Tip of the day: Keep your eyecream in the fridge

This is a great tip for summer. Keeping your eyecreams in the fridge has more the one benefit, apart from feeling delicious when you put it on, it will work even better at deminishing puffy eyes. This is especially true with rollerball style eyecreams.
In addition to that, it will also keep for longer. So even though I know it's a pain, I still do it!

Tip of the day: Applying Bronzer to sculpt

Finally a use for the heathenous duckface! You know the one I'm talking about, a certain Miley Cyrus is a fan, but there are numerous girls on the internet. the best way I can discribe it, is either extreme pouting, or smiling and pouting at the same time. Here are some examples, with eyes blacked out because even I'm not that mean:

Wow ... now that I am super turned on by all the hotness, let me give you an actually good use for this face. Yes I want you to make it, at your self in the mirror.
If you smile and pout at the same time, it will cause a concave shape under your cheekbones which will guide you in where to apply bronzer to sculpt your cheekbones. Check it out on my wonderful and willing model below. (Actually, I think Kim Kardashian may be the one person on earth who can duckface and get away with it.)

As you can see, if you apply your powder bronzer along this nook, starting from directly below where your pupil sits in your eye, and up towards your ears, you will get a lovely shaded cheek, then just dab some more bronzer on your temples, blend, and you're done. Add blush as desired.

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?

Would you wear it? Tie Dye Hair

Recently it's been popping up in a few places, completely unnatural hair colour. A lot of celebs do it with wigs, while some have made coloured hair pieces their signature. It can actually look quite good, Rhianna looked great with her firey red hair a few months back:

 

I also read somewhere recently that Katy Perry has gone from black, to red, to blond recently, all in order to have her actual hair a rich violet colour:

To me, these two girls have shown exactly how it should be done, Otherwise a few removable coloured splices look good. What I'm not really liking is the below:

 

Nicki has been known to do some real out there stuff with her hair, but I'm really not feeling the blue tips on Kate Bosworth either.

What do you guys think? How would you wear it?

Read more on this here!

Loving this week: ASOS, John Frieda and Stylestalker

I love the ladylike trend, who can possibly hate a trend that makes you look groomed, polished and appropriate at all times? Mix it up with some bedhair and modern make up and you're a total minx and boys don't know why!
I'm in desperate need for a new handbag as my current savious is giving me a rash from the cheap chain strap, and I'm in love with this top handle with cross body strap from ASOS, I don't think I can justify buying it just yet, but soon ... soon.

ASOS Premium Leather Vintage Frame Lady Bag available from ASOS

Next on my list is this new product from John Frieda Haircare. Another why-did-it-take-so-long-to-think-of? Product. A quick convenient way to tuck in flyaways that comes in the size of a mascara wand? Yes please. Also good to apply to frayed ends when you haven't had the chance to go for a haircut. This will be awesome in the humid Brisbane Summer!

John Frieda Full Repair Touch-Up Flyaway Tamer.

Fully getting into the 70's style that's coming into fashion, found this gorgeous dress by style stalker, it reminds me of both soemthing my mother used to wear but also a dress I fell in love with in the first SATC movie. It is quite short though, so if you don't have the legs I'd wear it with some quality paneled tights to give the illusion of looooong legs.

Almost Famour Dress by Stylestalker

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.

Like Birdette on Facebook.

Yup, the day has come. Over on the right hand side you will find the option to like me on Facebook, along with Bloglovin and  Stumbleupon. Please add me, as I shall be putting up something very soon that will tie in with Facebook.

Tell you more soon <3

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!

Bought by Birdette now on Twitter!

Hi everyone!
Today has been a wet day in Brisbane, the sort where you just want to stay in bed and listen to the rain on the tiles, also a perfect day for doing some more set up on the internet take over!
You can now follow me on twitter at http://twitter.com/#!/birdettebuys Come visit me soon!

Cute handmade owls by Tickled Pink Events.

