The Best of Bought by Birdette 2012

Hello everyone! How did you enjoy the holiday period? We're glad to be back in business here at Birdette Headquarters to bring you all a wrap up of the most popular posts of 2012. Did your favourite make it in?

Most read Beauty Post:

How to Hair  - Serena van der Wooden's Ponytail

Always a goodie, sad to see it for the final time on TV last week but unfortunately for Gossip Girl lovers the show just wasn't what it used to be.

Most Pinned DIY:

Make Your Own Easy Fabric Bunting

A surprising success, and I do have to admit I still haven't entirely finished mine! It's about 7 metres long, I just keep running out of tape or missing flags to finish it off! I know there's a few more flags somewhere... lol.

Purchase of the Year:

Zara Plaited Leather Shopper Bag

Still a Favourite for readers all over the world, this classic bag is high up on many shopping lists.

Best Discovery:

Trilogy Rosehip Oil

If you don't already own this, I still highly recommend you give it a try, nothing else has helped me with my uneven skin tone more.

Best Tips and Tricks:

How to make your Eyes Brighter

How very well timed! I can imagine more then a few of us will be sporting bleary red eyes after partying tonight! Here's how to minimize the the appearance

It's been a good year here at Bought by Birdette and we're very happy to have you all as readers! You've been steadily growing and spreading the word and I'd like to take this opportunity to thank each and every one of you. If you don't already, please take this chance to follow us to keep up to date. You can choose from Twitter, Facebook, Google Friend Connect, or Bloglovin, and please keep in touch! We love to know what you're loving, and want to see more of. (Comments and Shares! Yay!)

Thanks again for an awesome year and your continued support, I hope you all have a fantastic New Year, Be the best you can be, and take care of yourselves.

Happy Holidays from Bought by Birdette!

Hello Lovelies, Just a quick one to let you all know I'll be out of reach for the next few days. Celebrating the Holidays in a remote area of Queensland in a house that's entirely solar powered.

I hope everyone has a wonderful break, take care of yourselves, and stay safe.

I can't wait to get intovthe sales on my return!

Source: Pusheen

The Quick Drying Faux Glow Advantage - Le Tan Tanning Gel

Tanning is something I used to do a lot of while I was in Fashion School, I had a strange perception of what was a healthy size back then as the vast (VAST!) majority of classmates were a size 10 or under. I felt huge in my then smaller size 12-14 frame. I used to give myself a little self esteem by at least having a great fake tan. It's something I haven't done in a few years, but at least I have a great array of new products to try!

Le Tan Tanning Gel in Bronze (Product does not come with mitt)

One of the first I purchased is Le Tan's Tanning Gel in Bronze, being pale skinned and a novice again I didn't want to try the deeper tone. What particularly drew me to this product is that because it's a gel, it dries fast and works better with oily skin. All the better to defeat that icky product coated feel you can get with creams.

It's a clear formula with only a hint of the colour that's to come, This is fantastic when you're trying to keep the colour off your clothes and sheets but very problematic when it comes to knowing where you have applied the Tanning Gel. This can be alleviated with the use of those great application mitts you can usually find right next to the Tan range at most stockists.

My first impression is great as this is certainly one of the better smelling Tanning products on the market, there's a subtle coconut smell that doesn't start to resemble fake tan until a few hours later. If you pop the gel on just before going to bed, you won't even notice it. The products glides on nicely and there's no need to really works with it, just make sure you have applied it evenly before it quickly dries. As you can deepen the colour by applying a second layer once they first one dries. A big positive is that it won't rub off once it has dried the way that some others can, once its set it's pretty much unstoppable.
With one layer the colour is nice and subtle and hard to pick as fake, but I have to recommend you stop there, if you want to go a little deeper you ought to apply a tanning moisturiser over the top. Two layers of the gel was just too much when I gave it a go. Of course to keep the colour looking as good as possible you need to moisturise at least once a day, twice is ideal.
So in summary:

What I liked about it - 
The quick drying formula and scent.

What I disliked about it - 
Transparent formula.

Have you tried this product? What did you think of it?

GIft Guide 2012 - Priceline Stocking Stuffers

This is part of a series of gift guides I am putting together and posting up until Christmas. Please be sure to check out the others Here! 

