Link Love: June 2 2012

It's been a while! Lets have some fellow blogger love!

DIY Backlit Canvas Art: Michelle of The Scrap Shoppe takes us through this DIY project, you really have to take a look at how gorgeous it is! I would paint the canvas is pastel colours to make it more interesting with the light off.

Splatter Nail Art Tutorial: Awesome tute by Lisa of Nail Art 101. I am going to buy some straws. As soon as it stops raining!

Lemon Blueberry and Yoghurt Loaf Recipe: How totally yum does that sound? (And finally I found a recipe for my loaf tin!) from Christina at Sweet Pea's Kitchen

Bought! Floral Jeans and Kitty Headscarf

I've been eyeing off a pair of floral jeans for sometime to add to my arsenal for the season. If you do or don't know, I've started training five days a week and don't have as much free time as I used to, but one perk is indeed my shrinking waistline. I thought I might have to send them back due to fit but I don't!
ASOS currently have a small but good range of floral denim, you need a choice of prints to ensure you can buy somethng that will work with the rest of your wardrobe. For me it was a fight between this pair and a lighter pair, which the darker print ultimately one... though the lighter pair may be saved until Spring if they're still available, such bright and zingy shades!

Also picked up this too cute headscarf, You buys know me! How could I resist this print?? It's a long rectangle that I can also tie around my neck, Scarves are my next fashion trademark, I've come to realize just how good they are in the sort of cold but still not freezing weather we get in Brisbane, and are easy to take off and on in my office environment.

Can you see the little bows around their necks??

Both Items are available from ASOS.com

Product Review: Salon Express Nail stamper

You know those intricate designs you see advertised in nail bars? You know the ones, too delicate to possibly imagine doing with a brush? I've always been too scared to ask for them, and being a massive fan of DIY I was stoked when I found this kit. I picked one up from eBay the other week and now that I have had a good chance to play around with it, I thought I'd tell you guys about it. Admittedly, the ads for this product are frightening in their zeal, once you get past that though, the product is actually pretty nifty.
Salon express is a lot like the brand called Konad, from Korea I think that have the original version of this DIY style of nail stamping, I thought I'd give the cheaper one a go and see how I like it before I commit to the original.
The kit comes with five plates with a myriad of more then 40 designs, I read that you can get different designs in different kits but these are the ones I received, not the cutest unfortunately but you can buy additional plates online:

Salon Express complete kit contents

After just a few goes I was pretty happy with my results. My best piece of advice for you is to make sure you REALLY get the angle right when you are scraping off the extra nail polish. I found tilting the scraper at about 45 degrees made all the difference.
One negative I did find is that the whole nail designs that came with the kit were too small to cover my entire nails. it covered my pinky fine but there is a hope in hell it would fit my thumb!
Like all things in life it takes a bit of practise and the right tools to get it right. You can use normal nail polish with the kit, but I highly recommend to use the highly pigmented colours sold by Konad and other brands. I found that the white polish sold for use in French Manicures comes up nicely though.
If you're interested in buying more plates for your kit, I have found a store online that stocks Konad and other plates and special polishes. I have to say now that I haven't bought from them yet but I'm in the process of putting an order through now, I'll let you know how it goes! They also have an eBay store that sells stock for a little more but gives you the peace of mind that comes from eBay shopping.

Have you tried at home nail stamping? How did you go?

Birdette's dictionary: Ponte

Have you also seen this word cropping up everywhere in fashion stores lately? Ponte is a double knit fabric, meaning it stretches like your favourite t-shirt. What makes it so special though is the lovely thickness and ability to flatter because of it's ability to pull you in. It's sturdy, and will hold it's shape better then flimsier knits. A perfect use for this fabric are leggings! But that gorgeous mint shift dress I bought a while ago is also made from this fabric.
Try it out in this cute as Dotti dress, completely on trend and snug for Autumn and Winter. Now also on sale!

Twiggy Time Ponte Dress in Chilli Pepper <3 available at Dotti.

Source: Dotti

Link Love: April 16 2012

The best kept braid secret - Kristen Ess from The Beauty Department gives us her take on how to create the ideal messy braid (or plait in Australia).

Repair a shattered eye-shadow - You can also use this method for any broken compact, an invaluable make up trick.

Mamamia's wardrobe week - I'm so glad to see I'm not the only person who wants to see more everyday girls and their style.

Etsy Wednesdays: anothersoul

So who else has ever had the problem of having far too many little eye-shadows, blushes, foundation cakes etc all in their own packaging and taking up too much space? My bathroom is tiny, feeble and with next to no storage space. Space is a premium, so I like to keep an eye out for anything that will help me stretch the space further.
Depotting products and putting them in a magnetic palette is a great idea, you only require the product and not all the superfluous packaging after all. It's much easier then you'd think as well! This brings me to anothersoul run by Lynn, who makes magnetised palettes (book of shadows) with a massive range of covers, and even better prices! There are literally dozens of different designs so you should find something to suit anyone's tastes, they also make a great gift idea too.

