lace shawls & cigarettes.

technical difficulties.

2008-06-10T02:21:00.000-07:00

Just a quick note to say that blog updates may be scarce for a while, as my laptop has officially and completely died. As I try to recover, I'll use our desktop as often as possible to stay in touch!

:) x L

I've been tagged...

2008-06-03T06:31:00.000-07:00

I've been tagged by the lovely girly over at Unwise Pedestrian, so here's my blog for the day!

Rules:
Post rules at the beginning of the post
Answer all the questions
Tag 6 people, go to their blog and leave a comment to inform them that they've been tagged and asking them to read your blog
Let the person who tagged you know when you've posted your answer

1) What were you doing 10 years ago?

Being your average 10 year old...going to school, probably starting to crush on boys (ha!) and the like. Reading - A LOT. I was a huge nerd. Still am!

2) What are 5 things on your to-do list today?

Sadly, they were all work related. I make a to-do list every day when I get to work, and it usually looks something likes this:

- Book in stock

- Do banking

- Break up fight between employees

- Decide what to have for lunch

- Wages

3) Snacks you enjoy:

Nuts and yoghurt. Popcorn is my favourite! I also like Nerd Rope...

4) Places you have lived:

Adelaide, Australia. The end, sadly!

5) What are 5 things you would do if you were a billionaire?
Travel. Buy my fiancee's dream house. Start my own charity. Quit work. Sleep for a week.

6) People you want to know more about:

Lord Byron.

You're all tagged, if you feel the need!

Here's a photo of my tagger, just for fun! :] Thanks, sweety!

run, squeak, squawk.

2008-06-02T03:08:00.000-07:00

Alex surprised me with a trip to the zoo on the weekend. I loved it!

inspiringly fashionable musos...

2008-05-25T18:13:00.000-07:00

Some of my favourite musicians, and their inspirational style...

Eisley

The Pipettes

(the girl from...) Dressy Bessy

Tilly and the Wall

Jenny Lewis of Rilo Kiley

Julia of Angus & Julia Stone

daily rags 25.05.08

2008-05-24T22:09:00.001-07:00

This is what I'm wearing today - the t-shirt was a most lovely gift from my dearest best friend Cassaundra last year. It's my favourite!

Outfit:

Tee - Bitten by Sarah Jessica Parker

Skirt - Valley Girl

Tights - Myer

Shoes - K Mart

little flowers on my lawn.

2008-05-24T21:42:00.000-07:00

Some outfits I've worn recently...

Outfit:
Skirt - Supre
Top - Cotton On
Belt - thrifted
Scarf - thrifted
Bangles - Sportsgirl
Rose ring - Diva
White beanie (not shown) - Myer

Outfit:
Men's shirt - Cotton On (new! 2 for $40)
Black skirt - Supre
Tights - Myer
Gladiator heels - urbanoriginals.com
Watch - DKNY

lazin' on a sunny afternoon...

2008-05-19T03:17:00.000-07:00

I had the most incredible weekend - filled with travels and adventures, love and kisses, sunshine and rain.

I took Friday off of work, and my darling and I spent the day together, just chilling and watching The L Word, after doing some shopping (we bought the most amazing warm quilt in the world!). On Friday night we had plans to meet up with some friends for dinner and drinks, and had an amazing Thai meal followed by a few glasses of wine for everyone else, and 7 tequila shots for me! This is what I wore (excuse the dodgy photo in our local British pub:

Outfit:

Men's sweater - Kmart (new! $15)

Black jeans - Riders by Lee

Bag - Jag

Grey socks - Sportsgirl

Gladiator heels - urbanoriginals.com

Watch - DKNY

We had planned to go camping over the weekend with some people from Alex's work (she works in an outdoor store and they all love doing that kind of thing) but due to predicted weather and some things coming up for them, it was cancelled two days beforehand. When Alex told me she was a little upset, so I decided to book a unit for us for Saturday night down along the coast. We drove down just after midday on Saturday - I absolutely adore long drives through the hills, singing along to silly tunes and laughing. After dumping our stuff in the unit, we went for a walk around the main island. It's such a childhood memory; it's hard to explain, but there are four close towns along the coast (about 1.5 hours outside of Adelaide) where EVERYONE has visited at some point in time - most people numerous times a year. It's an escape which is perfect whether in Summer or Winter, and there's an island built entirely of granite which inhabits about a million penguins and can be walked around in about half an hour or less.

We made burritos for dinner and they were delicious.

After yummy burritos we drank a bottle of champagne and had a lovely night full of snuggles and enjoying a queen-sized bed for once!

