She Wore It Well

Last days of summer..

2012-02-13T08:52:00.001+11:00

Enjoying being able to wear shorts for a few more weeks. And the stars aligned and I found the Zara sequin in the Melbourne store. The very last one. Yesssssss!

I Quit Sugar

2012-02-09T20:47:00.000+11:00

I quit sugar. Yep.

This is the year that I look after myself, so this week I made a pact to quit sugar. I've tried to do this before, but this time I'm serious.
Last night, after a horrid day at work all I wanted to do was dive into the giant box of Ferrero Rocher (to my credit it's been in my posession since Christmas and I have not opened it). Sugar is always the easy option. Chocolate, cakes, snakes, jams, nutella, Not to mention the sugar that's added to pretty much everything we consume anyway. I don't know about you, but it seems to be that the easiest thing to grab while on the run is sugar laden? Sometimes when the day is crazy, all I will eat is an almond croissant. My body has pretty much told me that I have to stop. It's inflamed and it hurts and I need to change my ways.

Sarah Wilson's ebook has been a good helping hand.

Probably the best $15 I've spent all year. It's quick to read and easy to follow. It's not patronising, but it's scary and realistic at the same time. I don't think that I'm overly dependent on sugar, so I'm not doing the extreme and quitting fruit. I love fruit and it's a staple of my diet, but I am steering clear of the fruit that's too high in fructose. Sugar is inflammatory, it's ageing and it turns into fat. The biggest revelation has been the fact that fat isn't fat, fructose is. One is encouraged to eat full fat products as they contain the least amount of additives. And lets face it, fat fills us up. I'm all about grilled halloumi, lots of salmon, daily gym sessions and weekly infrared saunas. You should see my skin after 40 minutes in that sauna. Amazing!

I'm not trying to lose weight or be Gwyneth Paltrow. I just want to be healthy.

So, I quit sugar.

I love Sydney

2012-02-06T08:00:00.001+11:00

Sometimes you just need to get away. I've been to Sydney many, many time and am very familiar with it. Yet every time I go I love it even more. I usually hire a car and explore the surrounds. There's only so much the CBD can offer. And it's Frugal February, so staying away from shops is the best idea.

My friends on Twitter warned me that the weather wasn't great but boy was I grateful that they were wrong. It was sunny and hot. Just how I like it.

Upon arriving in Sydney I stuffed my face with Zumbo macarons (the Milo one pictured was perfection) and on attempting to go to Oxford Street, I took a wrong turn and ended up crossing Harbour Bridge and ending up under it, in Kirribili in a tiny little park. Love a surprise.

I'm really looking forward to a quiet February. I do not have too many commitments and I'm over the moon about that.

Hoping to return to regular blogging and blog visits too!

Recipe: Raspberry & Banana Muffins

2012-01-22T23:09:00.001+11:00

Isn't life an unpredictable ride?

I've spent the last 10 years racing through it. I sit down each January and set goals. Usually to do with property purchases, pay rises, promotions, a trip to a new destination, something new to study? More more more, quick quick quick.

Well not this year. This year is all about me and my health. Today was the first day in ages that I didn't HAVE to be in 3 places at once. And more than ever I'm starting to say no. Just doing things that make me happy. I'm winding down some things on the go and January is traditionally the craziest (and the most fun and exciting month) but I need to take better care of myself and draw the line somewhere.

Cooking and exercising and spending time with my amazing husband are top of my list. I'm also treating myself to a trip to Sydney in February, selling most of my belongings on eBay, going to the country to see the Grace Kelly exhibit in March and going home more often to see my parents.

My heavy duty kitchen mixer died late last year, which almost excited me because I thought that MAYBE it was time to get a KitchenAid. But it seems not yet. I fell in love with a beautiful Kenwood which was reduced from $300 to $219.. which then scanned for $129 at the register. HAPPY! Which meant some left over money on the voucher for some goodies from Chanel.

I took it for a test mix today and made some raspberry and banana muffins. The recipe can be altered to just about any sort of muffin. I usually halve the amount of sugar in recipes, so if you like your muffins sweeter, I have stated the amount of sugar the recipe calls for.

360g plain flour

pinch of salt

1 teaspoon bicarb soda

2 teaspoons baking powder

4 eggs

150 g caster sugar (recipe calls for 270g)

180g butter

200g sour cream

1 small banana

1 punnet raspberries

Preheat over at 180C. Sift together the dry ingredients. Beat the eggs and sugar until pale and thick, then continue to beat while adding the butter, adding in the flour mixture. Add sour cream and mix for a further 1 minute and fold in the fruit so it doesn't crumble. Spoon into paper cases and bake for around 15 minutes. The sour cream is the winning touch in my opinion and these are great frozen and popped in the handbag for a snack during the day.

Giveaway winner is...

2012-01-19T22:15:00.001+11:00

I know the comp ended at Christmas and since my spare room resembles a St Vinnies sorting warehouse right now I had totally forgotten to pick a winner.

Random number generator has decided to give the prize to Iron Chef Shellie!! Yay! Congrats! X

Mid week dinner

2012-01-18T19:20:00.001+11:00

I'm headed out for dinner at Greek Deli on Chapel Street with my dearest friends. It's a tiny and hidden oldie but goody. After the cold weekend, yesterday was once hottest day of the year, and today it's windy and chilly again. Who can keep up?

-- Zara tiered top, Zara jacket, Lovisa necklace, Scanlan & Theodore silk peg leg trousers, Zara sequin clutch (borrowed from SIL, still looking for my own), Witchery studded sandals --

Back and on the go

2012-01-14T16:54:00.001+11:00

I'm back from holidays. Happy to be reunited with my pillow, my bottle of Pantene Aqualight and Parlux hair dryer. Not so happy to be headed back to work on Monday.

I'm running late for a meeting now. Last minute run through for our huge event tomorrow. Nerves have set in, for sure. Last minute calls from media seeking accreditation. Breathe.

My tan is hiding under this wintry outfit. Please sun, come out and play????

-- sass & bide rats leggings, Alaia lace ballet flats, Sportsgirl sweater, Zara sequin clutch, Lovisa necklace --

Where I've spent most of the week...

2012-01-13T21:38:00.001+11:00

Hope you all had a fab week and hope you have an even better weekend x

L’Oréal Melbourne Fashion Festival 2012 Cultural Program

2012-01-13T16:52:00.004+11:00

The L'Oréal Melbourne Fashion Festival (LMFF) Cultural Program packs an artistic punch, with over 77 diverse and inspiring events throughout Victoria.

The program combines design, art and film to explore another side of fashion through a series of unique and interactive events, far beyond the runway.

Extending from the officially programmed events of the Festival week, LMFF Cultural Program runs through the entire month of March. In 2012 LMFF is thrilled to announce the Cultural Program has the support of leading Australian public and commercial galleries, who will host some of the program’s ‘hero’ events.

Graeme Lewsey, LMFF Chief Executive Officer said “The Cultural Program celebrates a number of iconic Australian designers including Linda Jackson, Mariana Harwick (celebrating 30 years) through to street groovers Alpha 60 in non-traditional fashion presentations. Fashion & Film events continue to morph from digital platforms to live screens across the Festival adding inspiring colour and movement”.

The 2012 Cultural Program highlights include:

Grace Kelly: Style Icon exhibition, at Bendigo Art Gallery traces the life
of one of the most photographed women of the 20th Century, exploring the
evolution of her style from actress to Princess Grace of Monaco, and
includes her haute couture gowns of the 1960s and 1970s.

CLICK! Fashion Photographers on Film, at ACMI goes behind the
camera to discover the world of a fashion photographer, featuring new and
classic documentaries exploring the world of these iconic image makers.
Fashion Loves Art Loves Fashion exhibition, at Sophie Gannon Gallery,
Richmond will showcase a collection of gems gleened from the creative
coupling occurring between art and fashion in Australia. Featuring
collaborations from Romance was Born, Scanlan and Theodore,
Rittenhouse and Josh Goot.

Hearts and Crafts at NGV is a documentary directed by Frédéric Laffont
and Isabelle Dupuy-Chavanat that pays homage to the artisans of the
numerous Hermès métiers.

Linda Jackson exhibition at NGV, is the first solo exhibition of Linda’s
work and will feature a number of rare and unique early pieces which
embody a particularly dynamic period in Jackson’s career during which she
was defining her visual and design language.

QV Lunchtime Style Series of live workshops at QV Square, is presented
by Melbourne’s most fashionable to give you tips to take home today’s
trends from fashion to home décor.

Windows by Design presented by the City of Melbourne and supported by
Peroni and Harper’s Bazaar, partners key Melbourne retailers with local
design talent to develop incredible window displays. Curated by Alex
Zabotto-Bentley and his team from AZBCreative.

For more information on the2012 Cultural Program please visit the LMFF website.