We're getting down to the last week now, and it's truly heading towards panic stations. Unfortunately you don't have much chance of receiving anything from overseas in time now, so it's into the shops we go!
Priceline has a great range of stocking stuffers, ideal for tweens, teenagers, women, and the odd surprise for boys and girls too. As far as I'm concerned, to make an gift a good stocking stuffer it has to tick a few boxes:

• Bulky - Does it take up a substantial amount of room in the sack?
• Suited to the receiver - Men won't often appreciate a Hello Kitty bathwash.
• Good item to price ratio - Gives you change from a $20? Good. Gives you change from a $10? Perfect.

Here are my current picks from Priceline - 

A - Models Prefer Hot Hair Styling Kit

B - Batiste Dry Shampoo Bonus Packs

C - Umberto Giannini Hair Styling Kits

I love how retro glamour is coming back, this curling tool kit will get you well on your way to getting perfect curls. The Batiste packs are awesome, for about the same price as a normal bottle they have released two varieties with useful hair tools: A hair towel and a shower cap. I may have bought a pair just for myself, (I was in the market for a shower cap anyway....)

With the Umberto Giannini packs, I'm not sure if they're available from all Priceline stores as I only spotted them at Carindale. However, if you see one, snap it up. I don't think you will find a cheaper way of purchasing the tools included, hair donuts, tail combs, velcro rollers etc. and last I saw they had buy one get one free ...

Have you nabbed all your presents yet? Who do you still have to shop for?

Gift Guide - Stocking Stuffers

This is part of a series of gift guides I am putting together and posting up until Christmas. Please be sure to check out the others Here! 

Admittedly, I've gone a little AWOL on my Christmas gift guides, time is just running out! There's just over two weeks until Christmas and most online shopping retailers are starting to call time on shipping.
However, here's part one of some last minute stocking stuffers to help nudge you over the line!

1 - Soap and Glory Soaper Heroes gift pack available from Mecca Cosmetica

2 - Kit Cosmetics Lip Balm available from Mecca Cosmetica

3 - Whisky Stones Available from Mighty Ape

4 - DIY Party Pom Pom Kit available from Sportsgirl

5 - Wall Mounting Jewellery Rack available from Sportsgirl

More coming over the next week!

Bought! Sportsgirl Cut Out Boots

So a few weeks ago I posted about some gorgeous Jeffrey Campbell Cut Out Boots that I was in love with, but just couldn't justify on my budget. Hello wallet friendly alternative!

So Mischa likes the boots too, or the camera, I'm not sure.

Can you tell I'm in love? You can pick up your own pair from the guys at Sportsgirl, I found them to be a little tight in the width, so make sure you walk about the store a bit in them first, and I certainly had to buy the bigger size my foot size normally falls into.

Bought by Birdette has received a Liebster Award!

Woohoo! It's a very special post for Bought by Birdette as I have received the Liebster Award from the lovely Madam M of The Beauty Dispensary. For those who may not have heard of these awards before they are given out in the blogging community to up and coming bloggers with less then 200 followers, (so please get cracking and follow me if you haven't already!) Liebster is also German for Dearest, nawww.
So here is how it works:

a. Each nominee must post 11 things about themselves.
b. Answer the 11 questions posed by the blogger who nominated them.
c. Create 11 questions for the 11 bloggers you nonimate.
d. Choose 11 bloggers to give the award to, link to this post and go to their pages to tell them.
e. No tagbacks allowed.

So here goes!

11 things about Birdette

1. Just quietly, I'm kinda nerdy. Harry Potter, Lord of the Rings, A Song of Ice and Fire, I love Final Fantasy video games, and my favourite is number IX.
2. Born and bred in Country Victoria in an awfully bogan place called Bendigo, I escaped (without children, a rarity for a teenager!) up to Brisbane when I turned 18 and haven't looked back.
3. I have never travelled outside of Australia, I don't even own a passport!
4. On that note, I don't have a driver's license either, and my L plates have actually expired. Oops.
5. Fancies herself as a pretty good cook, I've kept up a new years resolution of cooking something new at least once a week all year, and it's proving to be quite a lot of fun and effective.
6. Is a mad keen crafter, I love to keep my hands busy, but I have a real problem with starting projects and never finishing them!.
7. Loves hats, owns many but I hardly ever wear them. Hoping to change that.
8. I am of Yugoslavian, English and Welsh decent, so creamy skin, dark hair, almost black coloured eyes (no shit, people has trouble seeing my pupils). Cool toned FTW!
9. Incredibly wary of new people and very nervous until I'm comfortable with them. to be honest I've told very few people in my everyday life about this blog in case they don't like it.
10. I've studied "Clothing Construction" and "Multimedia" at TAFE, So I'm not half bad at sewing, and enjoy Photoshopping quite a lot.
11. Lucky last! One day I hope to have a house with a library (at least one wall full of books!) and a secret passage.