On Sunday we woke up to an unexpectedly happy sun, and after struggling to get up went for a wander through one of the towns and the Sunday markets. In the afternoon we drove a little bit further to some gorgeous beaches across the coast, and I took some more photos...

This is where we ate lunch, at a town called Normanville.

Photos while driving...

And at the beautiful Rapid Bay...

On Sunday night after getting home, we went with Alex's cousins to see The Panics w/ Little Red. It was incredible! I was so tired, but they did an amazing set. It was so impressive, and at my favourite venue. Perfect end to a perfect weekend!

Peace out x

daily rags 11.05.08.

2008-05-11T01:12:00.000-07:00

Mother's Day outfit! Nothing special, but this is a new top which I totally love. Outfit worn for coffee this morning, and out for dinner tonight.

Outfit:
Blouse/top - Dotti (new! $19.95)
Jeans - Just Jeans
Shoes - Melbourne Markets
Bag - Thrifted
Necklace - Myer

new-new.

2008-05-11T00:36:00.000-07:00

Here's some of my recent purchases - even though I haven't blogged this week, I've definitely been shopping!

Outfit:
Wet-look blouse - Bardot (new! $40)
Denim shorts - Jeans West (used to be jeans)
Khaki dress - eBay

Outfit:
Jumper - Globalize (new! $20. You can't tell from the photo, but it's actually a little glittery)
Marle tights - Sportsgirl

Outfit:
Dress - Dotti (new! $19.95)
Necklace - Myer

Outfit:
Jacket - (new! $29.95 - otherwise known as the most comfortable and warm piece of clothing in the world)
Jeans - Just Jeans

daily rags 04.05.08

2008-05-04T00:50:00.000-07:00

Today was a bit of a lazy day, we just did a little bit of shopping and sat in the park for lunch. It was nice to have a photographer for a change, though!

Outfit:
Skirt - Supre
White T - Myer
Vest - eBay
Gladiator sandals - Bardot
Sunglasses - Myer
Handbag - by Jag
Headband - Equip

(and Alex's shirt is from Globalize :)

chillin' in my backyard...

2008-05-04T00:40:00.000-07:00

...just enjoying the last days of warmth.

Outfit:

Striped dress (worn as top) - Sportsgirl

Black pants - Man2Man
Clutch - Sportsgirl
Wedges - Sportsgirl
Sunglasses - Myer

Scarf - thrifted

hiatus excuses...

2008-05-01T06:24:00.000-07:00

I've been so slack with posting this past week...not only have I been incredibly sick, I've still been working every day and trying to fit in some time with my girl to look at houses. Here are some outft photos to make it up a little...

1. This is actually from last Friday, just some casual drinks for a friend's birthday. I was trying to keep warm, it was freezing outside!

Outfit:
Jeans - Riders by Lee (from Jetty Surf a longggg time ago)
Khaki top - H&M (from eBay)
Black jacket - Kenji at Myer
Scarf - Target
Gloves - Sportsgirl
Watch - DKNY (from eBay)

(I also wore fishnet tights and wedges, which I didn't manage to get in the photos)

This is what I wore today - I took the day off to recover, and ended up taking Alex to the doctor instead 'cos she was more sick. We just bummed around all day, really!

Outfit:
Sweater cardigan dress- Globalize (new! $22)
T-shirt (underneath) - Myer
Tights - Temt
Boots - Spendless Shoes
Scarf - Cotton On
Bangles - Diva and Sportsgirl
Enviro bag - Kmart
Sunnies - Myer

one day I'll wish upon a star.

2008-04-27T04:44:00.000-07:00

This is what I'd be spending all my hard-earned cash on in a world where I wasn't buying homewares to move out with my beautiful partner! (although, that's fun too :)

1. Marc Jacobs rip-offs - These are by ZU, and I'm absolutely adoring them.

Thor, $200

2. Winter accessories - scarves, and gloves, and hats, oh my!

Sportsgirl mittens, $14.95. Witchery Long Rib Glove, $19.95. Burberry scarf, various prices. Dotti beret, $19.95.

3. New black handbag - diggin' the patent, Country Road.

Black Patent Collette Leather Bag - $229

4. Plaid shirt-dress - any will do, to wear with tights and wedges!

Drawstring Waist Hooded Shirt Dress, $65 (Supre)

5. Quirky jewellery - these pieces by Diva are cheap and very cute! I want some more big rings, too.

6. Trench coat - still!!

Hooded trench with hem band - $139.95 (Bardot)

sh-sh-sh-shoes.

2008-04-26T21:03:00.000-07:00

Apparently I have almost 30 pairs...and I have no idea where they all came from!