L’Oréal Melbourne Fashion Festival tickets are available through Ticketek or online at lmff.com.au.

Packing pains. Again.

2012-01-03T23:45:00.000+11:00

There's something magic about packing for a summer get away. Floaty colourful things are a go, bright nail polish a must, the fake tan isn't out of place, a small clutch bag fits all the necessities (ie. a credit card and a tube of Maybelline Coral Crush lipstick).

Despite painstakingly planning my suitcase for months before jetting off to Paris, as I've mentioned a hundred times over, I packed completely and frustratingly wrong. On Saturday I'm off for a week back home to Queensland with a lot planned in a short 7 days... family lunches, catch ups with friends and a quick getaway to Noosa.

I did a huge cull of my wardrobe over the new year break and listed a bunch of things in eBay for 99 cents (some of which I paid over $700 for ~~once upon a time when I had disposable income a plenty.)~~ If you're interested check out username:bk6076

I am completely uninspired by everything in my wardrobe and fortunately have some pennies to spend on a couple of things on my lunch break tomorrow. I want an amazing printed statement dress and a loose silk blouse. I've left things to the very last minute so tonight I'm handwashing delicates and ironing in the stifling heat. Serves me right. Not to mention my obsession with making sure the house is spotless. There is nothing that will ruin a post holiday feel than coming to back to a dirty house.

Couple of things are ready to join turquoise and bronze accessories, white shorts and a linen dress in my suitcase:

Studded Witchery Sandals

Witchery Leopard Clutch

Tinted moisturiser and a bright lip. And nothing else cosmetics wise. Gulp.

A fun flirty dress, like this Country Road Snake Print number.

WANTED: Zara Sequin Wallet/Clutch

2012-01-03T21:02:00.001+11:00

I'm going to be a pain in the butt and put out a call to my readers to see if anyone can help me get a hold of this Zara bag. I STUPIDLY didn't buy it in Prague NOR Paris despite totting around every Zara I walked into with it in my hand. I can't stop thinking about it.

Happy to pay a reasonable premium and postage and inconvenience fee.

Thanks in advance xx

sheworeitwell.blog @ gmail . com

One of the best things about 2011 was you, Prague...

2012-01-02T20:10:00.000+11:00

Feelings of wonderlust whenever I look at the photos. I'm procrastinating posting them, so I can keep writing about Prague all year...

The Old Town Tower as you approach Karlov Most, in astonishing gothic style.

Crossing the bridge... dotted with 30 statues.

If you rub St John being thrown into Vltava River and make make a wish... When in Rome!

Foggy morning view from a park I stumbled onto on my last day (which ended up being my favourite spot in Prague...) This is the view when it's not foggy.

“For last year's words belong to last year's language and next year's words await another voice.” - T.S. Eliot

2011-12-31T19:46:00.004+11:00

Long weekday lunches

Deciding between shoes...

Receiving pretty flowers "just because" :)

Lazy beach days

Road trips to Portsea

I've spent the last glorious days of 2011 getting lost and not knowing exactly what day it is, what date it is or what time it is. Swimming in the ocean, reading under the shade of a tree, baking, nibbling on summer stone fruit, laughing, making plans for 2012 with my darling B. It's been a whirlwind of sunny and warm days and I'm not even on leave from work. Nothing more amazing than days filled with joy and happiness. And sunshine.

My bag is light with just a beach towel and a tube of sunscreen (this summer it's all about Bloom - by far the best sunscreen out there and I've tried them ALL).

I know that 2011 has been a challenging year for the world but it's been amazing for me. After starting off with heartache of my hometown and apartment flooding, I've ridden a wave of adventures and good fortune and all I can hope for is that to continue.

Here is wishing you, my dear readers, a wonderful 2012. May all your hopes and prayers for the new year be answered and may it be filled with joy.

All my love... X

Recipe: Choc Chip Cookies

2011-12-23T00:55:00.001+11:00

It's well past midnight and here I am baking cookies for my colleagues for our Christmas BBQ. I'm terribly excited as we're "shutting shop" at midday and heading to a nearby park for a BBQ, prawns and champagne. And it's going to be a warm and sunny day. Happy!

I got home very late tonight as I went to the ballet (Swan Lake - wish it was Nutcracker), which didn't leave much time for cookie baking. But I had promised everyone as I left the office. What's a girl to do!?

These cookies are virtually fool proof and are very soft and fluffy. ~~(provided that you do not overbake them like I did with the first batch tonight)~~ Once lent is over, I'll be baking a round just for me. It's torture with the smell wafting out of the oven and me surviving on carrot sticks and hummus. But that's a story for another day.

Ingredients

150g melted, unsalted butter

100g brown sugar

100g caster sugar

2 teaspoons vanilla extract

1 egg

1 egg yolk

300g flour (sifted)

1/2 teaspoon bicarb soda

1 x 300g choc chips

Preheat the oven to 160C
Whisk butter with sugar
Add vanilla and eggs
Add flour and bicarb soda and slowly mix
Fold in choc chips and leave to rest in fridge for half an hour
Spoon a heaped table spoon of mixture on baking tray (ensure cookies are spread out as they do rise and expand)
Bake for 13-15 minutes

ENJOY!

11/11/2011

2011-12-19T21:02:00.000+11:00

They say that how one spent 11/11/11 will set the tone for the future. If that's to be believed then sign me up.

On 11/11 I woke up in Paris about 3:30am with 45 minutes on the clock to finish packing and make my way over to CDG for the flight to Prague. A croissant and a coffee definitely hit the spot at the inhumane hour, no matter that it cost a bazillion dollars. I was getting tired of paying Paris prices.

After a short hour flight, I was in heaven. When I was initially considering the Paris trip, I thought why not do another city? I desperately wanted to go to Belgrade, and it was torture flying over Serbia and not being able to go, but 4 days was an unfairly short amount of time to consider it a destination so I decided on Prague (the other possibility was London). The decision was helped by the bargain of a life time - a return flight from Paris and 3 nights in a 5 star hotel for less than AUD370. Thanks Expedia!

I instantly fell in love with Prague. I fit right in, what with looking so obviously Slavic and being well above average height. Nobody stared. I understood the language too. What a revelation. Sign number 875 that I belong in Eastern Europe. After a very cheap train ride into town, I was in a fairy tale.

Prague is impossible to describe with words. A bit like New York, it just made me happy and at peace. I indulged in the most delicious street food, the best hot chocolate I have ever had. I'm already plotting ways to go back. The one regret I have is not getting a guidebook to read as I walked around. The architecture and the history of each building is incredible, everything had a story. I walked around all day with a huge grin on my face, eating amazing food... if that's how I'm going to spend the rest of my life... may the rest of my life start now!

The incredible street food sausage in the freshest baguette

Roast potato with ham and onion

Trdelnik. If I could eat only this incredible pastry for the rest of my life I would. I had 2-3 every single day...

Tyn Church in old town square.

Just a little something to say THANK YOU...

2011-12-18T20:57:00.001+11:00

I want to thank each and every one of you for continuing to visit my blog and take an interest in the things I do, places I go and occasionally the things I wear. 2011 has turned out to be an amazing year for me personally, after a couple of tough years. I'm truly blessed to have been able to achieve so much this year. And I'm thankful for the all the wonderful people I continue to meet through the blogging fraternity.

To say thank you, I'm doing a quick Christmas/end of year give away. An animal print lucette clutch from Witchery and a Bloom nail polish in Antwerp.

To enter, please leave a comment on this post (and contact details if you don't have an active Google account). Entries close 25 December at 23:59 AEST and is open to readers anywhere in the world.

Good luck x

"I generally avoid temptation, unless I can't resist it" - Mae West

2011-12-14T23:07:00.001+11:00

I've never been much of a bag girl. I own 2 proper bags, a couple of little fun (and cheap) ones and 3 clutch bags. I find it extremely difficult to find a bag I love. Think roomy, buttery soft leather, no external pockets or zips or dangling bits. Yet a price that somebody who doesn't love bags is prepared to pay. Impossible?

Last year I spent big on a J Dauphin bag and the zip broke after 3 days. Then I found something that ticked all the boxes, only to be running for the train a week later, getting the door closed on me with the bag outside and me inside (when the door closed shut the handle broke and all of my belongings were splattered on the platform at peak hour and the train had to make an emergency stop)... anyway.

So no bag, for ages.

I had steered clear of Scanlan & Theodore all year. Huge weakness of mine since my early 20's and here I am wanting to kick some major goals in 2011 (like Paris). Didn't mix well. The only way was to staaaaay awaaaaay. Except that one time... when I walked in and fell in love with one of their house label bags. A bag that would have equaled about 6 months worth of my I'mOnATightBudgetPendingTripToParis play money. No bag.