Here are the questions posed to me by the lovely Madam M
                               

1.    Are you a morning person or night person? Night, oh god night, birds chirping to bring in the day make me want to own an air rifle.

2.    Gold, silver or platinum? Platinum, but I'll take what I can get ^_^

3.    What was the worst job you have ever had? I worked as a barista at a commonly known cafe chain, this particular one had a very high staff turnover because the franchisee was an utter stresshead asshole. He would yell at his staff all the time and generally be horrible, I used to get nosebleeds from the stress. I ended up leaving for another franchisee's stores, they were much nicer to work for.

4.    Are you allergic to anything? Bees, cheap metal, elastoplast, plus I have year round hayfever, fun times!

5.    Whats on the menu for dinner tonight? While I'm currently typing, it will be crispy chicken tacos with some friends coming over, by the time this goes live however I'm not sure...

6.    Who in your life inspires you the most? Christ, I haven't thought about that, I don't actually think anyone inspires me that much lol. One of my old school friends has the courage to do whatever she wants in life, regardless of what others think and she doesn't hide anything, I quite admire her.

7.    If you had a million dollars to give away to on person anonymously who would it be?
       I think I'd give it to my boyfriend, so he could share it with me lol.

8.    If you could live for one year in another country, where would you go? Ooooh, I haven't travelled outside of Australia, I would love to live in London, I wouldn't have to learn another language, I would have a snowy christmas, and so much cool stuff comes out of there!

9.    If you had to wear one nail polish color for the rest of you life what would it be? GLITTER! oh god, glitterrrrrrr.

10.  If you could have any type of animal as a pet what would you choose? Aww, I really couldn't pass up my gorgeous kitties!

11. What was the last movie you watched ? James Bond Skyfall, and I fricken loved it.

The Questions I now pose to my selected bloggers

1. What is the one store you couldn't live without and why?

2. What is your earliest memory?

3. What colour nail polish are you wearing right now?

4. Black and white or Bright colours?

5. Favourite way to spend the weekend?

6. Favourite place to spend a holiday?

7. How many pairs of shoes do you own?

8. Any hobbies?

9. The best thing you can cook?

10. Summer or Winter?

11. Autumn leaves or Spring Flowers?

My chosen bloggers, have fun!

BBBeauty

Vintage Owl Boutique

Dorly Designs

Just Plain Delirious

Beauty Behind the Imperfections

Stylise

Chic Beauty

Brie's Petite World

Peta Petal

Make up and Smell the Coffee

Buy Blog Sparkle

In the spirit of things, go and check out eachothers blogs! Thanks again to Madam M too!

Loving this week - Bargain leather goods and Mecca Maxima

December is here and that means I can officially get all Christmas-y without anyone cracking the sads that I'm getting in too early. Hurray for that! I love this time of the year because the weight of the year starts to lift off everyone's shoulders. Even people on the street seem to smile more.

Of course it also means great deals for shoppers too, so I've been pounding the pavement (or carpet in Westfield Carindale's case!)

Colette is a store I haven't paid much attention to, I noticed when suddenly they appeared in almost every mall overnight but I've been afraid that my allergy would prevent me from wearing the jewellery. However I was walking past the store when I saw new posters up talking up their new leather range, Always keen for a leather handbag I had to check them out.

Nice, simple and clean lines are a great first impression to make on the handbags. However, when you look a little closer the top corners of the bag actually clip together internally and form a new bag shape, and a gorgeous one at that! I'm sorry to say I couldn't find any pictures of the alternate way to wear it, but I think it's worth going to the shops and checking them out, it could just be your brand new handbag (and matching wallet!) It also currently comes in other shades of tan, dark blue, and a pinky coral hue.

I'm a little ashamed to admit that I have waited this long to check out the new Mecca Maxima, or any Mecca Maxima in that case! I've been shy. It's like that feeling you get when you see the security guard on the doors of Louis Vuitton or Chanel, sometimes you don't feel brave enough and run away! But after entering I don't know why I felt that way. I almost squealed out loud at some of the cute stuff I found! Heart shaped foam hair rollers anyone? Don't mind if I do ...