And still, I want more.

iCiNG transformation challenge.

2008-04-20T01:20:00.001-07:00

Anyone who reads iCiNG on a regular basis will know about the incredible challenge that Miss Gala has invited everyone to take part in, starting tomorrow (21st April, 2008). You can read the announcement here if not. I'm so excited to make a commitment to some of my goals and share it with the online community! Here are my dedications:

1. Healthy eating - this includes eating breakfast daily, cutting down on processed foods, making lunch for myself to take to work, and drinking WAY more water. It's a big call, but it'll help my body and my bank account!

2. Exercise - 3 times a week is the goal; I'm planning to take up bike riding, to save the environment too! I want to get outside more.

3. Spend less money on things I don't need - this mostly indicates clothes, which (I know) is a travesty on a fashion dominated blog, but I'm moving out in a few weeks and need to get my act together with necessities!

I think that these are the three things I'm most concerned about in my life at the moment. I'll be blogging (hopefully!) daily about my progress, so wish me luck! And if you're partaking in the challenge, let me know what your personal commitments are - I'd love to hear.

it's been a while.

2008-04-15T04:59:00.000-07:00

I miss you;
you were my best friend,
willing to listen when I fell in love
and never afraid to be shared with the world.
When no one else cared,
I could stand between your empty pages
and bare my soul to make them full.
It’s not the same now,
but I want it to be.

I’m still inspired by this and that –
my heart, her heart, our ocean, and such.
I don’t want to be drained
by all these other-worldly, non-important things;
you always came first, and I want you to again.
Nothing has changed with us,
nothing at all,
and I need you to feel like home again.
I’ll work on you.

wardrobe catch-up.

2008-04-15T04:39:00.000-07:00

Just a couple of outfit photos showing some recent additions to my ever-growing wardrobe. I'll probably be wearing the first outfit out tomorrow night for drinks to say goodbye to my dear friend Michael, who moves to France on Sunday; a jacket will definitely be in order, it's getting a bit chilly down under!

Outfit:
Dress - from eBay, by Wish (new! $37, the pattern and pockets make it totally worth it)
Shoes - from eBay, by Bebe USA (new! sooo glad I won - I think the bid ended up about $50-ish)
Tights - Temt
Jacket - Kenji at Myer

Outfit:
Sweater dress - eBay (new! $10)
Tights - Temt
Wedges - Sportsgirl (new! $100 - splurge, I know)
Headband - Equip
Brooch - thrifted (new! $1)

The dress is actually meant to be a cowel-neck, but I don't like the style much, so I pinned it with this super cute brooch I got at St Vinnies the other day. I know I'm going to wear the wedges to death during Winter, which is why I let myself buy them!

votes please!

2008-04-14T05:30:00.000-07:00

I've been trying to decide for sooooo long: which Paraphernalia necklace should I finally purchase? Here's to the vote...I love them all, but am leaning towards the typewriter or the owl.

1. Migration Summer Bicycle Necklace

2. Sleuth Camera Necklace

3. Sleuth Typewriter Necklace

4. Fauna Confused Owl Necklace

5. Vignette Picking Apples Necklace

Help!

guide.

2008-04-13T05:12:00.000-07:00

sometimes I have more to say.

2008-04-13T04:04:00.001-07:00

So from now on this won't be strictly a fashion blog. I hope it doesn't bore you, but there's more to my life!

:) Peace out x

the L word.

2008-04-13T02:00:00.000-07:00

I know it seems extremely typical (or whatever), but The L Word is an absolutely incredible television show. I can't think of anyone in the world that wouldn't enjoy it (except perhaps my mother); it's such a guilty pleasure. I could probably write for hours on its assets (particularly Shane...goddd) but I'm here to focus on the fashion. I couldn't find many screenshots, but these from IMDB showcase some of the on-trend outfits worn by the characters.

1. My favourite, Shane, wearing oxfords and ripped jeans. She never stray from men's shirts and singlets, but I rarely notice her footwear.

2. The weirdest of the bunch, Jenny, looking totally coordinated and old-style glam with red. Her dark hair and pale complexion make it work perfectly.

3. Alice, in a floral dress and (if you look very closely) black patterned tights.

4. I'd love the combination of Carmen's headscarf and Shane's top - I'm not such a huge fan of the bra-showing ensemble. Not usually fond of skulls, either, but that skeleton print is quite cool.

5. Braids across the head and a shiny kaftan...another winner for Jenny.

6. Gingham shirtdress for Alice - perfect sleeve length, not so sure about the colour.

Check it out, if you haven't already.

daily rags 13.04.08.

