Mix Clothing at Coles

Admit it, you’re all curious. After all, who doesn’t like the idea of picking up a new singlet along with your milk? Coles have very recently launched their latest venture and while it certainly isn’t ground and trend breaking stuff, it just may well be a good place to stock up on fresh basics to wear with your wardrobe.

I personally haven’t had the chance to have a good look at the collection yet but I have to say I harbour some pretty big fears about wonky seams, unflattering cuts and styles that only an unkempt soccer mum would love. Looking at the collection online at http://mixapparel.com.au is promising though but you can’t be sure until you are able to feel and see the products in person.

Currently there are about a dozen stockists in QLD, has anyone been to check it out yet? Let me know what you think, I’m not sure if I’m quite up to the pilgrimage to get to any just yet.

Incoming: Textured hair

After the noughties obsession with hair straightening it looks like the trend is finally starting to slacken with the amount of curls, waves, updos and texture appearing on the recent catwalk shows. Creating some interest with your hair may seem daunting but the great thing is there are no rules! Just look after your hair properly. Treat it with kindness and make sure you use heat protecting products!

Hair at Vera Wang was worn low and teased, you can acheive this look yourself with a back comb. If you are back combing on the surface of your hair it is easier to work from the nape up, unlike normal teasing. And don't forget to be gentle! Make sure to use conditioner to help detangle. If you've gone too far, gently brush it out from the ends up.

Tail Comb

Another trend that caught my eye were detailed ponytails. These were still rather sleek but will be great in long sticky summer days where you don't want to worry about your hair! I don't want to even think about how to achieve Marchesa's detailed pony, but Herve Leger had some simple and do-able looks.

 Marchesa's Fishtail Ponytail

Herve Leger's Triple Ponytail

To get this look, all you need is a steady hand. Part your hair across the crown from ear to ear and brush into a half up ponytail style, then part straight across the back and add the first tail into it, then gather all your hair into the last at the bottom. You may require a friend or extra mirrors to get this right, I think it'll look even cuter with hair wrapped around the elastics. Practise also makes perfect!

Surly models

Has anyone else noticed an influx of surly looking models in advertising campaigns recently? I went shopping with a friendi Cue last week and I was taken aback by the scary looking girl in the posters. such a scowl. It disappoints me because I found a lot of their clothes to be really interesting and things I'd like to buy but these pictures really turned me off completely.
See what I mean:

 

Cue aren't the only ones, Talulah also have a surly model:

These are just ones I've spotted today, email me if you've found some others.
Does it turn you off buying clothes as well when the models just aren't working for you?

Source

Would you wear it? Slips as dresses

90's Style. Love it or hate it's in fashion. Men wearing cardigans, girls are getting about in crop tops, thanksfully not the levi's as well. But what I'm interested in talking about now are slip dresses, and weather they have a place outside of the house.
Slip dresses to me conjure up images of Courtney Love, and more recently the scantily clad (and underaged) Taylor Momsen of late, I'm not all together sure it's a flattering look. Can it be worn in a way that doesn't say trashy?

Taylor Momsen, rightio.

But of course.
Bring it out of the bedroom by wearing it with accessories and clothing that don't make you think bedroom at all. When it comes to items of clothing that normally scream one thing in particular (like how fedoras scream manly mafia) you need to turn it around with something that introduces it to a new genre, otherwise you can look like you've been pulled too far into one trend.
Hats do this quite well with slips, (do you wear hats in bed?) and bare legs, stockings take it back into the bedroom even if they're opaques. Chunky man style watches, Bangles, thick socks, or add a longline chunky cardigan or coat and you're done. It is a piece that realy blends in well with a kooky style of dress sense.
Another good tip is to wear a lighter coloured slip,pale pinks, nudes, whites and pastels will help it look more like a simple summer dress. I don't think this will work if you wear it in a blazing red, a black could be passable but is still in danger of slipping back into "I forgot to put my dress on top of this" territory.