OK, I admit it, I am one of those girls who utterly adore owls, and if it didn't make me look like a crazy person I would quite possible have them all over my house. But I'm no Nina Proudman, and only let my owly obsessions out to play occasionally.
Tickled Pink Cards is a stationery company that ties in with Tickled Pink Events, a wedding and occasion planning company. I had the pleasure of meeting Natalie at the Young Designers Markets last week and she is lovely.
What drew me to her stall were of course these gorgeous handmade owls she was selling, I wanted to take them all home with me. Have a look at these and tell you you don't want one of them to pop on your couch or to sit with your books.

 

Owl obsession now sated for the time being ...

Tickled Pink Designs are stocked all around Brisbane, Please visit her site to read more information and find out where you can buy her wares!

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?

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.

MBFF Graduate show tonight!

So I may be a little excited. And so one of my best friends may be showing her clothes in a competition parade tonight ... I'm totally stoked! Had nothing to wear as I thought all my good frocks were still packed away but hanging in my closet was a black satin and lace beacon of hope! Thank god. I'm shocked I didn't realize earlier. Handbag is full to the brim with make up so I can run to the show straight from work.
So my tip? Buy a dress that you love, even if you can't think of when you'll wear it. I have found that the day will pop up (five somewhat unexpected weddings in a year anyone? Yes, it happened to me.)
Even if you outgrow it in anyway. Chances are it'll sell for a good price on eBay.
I believe tickets are still on sale for tonights shows. I really do recommend these in particular. Tickets can be bought and picked up at ticketek, and they have an office in QPAC, two minutes walk from the tent!

ASOS set to launch Australian site

Hmmm, brutally honest? I'm not too sure how exciting I find this news. It was within the last year or so that ASOS added the option for Aussie dollar, and that was useless because the prices were higher then if you bought with the pound.
We already get free shipping. But perhaps that will change to only from the Aussie site?
Nope, not sold on this plan, we'll have to wait and see if we'll be forking over more money first.

30 days of Fashion and Beauty 2011: Brisbane Events

In previous years we have been a little forgotten during the 30 days of (insert something here) events, during the health and fitness there wasn't a damn thing in Brisbane at all! In comparison to Melbourne, let alone Sydney. Le sigh. So to try and get some more attendance so hopefully there will be more events, here is the list of things that will be happening in and around Brisbane this September.
My first recommendation is to sign up to the emailing list, it makes registering for events as simple as a few clicks and will keep you up to date on what's happening.

Thursday September 1:
Priceline will be running two events in collaboration with Madison, the first held at 12:30, and another at 6:00, both are titled Runway to Realway, and will teach you some tricks for making the makeup trends for this season wearable. These two events will be located at Priceline in Robina down the coast.

Thursday September 8:
GeorgeGrossHarryWho VIP Spring/Summer2011 Collection Launch will be held in Brisbane, tickets must be bought for this event that will include canapes and drinks, and will be held at midday at The Emporium Hotel, 1000 Ann Street, Fortitude Valley.

Friday September 9:
Priceline in collaboration with Woman's Day Magazine will be running an instant makeover workshop at Priceline Queens Street Mall in the evening at 12:30 and 6:00, They will be going on how to update your look.


Saturday September 10:
If you're willing to go on a drive down the coast, there will be the AMP Capital Shopping Centres - Madison mile Fashion and Health Workshop run at Pacific Fair, Broadbeach. Madison Magazines Fashions peeps will be there advising on how to put together the trends coming in fashion. Session is scheduled for 11:30, and looks like a good one to go to. Events is free but there is a $20 goodie bag to be purchase for charity if interested.

Wednesday September 14:
Priceline and Cosmo will be presenting a workshop called Red Carpet, At the Queen Street Mall. perfect for anyone who will be attending any glamorous events. Workshop will occur at 12:30
Also happening today down in Robina is Pandora's Romantic Rock Runway show down at Robina Town Centre. It will be on at 11:30.

Thursday September 15:
Pandora will be presenting at Robin Town Centre again, same details as the day before.
GeorgeGrossHarryWho VIP Spring/Summer2011 Collection Launch will be happening at David Jones Queens Plaza but for free this time, reservations are required. Midday.
Priceline and the Australian's Women's Weekly Will be holding Instant Glamour workshops at Robina. Times will be 12:30 and 6:00.

Friday September 16:
Priceline and Cleo will be holding an After Dark workshop today at Centro Toombul, to perfect your evening look. Be there for 12:30.
Pandora will yet again be presenting at Robin Town Centre again, same details as the days before.