6 months later, I'm back from Paris, still without a bag and I get an SMS. VIP sale starting TOMORROW. I'm standing out the front waiting for the doors to open (I know, I know) and I spy THE BAG! With a blue tag on it. 70% off? You betcha.

We've been happy for a week now. She's buttery soft, fits my whole life in it. Has no unnecessary bits hanging on the outside. It's true love.

A little gift guide...

2011-12-08T21:25:00.001+11:00

I love giving presents. Big or small. For any occasion. I'm filled with joy when yet another friend has a baby and I'm allowed a trip to Purebaby to pick out some outfits.

When it comes to Christmas, I usually opt for something small and personal and relatively inexpensive. Here's a list of my suggestions if you're still stuck that suits mosts.

Limited edition Swarovski pen with a cute charm. Love the 4 leaf clover one.

Chanel compact mirror

A simple cook book

Cannes film festival coffee table book

AMAZING Michael Buble Christmas album

A magical real life story to inspire for the new year

Chic travel wallet from Smythson

Limited edition Catherine Martin boxed Ferrero Rocher

Surfing lessons

Ovarian Cancer supporting item from Witchery

Dressing for winter in summer...

2011-12-05T21:26:00.001+11:00

I'd like to take this opportunity to voice my disgust at the weather. Summer started 5 days ago and I've had the heater on every night. I packed away the sweaters and pulled out the summer dresses... prematurely it seems.

Yesterday I dragged myself into the city department stores for pick up some decorations for Christmas and try and get into the spirit. I even put on Michael Buble's Christmas album tonight (which is incredible by the way).

What has everyone got planned for Christmas this year? Are you all more organised than me?

Zara scarf, Zara jacket, Chanel brooch, Vila dress, Sambag flats

The buys

2011-12-04T22:16:00.001+11:00

Even though I promised myself not to buy anything, bar books, who was I kidding!? The "who knows when I'll be back and if I'll ever come across something like this again" feeling seems to take over. My obsessive personality takes hold. Just like I obsessed over a scarf in Singapore for 3 days until I bought it. I spent half a day trawling H&M stores across Paris looking for an orange hat.

I wanted to get one amazing piece in each city. I couldn't go past Chanel in Paris. The service was so wonderful, I had trouble deciding which brooch to get. In the end I decided on the classic pearl. Very happy with my choice.

I also thought it was time to upgrade my beloved, 5 year old Chanel 5101 sunnies. The 5183 are similar, but different enough. Instant love.

When I checked into the hotel in Prague, I fell in love with this black garnet and CZ ring that I saw in the little jewellery store on the premises. Prague is full of jewellery stores and I literally walked into every single one looking for something similar. When I realised that nothing close or as equally beautiful existed I made sure this one came home with me. I love the symbol behind the stone and I'm sure I will cherish this ring for a long time to come. It was so sparkly for the price that I paid.

I came across this wonderful jacket hiding in the corner of the Zara store in Prague. I had well and truly had run out of room in my suitcase by that stage, but what's a girl to do. Hence why I had to fly back to Australia wearing 5 layers and 3 scarves around my neck. Worth it!

It's perfect with this brooch I picked up for a couple of Euro in a little store in St Germain.

Gold Zara goat skin bag, which is sadly too delicate to carry too often.

I have also developed a serious love affair with the new Chanel shadows. I exercised some self control and only purchased Mirifique from Sephora... and I'm lusting after Illusoire and Epatant too. Patience...

Prague posts to come this week... x

"Paris is always a good idea" - Sabrina

2011-11-29T22:56:00.001+11:00

As I emerged from the Louvre the sun was shining for the first time since I arrived in Paris. I hadn't planned to go to the top of the Eiffel Tower, then I thought to myself... hang on, you're in PARIS, go atop the Eiffel Tower. And I did. To watch the sunset.

Many misconceptions were cleared up about this magical city:

- the French are not rude. The service isn't friendly, it's professional. It's refreshing
- most people speak English. Say bonjour and ask if they speak English in French and they will help out
- it is preposterously expensive to buy a drink at a cafe or restaurant (I paid 7 euro for a juice and 6.80 for a pot of green tea)
- the metro is meritorious. 12 euro for a 10 trip and trains on all lines run every two minutes day and night
- I heard that Paris was dirty. Not what I saw at all.
- macarons at Laduree trump those at Pierre Herme. My favourite Laduree macaron is vanilla.
- walk into every store on Rue Montaigne and touch everything. Nobody will mind. And it's surprisingly more affordable than elsewhere

3 pairs of shoes in a week? I need an intervention!

2011-11-28T22:17:00.001+11:00

2010 was proudly the year that I did not purchase a single pair of shoes. The 6 inch "Kardashian Kraze" was not to my liking at all so I stuck to what I had. As I teenager my mum did not let me wear heels. So of course I locked away pocket money and went with my best friend when we were both nearing our 18th birthday to purchase the highest pair of heels I could find and afford (I think they were about $60 from Williams). My friends parents were a little more understanding than mine so my shoes stayed hidden at her houses and I totted around in them every time I stayed over.

My mum had never worn heels so thought it was the right choice for me as well. I had all the freedom in the world - to go where I want and wear what I want. But no high heels.

You see my mum was one of those chic European women who had an enviable capsule wardrobe. Her winter coat cost 5 months of her (very high at the time) salary. I remember when she went to Italy to buy it. But she wore it for 10 years. I remember her amazing leather sandals and belts and jewellery and stunning silk blouses. I remember every piece and I swear had any of it survived our rushed move to Australia I would be wearing all of it now.

In the wide open spaces of Australia we drive everywhere. I know people in their 30's who have never stepped foot onto a train. Paris, being a relately small city area wise with such a huge population had no traffic. Why? Because everyone used the metro. Walking everywhere and up and down the stairs of the metro meant that flats was the foot wear of choice. And everyone looked chic all the same.

This has inspired me to rethink my shoedrobe. Most of my shoes are torture devices. They're fine when I try them on, they're fine for the first hour or so, but after that I'm in agony. Maybe my mum was onto something.

Since returning home from my trip I have acquire 3 new pairs of shoes... Including these wonderful brighton Zara sandals.

Musee de Louvre - my favourite day in Paris

2011-11-20T22:42:00.001+11:00

As I've mentioned in previous posts, I packed seriously wrong. I lugged two pairs of boots, a coat and gazillion layers as everyone kept telling me it was COLD. Well they were wrong. It was overcast and thus rather muggy. Melbourne is cold when it's 15C, Paris is NOT despite what the Parisians may think. By the end of it I was quickly tiring of overheating and pulling layers on and off, especially in the very, very, overheated indoors.

The day I chose to visit the Louvre ended up being the first sunny day in the 5 days I had spent there, so I used my time efficiently and decided to spend the afternoon at the Eiffel Tower to maximise the clear skies and picture opportunities.

I don't know what's better, the Louvre itself or the art within it. I didn't know whether to look up, down or sideways. Honestly, there are museums and then there's the Louvre. The 8 departments today house over 30,000 works! It's impossible to see everything unless you have a couple of solid days. Best done in genres. The Denon and Richelieu wings were my personal favourites.

I suggest getting there at opening to avoid the queues. By midday it does fill up, even during low season. And as I said, try and get to the Louvre at closing time prior to your visit and pre purchase museum tickets from the tobacco store which are undated and can be used at any time. The process is so much quicker and you are not charged a premium.

Just me and an empty Jardin Tuileries on a Paris morning. Bliss.

No queues!

My favourite Da Vinci. So hauntingly amazing. It was his last ever work. A painting of St John. It's often overlooked as everyone races over to the Mona Lisa.

The views from inside are wonderful. In my opinion the best views in Paris.

Zomp boots, 2 pairs of Wolfords layered, Kookai bandage skirt, H&M wrap cardigan, Scanlan & Theodore belt, Zara goat skin bag.

The Mona Lisa. A painting that haunted Da Vinci. He carried it with him for 5 years and was never completely happy with it.

Napoleon's apartment

Apologies for the overload of images. I just love this place.

Paris - Musee d'Orsay & Musee de l'Orangerie

2011-11-20T21:55:00.001+11:00

One of the biggest reasons I wanted to visit Paris was for the museums. My list was huge, but with only about a week dedicated to the city in my itinerary I knew I could only manage 3 which I could see thoroughly - so cue Musee d'Orsay, Musee du Louvre and Musee de l'Orangerie.

I could do 3 posts on each, but I will try to keep it concise and in one post. But the Louvre deserves its own one!

Musee d'Orsay was a repeat of the trip to Canberra but since most of the work was painted in Paris by artists that lived and worked in Paris it seemed fitting to see it all once again and connect it to the places. I do love travel during the off peak travel periods. I encountered no lines at all - and people did warn me that the Louvre can take 2+ hours to enter. My tip is this... go to the Louvre 15 minutes before it closes the day before and find the tobacco store which sells undated advance tickets (at normal prices) to all the museums in Paris. The pre paid lines are always much faster!