Comes in a pack of six

I also picked up some Soap and Glory goodies that I'll talk about after I've given them a go. The tools section was of course unbelievable but the range of hard to find brands is awesome. I'm really glad to see that someone who has the means to has opened up the world of international niche cosmetics to Australians who would otherwise resort to eBay or overpriced international postage. After leaving the store I'm already plotting my purchases for next time in my head.

Guest Post - The Origins of Fashion

Hi guys, please enjoy this guest post about the origin of various types of shoes! - Birdette

A fashion boot or shoe is one that is worn for reasons other than practicality. Practical? Really?

Mary Jane’s
Mary Jane’s is the trademarked name for a closed toe ladies shoe, with a low heel and one or more strap across the top. The Mary Jane originated in the US. Mary Jane was a character in the very popular comic, Buster Brown. Buster Brown was first published in 1902, in which Mary Jane plays the love interest of Buster Brown. Later, the comic book was sold to 200 companies, including the Brown’s Shoe Company, who trademarked the name Mary Jane and Mary Jane wore Mary Jane’s in the comic strip.

Loafers
Loafer’s originated in Norway in 1930. A Norwegian shoe maker called Nils Gregoriusson Tveranger designed a shoe called the Aurland moccasin which were very popular among Europeans and eventually made its way across the Atlantic to America. The design for the shoe was picked up and replicated by a shoemaker in New Hampshire who changed the name to Loafer. The term Loafer is now the generalised term used in America to describe a slip on shoe. The traditional design of the Loafer which has a leather flap across the top was adapted in Maine by a shoemaker who renamed the shoe the Weejun.

Ballet Flat
The Ballet Flat, which is also known as the Dolly Shoe, consists of a soft shoe with minimal sole, sometimes the appearance of no sole. The Ballet flat was originally worn by men in the 16th Century when they were referred to as Pompes. Audrey Hepburn can be given the recognition for bringing the Ballet Flat to life, when she wore a pair of flats with skinny jeans in the movie Funny Face in 1957. The Ballet Flat has been adapted from its original design in order to suit the current trend, the addition of the rubber sole gives the shoe more durability and versatility and can be seen everywhere these days as one of the most popular shoes of this century so far.

Over the Knee
Over the knee boots, which are also known as cuissardes, are boots that partially or fully cover the knee. Over the knee boots can take many forms including thigh high, hip high and waders. Over the knee boots were originally designed for men, to be worn when riding a horse during the 15th Century. It became popular for men to wear tight when riding horseback in the 15th Century and so
they over the knee boot were designed to give their legs extra protection. The term bootlegging was derived in the 17th Century when men used to hide flasks in their thigh high boots. Over the knee boots were adopted by the fashionistas in the 1960’s when Balenciaga revealed an over the knee boot in their fall collection and the following season Yves Saint Laurent had included the item in his.

Knee High
The knee high boot is a highly recognisable item of clothing these days. The boot raises up to just under the knee and tend to be tight to the leg. The origins of the knee high boot date back to fishermen, stable hands, dairy workers etc., they were worn to protect the works feet from water, slurry, manure etc. The original knee high boots were slip on and were often very difficult to remove. Upon entry into the fashion world, the knee high boot was modified for convenience and zips and buckles were added.

Chelsea Boot
The Chelsea boot, also known as the dealer boot, originated in the Victorian Era and was originally worn for horse riding. Chelsea boots were considered an identifiable element of the 1960’s Mod scene, they faded out of fashion soon after that and in recent years have come back in. They are distinguishable by the thick leather sole and the elastic that runs up the side of the boot.

This Guest Post was written by Vicki Power on behalf of Duo Boots. Duo boots offer Ladies Boots in a variety of width options.

This has been a sponsored post

Gift Guide - Homebody

This is part of a series of gift guides I am putting together and posting up until Christmas. Please be sure to check out the others Here! 

Homebody may be a slightly misleading description of this person, Houseproud might do it better! We all know someone who takes great pride in maintaining their home and filling it with gorgeous little knick knacks and treasures. Perhaps these might suit their style?

I don't feel like a house is truly a home without at least a few books kicking around. I don't care much for the new electronic reader technology, give me the smell of old books over strained eyes and something that feels utterly fake any day! Cute bookends add the finishing touch to any collection, here are a few goodies.