You could also just take the inspiration into your wardrobe and try a dress with lingerie style detailing and features,

 

 Regatta Polka Dot Dress

So, would you wear it? What would you wear it with? Where to?

Incoming: Palazzo Pants

I'm really excited for this trend, so long as you wear it right, it will cover up chunky thighs perfectly. Just what I need lol..
But in all seriousness, what's not to love about a pant style that will flatter the slim, the not so slim, the athletic, the tall, basically 90% of the female population will look good in these pants.
In basic black they are a wardrobe staple, I'll be adding a pair to my rotation very soon. I'm liking this pair by Country Road.

 

Another option to go for are the Complete 70's style prints that can be found, just be careful or you may end up looking like you're dressed in your PJ's! This pair is by MinkPink.

The trick to wearing this style is to pair it with a more fitted top, or at least with great waist definition, I'm going to wear it with bright block coloured tank tops for the black pair, a wide belt and polished pulled back hair.

Incoming: Coles Australia set to launch clothing line

Well this has picqued my interest, I admit I laughed when I heard that Coles are going to be having a go at a clothing line, who wouldn't? However the first reviews are in and they're not bad.
In fact a quote of "fresh, clean and unpretentious  trendiness" can be found to describe the launch range. Sounds promising.

There will be more then 500 items, in sizes 6 to 18, with prices ranging from $4 to $39. New stock will be Added fortnightly.
Launch date is set for September the 1st at their Burwood, Victoria store.
So tell me what you think? Good idea or another landfill clothing line?

Loving this week: LWB Life with Bird Classics, Cotton on Body and Antipodium x Sportsgirl

I've had a soft spot for Life with Bird for a long time but even at sample sales I still haven't been able to afford anything! Mind you, the last time I went to one that had anything by them I was a struggling student living on a mere $300, and had no credit card to speak of.
I'm admiring their classic range at the moment. They're perfect for layering with the flowy shapes and tights that I'm seeing everywhere in the upcoming season. In particular I want this Sleeveless Shirt Dress, I'd belt it and wear it, need to look like I have some shape after all.

Sleeveless Shirt Dress by LWB Life With Bird Classics

I'm sure I've mentioned before my dislike for Cotton On, but I still shop at some of their stores, if there's a flash in the pan shoes trend I see no point in spending $300 on a pair of shoes that will only be in and last for one season. But we're not talking shoes today.

What I am talking about are the awesome superhero knickers at Cotton On Body. They are so comfy! The size large, actually fits a size large and the VPL doesn't dig in as much as they can. Particularly cute to wear on sleepovers with the boy.

These ones in particular are from previous seasons, but they give you the idea, also at the moment, Cotton On Body are giving you 5 pairs of knickers for $30, more then 40% off if you get the pricier pairs. I think it may be only instore though.

 

Superhero boylegs (and bras) available at Cotton on Body, seemingly in store only.

One store that does Collaborations incredibly well are Sportsgirl, and in September they are going to release their newest with Antipodium. Called Field Days it is inspired by the music festival that occurs yearly near Antipdium headquarters in England. I'm expecting some pieces perfect for the weekend, and our upcoming festivals too.

Antipodium at Sportsgirl, rumoured to be dropping on the 7th of September.

Makeup remover pens

Shit happens.
Stockings tear, nail polish flakes off, those gorgeous shoes you bought for a song last week have heels that snap off while your walking up stairs, mascara runs, and lipstick bleeds.
But at least there is a convenient pocket sized cure for those last two.
On the spot make up removing pens come from a variety of why-didn't-someone-think-of-this-earlier products that are making our lives easier. I apply my mascara last, after my eyeshadow, after my base, absolutely last. If I sneeze it's a disaster. Also a problem is summer, when your makeup starts sliding down your face no matter what primers and defences you try. Sometimes you just need a fix it before you go for after work drinks.
When I bought B Collection  by Bloom Magic Wand there was no longer a problem, Precision makeup removal so you don't need to wash your entire eye off, and with much more accuracy then a Q-tip.