Open view

 I love this one! 

Check out her store anothersoul to see the full range.

Etsy Wednesdays: BZRshop

I love tights, not quite as much as some of my friends do, but they're still an essential fashion item in Queensland where it hardly ever gets truly cold enough to wear pants. (In fact I have a local friend who never actually wears trousers at all!)
Tights can make an outfit, they can take a dress that is on the verge of being too short to be reasonable into wearable territory and can make your legs go for miles. So I guess this post is for my fellow tights appreciators, check these out!

Dip dyed Ombre tights! Tiffany Ju hand-makes these to order through her Etsy Shop, Check out her range at BZRshop. 

Bought by Birdette on Pinterest!

Yes I have fallen into the newest and amazing internet networking craze, and so far, so good, I'm enjoying it! Check me out by clicking the red button over on the menu and please add me if you have Pinterest yourself! I'd love to see what you all are doing on there.
Hope to see you there soon!

Sportsgirl introduce 'window shopping'

How's this for something new and nifty? Sportsgirl have come up with an innovative and new way to shop their collections by just looking at a window (well almost).
Using QR codes, you simply scan the code correlating to the item you want with your smartphone, it then whips you to a site where you can add to bag and purchase. Too easy!
While it's only available at the rather trendy store in Chapel Street Melbourne for now, there are plans to set it up at random spots throughout the country, with the idea that this will make the flagship store range available to a wider audience.
Also yay, I hear that there's a special gift with each mobile order!

Has anyone given this a go? Let me know what you think in the comments!

Incoming: Ladylike Glam Pieces

This is one of those trends that hides in the background for a few seasons before coming back with a bang. Prada did some beautiful frocks a few years ago that evoked a very classy fifties feeling, and the accessories -particularly handbags- have been slowly taking on the look.

Must have piece one: The structured handbag.
I did post about this a little while ago, anyone remember this bag I stalked for weeks? To help bring this look to life, a structured handbag is going to be the quickest and most worthy investment, look for details like a top handle, a twist or kiss lock of some description and a solid shape.
If you want to go completely on trend with the new season, I love this bag by Mimco. The texture and colour-blocking are brilliant.

After something more cheap chic? Dotti has this cute little magenta number, while Ooh la la from Myer has some gorgeous styles.

Click through for piece two!

Von Follies by Dita Von Teese

I've been meaning to write about this for weeks. I'm so excited! Target went a little quiet with its designer ranges for a while there, and I'm glad to see its range coming out. Hell, if Dita was releasing a high priced range in Australia I'd still be all over it like glitter on glue.
The range will be release nationally in early February, so it's a little over a month away now. But the good thing is that the range will be added to in March and April.
Sizes are also coming in a big range with Bras going to an E cup size and briefs coming up to size 20.
Also to make sure that everyone in Australia has access to the range it will also be available to buy online! It's good to see Target stepping into the online shopping arena.
Can't wait! It'll be worth staying up late to be first in on the net.

Loving this week: The Iconic

I have a site for you all to check out! The Iconic. A fashion shop with a focus on Australian labels for men and women that we all know and love. With free shipping and a 30 day no questions asked returns? Yes please!

The Iconic is pretty new out there, only starting a few months ago but is quickly building into the place to go for Australian labels online.

Wanna peek at the wares?

I'm a fan of anything quirky, I may even have too many hero pieces in my wardrobe for my own good but I love the individual detailing of this sleeveless trench, perfect for layering in our fickle weather!

Billie Trench by Minty Meets Munt (psst! it's on sale!)

This Suboo cape is a great addition to your wardrobe, I love the print, and 100% silk means it will cover you up but still keep you cool in summer. 

Suboo Agua Dreaming Cape

Sheer pieces can be tricky to style but so long as you always remember to balance them with modesty you'll be sweet. The asymmetric detail keeps it current and the panels are cut just right to show off your figure but skim any problems. This is going on the wish list.

White Suede Sheer Angled Top

Also if you sign up to their newsletter, you get a $10 to spend in the store, also good to be ahead of the pack for their sales and news. Check it out here.

Twig Ring and Bangle by Have You Met Miss Jones

I've long been a fan of Miss Jones' home wares and was very excited to see the new jewellery collection, Cute and whimsy pieces that can be layered or worn on their own. Pieces come in collections with motifs available in rings, bangles and necklaces.
My pick? I love the twig inspired collection, it's not obvious and the designs are subtle, when I fist saw them I didn't pick they were twigs. Just the sort of item that will attract oohs and ahhs when you wear them out.

Twig Bangle by Have You Met Miss Jones

Twig Ring by Have You Met Miss Jones

September Sales!