Saturday September 17:
After three days of parades, Pandora  will be holding Styling Sessions on how to work the latest looks. 11:30 at Robina Town Centre.

Sunday September 18:
Prestige to High-Street with Commonwealth Bank, will be held at Robina Town Centre today at 1:00, I believe it will be a runway show or presentation, the description isn't very clear.
Pandora will being running styling sessions again, same details as the previous day.

Monday September 19:
Pandora will be launching its new collection in Brisbane, the description is telling us to keep an eye out for new details, but it will be free with champagne and canapes. Totally there lol. 6:00-9:00 PM.

Thursday September 22:
Another Free to attend GeorgeGrossHarryWho VIP Spring/Summer2011 Collection Launch will be held down at David Jones, Robina Town Centre today at 11:00, with free canapes and refreshments.

And that brings us to a close of the activities in Brisbane, Let me know if you guys know of any unofficial things going on that I can share with everyone.

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.

Free things to do during MBFF

Well I sort of got too busy in the last few days to put this up as early as I plan, and for that I am sorry. Even with EKKA Wednesday off!
So MBFF has started for 2011! The opening ball was last night, and the only way for a lot of underlings to attend is to be a slave volunteer. You can actually see a lot of shows and such for free, here's my quick guide:

All days: 
I'm pretty sure The Fashion Bar is available during the late afternoons and evenings all days, You can find it this year at Cascade court, QPAC. It looks like it opens at 4:00 PM most days, and 4:45 on Sunday. If you are meeting up with friends for a show this is generally a good place to meet.

Saturday
The Young Designer Markets are going to be up and running today, near the regular Southbank Lifestyle Markets. 12 pm - 10 pm.
There is also something called Wintergarden Indulgence, you can find it at The Fashion Bar, Cascade Court QPAC at 4:PM.

Sunday:
Though not strictly free, to get up close you'll need a ticket. The Swimwear Parade is out in the open at the Streets beach, and unless they've erected a tent there today you can still get a good view if you camp out, possibly at the cafes up top there? Be warned though, this is one of the most popular events.
Young Designer Markets will also be running today at 10 am - 5 pm.

Monday:
On Monday the free shows in the Queens Street Mall will start up. The City Fashion Flash has taken a new formula this year, as 'flash' fashionistas will be 'struting' the mall, I'm guessing they will still have a base in the usual amphitheatre spot. I like this concept but it'll be hard to spot them all won't it? but this way more people will get the chance to have a good look won't they? Find them at 12:PM

Tuesday:
Fashion Flash on in the Queen Street Mall at 12:00PM
The Emerging Designer & Fashion Graduates Celebration will be on at The Fashion Bar from 9:00 PM onwards.
QUT will be holding a Fashion After Hours event today as well it will be a panel discussing "Industry & Autonomy: what is sustainable fashion?" featuring the following guests.
Tess Curran, Assistant Editor, Peppermint Magazine,
Paula Dunlop, PhD, Independent Practitioner and co-founder, The Stitchery Collective, Alice Payne, PhD Candidate, QUT,  
Samantha Hardman, Fashion Designer, Bento,  
Joshua Jones, Jean Brown.
I would personally just go for the exclusive Pop up vintage market afterwards run by The Best Little Vintage Van in Vegas.
It will be held at 8.30pm / Auditorium 1, Level 2 State Library of Queensland, South Bank.
Though they say tickets can be booked online, I'm willing to bet you can just show up and get in if the crowd isn't big, just to be sure though, there is a Ticketek office just across the way at QPAC to ensure to get in.

Wednesday: 
The City Fashion flash will be running again at its regular time.
QUT: Fashion after hours will be holding another Panel, this time discussing 'Brisbane Women in Fashion': Clothing, Community (that sounds v. poorly punctuated to me ...) I think I'll be heading along to this one. Panelists include:
Lydia Pearson & Pamela Easton, Easton Pearson,  
Kath Horton, Discipline Leader, Fashion QUT and Co-founder, The Stitchery Collective, Thea Basilou, Blonde Venus,
Faiza El-Higzi, The Romero Centre.
It will be held the same as the previous one: 8.30pm / Auditorium 1, Level 2 State Library of Queensland, South Bank.