Check out the line online here or at selected Target stores

Another product new to the market is De-coy Panda Pen. Tough on makeup, gentle on skin, does not leave an oily residue and does not use any animal derived products. I haven't had the chance to check it out yet, so if you have please let me know what you think!

 

Panda Pen by De-Coy

Incoming: Dipped hems

I'm sure there's a technical, 'fashion' term for this style, graduated, scooped, mullet, but I don't know it, but I do know I like it.
I bought one of these the other day and I love the look, it's got a cape sort of feel to it, and it's both modest and showy at the same time. It can be found on both tops and skirts coming into season now, and because of the way it swooshes around your legs it's very comfortable to wear in summer.
I think the trick to pulling off this look is to balance it out, if you're wearing it on top, make sure to wear some bottoms that will show off your legs (even if it's just the shape), and vice versa, wearing a skirt teamed with a tank top, and a long necklace to draw the eye along the length of your body will work great too. If you're wearing it as a dress without much shape, belt it.
Here is a gorgeous example by Bardot, very suited to a straight up and down figure, notice the use of the belt too, to balance out proportions.

 

Layered Frill Dip Dress by Bardot

Also perfect for our summer is this ASOS Dipped hem maxi skirt, perfect for throwing on over a bikini for the beach, or slipping on a sleeveless blouse for catching up with friends over the weekend.

 

Dipped hem maxi skirt by ASOS.

Damn, I think ASOS is doing this trend too damn well and affordably, check out this embellished crop top, of course only for those who have the abs for it, and I certainly wish I did right now! Right, off to go for a run and then 100 crunches ...

ASOS t-shirt with applique detail

How would you wear this trend? Have you already found your perfect piece?

Incoming: David Jones' Spring 2011 Beauty Catalogue

I love change of seasons, after months and months of looking at the same things, the same styles, it all changes and becomes shiny and new again.
So when the boys handed me my pile of mail today I was very pleased to see the new David Jones' catalogues in the pile. (But I can't help but think, maybe they wouldn't be in such financial distress if they didn't bind their catalogues like a magazine?)
I am totally stoked to see the new Invisible Zinc UV Silk Shield Foundation SPF 30+. (Phew, mouthful much?) Living in Queensland means that wearing sunscreen is a no brainer, unless of course you like the idea of getting chunks of flesh operated out of you, or want to look like a handbag at 30. My advice is to wear everything with sunscreen in it, moisturiser, foundation, if it can come with an SPF, buy it with an SPF, and use it every time you leave the house. Invisible Zinc is an Aussie icon when it comes to great SPF products, if you haven't tried them, give them a go.

 Invisible Zinc UV Silk Shield Foundation SPF 30+

OPI is also coming out with it's next country location themed range of colours, this time they're touring America, I think the 'I Eat Mainely Lobster' colour with look great with a fake tan on my toes this summer.

 OPI nail colour in I Eat Mainely Lobster

Also I love the message that Napoleon Perdis is telling his customers. "Think you can't wear red? Think agan." It's true, if you don't believe you can you just haven't found the right shade yet. I recommend going up to the make up counter and asking them to recommend a shade for you. They'll apply it professionally, and show you how as well. Have the confidence! I can guarantee you will get tonnes more attention then usual! I you want a softer option, try a bright gloss first.

Napoleon Perdis DeVine Goddess Lipstick in Aphrodite

All products are available at David Jones.

EDIT: Oops, totally forgot to mention too! (No, not because it was on the back cover and I missed it, not at all.) David Jones are doing one of their great 'buy any full priced beauty or skincare product, and for another $20, get a bag FULL of beauty samples' deals. I highly recommend picking it up, even if you don't use them yourself the items make great presents as a lot of them are full sized.

Incoming: Block Colour

Ooooh, I have to say I love this trend, it's going to be huge for summer, and you may have already seen Hollywood wearing it, Rhianna looked great in Purple and Orange, Leona Lewis popped in Yellow and Pink, while Ashley Greene has a Pink and Black dress I want in my wardrobe ... Now.