Vinyl Record Bookends from Typo

The End Bookend from Lark

People who love their homes often want to show them off, so why not give them some gorgeous servingware for the next time they're entertaining? (Gives them more reason to invite you over too!) Platters for me are something that are to be used to frame your food. What may perfectly complement a table full of colourful salads and BBQ cooked fare may not work as well for a more classy afternoon tea affair or even a make-your-own taco fiesta.

22 cm Hand drawn Lacey Serving Bowl by Yvonne Ellen

37.5 cm Fiesta Round Platter and 35 cm French Bull Melamine Platter both available at Peter's of Kensington

Another cute idea you won't find everywhere are these unique wire wall art Sculptures. I admit, my eyes may have done their little "dawwwww!" thing and widened when I first spotted the bunny sculpture. Each of them are handmade and differ slightly to others, so like hand blown glass no two are the same.

Owl, Bunny and other designs available from Life on Wire

Loving this week - Giant Freckles & Squishy cats

I've had a massive few days, after going and seeing the latest James Bond Movie, (the boy and I made a real nice date night out of it, Gold Class cinemas, fancy dinner, loved it.) and then the day job's Christmas party last night has made me  feel like I've hardly had any sleep all week. Thank goodness for weekends and lazy Sundays.

I'm currently in the midst of crocheting a massive floor rug out of t-shirt yarn for my house, and no doubt I'll still be making it in the months to come, but look what I found for sale! These awesome rugs are handmade in Nepal and no two are alike, they're also 100% wool, gorgeous quality and would look great in homes with a handmade and cheerful aesthetic.

Little Lamb Freckle Rug available from Lark

I may also have been hunting homewares like it's going out of style, (Pssh! Materialistic? Me?? Never!) There's just so much cute stuff out there. I am also a cat lady, I've never tried denying it and limit myself to my two babies. This minor crazy streak is finally meeting with my odd collection of what I called 'item' cushions, (I have some prior additions here.) In the form of this Squee worthy cushion from the hilariously cute Pusheen Website. I just want to hug it!

Pusheen 20" Plush pillow available here.

Gift Guide 2012 - Foodie

This is part of a series of gift guides I am putting together and posting up until Christmas. Please be sure to check out the others Here! 

Shopping for foodies is probably one of my favourite things to do, there's always a new gadget, or book to look at and in my opinion food styles and hot items can change just as quickly as fashion! Cupcakes, Whoopie pies, Macarons, etc they've all had their moments recently and opened up the idea of cooking and baking being a worthwhile skill to have to a younger generation who otherwise may never have learnt!

Cookies are a great way to open up the kitchen to novices and the results are great for spreading the love, I found these cute cookie stamps, hopefully there's something for all kinds of bakers! Cookie stamps in a variety of cute, hipster, indie and creepy.

A - Baked with Love Stamp available from Portmans

B & C - Munchstaches and Gingerdead Men Stamps available from Mighty Ape

D - Home Made stamp available from Lark

An idea for someone who likes to play with cocktails and liquid concoctions would have to be this nifty Zoku quick pop maker. It has the ability to create icy poles in minutes! Imagine the possibilities, you could use it to make a nice cooling after workout healthy treat that freezes while you exercise, or you could turn all those favourite summer cocktails into frozen treats. Not only do you have treats in minutes but you know exactly what went into them. It comes in various types that can make anywhere from one to three Zoku pops at once (I think the three would be great for someone who has people over a lot!) and come in a range of colours to match various kitchen decors.

Zoku Pop makers in single, two or three

Unfortunately the official website only ships to the USA, but you can also buy them in Australia here or here.

Rimmel BB 9 in 1 Cream Review

BB Cream by Rimmel

So I picked this up in store the other day, because the one thing I really need in my bathroom is another BB cream (Ha!) but for the price, I couldn't bring myself to say no.
What stood out for me most in the advertising would have to be that it has the highest SPF out of all the BB creams that I've seen on the market, at SPF 25 you get a level of protection that is usually reserved for products that are designed only to protect you from the sun, and not improve your appearance instantly.
Another point that I like about this product from Rimmel over others is the shade range. Yes it's only three but that's still more then other ranges, and the light is actually light! It works on my pale porcelain skintone and may even work in Winter when my skin goes completely void of colour.
The claims are that this product is 9 in 1 which is a very impressive number of tasks to roll into just one product. The list is that this product Primes, Moisturises, Minimises Pores, Conceals, Covers, Smooths  Mattifies, Brightens and helps Protect. for me, I could say that it does most of these, but I'd say it has more of a dewy finish then a mattifying one, but that's good for those who want that finish. Also conceal and cover are kind of the same thing to me...
Texture wise I found it a lot like zinc sunblock, it took a bit of work to spread, and you had to work quickly with the product before it began to set, but once you had waited a few minutes afterwards it was quite immovable.
My ultimate test with BB creams is whether the coverage is good enough to not need foundation afterwards, and I'm glad to say that this did the job nicely, I still put some powder on afterwards as the dewy finish doesn't work for long with my oily skin.