Since Monet's garden had JUST closed in time for winter Musee de l'Orangerie was a natural choice. Monet had chosen to space to exhibit his Water Lilies for people to visit and find tranquility.

It's a small and quiet space, perfect for reflecting.

Downstairs houses a wonderful array of Renoirs, Cezannes, Rousseaus, Matisses and more. All who were in ways connected to one another while living in Paris and who were an integral part of the "modern" art movement in the early 20th century.

Both museums are suitable for beginners or real art lovers and are not overwhelmingly huge. A great introduction to French art.

Paris.. continues

2011-11-14T03:16:00.001+11:00

Apologies that the regular posts suddenly seized. I wasn't getting much sleep and was out from 8am until well after 9pm so the last thing I felt like doing was editing and uploading photos. Which I do regret as I would have loved to preserve the memories in writing while the little bits and pieces were still fresh in my mind.

So the Monday was the 3rd full day, again without much planned. So why not head shopping and to Laduree before finishing the day with an espresso at Cafe de Flore in St Germain? St Germain in the end ended up being my absolutely favourite arrondissement. It was utterly chic and cool and also understated.

One thing about Paris is the shopping. While there's nothing out of the ordinary (I didn't come across a single unique store, nor a really good vintage store [probably had no idea where to look]) but I did thoroughly enjoy the high end experience. At Chanel I toted around a 2.55 reissue for 40 minutes and nobody thought I was too dirty to look at the bag, unlike in Australia where I don't dare even walk into a store. I felt as welcome and as I do at Zara.. ~~which may have something to do with walking out with unexpected purchases at both Hermes and Chanel~~. When you open up that world to the people, they will buy. Hermes was at least 20-30% cheaper so if you're planning a trip to France, definitely check out the store on Rue Royale. Huge range and utterly lovely service. And you must ask for Tatiana at Chanel on Rue Montaigne. You will never come across a more lovely sales assistant. If I can find a way to email and give feedback on her service, I most definitely will!

Adoring the balloons in the window

Chanel on Rue Cambon

Ah Alaia store in St Germain.

My future Paris apartment. At only 11,500 euro a month

Sunday

2011-11-08T10:17:00.003+11:00

Sunday began like any other Sunday... with a trip to church. I have been to many Orthodox churches for services around the world. I love nothing more than seeing how other parishes operate.

St Sava Parish here in Paris is about 10 minute walk from my "home" here so it would have been crazy not to go. I'm so glad I went. Bishop Luka was serving, who was the Bishop in Australia for many years in the 1990's - what a coincidence!

After church, I went onto another church - Notre Dame. The organ was playing while the service was held inside. Breath taking.

The Seine is such a wonderful and tranquil river. The weather has cooled down, but I so wish I had time to sit and read the book on the banks for hours... maybe next time!

Hotel De Ville... believe it or not that's where the public servants work every day.

The Latin Quarter is a bit of a tourist trap in my eyes.. couple of small streets with restaurants trying to pull tourists in. But not too bad for a 10 euro 3 course meal which consists of all the French delicacies.. like snails, french opinion soup and frog legs!

Ponte Nouf bridge

Eiffel Tower and beyond

2011-11-08T09:13:00.000+11:00

As I had mentioned, I was pretty frustrated at how I had packed. 17C here is very, very mild and I was beginning to think that I'd be living in an orange 3/4 t shirt for a week as that was all I had that wasn't either a) woollen or b) not long sleeved.

I wanted to condense as much of the sights as I could into a couple of days, so I could spend the rest of my days watching the world go by or holed up in a museum, so I want out of the apartment at 8am on a mission to see EVERYTHING (for as long as my feet could carry me).

The morning was chilly, but not cold enough for a coat, so after a stop at H&M for a cheap, light weight jacket (which came off within an hour) I had started at Arc de Triomphe, walked Avenue des Champs Elysees, window shopped along George V (I nearly DIED at Baby Dior - too cute for words), giggled at the French lining up to get into Abercrombie and Fitch, and ended up at Eiffel Tower. The autumn colours along the Seine were 'tres magnifique'. It may not be the prettiest of structures but it sure is something to behold as you inch closer to it and then head up to Trocadero.

After that I thought a nutella & banana crepe was well deserved as I walked back along the Seine to Jardin Tuileries and Musee du Louvre. I thought it was a good idea to check out Galeries Lafayette on a Saturday afternoon, along with every other Parisian. It was like boxing day times a hundred. Never again. Imagine a department store overflowing, while the heating is turned up to 37C. Not pretty. Fair to say I walked out scarred and empty handed.

Again, the images are raw as I am much too tired after my long days out to edit them... Hope you're all enjoying all the same... X

Champs Elysees at 8am

A&F is housed in such a beautiful building!

Too divine for words

Hotel Plaza Athenee

Jardin Tuileries

Inside Galeries Lafayette

Bonjour from Paris!

2011-11-06T06:42:00.000+11:00

Australia is at the arse end of the world. Fortunately for the leg from Melbourne to Abu Dhabi I had a row to myself, otherwise I don't know how I would have survived the journey. Torture.

My intro to the city was not pretty. Staying at the foot of Sacre Coeur, at the top of the hills of Montmartre meant lugging 17kg of luggage up cobbled streets and then 4 flights of stairs in 5 inch heels (they were the most comfortable shoes I had believe it or not) was something out of a comedy. I did not pack appropriately. I left Melbourne which was showing the same temperature as Paris, yet I'm sweating in a t shirt here while I'd be wearing a coat in Melbourne when it's 17C. Damn you for being so cold Melbourne. Now I'm stuck with boots and a coat which I cannot wear and no room in the suitcase should I wish to buy anything (because hey boots and coats take up a lot of room).

Last night in a desperate bid not to nap, I decided to just stay local and spend hours getting lost through the cobbled streets of Montmartre. And boy did I get lost-and love it!

Some unedited first images for you all from last night. Just came home from a 10 hour day of typical tourist stuff. That post to come. Please wish for the rain to stay away! x

First glimpse at sunset

First glimpse of Eiffel Tower

"If you're twenty-two, physically fit, hungry to learn and be better, I urge you to travel - as far and as widely as possible. Sleep on floors if you have to. Find out how other people live and eat and cook. Learn from them - wherever you go" - Anthony Bourdain

2011-11-03T15:40:00.001+11:00

I may not be 22 anymore but the day is finally here.

Ana Beatriz Barros by Koray Birand for Harper’s Bazaar Turkey November 2011

2011-11-01T21:15:00.000+11:00

Adoring anything lady like at the moment, as you can see by the trends in the editorials I've been posting. Tomorrow I go shopping for spotted pantyhose. Love!

"The ocean takes care of each wave until it gets to shore" - Rumi

2011-10-31T23:20:00.000+11:00

It's crazy to think that I'm nearing the 5 year anniversary of moving to Melbourne. So much has happened. My career took a new direction after I gave up what was seemingly my dream job and after a solid 4 years of hard work and many steep learning curves I have the promotion and the job that I often doubted was within my reach. I have a few weeks break before the new chapter begins. I thought I would cry as I said goodbye to the office that was my second home, but I didn't. I had cried when I was updating my resume 5 weeks prior.

I have my draws to empty and years of paperwork to file (which is sitting in the back seat of the car). New profiles to write. New networks to build. A huge exhibit I'm working on for the Australian Open. And lots of spring cleaning to do. (I spent most of the morning degreasing and polishing the oven and it's looking damn fine).

Here's to new beginnings, including some warm weather (wishful thinking as it's November and I still have the heater on!!!)

These photos were snapped last weekend on a rare warm and sunny day at Hampton Beach. It's odd though isn't it. When I lived in St Kilda I drove to the beach in Brighton and now that I live in Brighton I drive to the beach in Hampton. The way I'm going I'll be living in Sorrento in 20 years (one can only hope!!)

Not much into betting on horses, but my pick for tomorrow is Drunken Sailer. Can't go past the name. Who's your pick?

Outfit notes - Bracelets-Sisco Berluti. Blazer-Zara. Singlet-Witchery. Flats-Witchery. Skirt-Supre. Necklace-Peeptoe

Suitcase Stuffing

2011-10-29T21:16:00.000+11:00

I'm trying to piece together some looks for the trip. Things that will translate between mild autumn weather in one city and winter temperatures in the other. 3 pairs of shoes at the very most. Enough room in the suitcase to bring back LOTS of art books. One rule I always follow is taking only the things I love. If I think it's perfect for a destination, yet I haven't worn it for 18 months, chances are it will sit in my suitcase at the destination too. A wardrobe (or 2 wardrobes) of things and nothing feels right. Here's what I'm feeling but struggling to execute....

all via pinterest.