2008-04-13T01:26:00.000-07:00

Today I woke up in my lover's arms and I've had a smile on my face ever since. That's always the way! She had to go off to work so I did some shopping - picked up some things I've needed for a while, such as new work shoes! Anyways, this is what I wore (minus my coat, 'cos it's getting chilly!):

Outfit:
Black singlet - Cotton On
Black skirt - Miss Shop at Myer
Short-sleave cardigan - Sportsgirl
Belt - Salvation Army
Thigh-length black socks - Sportsgirl
Bag - thrifted
Shoes - Myer (new! $15)
Earrings - Sportsgirl (new! $7.50)

eight things.

2008-04-08T06:04:00.000-07:00

eight things I am passionate about:
1. My life partner.
2. Moving forward and not floating along.
3. Writing poetry.
4. Meeting good people.
5. Being inspired.
6. Making other people happy.
7. Cooking for people.
8. Fashion and style, obviously!

eight things I want to do before I die:
1. Procreate.
2. Sleep on a park bench in NYC.
3. Publish poetry.
4. See the world.
5. Give it back a little.
6. Learn to sew my own clothes.
7. Buy a decent camera and learn proper photography.
8. Teach values to my children.

eight things I say often:
1. I love you.
2. Awesome.
3. Sweet.
4. I'm hungry.
5. Hey hun.
6. I haven't paid my phone bill.
7. There's nothing on TV.
8. I'm so poor.

eight books/magazines I have read lately:
1. Don Juan by Lord Byron (I'm always reading this. It's incredible)
2. Gone With the Wind by Margaret Mitchell (again, continuously reading)
3. Latest issue of TIME.
4. Latest issue of Nylon.
5. Latest issue of Russh.
6. Middlemarch by George Eliot.
7. Sorted: The ultimate guide to organising your life - once and for all by Lissane Oliver.
8. Mobility magazine (how sad)

eight songs I could listen to over and over:
1. Holiday From Real - Jack's Mannequin
2. Milk - Kings of Leon
3. Swing Life Away - Rise Against
4. I Remember - Whitley
5. Heartbeats - Jose Gonzalez
6. Anything by Tegan and Sara.
7. Brick - Ben Folds Five
8. The Futurist - Something For Kate

Balenciaga Fall 08 RTW

2008-04-08T05:25:00.000-07:00

LOVE LOVE LOVE LOVE LOVE.

Not 100% sure. Too much structure? I guess that's just Balenciage for you. Love the pants, though.

These shoes remind me of wedding cake. Maybe that's why I want them so much.

Just for fun...when was the last time you saw a Balenciaga model SMILING?!

All images: style.com

latest obsession.

2008-04-06T04:42:00.000-07:00

I've become practically obsessed with obtaining a Miu Miu handbag.

They're just all soooo perfect.

I'm not willing/able to pay full price, so I've been scouring eBay. So far everything I've loved has crept up too far...but the more often that happens, the more I'm willing to pay.

Something such as the following would be perfect (I'd want them in black, though):

Miu Miu washed leather tote, $1445 @ net-a-porter

Miu Miu Deleve tote, $1445 @ Barneys NY

Miu Miu medium gather tote, $1295 @ Barneys NY

I really want something structured like this - at the moment my black handbag is by Jag, and the design is a complete Balenciaga rip-off but I love it anyway. It's just getting a bit old, and I get tired of carrying the same camel-coloured bag everywhere.

Sigh.

ooo barracuda!

2008-04-06T00:22:00.000-07:00

I was doing some catchup on one of everyone's favourites, The Sartorialist, when I noticed that one of the outfits looked incredibly familar...upon looking down I realised I was wearing practically the same thing! Spooky...

Source: The Sartorialist, Wednesday March 26th

Outfit:
Grey Sweater dress - Myer (new! $50)
Boots - eBay (new! $20 + p&h)
Bangles - Sportsgirl
Gloves - Myer
Enviro bag - Kmart

while I've got the house to myself...

2008-03-29T23:44:00.001-07:00

...another outfit post, so I can catch the last of the afternoon sun. Photos turn out so much better than in the dodgy light of my room! Just showing off some recent purchases, there are SO MANY more of these posts to come. I've been out of control lately!

Outfit:
Dress - ebay
Biker jacket - Kenji (new! $70, and I am so excited to wear this jacket in a million different ways.)
Boots - Spendless Shoes

I waiting on a bunch of things from ebay, and also have numerous bags lying around on my floor...I can't wait to start wearing them all!

over-excited.

