Along my way I found; a top shop dress for only $50, an alligator in a giant shoe and an appreciation for slightly milder weather (it was 36 degrees that day). After exhausting our options on Chapel we hoped onto a tram and were on our way to what my friend described as one of the best op shops in Melbourne, an absolute must apparently. I have to say I am a big fan of trams, but not a massive fan of trekking it across town to find every store in the street closed, including the fabled Op shop that we had travelled so far to see.

That night was Armin Van Buuren and I have to say I was shocked at how "music-festival-ish" people were dressed. Granted the set was 9 hours long, but I still had gone to the trouble of buying a new dress, doing my hair and attending to my makeup as if I were going clubbing (as I thought everyone would). I can't be completely disappointed mind you as I found two absolutely gorgeous boys in the drinks line, looking totally immaculate. They were dressed head to toe in Ralph Lauren, and I can say that they honestly lived up to my expectations for Melbourne's fashion, shame about the rest of the crowd, but I won't hold it against you Melbourne.

I can't say I saw a lot of outstanding fashion on my trip, but then again I went in peak holiday season and I imagine all those trendies that Melbourne is so well known for, were probably all holidaying at the beach somewhere. I took note that most of those invading the streets were all tourists. Next trip to Melbourne I shall ensure is in a non holiday time (and then the shops will actually be open too!)

All in all I can honestly say I can't wait for my next Melbourne trip for more exploring, more shopping and more good times.

Thanks for having me Melbourne,

Your newest fan.

<3 EC

Spoilt rotten!

Merry Christmas all! I hope everyone got spoilt just as I did :D I thought in the spirit of giving, I would give you all a little peek at what Santa brought lucky little me in his sack on Saturday morning. I was shocked, amazed and terribly excited to find that many an item on my list were actually given to me, surprising because I didn't know my family even read my blog, or perhaps they just know what I like. Either way I'm not complaining. Sadly I still don't posses those gorgeous Wedges, but they're on my to do list, so it's only a matter of time.

So how lucky was I? My amazing mother clearly got into my brain as she fulfilled several of my wishes. I was lucky enough to receive; the divine Dior makeup I was dying for, the beautiful Lola scent that I'd been hankering after for months and the delightful "Dreaming of Dior" book that I so desperately wanted. I also got a number of gorgeous unexpected presents including two adorable little mugs, a perfume spray bottle, delicious Eco scented draw bags, a new nightie from Peter Alexander (my favourite) and some new cute-to-boot monogrammed undies (also Peter Alexander) Ahh how my loved ones know me.

My Christmas day was perfect, filled with family, wine, music and lots of food! Just as it should. Christmas time is always my favourite as it allows the family to come together for a nice meal and no one needs to be concerned with work or any other commitment, we can just enjoy being together. Although I absolutely love my industry, it is very high maintenance and keeps me very busy, so I have really appreciated having some family time and quietening down my work brain.

I hope everyone had an amazing Christmas!

Christmas Wishlist

Wittner Shoes
Teenara
Tan Suede and Cream Leather Sandal Wedges
$139.95

As it's only a few more sleeps till Christmas I thought I'd post up my Christmas Wish list. I know all my lovers, friends and family have already purchased my gifts but I thought I'd let my readers see what I'm drooling over this silly season (and I can always go buy them at the Boxing Day Sales if I don't get them for Christmas).

My first drool worthy item are the gorgeous Wittner wedges, "Teenara" (pictured above). I tried on these gorgeous shoes earlier on in the week, and totally fell head over heels (excuse the pun) in love! The suede finish over the wedge makes them so soft and I love the cream leather, tan suede contrast, in my eyes this is one of the best colour combos for summer. They're super lightweight and despite the sky high 11cm wedge, are really very comfortable. I had them on with jeans, but I think they would look gorgeous with shorts, skirts and dresses.

Secondly would be French Connections new LBD, this seasons style features a V neck and massive ruffle shoulders, I have last seasons with the padded shoulders and high boat neck, but you can never have too many Little Black Dresses.

Next on my list (and I have a sneaky suspicion I may actually get this one as I've dropped about 8000 hints that I need this to keep living) is Dior's amazing Forever Foundation. They didn't call it Extreme Wear Flawless Makeup for nothing, it's the most gorgeous makeup I've ever used. It has just a touch of sunscreen in it to stop you from getting burnt on glorious Summer days, and is so light it feels like you're not even wearing any makeup. I love how natural it looks and it feels great on my skin all day, and, like all Dior products it smells divine!

Although I've recently just become addicted to Chanel's Chance, I am still really hoping for a bottle of Marc Jacobs Lola in my stocking. I've loved this smell ever since I received a tester of the fabulous fragrance and smelt it to death, but for some reason I've never ended up actually buying myself a bottle. Santa are you listening?