Thursday:
Only two events are on today and both of them are free!
The City Fashion Flash is on, as per usual, but there is also the Dreaming of Chanel Launch Event. This is an exhibition of some of the amazing clothes in the Darnell Collection of vintage clothing, Charlotte Smith is a lovely lady and I went to her book signing last year for Dreaming of Dior. I'd recommend going to check out this exhibition while you can, nothing can teach us more about a subject then the past.
The event will be held at 6.00pm / QUT Art Museum, 2 George St, QUT Gardens Point Campus.

Friday:
The City Fashion Flash! Of course! lol.
The Dreaming of Chanel Exhibition will be running until the 16th of October for anyone who cannot make it to the opening event. Mon-Fri 10am-5pm & Sat 12pm-4pm

Bought! Faraway day wallet by Mimco

Well now I'm glad I didn't bother with the $30 voucher. While it would have been great if I had bought anything below $150, now that Mimco have 20% off storewide, I got an even better deal.
Alas I cannot afford the cute faraway day hip bag, but I found myself in need of a wallet. Hopefully I'll remember not to leave it lying on the floor so it can become Mischa's favourite toy. With lots of claw marks in the shiny leather.
While it doesn't have oodles of pockets for cards it has enough for my memberships and discounts, the coin section for a wallet this size is generous, and  I have a facination for bags and wallets with clips. The inside is rather shiny metallic leather which I think it growing on me.

 

Faraway Day Wallet by Mimco.

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

Embellished Knitwear by Jacqueline Claire

Jacqueline Claire specialises in hand sewn and painted knitwear such as tank tops and cardigans, every design is unique. Sick of seeing the same thing in every store she decided to start her own company that creates original one off designs.
Founded in 2004, she is also more then willing to make custom pieces for clients who request them.
What I love about her deisgns are the whimsy girly feel they have to them, I would have bought almost everything in the store money permitting. They have that touch of vintage feel that you get with one off creations that makes me smile.

Ugh, I hate my lack of photography skills sometimes.

Find out more information at her facebook page.

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?

Tip of the day: Easy half moon nails

I'm just discovering nailpolish, normally I can't be bothered at all, but with a little daily TLC they can look really groomed and well presented. But I'm not a fan of excessive nail art, there's just something about it that makes me think 'cheap'
One of the looks I've adored lately is the half moon, it's in a similar vein to a french manicure with the two tone effect. but instead of having white tips, you draw on a semi circle of polish at the base of the nail. Like below.

Probably the most classic way to wear this is with the colours above, red and white. But I think it looks stunning in pastels and brights. Most of the time the base colour is white, but use any constrasting colour, with the ligher of the two as the base colour.
It's damn tricky to apply by yourself, and it can be a little hard to explain what you're after to your manicurist without a picture. My tip? Nail art pens.
Sally Hansen makes a great budget friendly nail art pen in 11 different colours. For longevity and flexibility I'd recommend buying it in either silver or white, but the sky is the limit.

A sample of available colours.

Bought! Coquette Bikini by ASOS

Yeah, if you haven't guessed by now ASOS would have to be my favourite place to shop. But check this out!
Gorgeous cupped bikini in a beautiful pastel print, halter neck, contrast frills to draw attention, the placement of the frills on the bikini bottoms slim you down. There are still heaps of sizes available too. Being underwired it's perfect for larger busts that need support at all times. This print is also available in a trinagle top and tie side bottoms.
Just a quick one I had to share, and at 23 pounds it comes down to less then $40 Australian. buy it early and be ready for the upcoming summer... Yum.

ASOS Coquette Digital Print Ruffle Underwired Bikini

Loving this week: Cassandra Graus and Alannah Hill

I feel that since I'm in a house I have no hope of decorating at the moment that I'm drawn to home furnishings. You always want what you can't have! I can't wait to have walls to decorate, and a kitchen to fill with kooky kitchenware , and a room just for dining! (And perhaps showing off more of my quirky tastes.)
Blank walls! Blech! I want to cover them in things that make me happy. Like this adorable kitty print. Cassandra has created a collection of kitty themed prints, that make me giggle when I see them. I want this one especially.