There are some rules to doing this look to keep it as fashion forward as possible.
-Firstly You need the colours to work well together, the easiest way is to think back to art class, complementary colours, opposite complementary, analogous, and such all come in to play. Analogous colours are ones that sit next to each other on the colour wheel, like Green and blue. This applies mostly if you are doing it with bright colours. Think pairs like Orange and Purple, Fuchsia and Aqua, Red and Purple, think jewel tones, they look spectacular together.
-Don't forget classic colour blocks too, such as Red and Camel, and Black and practically every colour out there (but especially bright jewel tones).
-This trend works best with either silver or gold shoes, or nudes.
-For complete impact, do not wear with any article of clothing or accessory with prints.
-Do not use more then three colours, max.
-Keep your hair and make-up simple if you're wearing brights, they're punchy enough to do all the talking.
-Wear perhaps one bold accessory that speaks with your outfit, this is not the time for delicate jewelry.
-Experiment, if you have an awesome skirt you want to find a match for, take it shopping with you, ask shop assistants, it's what they're paid for!

It's not like Brisbane has twice the population or anything ...

I don't think Zara has done their homework planning their next store for Australia in Adelaide. One of the ... Trying to think of a dysphemistic euphemism here, easy going and carefree capitals of Aus. With lots of dreadlocks and piercings to be spotted.

Le sigh, looks like we'll  have to wait a little longer Brisbane. Or we might just have to stock up on our interstate trips? Cheat on my City? Only when required.

Incoming: Mimco fine jewelry

I read recently that Mimco will be releasing Thomas Sabo-esque charms very soon for sale. Along with a collection of “28 styles including semi-precious rings, bracelets and necklaces in both sterling silver and 14-carat yellow gold plated sterling silver”. Called Mim Precious, I cannot wait  for the cute little clip on bags, shoes and such that take on their popular designs due to be released this month. Alas, I'm not finding anything on their website for it yet so I'm going to stay tuned.

The cute little button bag <3

Also, Madison Magazine is giving you a $30 gift voucher for purchases at Mimco this month when you buy their magazine, conditions do apply mind you but if you'rre going to buy something anyway why not save yourself a few bucks and get  magazine to read while you're at it?

Westfield Carindale Remodelling

Ooooh, I've been waiting for some fresh news on this one, it's my local mall!

Artist impression

Westfield has just released a new stack of info on the new project. In short:
New Coles (boring)
Larger Target (sort of interesting)
120 new stores! (Eep! where will they fit them all?)

I heard a rumour while shopping the other week that one of the new stores will be a Sass and Bide flagship store!

Take the virtual tour they've put online.

Looking very spiffy, the fresh food emporium reminds me a lot of Chadstone in Melbourne, but I love the indoor/outdoor Millennium Square that will replace the former Town Square. I wonder if they'll update the carpet of the entire complex too?

Cannot. Fricken. Wait! Imagine the opening night and sales that will go on!

Incoming: Kimono style

Keep an eye out for this trend coming to a store near you very soon, it looks great worn with slim fitting trousers and shorts, probably not with skirts, I think they'd just look odd.
Inspiration?
Nicole Richie has been a long time fan of the style, it goes well with her bohemian style.

Here are some for sale:
Band of Gypsies available at ASOS

Winter Kate Available at My-Wardrobe

Make it yourself?
My type of girl! If you wear it undone you could use any kimono pattern, but I'd recommend adjusting the pattern a little. And don't go for brocade fabric(it'll took far too 'I just got back from Japan!', try something in a light to medium floral fabric for this season's look.
Check out the patterns I've found to DIY.
Simplicity
Bryn Gwlad
Burda (Yes it's a dressing gown, but don't they all look vaguely like one?)


If you give it a go comment below and let me see!

Chanel in Brisbane CBD? Sweet!

While on a very important trip to go and get Pepsi for the office tuck shop, I spotted this:

I'm amazed I didn't spot this last week, anyone know any details?  When it's opening? I'll take a stab and say probably during MBFF.

Let me know if you know anything!