The next item on my list is definitely not a traditional Christmas present and I happen to know I will definitely be buying this for myself (once Spotlight goes on sale). I want five metres of Silk Dupion, usually its about $25- $30 a metre, but once Spotlight goes on Sale it becomes $8 a metre, so that will be my (belated) Christmas present to myself. Heaven!

Add to this list an iPad, iPhone 4 and a MacBook Air please please please? Oh well perhaps now I'm just dreaming...

There are a few books I want too, now before you start wrapping the latest Harry Potter, please stop. I would love; Chanel Collections and Creations, Dreaming of Dior, Little Dictionary of Fashion: A Guide to Dress Sense for Every Woman and a subscription to Vogue would be perfect!

Lastly I would like a new cuff, something blingy would be good, something interesting that really makes a statement, maybe with a touch of ruby red or midnight blue?

Well I think I could probably spend all day dreaming of all the beautiful things I would like but these are definitely at the top of my list, so readers what are you hankering for this Christmas? Also I am urging all my friends and family to give something back this Christmas, this year I donated $100 to a few charities helping sick kids and helping others make Christmas special for families in need, I know it's not a lot, but if everyone gives a little, it will make a huge difference.

Happy Holidays everyone, hope you get all what your hearts desire.

<3 EC

Festival Feasting...for your eyes

Music festivals always bring together an eclectic mix of people despite what music genre is playing. Sunday saw the arrival of Stereosonic in Brisbane and it certainly brought out people from all walks of life. There are a few main stereotypes you can slot these brightly coloured fans into from a fashion perspective and I always love sitting back and people watching when you've got thousands of people to look at. I have to admit I did sit back and take it all in for about an hour and I loved the array of different people that staggered, danced and partied past me while I took it all in.


Firstly you've got the fans, you can always distinguish who is at a festival because they simply couldn't bare to miss their favourite play; they are usually wearing a t-shirt, head-band or some form of paraphernalia that they've either made (like me) or bought at a previous concert - these are always my favourite people at a festival or concert because there intention for the day/night is simply to experience the music.

Secondly you have your festival heads; these are an amusing bunch of guys and girls that when you think about it really shouldn't be allowed through the door. The girls, I have to admit are the worst. It starts with a fake tan, fake nails, fake hair and fake eye lashes, added to this mix is a ridiculous amount of makeup (which let's face it is pointless as it either gets washed off by rain or sweat, and they spend more time in the bathroom re-caking their face then they do listening to music). They are dressed in the smallest outfit they could find at Supre, which usually equates to some form of tiny denim cut off's and a bikini top (this can be substituted for a backless leotard, a crop top or for the girls that read the "top's on policy" a cut out one piece swimsuit) but somehow they still manage to all look the same. To finish off this outfit they are either wearing thongs, which they loose as soon as they get in the crowd or the cheap black cons that everyone seems to don these days (no I don't have a pair). By the end of the night, the make-up has run, the extensions have either fallen out or been ripped out in some dirty girl fight over some "buff-hot-guy", the tan has turned to a bright orange hue (if it wasn't already) and has now begun to run down the back of their legs and discolour around their elbows, knees and armpits and all their effort seems to be a complete waste of the day, and I wonder, did you actually enjoy this festival or does it seem as pointless to you as it does to me?

The boys that I classify as festival heads tends to be similar to the girls in the fact that they all look the same despite what colour of singlet they decide to pull out of their collection. They come in packs of 6-10, all varying degree's of "buffness", they tend to all be tanned and look great with their sunnies on but there's something very unattractive about a guys eyes when he's taken lots of drugs and the whole chewing your lip off because you forgot to buy gum before you came look just doesn't do it for me. Their shorts are always just that 1 inch too small and their singlets look like they've been ripped in a fight (but "hey man that's why I spent $180 on a singlet") that's if they manage to keep them on. Now I have no problem with this distinctive group of guys and gals, as they always provide for great entertainment as they bump and grind against each other and try to have a conversation in front of a giant speaker.

The next group (and they aren't at all festivals, only the ones with the right type of music) are the ravers, but they are often substituted at rock concerts for the "punks/hardcore's". They don all kinds of fluro and I love ravers because there is always so much thought put into their outfits (and unlike festival heads they tend to keep themselves looking pristine the whole day). These guys and gals from a fashion perspective gain so much respect from me as I love seeing a well put together outfit (even if it's not my taste). I love that everything matches and no expense has been spared to ensure all the little details have been attended to. This group make for a fascinating view as they shuffle around in their neon pants and fur sock-boots. I love that their intricate outfits still allow for freedom of movement, in fact, most of the raver gear looks the best while in motion.

