Loving this week - Tough Chic Jackets, Snobbery and Glitter Brogues

It's time to bring back an old favourite of mine, loving this week is where I tell you exactly what's made me want to run to the shops or just happy in general lately.

Firstly is this insane Jacket from the guys at Boohoo.com drawing on a stack of key trends this winter I would love to have it in my closet, I'm not sure if the peplum can actually be zipped off like the photos suggest but the way the jacket hints it can be styled in different ways really has my heart racing. Perfect for creating curves on boyish body types and at the same time the cut will flatter hourglass shapes too!

Leah Jacket by Boohoo available here

I've always loved this style of notebooks and have been filling out a book one for the better part of my life (I like to think I read a lot, in truth I do read a lot ... of magazines). It's a perfect gift idea for anyone you know who likes to go and try new gastronomical experiences, food not their thing? What about Coffee Shops or Wine or even Boutique Beers? These books are an awesome tool to help with keeping track of what was epic, and what didn't really do it for you with heaps of room to enter details such as favourite waiter, dress code and wait time.

Available from Typo.com

I picked up these gorgeous newbies from a LipstikWindsor Smith Shoes Outlet in Melbourne last week and I am in love, I'm sure regular readers will already know about my penchant for sparkly shoes, and I've been hunting for a pair of brogues I like for a few seasons now. Silver glitter wingtips for $15? OMG yes please!

What's been making you smile this last week? Be sure to let me know in the comments!

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.

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.

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.

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.

Loving this week! T2 Tea, Ikea and Topshop

As someone who likes to make and create when I get the time, I love the new kooky aesthetic creeping into everything from homewares to fashion. You can of course DIY, but there's not always the time to research a craft, how to do it, and then create your piece without it looking like it was found in a bargain bin, (regretsy anyone?)
Sometimes it is just easier to buy something. I found these cute and kitschy owl tea cozies, just like Nan had at T2 tea. They come in Green, Red, Purple and Brown and add just the right amount of sweet and handmade to your teapot. Also a very cute gift idea for any quirky tea obsessed friends, or your Nan.

Owl Tea Cozy from T2

There is one item that come in the mail every year that I without a doubt, stalk. The yearly Ikea Catalogue is a kind of house decorating porn that I pour over. Why not when everything inside is affordable? I'm at a stage of life where I'm living out of home, no kids in sight, on a comfortable wage and slowly starting to look at buying instead of renting. Disposable income ahoy! This year they have released a limited edition designer range with a wealth of new objects that have the potential to be collectors items, But I'm still loving the classic Hemnes collection and the awesomely priced linens.

I found it! The perfect bag to wear folded up and carried as a clutch! The sort of thing I was talking about in this post. To wear it like that, remove the long strap and do not overfill the bag. Fold it just under the handles, and hold with your wrist on the outer and your hand scooping it from underneath. It also comes in a gorgeous go with anything biege (they call it camel), as well as this popping transeasonal teal.

Bags available from Topshop

What are you guys loving this week? Found something awesome? I'd love to know about it!

Loving this week! House of Fraser

Continuing my love of online shopping I have a place for you all to check out, House of Fraser is a UK based online department store with a huge range. Not just clothing but home wares and beauty too!
With a classy and massive selection of garments and accessories for you to check out -including Birdette Favourites such as Lipsy and Therapy!- it is an awesome place to go when you're hunting for a wedding outfit, something for work or especially the upcoming horse racing season.

Madden Girl Looop MG Dressy Sandals

This season I have to admit, I'm torn between shoes. Do I keep wearing the comfy platforms and wedges I have been? Or do I welcome the elegant and gorgeous stilettos creeping in this season? As you all have no doubt guessed I am a massive fan of the sparkly shoe and I simply can't pass up these glittery Steve Madden heels! How good are they going to look peeking out from under some printed trousers? Don't forget to polish your nails!

Untold Printed Shift Dress

Printed shift dresses are perfect when you are going for the perfect balance of classy and playful, and I think this one ticks all the boxes for a perfect wedding or Spring racing dress. The gorgeous colours will illuminate a light tan and look amazing with a wide range of accessories. You could go all out of the current trend and clash your prints or make the dress the complete statement with some simple silver jewels and an envelope clutch. Perfect to show off gorgeous long legs and amazing shoes too!

Motel Sleeveless tie Dye Bodycon Dress

Staying on the Printed Dress trend I also found this gorgeous all in one dress. This dress is a life saving staple as the pattern is so eye catching that it does all of the talking, just coordinate your bag and shoes and you're out the door in record time.

Vivienne Westwood Dome Cross Body Bag

And lastly, I think my heart just stopped. It has been a dream of mine for a verrrrry long time to own a piece of Vivienne Westwood. So much so that when I spotted this bag in classic black leather and a long cross body strap, I actually went to see how much room I had on my credit card. Bad Birdette! But how can I resist? Such a classic I know I'd have it for years!

This has been a sponsored post.

Loving this week: Couture Nail Colour!

For the artistically inclined and nail obsessed person in your life (even if that's you,) I have found an awesome discovery: Customizable nail polish. You choose the shade, the cap, colour (!!), label (name it whatever you want) and box and have it shipped out as you wish, How cool is that for an idea? Personally I love the studded cap with Porchester Square polish, a gorgeous taupey grey. I love a good base colour that I can apply crazy nail art to. I also think this would make an awesome momento for bridesmaids thank you gifts.
Here's what I came up with.