2008-03-29T23:16:00.000-07:00

After my last post, I was so excited about the whole concept that I went out and bought a pair of men's dress pants yesterday after work. I guessed my size because I was too embarrassed to try them on in a men's shop (haha) and the fit perfectly. I could hardly wait to wear them, so this was my outfit to a friend's 21st last night:

(please excuse my facial expression and bad posture in this photo!)

Outfit:

Men's pants - Man To Man (new! $15)

Black dress (tucked in as top) - Huckabees

Pearl headband - Equip (new! $5)

Hoop earring - Sportsgirl

Black stilettos - Zoe Wittner (new! $77 eeee love)

note to self...

2008-03-28T05:33:00.000-07:00

...buy a pair of cheap men's pants, wear them low slung, and roll up the ankles like so:

Source: Style File

new head toys.

2008-03-26T05:19:00.000-07:00

It isn't evident from this blog (yet!), but I am a sucker for head/hair decoration in all forms. I have inumerable hats, which will definitely be coming out in Winter! However, once upon a horrible day, I disposed of all my headbands - so today, I splurged on not one, but FOUR headbands!!

Here they are, in all their sparkly, studded glory:

My hair is looking gross today, which is why they're displayed on my knee!

weekly resolutions.

2008-03-24T04:57:00.001-07:00

Although this is 99% a fashion blog, I have seriously digressed from my previous page tumbleweed, and feel that I should probably stick to just one for now. This is why I have decided to share my inspiration for Miss Gala Darling's Weekly Resolutions right here. iCiNG was one of the first blogs I discovered and began to read fanatically, and to this day it remains my favourite. I have recently felt I require direction in my life, and I think that outlining a few simple resolutions each week is the perfect way to start. So here it goes!

1. Read at night, rather than aimlessly browsing the internet for hours.
Not only am I wasting my money on eBay, but I also have three band new books I am dying to read! I recently bought the following:

If on a Winter's Night a Traveller by Italo Calvino;
The Picture of Dorian Gray by Oscar Wilde; and
Middlemarch by George Eliot.

I have already read the latter two, but it was a long time ago. I feel incredibly out of touch with the literary world at the moment, and hope that I can recapture it!

2. Exercise one morning and two nights.
I really need to do this - I've been thinking about joining the gym, but really do not need another bill to pay. I have nothing against walking and running either, so the fresh outdoors should be able to serve me well. I may have to think about something else when it starts to cool down more for Winter, but let's not get ahead of ourselves. The one morning is a particular test - I'm not much of an early riser, and am interested to see how much energy I stand to gain by exercising before breakfast. I think tomorrow night (Tuesday), Wednesday morning and Thursday night will be perfect.

3. Tone down on eating crap.
Excuse the language, but I also really need to do this. I tell myself I don't have the time to eat right, but it's a total lie. No wonder I feel so stressed and lethargic. It's time to stop completely blaming work. Not sure what's going to happen to all the Easter chocolate though@

4. Submit my TAFE application form.
I've been excited about this Creative Writing course for weeks now, and even went to the effort of collecting a form from TAFE - now all I need to do is fill it out and return it!

5. Go thrifting!
It's been a while, and I miss it. I never have time during the week, and find myself doing nothing but sleeping on the weekend...but I'm getting excited for next weekend, and I'm definitely going to do some digging!

I have many other ideas, including keeping my room tidy (for once!), finally starting Gala's Wardrobe Taming (just in time for the change of season!) and to post at least once a day...but we'll take it slow for the first week, I think.

Wish me luck!

details.

2008-03-21T22:25:00.000-07:00

Aren't they incredible? I particularly love the patterned tights and huge flowers.

Anna Sui R2W Fall '08 (photos c/o Style.com)

...the morning after.

2008-03-17T04:17:00.001-07:00

My hangover outfit after the aforementioned night - scarf is perfect to hide my messy bed hair!

How awesome are my huge pockets?!

Outfit:

Khaki dress - ebay
Head scarf - thrifted
White tee - Myer
Belt - thrifted
'Jute not Plastic' bag - gift from Kristy, onecolour.com
Thongs - Havaianas (you can't live in Australia without owning a pair in every colour!)

Bangles - Diva

nightly rags.

2008-03-17T04:05:00.000-07:00

Date: 15/03/08

Occasion: BBQ for Alex's cousin's birthday/housewarming party.

Outfit:
Grey dress - Myer
Black & silver scarf - Myer (new! $2.50)
Bag- by Jag
Gladiator sandals - Bardot (new! $19.95 and I'm in love.)

this one's for you.