Perfect Natasha Poly

2011-10-28T14:01:00.001+11:00

An amazing ed from Spanish Vogue to finish the week. Bon weekend... x

via fashiongonerogue

HOT PINK

2011-10-14T13:30:00.001+11:00

I umm-ed and ahh-ed about the Zara blazer for 3 months before I decided to add it to my newly edited wardrobe. Then began the painful part - deciding what to wear it with. Thank goodness for Pinterest. Outfit posts to come.

Inspiration for motivation

2011-10-11T10:37:00.002+11:00

Surely I’m not the only one who lets the exercise and goodeating habits fall by the wayside during the colder months?

It’s too cold to don shorts and go to the gym, right? It’s too dark to go for a run after work,right? Or so I kept telling myself. The bathroom is too cold for body brushingbefore a shower. Apples taste betterwith peaches in a pie with a dollop of cream on top. Excuses.

The result is a scary sight in the mirror which has been hiding under layers of clothes for months and some seriouslydrastic changes required to the routine. Ihave always loved exercise, but my struggles with cold weather are well documented on this blog and I cannot motivate myself to do anything with full gusto when it’s freezingand miserable outside, let alone exercise. As the days get longer and I’m a bit happier I intend to lug my gym bagaround. Sugar is also an enemy that’sbanned from the house. No trips toLuxbite. No French Toast from Las Chikasto kick start the weekend. Snack drawerat my desk now contains fresh fruit and almonds. No mini cupcakes in sight. Hello blueberry smoothie for breakfast asopposed to a large cup of coffee. TheNepresso machine at home is just too tempting. Now I’ll make the blender catch my eye instead.

My new, amazing, Seafolly bikini deserves the best of me.

I figure if I publish this post, I have to stick to therules. Wish me luck.

All White

2011-10-06T11:56:00.000+11:00

Lately I've been obsessed with white. Summer doesn't seem to be anywhere near Melbourne (hello biggest volume of rain fall in September since the 1950's) yet I can't help but be dreaming of golden brown skin (thanks to St Tropez) and lots and lots of white.

Some files I've had saved as inspiration.

Am loving this Zara blouse

Perfection

I've picked up some wonderful, perfectly tailored shorts from Zara, an oversized draped tank from Scanlan and Theodore and the longed for linen shift dress. TICK!

Crepe Sunday

2011-10-03T08:58:00.000+11:00

One of the first things I learnt to cook was crepes. If you want to call it cooking. They are a staple of an Eastern European child's life. We'd play outside for hours on end and then run to someone's house at dusk for crepes made by their mum. My favourite filing was plum jam.

There are two versions. A very dough-y, soft crepe and an almost wafer crisp crepe which I made on Sunday morning for a late breakfast. The trick is the ratio of milk to water. The more milk, the crispier the crepe.

I like to beat my batter by hand and rest it in the fridge for about half an hour.

With berries and creme fraiche. Anything goes though. Cream. Mascarpone. Pistachio nuts.

Cuddles with a tired and sleepy Monty.

Crispy Crepes (recipe makes 6 large crepes)

125g plain flour

2 fresh organic eggs

250ml lukewarm milk

1 tablespoon butter

Combine all ingredients and beat with a hand whisk or electric mixer for 1 minute. Rest in fridge for at least half an hour. Voila!

"The way you treat yourself sets the standard for others." Sonya Friedman

2011-09-29T10:58:00.000+10:00

What a couple of weeks it's been.

My body doesn't do a common cold. When a virus swirls around it takes a violent hold of my body and everything must go on hold. I've learnt to listen to my body. Whereas before I would have battled through it, now I know to rest and cancel ALL my commitments.

I took that opportunity to take a proper break and disconnect. And read the pile of books I've had on my bedside table all year. This year has been such a blur. Christmas decorations are already in full swing in the department stores. I'm just not ready!

From time to time I am sent samples of various things to try. I'm honest in everyday life (some might say too honest), therefore I'm no different when it comes to my blog. If I don't like something I won't feature it here.

A few weeks ago I was sent some samples of Mask in a Cup. My skin is pretty good right now, so I can't comment on any problems that the mask may fix, but my skin was very soft and supple after I used it. What I loved about these masks is that they are hygienic and easy to use, mix with water and throw out the cup when you're done. No sticking fingers in a jar once a week for 6 months.

(Please note I have NOT been paid to mention this product, it is an honest, unbiased opinion)

But the product I really loved is the Konjacu Fibre Sponge. Wow! When I'm wearing make up I have used it with cleanser to remove all traces of it perfectly. When I'm not wearing make up, I wash my face with just water and the sponge. I cannot believe how soft and clear and radiant it's been. And such a bargain too. Will definitely be purchasing this one.

I have a commitment free weekend for the first time in months. Cannot wait to tackle my recipe folder and sort through the pile of magazines threatening to take over the study. And enjoy a long breakfast, a pot of tea and Smurfs in 3D.

Missoni x Target

2011-09-14T18:02:00.002+10:00

When you're on your death bed on your birthday you get lots of time to watch tennis. Ummmmm Novak Djokovic what can I say. I've followed him from his junior days to the very top. I am a tennis nut. I follow the rankings and all the tournaments. I can give you a detailed biography of every player in the top 300. It's an obsession of mine which you may not have known about. Now you do.

You also have a lot of time to tweet and shop online and obsess over the Missoni collaboration for Target.

I had wanted a Missoni bikini since I could remember, but could never convince myself to pay $350 for it. Cue Target. Cue the website crashing within 5 minutes and Cue the wonderful Carrie nabbing me the skirt that I wanted before the big crash of 2011.

24 hours after the crash I managed to get on the website and score a bikini bottom (which did not come with the option to purchase a top?????) and 2 hand towels. All for about one tenth of the price of the bikini.

Say hello to my new skirt

And my bikini bottom

And my two new hand towels.

HAPPPYYYYYYYYYYYYYY

September

2011-09-09T13:15:00.000+10:00

In the fashion world September is big. Huge. The change of seasons marks a new beginning and a change in weather has our thoughts turning to what we'll be wearing next summer as the fashion week circuit kicks off in New York.

9/11 is also on our minds as we relive that life changing day and see what those that were the most affected are up to.

The magazines are thick and the stores are turning to Christmas (already).

I'm thinking about my plans for summer (some time in Byron Bay TICK, some days at the tennis TICK). The usual. I'm tiring of sweaters and boots but it doesn't look like they'll be packed away any time soon.

And this September I'm trying not to hate my birthday. Despite waking up with a terrible, terrible cold.

I'll even buy myself a gift. And eat cake. Maybe. Bon weekend.

via habitually chic

Wang crush

2011-09-09T09:38:00.003+10:00

Despite my Accu Weather app telling me that Melbourne is currently 7C but feels like -1C, I am completely loving this Alexander Wang dress. The colour, the drape, the everything.

It's been a long time since I've really fallen in love with an item of clothing. And it feels good to be back.

Brisbane through Instagram

2011-09-08T13:37:00.001+10:00

I spent a glorious long weekend at home (home is where the heart is, right?). Made all the better by a suitcase of gifts that my mother bought me from overseas (including half the Zara store in Novi Sad it seems) and lots of hazelnut Milka.

I've been self loathing of late (am suddenly confused about EVERYTHING and am doubting every decision I make) so the weekend really hit the spot. Dad had some rare time off work and we made the most of it eating a lot, chatting lots and walking lots. Bliss.

Brisbane from GoMA

Surrealism Exhibit at GoMA

White chocolate & raspberry brioche from Freestyle Tout

You know Brisbane is growing up when Chanel comes knocking

Cupcakes from Shingle Inn

Hazelnut gelato from Arrivederci Pizzeria

Season's first mango

Off duty

2011-09-01T18:00:00.000+10:00

country road t shirt, sportsgirl fringe vest, sass & bide rats leggings,

YSL "lauren" booties, samantha wills bangle, le specs sunglasses

Breakfast at Grace

2011-08-31T16:00:00.000+10:00

Last week I had the immense pleasure of perusing pretty things over breakfast and coffee with some of Melbourne's wonderful style bloggers at Grace boutique in Toorak. Such a wonderful space filled with clothes, accessories and knick knacks that would make the perfect gift for just about anyone in your life.

Georgia and Ilana opened Grace in 2007 after reconnecting in New York (lucky ducks) and have since filled Grace with a niche blend of gorgeous, complimentary items from some of the most distinctive international brands around the world (think Carven & Anna Sui) and of course their own house label, Grace.

A real, wonderful shopping experience in a world increasingly reliant on a quick fix online shopping binge. I think there's still something wonderful about receive personal attentive service in a pretty store and skipping away with a new treasure wrapped in tissue paper.

Grace
595 Malvern Road
Toorak
(03) 9827 2133

Colours

2011-08-31T09:55:00.000+10:00

Last week I decided to live on the edge and start work late. Usually I like to be at my desk around 8am, to do list in hand ready to begin my day. But I thought why not sleep in for a change?