 

Cat Nap Print by Cassandra Graus available at Shana Logic.

This is a truly great time of the year for scooping up a bargain, because of all the gorgeous new things flooding the stores. <3

Alannah Hill comes up with dozens of new designs at the start of the season and I especially loves her promotional pictures for her collections. I first saw these almost a fortnight ago but just haven't had the resoures to share anything, and now they're in store anyway! Go check them out online too. I love the skirt in this picture, a totaly scene stealing piece.

 A snippet from the Spring Summer 2011 collection by Alannah Hill.

Brooches by Good Boy Cracky

I think I was really attracted to accessories when I was walking through the markets last weekend. I've had kooky brooches on my mind for a few months now so when I spotted Good Boy Cracky I was stoked.
Jessica Barr creates handmade accessories made from recycled materials with a cute aesthetic. I picked up a cute owl brooch on the day, and on Monday a lot of girls were telling me how cute it was perched on my shoulder. I love her trademark old playing cards to display her creations, and the off beat and appealing nature of her wares.
Apart from brooches she also makes hairpins, iPhone covers, earrings and handmade cards featuring her artwork.
You can also have a closer look and buy some for yourself at her Etsy Store.

 

 

A few displays of her adorable Brooches

Product Review: Revlon Colourburst Lipgloss

I cannot recall a single instance when I've actually used up an entire tube of lip gloss, balm, or stick before I've lost it or something else has gone awry, but that doesn't stop me from acquiring a stack of them. I love the way a different colour, or texture can brighten my mood, and it's something I can change quite easily throughout the day. I use different products for different occasions and days, Balm for the weekends, and when I'm about to go to bed, and lipsticks and glosses for work or catching up with friends.
Recently I received a tube of Revlon Colourburst Lipgloss in a goodie bag and I have fallen with love, it was in a shade called Rose Pearl (which is shown much darker on their website then it comes out on your lips), and though it isn't a shade I would normally go for, I fell in love with the texture and long lasting qualities. Here is a gloss that is as colour filled as a lipstick, with a glossy finish, that you can even drink from a glass without making a complete mess while wearing.  It claims in the ad that 'the shine is 5x that of patent leather' which is bending the truth a little to me, but who wants lips that shiny? All I care is that it lasts for ages and makes my lips feel good too, which it does. It has a strange brush, which is meant to paint your lips easier, I didn't notice any difference between it and the application of a regular doe foot brush.
I love it so much that while browsing at Priceline today I scooped up another in the shade Fire, had to get me a red gloss for summer, Yum.
Good news for Aussie readers too, It's on sale at the moment at Priceline so get in quick before all the good shades are gone.

Revlon Colourburst Lipgloss in Rose Pearl

Revlon Colourburst Lipgloss in Fire

I miss my pink Dell!

So my computer is still in the shop, well at least in the hands of my friend who is run off his feet at the moment and hasn't the chance to fix it yet. I'm dying to put up posts about the stalls I checked out at the Young Designers Market and I hope to get at least some of them up over the weekend working off the boyf's computer. I miss my photoshop!
I also wanted to tell you that there will be extra Young Designers Markets on during MBFF next weekend, check here for more info.

Bought! Sportsgirl Curved Hem Skirt

I know I seem to be having a minor obsession with Sportsgirl at the moment, but the end of season sales just keep getting cheaper, what's a girl to do?
Today I picked up a jersey skirt with a graduated hem that gets longer at the back, this is a newer trend for summer that I've been meaning to add to my wardrobe, it kind of reminds me of the part of Sass and Bide that I like. The fact that I managed to fit into a size small for the first time since I was a teenager was a high selling point too! The hem starts just above my knee and ends around my ankle down the back, and the waist sits high, perfect. Also comes in grape (a pinky purple), and black.

Curved hem skirt available online at Sportsgirl.

Product Review: Remington Lumasmooth

So two weeks has come and gone, so what's my verdict?
Well it has worked, I have been moulting hairs for the last few days, not as much as I'd like but I think that's more a case of the patchy manner that I used the machine.
The light emitting part of the machine is tiny, from sight I would probably say it's about 2cm squared. Itsy bitsy when you take into consideration I've used it on my legs, so every time I use it, it's a bit of a labour.
I've used it twice now, with a fortnightly gap between but I'm going to up that amount to weekly just to get it done.
When you're doing large areas the machine has a habit of overheating. The machine then stops function for 40 seconds while it cools down and lets you go again. Annoying.