2008-03-17T02:37:00.000-07:00

Date: 12/03/08

Occasion: Loren and the Grow Your Owns album release @ The Grace Emily.

Outfit:
Black singlet - Sportsgirl
Black skirt - Valleygirl
Tights - by Kayser
Cardigan - Sportsgirl
Locket - Myer
Shoes - Melbourne markets
Bag - Olga Berg

current ebay bids.

2008-03-16T03:02:00.000-07:00

Just a quick post showing what I'm currently bidding on/coveting on ebay.

1. Bebe lace-up booties - I am so in love with these. I need to set myself a maximum price, before I go spending more than they're worth!

2. H&M khaki top - I recently bought a khaki coloured casual dress from ebay (will be featured in an outfit post soon) and I love the colour, so I'm looking to further infuse it into my wardrobe. Something makes me want to wear this top with red!?

3. Chocolate ankle boots - I'm stocking up for winter, whilst I can! I currently have camel and black boots, so I just need every other colour of the rainbow...I like the lace-up on these, and also the folded ankle.

4. Red high-waist skirt - This is so cute, and I adore the lace detail underneath. I think it would make a nice change from a plain skirt with patterned top, which seems to be my uniform...

5. Mollini beige lace-ups/buckle heels - I can't decide which I like better. Opinions?

Outfit post will hopefully come tomorrow!

up the hill.

2008-03-10T04:42:00.001-07:00

Thank you, thank you, thank you Rumi over at Fashion Toast for introducing me to the wonder that is JAK & JIL, a site which photographically documents the editors during fashion week.

Some of my favourite pics:

'Shoe Gazing'

Christopher Kane SS08

Spotlight on Iekeliene Stange

God, I love her outfits.

New clothes crush.

daily rags.

2008-03-10T03:12:00.000-07:00

This is what I wore last night to visit (once again!) the Garden of Unearthly Delights at the Adelaide Fringe Festival. I adore living here during this time more than any other - the atmosphere in town is unlike any other. For those of you who don't live here, the Fringe is an Arts festival which takes place over about 3 weeks all over our city. The Garden is the hub of all the excitement, but comedy, music, drama and cabaret performances take place at many venues around town. It's fabulous!

Outfit:
Silk scarf - thrifted
Black tube top - Supre
Grey skirt - ???
Yellow & blue shoes - Nine West

I love the way two of my favourite accessories worked so well together. Here's a close up of the shoes, and a photo of the clutch I took with me:

Clutch - Sportsgirl.

march '08 wishlist.

2008-03-03T02:40:00.000-08:00

Coming into Winter, I can't help thinking about how sparse my warm wardrobe is looking! Due to lack of funds, you'll be seeing a lot of layering probably, but that doesn't mean I can't dream!

1. Striped shirt/dress - It's more likely that I'll thrift one/steal my dad's/buy a cheap men's one, but I'm coveting this Lilya piece named 'Samaire'. The faded blue colour sets my heart fluttering, and my mind whirls around, picturing long white scarves and brown tights...

'Samaire' by Lilya, $140

2. A new black skirt - The one I have has served me well, and I still love it to pieces, but no matter what I do I can't get rid of the balls that the fabric has made! Something of the exact same shape and style, made of different fabric, would be perfect.

3. Chunky knit scarves and elbow-length gloves - as featured in the latest collection by Country Road:

Birch Plaited Scarf (middle), $119, and Black/Grey washed leather gloves, $129 - Country Road

4. An unusual and eye-catching clutch - like this one, from Witchery:

Domino clutch at Witchery, $169.95

5. New and inspirational words to read.

Frankie magazine and Australian Vintage Living by Bronnie Masefau

6. Black lace-up booties - I am currently bidding on the perfect peetoe pair on ebay. Fingers crossed!

Topshop booties, currently $61 (me!) on Ebay Australia

What are your winter wishes?
:]

come & check your head.

2008-03-02T03:10:00.000-08:00

There were a number of different reactions to my chosen head-wear today.

Mum: "Are you trying to look weird?"

Alex: "That bead is making a black mark on your head."

Indian guy who sold me a lighter: "This [points to forehead] is looking goood."

Ha ha.

What do you think?

I happen to love this necklace, but it irritates my neck :)

Maylebox.

2008-02-29T22:07:00.000-08:00

Mayle was founded by its namesake, Jane Mayle, in 1999. It began as a popular boutique which hit the world wide web just last year (for us lucky internationals!). The lines are consistently artistic and vintage-inspired, and completely individual.