Of course I accidentally deleted the picture I took of the close up swatch spread on the back of my hand ...

Lets go shopping!

Well I'm taking the night of from blogging to go shopping. You'd have to be living under an internet-free rock not to know about the epic sales going on in many Australian retailers today. Some are even starting before the 7 PM EST official start so go get clicking!
Also worth noting is that it's not just the retailer listed at Click Frenzy, lots of others are getting in on the action so be sure to check out your regular favourites!
Personally I'll be hanging around Priceline, Myer, Target, Review, Glassons, Dotti, Diva, Lipstick Shoes, and Bardot (Phew!) I'll be tweeting anything phenomenal I find through my feed here.

Go score yourselves some bargains and let me know what you found!

Link Love - Web design help

Going to go in a different direction for link love this time around. It's not a topic I'd usually cover but web design is something that helps when you are putting together stuff like blogs, websites and even Twitter and Facebook pages, it's never a bad thing to learn in this technology based society called the internet! So here are four cute resources I thought I'd share. They're user friendly and at least partially free too, nothing to sign up to, just click and go! Just make sure you have a read of the terms and conditions.

1001fonts This is a really good resource to check out for fonts, as they've been created by a bunch of different people, it's worth checking each once you have downloaded them to make sure you can use them for commercial  use.

Call me Victorian You'll find heaps of great clipart shapes and labels for use on this site, great for labelling pictures, creating banners and all sorts of nifty graphics. they all have a nice classic edge to them, with a splash of detail to keep away the boring!

Pugly Pixel Is a Blog style resource site and contains a wealth of knowledge and tools for modern web design, I really like her flag labels and graphics, and that the site caters to not just those who just want the graphic and be off, but also those who want to learn a thing or two with tutorials. She also has a fantastic marketplace,and a very generous commercial use license, this is most definitely my favourite. <3

Subtle Patterns Lastly this is a really extensive textures site, again with a very nice commercial use license. Here you will find stacks of textures and patterns that are easily manipulatable into whatever layouts and colours you like. sometime you just need a little something!

I hope you have found something you like and can use here? Do you have any graphic resource sites that you love? Please reply with a link because I would love to check them out!

Bourjois Bonus!

Yay! It's freebie time for Bourjois at Priceline! When you spend over $25 in one transaction on Bourjois you get a free makeup case with goodies.

There are some pretty damn good items in this kit,vand they all coordinate beautifully for Summer. I didn't realize it at the time but the eyeshadow palette I selected to claim the bonus goes perfectly with this colour scheme too. Rose and Tan are a match made in heaven for illuminating your skin and adding some healthy looking colour to your complexion over the warmer months.

Smoky Eyes Palette in RoseVintage

Smoky eyes are a universally flattering technique for applying eye makeup and premade kits make it a cinch to coordinate colours, but you shouldn't just stick to basic black and brown. Trying it with different colours like this selection called Rose Vintage can help make your eyes pop and are also a great and subtle alternative for daytime wear. Build up the colour to your desired intensity.

Delice De Soliel Bronzing Powder

Shimmery bronzers like this one are better for using to add colour where you would naturally tan, instead of sculpting, though the brush included lends itself fantastically for shading gorgeous cheekbones! What sets this bronzer apart to me is the awesome and nifty swivelling mirror, you can spy on what's happening behind you with ease! (Lol!) Seriously though, the mirror is a great size for a travelling makeup kit.

Nouveau Gloss Effet 3D in Brun Rose Academic

This gloss is lovely, not too sticky,with a gorgeous amount of colour and a brush style applicator, and the shimmer is perfect for lighting up lips. More then happy to give this one pride of place in my makeup kit for Summer!