Would I recommend it? So far only for those who have the time and patience for it, but if I do end up not having to shave daily during summer, I will certainly be happy with it. I'll Probably come back with a final verdict in another month or so.

Shop Forever New online

Good news news for those who aren't fearful to pull out their credit cards (or Visa Debit), Forever New have just opened up their online shop with free shipping Australia wide available for all of August.
Happy shopping!

Bought! Sportsgirl and Lovisa

Today I finally wore the Edna Dress I bought a few weeks ago as mentioned here, and my god, what a comment magnet! Heaps of girls at work ooh'd and ah'd, a few had to touch and two of them named the label. impressed by my office cohorts. I also have to mention it is perhaps a little too booby for the office ... but that won't stop me from wearing it again, it's too nice!
I also had a trundle about the mall in the cool evening and picked up a few things, starting with a quick bargain top from Sportsgirl for summer, I'll wear it either with tight jeans to balance it out or tucked into a waisted skirt for a cuter look.

 

Sportsgirl Bold Stripe Top $19.95 here.

I've never bought anything from Lovisa before so I am wary, due to my 'princess syndrome' (inability to wear cheap jewelry without obtaining a fetching welted rash). But today I decided to risk it and had a look at the 2 for $15 rack, I selected a cute bow brooch and a silver necklace with a button pendant. I plan on using the brooch to cover up a glue stain on a handbag.

Don't Forget! Ellery and Young Designer Markets today!

Hi everyone, just a reminder to check out the great things on offer today, if you're in Southbank, Check out the Young Designer Markets, or if you in the mood for a Aussie upmarket designer bargain, don't miss the last day of the Ellery Sample Sale.
Have a great Sunday!

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.

Typo

Typo has been revolutionary for shopping for me, and my failproof gift store. When I first discovered it's cute and attitude filled shops popping up I was almost shocked to find they have the same parent company as Cotton On. You see, Cotton On used to be great to me but about five years ago I found that the quality of their clothes had dropped dramatically and I was squeezing myself into sizes that should've fit me. No my ass wasn't expanding that much, they had gone the way of Supre and become somewhat of a jersey wasteland.
Back on topic, Typo is filled to the brim with kitchy hipster like stationery and homewares, with new collections coming in on a frequent basis, because of this they have a great sales rack where I like to visit regularly and pick up the cast offs of ranges I love. The canvas' are a great and a cheap way of decorating rental houses, the cards aren't quite for your grandmother but are something you don't feel embarrassed handing to your best friend.
I particularly love the magentic notepads for your fridge, as well as the meal planners and do do lists (or the shit that needs doing' lists, lol) and I have noticed some of the more PC items popping up on the desks of my co workers.
I also have a collection of their coffee mugs, perfectly matchy in the all-the-same-shape-but-completely-different way.
I highly recommend paying them a visit if you're stuck on what to bu a fiend for their birthday as well, for under $20 they have saved my ass numerous times in last minute 'Fuck! The hell do I buy this person??' moments.

Ellery Sample Sale Brisbane

Christ, finding info for this event is like hunting a needle in a haystack. Here is what I've found:
Location: James street cottage, 67 James street Fortitude Valley
Dates: Friday August 5th, until Sunday August 7.
I'm not clear on hours, as my usual places to find such info are having a shitfit.

Bargain Maybelline The Falsies Waterproof Black Drama Mascara!

Hey guys, just wanted to tell you all that during my mundane grocery shopping last night I spotted a great bargain. At my local Woolworths in Carindale, they were selling the new falsies mascara for $10! I'll be checking the catalogue and the woolies at McArthur Central to make sure it wasn't a one off.

Edit: Sorry everyone, it's looking like it was either a one off or the last day for it yesterday. My trip to McArthur Central was fruitless, and I can only find an ad for 20% off all cosmetics in this week's catalogue. It may still be available at Carindale, check near the freezer aisle if you're in the area!

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!