The fusion of button and lace detail are typical of Mayle collections, blending Victorian and bohemian inspiration. The Spring 2008 line is Mexican inspired, according to the website "by a viewing of the Manet exhibition at Moma." Upon reading this I understood my immediate attraction to the clothes, as I've always been taken with the Impressionists, and feel that their influence stretches far beyond the world of painting.

This collection features more top/bottom half pieces than the usual dress-oriented Mayle, but remains 100% feminine:

Somehow, this made me want a romper!

Pasa Doble, anyone?

It really doesn't help that the model has mad tattoos that make me jealous of my lack of funds to get the ones I want. Urgh, jealousy!

Jane Mayle: "It's about a girl using the clothes, rather than the clothes using the girl."

I spy.

2008-02-23T23:05:00.000-08:00

I am currently obsessed with finding and purchasing the perfect trench coat. I think I know what I want, and then I'll see something else and want that too - I fear it is becoming a sickness.

For example, although I'm seeking a mid-length coat with full-length arms, I am so very tempted to bid for this cropped trench on Ebay:

I do think it would look cute over a dress, but do I really need it? I ask this question, and my mind screams 'YES! You don't have a cropped jacket!'

It could be lying.

Other than that, I'm scoping this longer trench:

I do really like it for some reason, but I'm not sure about the collar and sleeve-length. The button and pocket details are cute, though.

If this fcuk jacket came in beige (and the price tag wasn't so hefty!), I'd probably get it:

Argh, decision decisions.

I need someone to take Ebay away from me, immediately.

"I hope she'll be a fool -- that's the best thing a girl can be in this world."

2008-02-18T02:54:00.000-08:00

I adore classic literature, and The Great Gatsby is one of my favourites; quite simply because of my obsession with the era! I have plans to detail my love of the 1920s and their flapper ways in a later post, but for now my love for the fashion grows, with longings to be Daisy Buchanan...

a Rose by any other name...

2008-02-18T01:01:00.000-08:00

ROSE BYRNE

This girl is one of my ultimate fashion inspirations - she just has some sort of class that is illuminating, and I'm always attracted to her outfits. Her use of accessories is simple yet intriguing, usually entailing one stand-out piece to complement the ensemble without overpowering it. Her characters are never complete dags, either!

Red Carpet

Photo shoots

Personal favourite!

reppin' the high waist.

2008-02-13T00:51:00.000-08:00

I'm still doing it, and it's still one of my favourite trends. I don't care how hipster that makes me.

Outfit:
Leopard print dress - ???
Black high-waisted skirt - Miss Shop at Myer
Gold glittery belt - Miss Shop at Myer
Black shoes - thrifted
Black clutch by Olga Berg
Black scarf - Cotton On

Outfit:
Flowered top - Temt
Grey skirt - ??
Brown belt - thrifted
Bag by Kate Hill
Sunglasses - thrifted

Outfit:
Black top with white embroidery by MinkPink
Black pants - Huckabees
Necklace - Diva
(It looks like I'm wearing a belt, but it's really just the pants!)

NB: I don't really have a shitty fake tan, nor am I tanned at all, in fact! I don't know what's up with those last two photos...

daily rags II.

2008-02-01T20:14:00.000-08:00

*Please excuse the shitty light, photography and poses. I'm still trying to work out the best place for taking these photos!

Last night when my friend Michael and I went out for some drinks and a catch up at the pub. It was heaps of fun!

Outfit:

Scarf - thrifted

Striped t-shirt dress - Sportsgirl

Black skirt - Myer

Belt - Thrifted, Salvos

Tights - Sportsgirl

Cream shoes - from the Melbourne markets

Ring - Diva

Tonight I have a 21st - I'm not 100% sure what I'm going to wear, but this is what I'm thinking:

Outfit:

Scarf - Acoustic Stomach

Dress - ??

Earrings - ??

Snake arm band - Acoustic Stomach

Tights - Bras 'N' Things

Shoes - Shoe Shed

Today I'm just cleaning my room and shopping for a few upcoming birthday presents

Outfit:
T-shirt dress - Sportsgirl
Prairie dress - Aquabella
Shoes - Joanne Mercer
Bag - thrifted

Brooke Benson.

2008-02-01T17:39:00.000-08:00

Brooke Benson is a little known Australian designer whose Spring/Summer collection, 'Martini Carousel', I stumbled upon recently. The name intrigued me, but I must say I was initially quite disappointed for the most part. The line is nothing special or inspiring, and some of the fabrics are simply dull. However, I was impressed by the clashing of patterns in some of the shots, such as this:

The jacket is to die for, and I quite like the shape of the dress - but the pattern is reminiscent of my mother's early nineties maternity clothing. No thanks! If it wasn't for my kind heart allowing me to completely disregard the poor composition of the shots and the revolting-ness of the dresses themselves, I wouldn't be able to focus on details that cause my heart to yearn - the accessories! There are gloves and hats galore, inspired by the era of my dreams - the roaring Twenties.