When I woke up the sun was shining and I opted for some colour rather than my work uniform of grey, black and charcoal. I must admit that I felt better for it. In hindsight I probably should have gone out and paired it with a swipe of Maybelline Coral Crush lipstick. And there was even enough light to snap some pictures of my outfit. Life's too short. I should do it more often....

zara blouse, j crew necklace, asos origami skirt

John Galliano x Kate Moss

2011-08-26T11:29:00.003+10:00

by Mario Testino via vogue.com

I am not much of a Kate Moss fan. We know she's made mistakes and I must admit I do admire her ability to overcome the repercussions of those mistakes. It's particularly wonderful that she's supported Galliano after his indiscretions just like most of the industry supported her during her lowest points.

The smiles on their faces in this photo couldn't be faked. I've rarely seen her happy as she looked on her wedding day. I adore her dress and how traditional the whole weekend ended up being. Huge props for not having a strapless gown or a puffy skirt (here's looking at you Kim Kardashian).

"The happiest people are those who think the most interesting thoughts. Those who decide to use leisure as a means of mental development, who love good music, good books, good pictures, good company, good conversation, are the happiest people in the world. And they are not only happy in themselves, they are the cause of happiness in others." Williams Phelps

2011-08-23T21:52:00.001+10:00

Happiness is spending hours at the botanic gardens on a sunny day. Just Monty and my thoughts.

Lets talk shoes boots

2011-08-23T09:18:00.003+10:00

The plan for the trip is to make do with 7 outfits which can all be mixed and matched to create the perfect capsule travel wardrobe. Something fancy enough for the opera and ballet but comfortable enough for getting lost in my new neighbourhood. I hate nothing more than lugging bags on trains and planes. It's frustrating and definitely not chic.

I have however hit a road block. Footwear. It will ~~probably~~ definitely be too cold for ballet flats. It will be too unpredictable (and possible wet) to wear my beloved suede Yves Saint Laurent booties. Riding boots alone will not cut it. My Witchery ankle boots are sadly too uncomfortable. So what now? Cue these Zara boots.... Low heel, go with most things I plan to wear. Weather appropriate too. A miracle right? Then there's my my dilemma 1. no shopping allowed 2. not as yet available in store and ordering online is too risky due to my annoyingly sized feet.

Life's tough for some isn't it?

via zara.com

"Each man should frame life so that at some future hour fact and his dreaming meet" - Victor Hugo

2011-08-22T11:59:00.002+10:00

It hasn't really sunk in yet that the item at the top of my bucket list is about to be ticked off. But not without work and sacrifice.

What's been new with me?

3 jobs. A complete style overhaul. Constant racing around town. Overcommitting. Stress. A return to the gym (exercise makes me feel alive). Anxiety. A forcedly really well kept to-do list - what a revelation. A diary to keep track of my life in 30 minute blocks. And I'm not even a high flying, in demand celebrity. Working hard for 3 months to get to do something I've always wanted to do? TOTALLY WORTH IT!

For the past 3.5 weeks I've also had a house guest. Someone who knows someone who knows someone I know. Who packed a backpack to come to the other side of the world for love only to be told at the airport that he was feeling flat? Cue 3 nights of sleeping on strangers couches which broke my heart, so I took her in. The least I could do was provide a warm bed, some dinners and lend an ear. I hope I was a good host.

Another Melbourne winter is coming to a close. Another Melbourne winter of me defaulting to layers of knits. I've had this picture handy for inspiration but haven't mastered being warm and stylish just yet... I'll try again next year... Summer is better.

via the sartorialist

via tumblr

Some plans

2011-08-17T22:40:00.004+10:00

There are many things you miss when working 3 jobs. Blogging, twitter banter, runs around the tan, lunch time tennis matches, friends birthdays, favourite TV shows, weekends away, weekend newspapers read over a lazy brunch and pot of tea (as opposed to read on the train on Monday morning), baking, cooking, the chance to wear a half decent outfit. But November is near enough and it will all be worth it. Speaking of November, hasn't this year gone by way, WAY too fast. WAAAAAAAAY too fast.

My blogger is changing the colour of my photos.... WHYYY?

Photo is of my hair after the world's best blow dry thanks to Stephen at Rubi Hair in Prahran. I bow down to you Stephen. Ignore the left blogger ambushed colour of my hair.

Buy this not this

2011-07-28T22:11:00.000+10:00

ASOS ~$85

Rachel Gilbert $660

Orange on my mind

2011-07-27T22:22:00.000+10:00

Olivia Palermo rocking the Victoria Beckham has totally sent me into orange-love-overdrive for next season. Bit of St Tropez and I'm set. Maybe not head to toe but certainly at least an accessory.

What colour are you looking forward to wearing when the season changes?

Country Road

Asos

Essie

J Crew

NAP

Sigh

Unexplained

2011-07-24T22:10:00.004+10:00

I've been coping relatively well with this year's winter. I have things to look forward to, lots of exciting projects I'm working on, big pots of tea to drink, kick arse central gas heating that warms the house up in less than 3 minutes... Happy girl.

Today however I couldn't do anything to get warm enough. But the sight of the buds on the tree out of the front helped. As did hours spent sipping peppermint tea and reading the Sunday paper at my favourite cafe.

The sight of summer clothes in stores and preorders on my favourite websites is sending me into a tizz. I'm just not ready yet... Have you started to look towards the next season yet?

Le Specs sunnies, Scanlan & Theodore cardigan, Gypsy05 tank top, sass&bide leggings, falke wool tights underneath which are a completely Godsend, ASOS boots... and a half built and half painted deck

Poor and neglected front garden...

Diesel Island: 3x $100 voucher giveaway

2011-07-14T22:34:00.004+10:00

Two things have been playing on my mind this week. The carbon tax and it's ability to help stall climate change and the fact that the spring/summer fashions are starting to pop up. I haven't even got my winter wardrobe sorted. Time flies. I'm envisaging myself wearing a lot of denim and orange this summer. I just need a tan.

To celebrate the launch of the Diesel spring/summer collection I have the pleasure of giving away 3 x $100 vouchers for an Australian store of the winners choosing. You lucky readers you!

Diesel is fed up and is taking over an island for the summer. Why not join them?

To be in the running to score one of these vouchers all you have to do is complete the following sentence as a blog comment:

"If I was spending the summer at Diesel Island, I wouldn't be caught dead there without __________".

The competition is only open to Australian readers and closes next Sunday 31 July 2011 at 23:59 AEST.

Vouchers will be awarded for the most creative entry, a random number generator entry and to the person who puts in the biggest effort and shares the competition with others via their blog/facebook/twitter - be creative!

If you do share the details of the competition around leave me a separate comment.

If you wish to Tweet about it, be sure to @ my twitter name - @milijana_ and use the hashtag #dieselisland

Good luck!!

M xx

“Listen. Say yes. Live in the moment. Make sure you play with people who have your back. Make big choices early and often. Don’t start a scene where two people are talking about jumping out of a plane. Start the scene having already jumped.” - —Amy Poehler

2011-07-13T21:00:00.000+10:00

"Only the minute and the future are interesting in fashion -- it exists to be destroyed. If everybody did everything with respect, you'd go nowhere" - Karl Lagerfeld

2011-07-12T21:00:00.001+10:00

I often look at magazine profiles of people and their perfect closets. Bloggers with the huge walk in wardrobes, 100's of shoes, absolutely perfectly organised lives and I often chuckle to myself and I wonder what's out of the shot. What mountains of junk and things in space bags lie out of the camera shot.

This is my wardrobe space and this is what's currently in it. My favourite and most worn items. And they all go with the other items.

I had the chance to build a monster wardrobe but I decided against it. My ultimate wardrobe has about 15-20 amazing things in it that all go perfectly with everything else that's in it. When a new item comes home, an existing item must leave.

Up until 48 hours ago, all of these things below were also in in that wardrobe.

A huge laundry basket full. (hello Monty)

And a mountain that now lies on the couch in the guest bedroom.

I have no idea what I'm going to do with all this stuff. Put it back where I found it? eBay it along with a ton of other stuff already eBay bound (seller: bk6076). Throw it out? Give it away? Take it to Camberwell market?

My taste is almost everything has evolved hugely recently, including my style. I'm starting to be drawn to leather. To ACNE. To completely edgy and unusual thing. How do I make it stop?

Winner of the "June giveaway" is...

2011-07-07T12:59:00.000+10:00

Sorry it's taken me a week to draw the winner of the giveaway I ran last month...

Entries 1 to 30.

And the winner was number 5.. Paris and Pearls!

Congrats!

