What to wear where

I love this time to year.  Who doesn't?  Apart from work being chaotic, the weather is warming up, the days are long, there are so many catch ups planned with friends, work functions, client lunches.  And all the best events come to Melbourne.

I eBayed and donated most of my wardrobe in the spring so was excited to update my summer wardrobe which I haven't added anything to in a couple of years.  I've invested in some Bared sandals, Melinda Maria Jewellery and Zulu & Zephyr pieces.  Now hide the credit card and cyber Monday deals from me, please.

For Christmas Day, I can't go past Zimmermann this year with tan sandals and heaps of gold bangles.  The playsuit has pockets, a drawstring and can be worn for many different occasions over summer (and hopefully in Europe next June).

While I certainly won't be wearing a crop top, I know these shorts will be on high rotation this summer.  With bucketloads of fake tan.  

Oversized smock and sunscreen.  That's all! 

You never know what weather you'll get for a day or night at the tennis.  I love a crisp and oversized white shirt which protects from the sun but can also be layered under a knit if the weather is cool.  Flats are a must for covering the show court action, too and a tote bag fits a knit, bottle of water, sunscreen and other essentials.  

Party time

Surely finding a dress to wear to the myriad of events over the festive season is one of the most frustrating things?  Weddings, client lunches and Christmas parties, team celebrations?  Something nice AND occasion appropriate.  Phew.  I've got this little number coming my way to hopefully cover the gaps.  Gold accessories and a bright clutch??  Think my problem maybe solved.

By Johnny Yellow Window Dress

Christian Dior

Nobody does flowers like Dior.  Since watching the wonderful documentary on Raf's introduction to all things Dior I have really looked forward to see what he will do next and this week's literal mountain of flowers certainly didn't disappoint.  I love what he's doing.  

Christian Dior Spring 16

Christian Dior Spring 16

Christian Dior Spring 16

Christian Dior Fall 15 Couture 

Christian Dior AW15/16

Christian Dior AW15/16

all images via vogue.com

The Fashion World of Jean Paul Gaultier @ NGV - Melbourne

If you're in Melbourne in the next few weeks, looking to escape from the heat (or more likely the cold) take yourself to the JPG exhibit.  Even if you are not a fashion fan, it is such a fun and entertaining exhibit.  The gallery is filled to the brim with his exquisite work from the most recognisable to the intimate and personal beginnings.  Friday nights are lovely night out with a DJ, bar, dinner and talks.  A perfect evening with friends.

The first cone bar was in fact made for his teddy bear!

COS hits Melbourne

I wondered into the newly opened COS store on boxing day.  It was tame and everything was 30% off so I walked out with this gorgeous blue (which looks grey in the photo) knit and rose gold necklace.  The top has a full length zip at the back to add some contrast.  It's been on high rotation already.

'I like being a woman, even in a man’s world. After all, men don't wear dresses, but we can wear the pants.' - Whitney Houston

photo via the coveteur 

I just love that quote by Whitney Houston.  Do you find that people are judgemental about what others wear?  I do.  Wasn't Steve Jobs' black turtle neck a hot topic every time he launched a new product?  Although these days I'm often in loose jeans or shorts when I'm at home, the days in the office are always spent in a dress or skirt and heels.  Heels are non negotiable.  I even wore heels while I was pregnant.  I certainly didn't suffer.  Life is too short to wear uncomfortable shoes so when I do find the right pair they come home with me and they're worn to death.  I do get tired of the arguments that caring about your clothes and how you look invalidates your ability to be good at your job.  My overall looks add to my power.  It makes me feel more like myself without it impacting my professional skills.  

"Be content with what you have; rejoice in the way things are. When you realise there is nothing lacking, the whole world belongs to you" - Lao Tzu

I've lust after these boots for a couple of years but for whatever reason I could never justify them to myself.  And when I was ready to take the plunge my size was never available.  They come in so many colours and textures and while I was leaning towards the black leather I am so glad I ended up with navy suede.  They're so beautiful and so comfortable and the colour slots perfectly into my wardrobe and complements all the neutral colours I wear these days.  I'm wearing less and less black and loving these more every day.

I spent a couple of awesome hours in the kitchen tonight - chicken noodle soup, wontons (which are 11/10) and a stir fry.  More cooking tonight means more quality time with my girl tomorrow.  I cherish every smile and every cuddle.  Life is good.

Rag & Bone Newbury boots (here in navy), the black I really wanted and the black pair I think I will get next, Bassike tee, Witchery Coatigan - great price now with the spend & save. Zara jeans.  No accessories.  No make up.  No perfume.  So liberating.

A cheeky pyjama afternoon on Saturday.  Eating raspberries and reading books.

Rain, rain

Image via Country Road

It has been raining non stop for the past 3 days.  That constant drizzle.  Rain drops on the roof and trickle down the gutters.  The front garden is littered with brown leaves from the Magnolia tree.  The days are getting shorter and nights are getting colder. Summer is over.  When a season ends I always look ahead and wonder just WHAT it is that I wore last winter.  How did I survive the endless bone breaking chill?  

I have the foundations for my winter wardrobe.  I have flat knee high boots which only get better with age.  I have leather leggings and my DL1961 jeans fit perfectly for now.  Now I want a thousand knits and a thousand scarves and a thousand Bassike long sleeve tees to layer under said knits.  And everything else I want to throw in the bin.  That's fair, right?

Almost summer?

Today was such a wonderful mid winter day that almost felt like spring.  Which made me long for summer.

Now I want THIS top in EVERY single colour! The cobalt and nude are making their way to me now.. Ooops.

Bee keeper

Despite my best attempts, I have fallen ill over the last few days. Sneezing, boxes of tissues and a red nose were a highlight of my day. Though I did manage a great yoga session before breakfast. Horrible timing but what's a girl to do but load up on sleep and vitamins.

It's been a while since I've loved an edititorial as much as this one from the April 2013 issue of Vogue Australia. Hope you enjoy it as much as I have.  And it's nice to see a ANTM alumni working in the industry.  The Australian franchise seems to have produced some great talent.

LMFF starts tomorrow for me so look out for some posts.

Photos via TFS

New York City Style Exhibition - Sex And The City Visits Chadstone

For the month of March, Chadstone is hosting and exhibiting some beautiful and iconic SATC pieces.  I have read that it was difficult to find most of the items as nobody had any idea where they were stored.  The Dior t-shirt was nowhere to be found.

I must admit that all the pieces are much more amazing on the small screen.  Worn by the much loved characters in amazing locations.  It goes to show that you shouldn't judge an item based on how it looks on a hanger.  If you're a fan of the show, I definitely recommend checking it out.  It's not often that we get items like this to enjoy in Australia.  The stores are starting to fill up with autumn and winter fashions (despite the record heat wave-today it's 38C), use it as a chance to plan your winter wardrobe....?

More info about the exhibit here.