Now, putting aside my general disliking of hair and makeup which detracts from the clothing, I am truly impressed by the attention to eye detail in this shoot. I know that fashion should be about the whole package, but I find that it rarely is. But what better accessory is there than beautiful eyes and jewel-encrusted, crown shaped eyebrows?!

thrifty business.

2008-01-30T01:51:00.000-08:00

Did a small amount of thrifting today after work, at a small store we discovered around the corner from Alex's house. Only three purchases:

Brown satchel-type bag - $2

Silk scarves, 50c each

And after being incredibly good and restrained, we went to the shopping centre and I let myself pay six times as much for a dress. It's cute though, and the fabric is high-quality. The photos don't quite do justice to the shape or pleats above the waist, but I think it's very Posh-esque.

Miss Shop @ Myer dress - $30 (originally $69)

Happy (belated) Australia Day!

2008-01-26T21:10:00.000-08:00

So I'm a day late...I had to work yesterday, so am celebrating tomorrow on the public holiday. Still deciding whether to go with a green & gold themed outfit, or blue & white & red. Maybe I should take some tips from my girlfriend's stylish dog?

Lol.

daily rags I.

2008-01-26T20:55:00.001-08:00

Today I'm lounging around the house and willing my bedroom to clean itself.

Outfit:

Yellow scarf - thrifted

Black top - Miss Shop at Myer

Cream cardigan - was my grandmother's, I pulled it out of my dress-up box a few years ago.

Black shorts - I don't remember buying them, actually. Maybe stolen from a friend?

Belt - thrifted, Salvos.

There is every chance the scarf will end up like so, because I can not be bothered controlling my hair!

bargain bazaar!

2008-01-23T20:45:00.000-08:00

What better way to commence a fashion blog than by detailing my recent purchases from a trip to Melbourne? I’d been thinking about this blog for quite a while prior to my holiday, and it did nothing but give me ideas and inspiration. I guess a change of scenery will do that! The different pace, smell and chimney smoke…there’s nothing better.

1. The LBD
There’s nothing like trying on the most perfect staple item in the world…and then finding that it’s only $15! I love the simple-ness of it, despite the slight sparkle in the material. And the peephole in back just adds something special.

Unknown brand, $14.95

2. The leather bag
I took this bag to the counter thinking I was about to pay $80 – and was only charged $35! It’s the most gorgeous, camel-coloured Kate Hill handbag, with gold buckles and an amusing flap at the front that makes it look like a satchel from one side! I found it just as the handle on my Jute Not Plastic bag from One Colour was down to its last strand of heshen. Ah, fate.

Kate Hill, $35

3. The black pants
Another bargain. The little sparkles around the top make them less than usual, too! At this stage I realised my shine/sparkle obsession had gone too far, and put the incredibly shiny skirt DOWN. But I do like these pants – it’s rare for me to wear anything but a dress when I go out for an actual occasion, so maybe this will change it.

Huckabees, $15

4. The white patent shoes
OH. MY. These are THE most adorable shoes I have ever owned. AND they only cost me $10. I’ve coveted Mary Jane heels for a while now, and when I saw these at the markets I fell in love. I got the second to last pair – somehow the man selling them guessed that I had an Irish background and called it, “the luck of the Irish”. I don’t care what it is, but I’m glad!

Miss Cherry, $10

5. The winter jacket
Now, I realize that Australia is currently in the height of summer, but I’m not letting that bother me a single bit. I saw a jacket similar to this locally last year, but the only size and colour was a red large, and I couldn’t justify that no matter how much I liked it. When I saw the black small, I just couldn’t resist! And there’s not too long to wait before I can wear it…

Unknown brand, $35

6. The ugly shoes
Yep, they’re just so ugly that I had to buy them. And I have ever intention of wearing them with formal dresses during the day.

Joanne Mercer, $9.95

7. The espadrilles
I love the colours in these, and I’ve always had a thing for cork-type heels like this. Although I hate tying things around my ankles because they’re pretty chubby for my size, I think it’d be okay over skinny jeans or leggings. We’ll see.

Nine West, $19

8. The casual dress
Months ago when I noticed that my wardrobe was devoid of blue clothing, I went on a rampage. Now it is predominantly filled with navy, cobalt and aquamarine...I just can't win! This will be used for layering, though.

Jackson & Bates, $24.95

Peace out, x