Australia's Answer to Cyber Monday

I just read something I'm really excited about. After looking on with jealousy at all the awesome sales that America gets during this time of year, Australia is finally getting it's own version. I've always felt like we miss out here in Aus. Cyber Monday has become the online tradition for those who prefer shopping from their armchairs to the flurry of activity that is Black Friday, (Yeah, some of the crowds are crazy but I reckon I could handle them!)
Click frenzy is a new concept in Australia, where a mass of online retailers will be pulling their prices down by as much as 90% for one day. Set to occur on Tuesday November 20 at 7PM (AEST) retailers that I've read will be participating include Target, The Iconic, StyleTread and Myer, so I'll definitely be there!
To sign up for more information, please check it out here.

Happy shopping!

Loving this week - Summer boots, Oil and it's finally raining!

I'm a fencesitter, while you get most people who are very black and white about things I tend to find the good in both ends of the spectrum. I like cats AND dogs, Summer AND Winter. But most of all I love it when a piece that would usually be relegated to one season, can be worn in the other.
Cut out boots are going to be huge this Summer, and already there are enviable versions in store. Balenciaga have an awesome pair but not everyone can reach that price point. Here are two styles that I would love to add to my shoe rack, perfect to throw on with a summery above the knee dress. These two varieties by Jeffrey Campbell tickle my fancy. The Tripoli Cutouts almost look normal from the front but feature a sneaky cut out around the heel, while the chunky flatform of these Roscoe Cutout Boots rock my socks.

Nothing beats an oil to remove hardcore makeup. They operate on the notion that like attracts like to remove the day without stripping your skin of its natural protection. So far all of the ones I've found are just too expensive for me, So when I spotted Cleanse off Oil by MAC for $15 a bottle I figured I'd have to give it a try. Add to cart.

Lastly, it's raining.. Oh my god. It's been about 3-4 months since we're had proper rain, and the days where it's sprinkled I could count on one hand. I miss the way the world is lit with white light under the clouds, the way water runs down the window panes, and the crisp, clean scent. Snuggled on the couch with a book and a nice hot cup of tea. These are my favourite kind of days.

Matches Fashion

There's just something really dreamy about looking at Designer fashion. As I'm sure it is with a lot of readers, the lust I have for that perfect pair of Opening Ceremony shoes just isn't the same as the feelings I get about a good pair I could find at a department store. The desire just isn't as strong, intense, it just doesn't leave me yearning.
Matchesfashion.com is my latest Mecca for finding new objects to love and dream about. Opening their first store in 1990, they pride themselves on excellent customer service and turning your shopping experience into something fashionably extraordinary. Matches vast range of both new and established designers leave me feeling giddy and willing to whip out my credit card at an alarming speed, which can only be a good thing for my wardrobe!

I'm always on the hunt for kooky little outfit finishers and this cute Cotton Square Collar by Carven is a winner for me. Just pop it under the neck of any dresses, tops or sweaters it will fit under and you're good to go. The geometric cut is modern and that size of the bib enables it to work with numerous fashion choices.

Scarves always say to me that the wearer cares about their appearance. If they have been styled effectively they lift the entire outfit to another level. This Apeiron Scarf by Athena Procopiou hits the Sci fi Prints trend nail on the head while being light enough to be worn throughout the year. I love how the colours range from pastels through to black for a very workable piece.

I love spotting Australian labels on international websites! Kimono style cover ups are perfect for the beach and as a light cover up during summer, Anna & Boy's Circle Silk Kaftan has a gorgeous cream print that will make your tan pop, and add some sun protection and style to your beach ensemble. I'd also use this to dress up a simple jeans and singlet combination, just add a few gold bangles, sunnies and a simple but chic look is achieved.

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Bringing some modesty to Sheer and Bustier Fashion

It's a beautiful day when two fashion not-quite-right items come together to make a really wearable outfit. Take these two fashion forward trend items -sheer tops and crop tops, otherwise known as bustiers- on their own they just aren't something I think I could get away with, let alone a lot of the population. No one really wants to see my belly out on the street, and I don't want to display most of my bras to the world either.
So we combine the two together.

My fly totally wasn't undone in these photos...

Dolly Bustier - Sportsgirl

Sheer Shirt - Dotti

Shorts - Sass & Bide, similar available here

Brocade Skirt - Ally

It's hard to see, but this is what I had on underneath.

The crop top makes it more modest because that's not actually my bra on show, while the sheer top provides the cover over my belly I'd crave if I wore a crop on its own.
It's really easy to play with this look too. If you're feeling more daring and have THE body to show off, feel free to undo a few buttons or even tie your shirt over the top of your crop. there's also a massive amount of bustiers out there, that can fall into Tribal, Neon, or Pastel trends. Shop around, find a cut that suits your bra size and you can't go wrong.