The last group are the costume-kids. These are the guys are girls who have gone to a costume shop (or sex shop) and bought funny/sexy outfits to dance the night away in. The usual include all manner or police/army/navy sexy outfits but can include (as I saw on Sunday) Power rangers, Mario and Lady Gaga. I am a massive fan of costume-parties and I love that some people see music festivals as a giant costume party as they just look like they're ready for a fun day.

Now not everyone will fit in these groups and there are heaps of people who just go along for a fun day and wear whatever would be comfortable/was clean on the floor, but I urge you during the festival season to have a brake just for 10 mins and observe the crazy scene happening around you. Going to events like a music festival make me realise just how massive the fashion industry is, and just how many people it involves.

Dear world of fashion, I love you, thank you for never being dull.

Sincerely

EC

Which weather is better?

So it's now late November, but we're not feeling the usual sweltering hot summer days that Brisbane's November is known for, instead I am wearing pants to work, and cardigans over my summer dresses. This weird mix of seasonal style got me thinking, do people prefer one season to another because of what it allows them to wear? I am quite sure I've had this conversation with a few of my girlfriends before, and I have to admit that I was most certainly a winter girl all the way, up until about a year ago. I have always been a bit self-conscience about my body and so I was never a fan of summer due to the hot weather forcing you to wear less clothes and show more skin, definitely not something I was comfortable doing. I was infatuated with my winter wardrobe; layers of comfy cotton tees, scarfs, beanies, stockings, boots...What's not to love?! There is nothing better than coming home, out of the cold, having a hot bath and snuggling into warm pj's and slippers.

However, I have recently become accustomed to appreciate my summer wardrobe.

I always felt as though summer called for fake tans and very little else (in the way of clothing) so I never really "dug" it, but over the past year I had the rare opportunity to experiement with a casual wardrobe that was ruled less by purpose (work) and more personal style. Over the past few months I have been lucky enough to experience true casual summer style. This entails; putting a cute comfy summer dress on, picking some equally cute flats to match and walking out the door, all resulting in being ready in 10mins and being comfortable all day! A novel concept to some I'm sure, but well worth the revelation.

So I am curious as to what other peoples favourtie style season is, I'm definitly a lover of both, give me summer and sunshine, and winter and booties, either way I'm a happy little fashionista!

Melbourne Cup

Ahhh, Melbourne Cup would have to be one of my favourite days of the year, not only does it give you an excuse to drink bubbles and talk ponies, but the fashion is deemed just as important as the race itself! This I feel is a major achievement for the world of fashion, a win, if you will. I love the idea that women (and men) are taking weeks out of their busy schedules, planning, preening, shopping and collecting the perfect outfit to really turn heads on Cup day. Sure there are other races and derby days during the year, but Melbourne Cup is the one that puts Fashion on the Front page of the Sunday Mail.

So what did I do for Melbourne Cup? Well I had just finished uni the previous Friday, so finding a spare few hours on my hands I thought I would take a quick trip to Spotlight and make something for the first time in 14 weeks! Well I can tell you, there is nothing more contenting for me to finally, finally, FINALLY get to make something! My last semester at uni left me ridiculously stressed and too busy to even think about designing or making anything that I thought I'd most likely forgotten how, but thank you Spotlight, turns out I haven't forgotten at all.

I ended up deciding that a fascinator was more appropriate for our small office lunch than a hat. I meticulously picked through what remained of the DIY fascinator section; which at the time looked as though it had been attacked by a swarm of locusts, but it was reassuring to know that there were others creating there own Cup classics, and I wasn't alone in the "rather make one than buy one" realm. I decided rather than feathers, fabric and diamantees, Spring flowers were the order of the day and after poking around in the silk flower section decided on white Lillie's and some cute little red flowers (they look almost hibiscus-ish) and with that I took to a new project. A few hours later and they were all sewn on and I have to say, I didn't do a half bad job, in fact, I was rather pleased, especially when doing the math I worked out it had cost me half of what a store bought one would have (even if I had have bought it from Diva).

Needless to say I was the talk of the office at our obligatory cold chicken and cheap bubbles lunch, although I was slightly disheartened as no one else bothered with a hat, given that I work for an IT company, I really shouldn't have been surprised. Despite my being the only one "hatted" I couldn't have been happier! Everyone seemed to be extremely complimentary of my efforts, with several people not believing I'd made it myself. It was a lovely feeling to have my work appreciated and commented and it definitely stirred up my desire to create a new label. Now I have some time on my hands, I'm going to really get stuck into some more design work.