Truly one of my favourite times of the year, There are normally heaps of sales this month with many worthwhile discounts. Perfect time to get a head start on christmas shopping too! Here are some that I have already looked at, or plan to:

Portmans: Are clearing off what remains of their winter stock to fill with summer stock arriving frequently. A lot of the items can easily be translated into summer wear with maxi skirts, blouses and clothing that walks the line between work wear and smart casual. Great time and place to stock up on classics.


Sportsgirl: 50% off already reduced stock? Oh my god yes please! I already told you all about the great wedges I bought there on Thursday, but I also picked up a large slouchy handbag that will see me through my casual days this summer. Loving bags with two straps.

Cotton On: 30% off everything online, you only have until Monday to make use of this discount though so get on it! great chance to pick up fashion items that don't need to see you past this season.

David Jones: Great to check out and start stalking items so you can jump on them the second they have another round of discounts. My friend picked up the perfect classic pair of nude patent slingback stilettos the other day, makes me jealous I can barely balance in wedges. Lots of bargains to be had across the store, home wares, clothing, beauty, worth a look at the very least.


Cue: If you've had your eye on something, now is the time to snap it up. I haven';t had the chance to go in and check out the savings, but I know from past experience that the sales are good.

This is just a handful of what's out there at the moment, but it's a great time to stock up on your summer wardrobe. Take the opportunity while it's there.

Loving this week: Forever New and Bardot

I love a good shift dress but it's a pity that very few of them love me, I just don't look good with a high neckline! This one is good, it's somewhere in the middle and still rather classy. I'd wear it to the races with silver wedges and a white facinator. The scalloped detail at the hem is beautiful and the hand sewn sequins and stones make it perfect. Want.

White Lace Shift dress by Forever New

So strange to think that the brand Bardot was an add on to a talant search band from when I was in Primary school but there you go. Another label that have sizes that run rather small for this day and age, but I'm fitting back into them now so I'm not going to throw stones. Still wish for the sake of getting my butt into some of their jeans that they came in a 16 (14) though. However, dresses? Big win. With Jersey dresses liek this you MUST wear seamless underwear, if in doubt, buy it in black, much harder to spot VPL.

Luxe Jersey Maxi Dress by Bardot

ASOS Australia has landed

And sadly I don't see the point yet! Apart from a local return address, they still charge more when you pay in Aus dollar. Come on, you can do better then that!
Let me know if you find amy other perks guys!

Loving this week: Agent Provocateur and What Katie did

I love new line drops at the start of the season, and I have two awesome ones this week, starting with Agent Provocateur. When I reach my goal and lose all my weight I'm going to splurge and get a complete set as (one of many) rewards. To me they really do scream that a woman is confident in herself and deserves to be spoiled. Mostly impractical to wear under clothes, but don't we all need something just for the bedroom? This is my favourite set for the new season.

Thora Underwear set by Agent Provocateur

The second range I want to mention is by What Katie Did, They have recently released their new season collection and the standout to me is this gorgeous Storm Corset. It's a newer style from them and is designed to hold in bustier girls, it also comes in a large range of colours.

Storm Corset by What Katie Did

Ladakh online sale! Get in quick

Just a quick heads up to readers out there, Ladakh is having an Weekend Winter Wind Up sale online here. Up to 50% off, and it sounds like it will only be on for this weekend so hurry!

Product Reveiw: Invisible Zinc tinted daywear SPF 30+

Invisible Zinc touts this product as a great all in one product, Moisturiser, sunscreen and foundation, I Picked up a tube of this the other week to give it a go and see how I could work it into my daily routine. As it is a physical sunscreen (as opposed to chemical) it can sit at any level on your face and doesn't have to be applied directly onto clean skin to be effective. Useful.
My first impression is that it is incredibly thick, I'm used to sunscreens that are runny and messy but this just sits on my finger in the same shape I squeezed it out in. Just on its own even the light shade is far too dark for my skin so I mix it with my current foundation. The next is that it is quite sticky.
Two major and unexpected pluses about this product are that it does not budge, (and mixed with my founadtion, makes my foundation stay on too!) I go to wash my face for training after work, and water alone does not wash it off, you can feel it still on. You need a facewash/cleanser.
The other plus is that it doesn't let oil through, in fact I could go so far to say that it is the best anti-oil product I've used. My makeup doesn't budge and slide down my face as it normally would.
Certainly going to keep using this product, but I just wish it was lighter! Only two colours available? You can do better then that!

 Invisible Zinc tinted daywear SPF 30+ available here.

Bought! Retro Camera Mobile by Sweet and Salty

So after the year of weddings I had last year, this is clearly the year of babies for me. Expecting three out of my friends within the next six months.
One of the mother's to be is quite the photographer, and loves vintage cameras so when I snuck the information out of her that she hadn't bought a mobile for her little boy's cot, I snapped this up quick smart.

Retro Camera Mobile available from Shana Logic

Cats, birds and deers are also available.