Thank you to everyone for entering and reading my blog xx

Northern Women in Chanel

2011-07-03T22:13:00.000+10:00

If I wasn't saving like mad this amazing book would be on its way to me now.

via mymag

Je ne peux pas attendre d'aller

2011-07-03T02:05:00.000+10:00

It's some ungodly hour on a Saturday night/Sunday morning and I'm sitting on the couch thinking. When I was in my mid teens I set goals and very high expectations for myself. Things that I would do in my 20's.

Education and life experience were at the top of my list.

One of the last remaining must dos on my 20's list is to spend some time in Paris. I've got an embarrassingly huge collection of things to do and see there. And I don't mean the Eiffel Tower. I've been to Europe a number of times in my 20's, but it never felt like the right time to visit Paris. I didn't feel ready. But in the last few months something changed. I felt ready. Except I was neck deep in investments and properties and planning for the long term rather than planning for the next holiday. What's a girl to do? Nothing but shelve that bucket list item I guess. But like always seems to be the case for me, when I want something, life seems to be able to rearrange itself to accomodate my desires. One thing is for sure, it takes me FOREVER to figure out what I actually want, but once I'm sure, the universe seems to align itself to make it happen. And the amazing people in my life help out too.

I'll picked up a little unexpected project that'll cover my airfare. I'll sell some of my most loved items on eBay. I won't shop for a few months. 300 euro all inclusive long weekend trips to quant European cities will appear on Expedia and I'll be able to go to Paris. And Prague.

The only thing holding me back is guilt. Guilt that I'm doing things for myself again. Going to places I want to go, crossing things off my teenage list. Why should I always be able to do what I want?

Where to next?

2011-06-30T20:23:00.000+10:00

Say you had a spare 3 or 4 nights in Europe in mid November...... Where would you go?

Prague?

or London?

...but not both...

Homely snapshots

2011-06-30T19:56:00.003+10:00

Yesterday I went to Ikea to buy a TV cabinet. I had my eye on it from the start but I thought surely I can find something else that's french provincial, white and a bit fancier than Ikea? Many stores later and wasted Saturdays - I returned to Ikea. It was great to finally unpack the last box that held DVDs and knick knacks.

The soft furnishings have a long way to go, but I wanted to share a few little things that I have and love.

Vintage postcards from Belgrade from the 1920's. These are original. Handwritten with stamps on the back. Belgrade is a special place for B and I. It's where our love affair really took off :))

A vintage look postcard that the lovely V from In Sniff's Choos sent me from Paris. It's framed and takes pride of place on my dresser.

A "thing" I picked up at Ikea this week for $15. Plan is to paint it white and find a use for it. Perhaps to hold pot plants, a lamp or to hold fresh flowers in the spare room when guests stay over. Any ideas?

And hello from Monty!

Colour blocking: 101

2011-06-26T21:42:00.001+10:00

As the days get shorter and it's still pretty much dark when I'm leaving in the morning I'm trying my best not to resort to my uniform of layered knits every morning. And it's amazing what a little bit of bronzer (NARS Laguna to be precise) does to pep me up on a cold morning.

I've been putting in some serious overtime this weekend (thanks June 30), but did take some time out to enjoy the winter sunshine and have breakfast at my favourite cafe. Also really looking forward to attending the ballet tomorrow night. Melbourne puts on really great indoor activities to pass the (long) winter.

Hope you all had a great weekend! X

Zara top

A-Store skirt

Cue belt

Wolford tights

ASOS boots

Le Specs sunnies

Plastic bangles from Bali

Spanish stunner

2011-06-23T13:14:00.000+10:00

Absolutely adoring this editional from Spanish Vogue. Everything Erin touches turns to gold.

(via whowhatwearblog)

CHANEL LOVE

2011-06-22T16:46:00.000+10:00

I love this dress and I love how Cam has worn it so minimal. 10/10!

Rainy day at Barossa Valley

2011-06-20T20:02:00.000+10:00

Right now

2011-06-19T19:53:00.000+10:00

Sunday night

reading Vogue
playing with the Nars duo in Rajasthan
writing a birthday card and wrapping gift
admiring my new Amrita Singh earrings (as worn by Serena in the Gossip Girl season finale)
painting nails Essie Chinchilly
filing my fashion journal with outfits I want to wear this week

Tomorrow I'm going to study.. I promise!

Recipe: Creme Brulee

2011-06-15T21:16:00.000+10:00

Creme Brulee is without a doubt my favourite dessert. When it's my turn to choose a restaurant, I'm always swayed by those that have creme brulee on the menu.

I've recently learnt to make it myself using a very simple Masterchef recipe. It literally takes about 10 minutes (plus baking and setting). I recommend making it the night before and leaving it to set overnight.

Remind me to get a torch to caramelize the sugar. It's just not the same without snapping the caramel with the spoon, is it?

The mixture

Even divided into ramekins

Ready to "bake" with boiling water half way up the ramekins

The finished product - minus the burnt caramel....

Zara Melbourne - Preview & Store Opening Party

2011-06-14T23:09:00.001+10:00

How lucky am I to have been invited to attend the preview of the very first Melbourne store?

I was lead on a tour through the store with a small group of bloggers, enjoying a glass of champagne and shopping before everyone else!

Each section was explained in detail by the head office staff and I learned some facts along the way -

the Studio collection at the entry of every Zara store is the iconic pieces of the season, the best sellers and also the best quality merchandise
Zara has catered for Melbourne's love of black and included lots of black stuff just for us
Zara is all about colour this winter, even if Melbourne doesn't love it
Black and grey colours means playing with texture, especially for the guys. I was very impressed with the men's section. Men's high street fashion is virtually non existent in Australia and Zara had a full floor of well priced, up to date fashions for the man in your life.

The store itself is huge with great street frontage and is thankfully not cluttered. I've been to many stores around the world (isn't that the highlight for Australians when heading overseas - to go to EVERY SINGLE Zara store since we've been so deprived for so many years???) and some stores, while having the entire range, are tiny making it a painful experience of rummaging. The store here is logically set out and a pleasure to peruse. Everything is styled perfectly and trends and occasions have their own little spots - the casual, the layering pieces.. the party pieces. And there's plenty of winter and summer items on offer.

It's been weeks since the Sydney store opened and apparently the crowds are still insane, so I really enjoyed the opportunity to browse and try things without crowds.

I did find the prices $10-$60 higher compared to international Zara online store, but that seems to be a trend in Australia. Still plenty of things under $100, including dresses and shoes.

I must admit I did find it strange walking down the street with a Zara bag.

I tried lots and lots on, but in the end only walked out with the above blouse (I really wanted a similar one in orange but wasn't brave enough). I tried to steer clear of the "very Zara" pieces for fear of wearing the same thing as every other girl this winter. I'll let it die down a little bit... right? $119 for 100% silk.

And in case you weren't following my every step on Twitter while I was there tonight, here's some iPhone photos.

Crowd control!

First glimpse

I almost felt like I was in Europe

The orange top was calling my name... $139. The coat was $220.

Gorgeous accessories - the leopard clutch was $159

Men's floor.

Some more men's

Brights, butterflies and champagne

Can anyone explain to me why Zara scarves are some of the most expensive items?

LBD

Colour blocking

Ballet flats for little girls... too cute!

June giveaway

2011-06-13T19:58:00.001+10:00

Pardon my disappearance from the face of the planet over the past 10 days. What with a trip to visit parents, the busiest time of the year at work plus biased news reports to fight, ambassadors to meet and life which all means I haven't been home before 10.30pm and to bed before 1am in days and days and days.

Tomorrow night I'm giddy with excitement to be attending the opening of Melbourne's first Zara store and shopping before the crowds. I'll blog as soon as I get home, I promise.

I received two copies of my US Vogue this month and have some goodies left over from Fashion Week so I thought I'd run a giveaway.

Open to everyone around the world (however I doubt I'll be able to send the hairspray overseas).

Closes 30 June at 11:59PM AEST.

Additional entries for blogging or tweeting about the contest - just make sure you leave an additional comment.

To be in the draw just leave a comment, no need to be creative!

US Vogue - June 2011 issue

Loreal - Glam Shine Lipgloss in 208 Unlimited Fuchsia

Loreal Elvive - Colour Protect Reflecting Serum

Loreal Elnett Satin - Hair spray

Loreal - Telescopic Explosion Mascara in Black

Ladylike

2011-06-01T13:10:00.000+10:00

One of the best editiorials I've seen in a long time (and I look at plenty of them on a daily basis).

I wish blogger would fix the comments issue - I feel a void not being able to comment on all your blogs!

Vogue Hellas

Model: Charlotte Cordes

Photographer: Koray Birand

Styled by: Michalis Pandos

"I am simply looking for beauty, whatever that is - it's nothing that can be explained - only felt. If I find it in a single bowl, or wandering line of pits, good. I am grateful" - Potter

2011-05-30T10:38:00.000+10:00

Happy Monday from a FREEZING Melbourne...