Creativity

It’s one of those things that if you’re this way inclined you will always find it, no matter what you’re doing. I’ve recently changed jobs (from a high-stress retail job to a cushy office job) and I can honestly say my first few weeks were very dull and as I’m not really designing much at the moment, I felt as though my creativity was slipping out of my brain. Last week I had a breakthrough, although I feel as though my uni life and personal life seems to be getting the better of me, and stealing all my thinking time, I managed to have an epiphany! I needed to restructure my work day to make sure my creativity didn’t lie dormant in a box in the back of my brain. So I found ways to add creativity to my relatively un-creative job. I know this will sound strange but while re-organising the stationary cupboard I found myself enjoying it. Making labels for everything, creating new space and making something lovely (organised) out of absolute chaos. Although I wasn’t creating something amazing I at least felt a form of creative buzz running through my veins, so it was a nice feeling knowing I haven’t completely lost it. I think it’s important for anyone that is a creative person to make sure you set aside creative time, even when you’re extremely busy, in fact it’s probably more important when your flat out to make sure you make time for the things you love. I’m going to make some earrings for a friend tomorrow as she bought me a lovely little head piece and has a massive appreciation for handmade things. Although I’d prefer to make her some slinky pj’s I really don’t have the time, but I know how much the earrings will mean to her, and I’m sure my creative brain will thank me for it. There is simply nothing like giving someone something knowing you’ve made it and created it yourself. Creativity is something that pushes humans forward, it’s what makes us continue to grow and learn as people and it’s something inside everyone, even if they don’t realise it.

VALENTINO!!!!

Ahh yes, Brisbane has once again been blessed with a fashion exhibition and I have to say we have well and truly been spoiled. I'm not going to try and explain what I saw as I don't think words could do the amazing garments justice, they really must be seen to be believed, and I urge you to go and see it, if you're a student its only $16 so there really is no excuse! Unfortunately my first viewing was a brief one as I had to ensure I still made it back to class on time but what I saw blew my mind. Anyone that knows even a little about the fashion world would know the name Valentino Garavani. He had been creating awe inspiring garments for 40 years, and even with his retirement his legacy lives on, and the new creative directors of the company continue to produce exquisite garments that celebrate the world of fashion in all its glory.
To say that the garments are well constructed would be a major understatement, with the exception of a couple of pieces; they are all put together by hand. You can literally see how much time, effort; love and commitment went into each piece. The hand embroidery on one pair of stockings screams how the hell did he do this?!? There are garments that have been hand painted after they were constructed (to make sure the pattern looked the best), garments encrusted with sequins, crystals and feathers and you can’t help but stare at them in awe. A Valentino garment represents the true meaning of Haute Couture; they are out of the ordinary, they use the best quality materials (silks, ostrich feathers and Swarovski crystals to name a few), they are works of pure imagination! The most important thing to me about a Valentino gown is what they represent; he was a designer that truly loved the female form. His dresses are designed around the body, they do not try to disguise the shape of a woman, they are designed to encapsulate her beauty, the garments wrap around the body like an infatuated lover.
I imagine wearing a Valentino gown would make a woman feel her best, sensual, powerful, intensely feminine and most importantly they would make you feel beautiful. Seeing Valentino reminded me why it is I’m in this industry, it’s not to get rich or go to swanky parties; it’s all about the love of it, the passion behind it, the creativity, the imagination, the power of making someone feel something from what I’ve created. Thank you Valentino, you truly are a master!

Ebay LOVE!

Dear Ebay,

This is a love letter to you my dearest Ebay. You make me whole, you are my obsession, and you surprise me, bewilder me, excite me and make my day (when a package arrives). You open my world to millions of products and fuel my compulsive consumer behaviour. There is no hesitation with you, I do not umm and urr over my purchases, you allow me to buy without guilt. I never get tired of trawling through your lists as I have already decided what it is that I’m looking for. I don’t have to stand in line waiting to pay for my product only to be greeted by an unhappy, unhelpful sales assistant. I do not have to walk in and out of stores, up and down shopping malls only to hear the same irritating pop music played over and over with rude people running over my feet with their prams and screaming children. I get the sense of shopping euphoria without the anxiety of having a fat day while trying on clothes, or worrying that I’m taking too long in a change room. Although I have slight concern that my love for Ebay is in some way ruining the retail industry, I can’t help myself. I’ve just ordered a new top; it’s just a black short sleeved tee but has the most adorable puffy tulle sleeves with sparkles. Of course I could have wandered from store to store looking for this style of top and paid $80 for it, but instead, like so many people, I jumped on Ebay and found it for $15 with free postage. However it’s not about the money, I think the most exciting thing about Ebay is getting the package. It’s probably some deep-seeded emotional nostalgia of being a child and getting a package in the mail, but it excites me and it makes my day. So thankyou Ebay, for making me smile and I eagerly await my next delivery :)

Sincerly
EC