Win win!

Bought! Neon Aztec Collar Blouse from Valleygirl

Shirt - Valleygirl

Shorts - Asos

Bracelets - Multipack from Diva and a gift from my mother

Belt - Thrifted

Sunnies - Jay jays

Mug - T2 Tea

I made myself a promise that I would stop buying so much fast fashion, but I fail myself! How can I resist when it's this cute and spot on trend? Not to mention the fact it cost me a mere $10, no typo, It is the best bargain I've found in a while.

Close-up collar detail

For trends like this that are a bit flash in the pan it's more worth your money to go for fast fashion anyway. You don't want to drop a day's pay on an item that you'll only wear for a few months right?

Loving this week - Travel Totes, Owls and Deco Style

I think it's time to take back some of my old favourite post styles and revive them into regular columns, starting with a weekly round up of things that I'm completely in love with!

I like to think I travel a lot, but not as much as I'd like to. Being mama to a couple of kitties does impede on my ability to pack up and go somewhere for the weekend! But house-sitters are a saviour.
I am a great fan of good overnight bags, not just for luggage but for everyday use when I need something huge to haul around all of my gear for work and study. I spotted this amazingly beautiful and functional Raja Travel Tote by Mimco and knew I wanted it. It's expandable, has a detachable cross body strap and comes in a shade of go-with-everything tan with a pop of yellow detailing. Want. Now.

I'm still a sucker for a cute little owl and  I was in desperate need of a smaller vase as well, (I can only go for so long using items like jars and jugs to house flowers!) How cute is this little guy! He also comes in gold and is petite enough for smaller arrangements, he's also pretty damn adorable sitting round on his own. You can pick him up at Dotti stores in the selection of gift ideas they've sourced for Christmas.

I need to find a dress for my (Office) day job's Christmas Party. Something that's fun, on trend but that doesn't flash too much, I do need to look these people in the eye on Monday morning! In these cases it's prudent to follow the classy old style rules, show off either your bust or your legs, never both (and even then, don't be trashy, no one wants to see your knickers when you bend over!) and select something that flatters yourself. I love Lipsy for a good party dress, and I adore this option, the Deco styling of the frock  echoes with Great Gatsby trend, and if I wanted to style it a different way I could wear a different skirt over the top for another occasion.

Incoming: Baroque Trend

I'm sad that I won't get the chance to wear this trend well for another four months as it's certainly better suited to cooler weather, but that doesn't mean our friends on the north-side can't get into it now! Baroque fashion is something that had it's heyday in the 80's in the time where nothing could possibly be too excessive. Opulent, Decadent, Elegant, Lush, all words that describe this look to a tee. It's a very European trend, A trend where more is more, and jewels are not just an option, they're obligatory.

Asos Brocade Baroque Skinny Jeans

The reason why this trend works so well in winter is because so many of the fabrics used are heavy. Brocades, jacquards, damasks, embroidery, sequins, beading, they're all fabrics that tend to be thick and warm. You can still wear it in the warmer months by wearing fabrics that have been printed with detailed and baroque style prints, but I think to truly pull it off you need the genuine article. The colour scheme first time around tended to be dark and moody, but for this remix gelato and pastel hues have been added to update for this season with flashes of metallic gold and silver. Dolce and Gabbana, and especially Versace have this look nailed.

Ally Pastel Skater Skirt

One way to quickly add this trend into your wardrobe vocabulary is the adopt something with a 'Scarf print' Scarf peint is a pattern that features ropes, tassels braids and occasionally equestrian themes. I kind of giggle when I think of this, as my Nanna has a great scarf print suit in her wardrobe that she brings out for special occasions... I may just have to steal it.

Oasis Scarf Print Dress

Another fast update would be to go into the jewellery, big, bold and colourful gemstones set in gold are the ideal, with door-knocker and drop style earrings being the perfect item.

Diva Black Opaque Stone Drop Earrings

You have to be careful with your makeup when you wear this look, it's the only part of the trend where 'more is more' need not apply. For a modern take keep your make up fresh and natural using nudes and pale pinks with a light fake tan, but if you want to carry on the bold theme of your outfit, play up your lips with a dark shade of lipstick. This trend is perfect for a deep red, or even purple contrasting against a pale base. If you're not feeling brave enough for bold lipstick then strong eyebrows work just as well. Russian doll style hair will complete the look, Think a straight middle part with hair either up or down in a smooth style.