Maggie Beer's Farmshop

2011-05-26T22:15:00.001+10:00

This year seems to be passing me by way too quickly. I am so confused about what's next for me. I've had so many commitments of late that I have had very little free time to enjoy life and thus little to blog about. Food and cooking however have been a huge passion. I am loving my kitchen and am spending hours experimenting with recipes, digging up old magazine cut outs and tweaking some of my favourites.

I also took a little break and headed to South Australia. A change of pace and plenty of fresh produce and wineries to explore.

Maggie Beer has done wonderful things for the food industry in Australia - from restaurants to cook books and her own authentic produce. Her farmshop in Barossa Valley was a little difficult to find, but so very charming. It was the perfect pit stop on a bitterly cold and wet late autumn Sunday afternoon. The open fire in the corner hit the spot (as did the cheese picnic basket and glass of red wine).

I came home with some delicious quince paste, a bottle of verjuice for cooking as well as some of Maggie's olive oil and dukkah. The dukkah is incredible. The different nuts and seeds create the most intense flavour and surprise to the taste buds. Can't wait to use it as a coating for lamb.

Cheese picnic basket {$15}

New LBD

2011-05-25T10:52:00.000+10:00

I'm really excited about picking up this dress for those occasions when I feel like I have nothing to wear (which is a common occurance these days). Zip up and go. I think it can be cross seasonal and dressed up or down. Very happy with my latest buy.

Luxbite - South Yarra

2011-05-17T20:53:00.000+10:00

If you are a fan of delicious, impeccable and decadent desserts, but don't live in Sydney to frequent Adriano Zumbo (see my post HERE), I do recommend Luxbite on Toorak Road in South Yarra. I work close by yet didn't stop in until last week when I was desperate for some cheer - the weather is bitingly cold already and winter hasn't even officially started and I've been doing some crazy hours at work. What's a girl to do?

Penelope Cruz - US Vogue - June 2011

2011-05-17T10:10:00.000+10:00

Freckles and all. And that Dolce & Gabbana collection is THE collection of the season, isn't it? Oh northern summer, when will we meet again...

images via vogue.com

“Beauty is a form of genius - is higher, indeed, than genius, as it needs no explanation. It is of the great facts in the world like sunlight, or springtime, or the reflection in dark water of that silver shell we call the moon.”

2011-05-16T11:10:00.000+10:00

Effortless Olivia

2011-05-11T11:43:00.000+10:00

Why oh why can't I look this chic wearing jeans and flats?

via whowhatwear

Off duty

2011-05-08T17:50:00.000+10:00

Once in a while I get the urge to leave the city and spend time on my own. Thinking, dreaming, reflecting and planning. Writing lots and lots of lists. And eating delicious food and drinking wine. Last week I took a drive to the Yarra Valley and had lunch at Tokar Estate. A stunningly picturesque setting and delicious food indeed. A favourite new discovery. The autumn colours photographed wonderfully and the sunshine was out in force to top off a perfect day.

Wishing you all a great week! X

witchery 'ada' boots

j brand jeans

glassons knit

mk2k faux fur vest

scanlan & theodore clover belt

witchery 'amali' bag

Autumn colours

Local produce tasting platter

It's a wrap!

2011-05-05T14:57:00.000+10:00

In October last year I posted about this wonderful Alexander Wang wrap sweater. See the post here.

I thought about it for way too long and buy the time my mind was made up - it was sold out!

I found myself in a Country Road store at lunch time and low and behold something very similar caught my eye. I won't kid myself that it's the same, but it will have to do.

The polyvore still stands. I might just throw a belt over it.

Royal Wedding - William & Kate

2011-05-01T23:01:00.000+10:00

What on earth do I write about the royal wedding that hasn't been written? The only thing that I can think of is that I am glad that I didn't watch it on my own. Watching the encore the following day turned me into a crying mess. The girls kept me entertained on Friday night - just enough not to cry. Admittedly though, I cry at most weddings.

Putting aside Kate's social climbing family the whole thing was very exquisite. Even though in today's day and age the royal families are virtually redundant, one cannot ignore the significant sacrifices they have made for their respective countries. The wars they have fought for the freedom and land that we call our own. Nobody should be allowed to take that from the ancestors of these brave people. And I'm not sure that I agree with the "watering down" of the bloodlines. I guess there's only so many distant cousins you can marry...

Kate completely forgot who she was meant to be when she left the hotel. She was waving enthusiastically and carefree like any bride.

The dress was perfect for the occasion. Let's not forget that 17 monarchs are buried within those walls. Something conservative, yet grand was a must. It complimented the occasion and the setting perfectly. And it complimented Kate's usual style brilliantly. I didn't enjoy the angora sweater worn as the reception dress - she would have looked amazing in Pippa's bridesmaid dress. Not that Pippa didn't look DIVINE! William was dashing in his uniform and looked to be bursting with love and excitement at his bride. He made the whole event about her. Holding her hand, slightly tilting his body towards her and repeatedly asking her if she was okay. He's grown into the most wonderful, charming and confident man. His mother would be thrilled. I didn't really think that Camilla should have joined them for the signing of the registry. I don't think that anyone should replace their mother and they should have respected the fact that Lady Diana wasn't there. Her place should have been left empty in the altar.

And if nothing else, an event like this was needed in Britain, which has been one of the hardest hit places on the planet by the financial crisis. The boost to morale of the people is priceless.

Like any couple who have married knows, the elation one feels on the day and in the days following is a feeling unlike any other and I'm glad they're now able to enjoy a few days to reflect on a perfect day. Many years!

Royal Wedding

2011-04-29T14:05:00.001+10:00

I am busily doing the finals bits and pieces for the Royal Wedding party I am hosting tonight. I have tiaras and lots of Pimm's. Should be great fun.

But I can't help but be sad that Diana won't be there. She would have been so happy seeing William getting married. What would she have worn? Would she herself be married again?

I still love looking at photos of the wedding. I hope tonight will be just as grand.

via Central Press

Cheap ASOS thrills...

2011-04-28T11:42:00.000+10:00

all up about 50 quid!

‘There are few hours in life more agreeable than the hour dedicated to the ceremony known as afternoon tea.’ Henry James

2011-04-18T08:50:00.000+10:00

Sometimes, Melbourne blesses us with wonderful autumn days like today. Sunny and bright, 20C. Idyllic. An absolutely perfect day for the Aesop afternoon tea that was held at Heide Museum of Modern Art in Templestowe. A wonderful and serene grounds on the outskirts of the city. It was my first time there and it certainly won't be the last.

We enjoyed a wonderful afternoon tea of macarons, lamingtons, champagne and sparkling water. B asked me to mention on my blog that they were the best lamingtons he'd ever tasted. And we then enjoyed main part of the day - the Mirka Mora exhibit at Heide I. What a fascinating woman, who along with her husband and friends bought a bit of Parisian bohemia and the arts to Melbourne when she migrated in 1950's after surviving the holocaust.

"Mirka’s art is characterised by a sensuous, colourful naïve style and an idiosyncratic iconography of recurring motifs, including angels, children, cats, dogs, birds and snakes. As well as painting and drawing she has worked in mosaic, soft sculpture and doll-making. Many of the artworks in this exhibition were once in the collection of Heide founders John and Sunday Reed and are inscribed with delightful personal messages, tracing the development of an enduring friendship."

Mirka's art will be exhibited at the Heide until May 1, so check it out over the Easter break if you have a couple of spare hours. And don't skip lunch at Cafe Vue. Yum!

Thank you Aesop for inviting me.

Amazing autumn colours

Mirka's murals

The museum grounds are truly breath taking

Loving my goody bag

Sportsgirl necklace

Lover blazer

Sportsgirl top

Sass & Bide leggings

Witchery boots

The Outnet birthday sale take two...

2011-04-15T17:50:00.000+10:00

Almost a year ago to the day I was stuck in the office on a Friday afternoon and managed to grab myself an amazing dress from the first birthday sale over at The Outnet. You can read about it here. That sale will go down in folklore with all the angry fashionistas missing out and crashing the site in a stampede. I clicked forward through a couple of pages so avoid the early items that would be snapped up first and found a dress in my size.

This year, The Outnet drew out "tickets" for crowd control purposes and lucky ol' me was a winner! Unfortunately my computer at work was being a sook, refusing the load the website. A colleague came to my rescue and let me use her computer about 15 minutes after the sale opened. Apart from some very casual items, there wasn't much left in my size. The handbags were long sold out, so I picked up this cute Donna Karan knit. 1 pound and free shipping. May as well say it was free.

Thank you to The Outnet - it was much better organised than last year I think. Only shame is that once you purchase you get kicked out.. Can't even browse what the remaining items or have a look at what was on offer in the first place. Guess we can't win them all.