Check it out at Nails Inc's Website here.

Loving this week: Ulinx Jewellery and giveaway!

The lovely people over at Ulinx sent me a gift! A gorgeous bracelet of my choosing from their extensive collection of magnetic jewellery. Ulinx are a collection of various jewellery elements that are magnetized so you can change your look at any time. I choose a summery blue theme to my bracelet which looks great with blue denim and a (faux!) tan. You can check out the range and see how it works at www.ulinxjewellery.com

My Ulinx Design

Also Ulinx have given me to opportunity to give one of their bracelets to one of my readers! All you have to do is share this post on either Facebook or Twitter (tag me with @birdettebuys!) and let me know by commenting in this post. I'll be drawing a name at random and announcing the winner on my blog on the first of September. Competition closes Midnight EST on the 31st of August. Limit of one entry per person, per platform, so if you post to both twitter and facebook, that's two entries.

Good luck!

Loving this week: Spin Pins

So I chopped off a huge chunk of my hair last week, and I am sad. I've spent years growing my hair but the damage was just too much to deal with anymore.
But I've been playing with new hairstyles, (the fun part of a new haircut!) I found that Gibson tucks are adorable, but kept becoming too loose and messy, needing a few readjustments a day, so a friend of mine pointed me in the direction of Spin Pins.
WTF is a statement I am expecting from a lot of readers at the moment, check these out.

These pins once inserted in your hair are not going anywhere! Your style will also last longer and stay pulled together. Easy to use, all you do is hold you hair in place with one hand, and rotate the pin into place with the other. You can use them with numerous up styles, practically anything that you would use normal pins to hold a bun like structure in place.
My advice is to look up Spin Pins on your local eBay site, as the 'authentic' ones are ridiculous in their price, when all they are is a small piece of wire.

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!

Loving this week: Finishing touches

I'm going gaga over all the new styles coming out, February and August are two of my favourites months of the year as the new seasons come into store with full force after the sales. Epic.
One of the things I am loving is all the opulent fur details. Even better, they are so easy to add to clothes you already have for a cheap and chic update to last years numbers.
In my opinion, you can't go wrong with neutral and natural colours and prints, think fawns, camels, browns, they will last you years longer in the style stakes then a some of the neons out there. Check out this gorgeous set from ASOS at under $10AU each! (One pair of cuffs or the collar).

If you're looking a little more local, you can also pick up some cut as fur collars from Sportsgirl at the moment, The jewel tones are incredibly glamorous and will work quite well with heaps of different hues for colour blocking. You can pull the look together with one of the matching felt fedoras to instantly finish an outfit and keep warm.

Sportsgirl Panamas and Fur stoles

Loving this week: Lip Smackers Soda-Pop Caps.

So put up your hands if you didn't have a Bonne Belle Lip Smackers tube (or 7!) rolling around in your back pack and pencil case when you were at school? I'm guessing there aren't many hands that aren't in the air, everyone had them! And they were awesome, a nice little prelude into make-up, and a sign of things to come for those of us now who consider it a way of life.
I've never really grown out of having them in my bag, and have loved the soft drink incarnations since I first discovered them. Check this out!

Epic! Lip balm in bottle cap packaging, I'm hoping like hell that they've released the Dr. Pepper one in Australia, though I'm yet to see it.

What was your favourite lip smackers flavour?

Loving this week: Napoleon Perdis Double Agent Rouge Lip Palette

Brilliant concept! Napoleon Perdis has come up with a lip palette with a Semi Matte lipstick next to a setting powder for long lasting wear. It comes in a gorgeous shade of red is a cute little vintage inspired compact, with two brushes for application.
The colour goes on sheer but can be built up with a few layers for something a bit more punchy, then you pat the powder on to set. I'd recommend sitting down with some of the counter girls to see how it works and to see if the colour will suit.

The only issue I can think of is that it only comes in one colour! It may just be a case of testing the waters to see what customer reaction would be, but I think it's a good idea, a little gimmicky at first glance but it does the job to boot. I can't help but wonder what direction this will go in now?

Loving this week: Issa x Havaianas collaboration

I'm not a fan of thongs but these are some incredibly cute designs, Havaianas have been working with Daniella Helayel of the Brand Issa London to create this range of thongs, (Issa being one of Kate Middleton's favourite brands.) Featuring heart and spot motifs, The contrasting fluorescent straps are spot on in trend for the summer and the quirky prints are subtle and cute.

Major <3. Last minute Christmas idea anyone?

RRP $29.95 in Aus

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.

Loving this week: Palm Springs Collection by Forever New

The weather up here in Brisbane lately has been on the cusp of Bi-Polar, so you know what this means? we are in for one hell of a sticky summer, and I can't wait to get to the beach!
I've had a look at the new gorgeous range at Forever New and it's making me lust after coconut lotion, sunny boys and the ocean spray. A brilliant on trend collection that will take you from market, to beach, to dinner with plenty of class and style along the way.
For starters this bikini is a great all rounder, the frills will both add some definition to a boyish figure, while the skirted bottoms will flatter those who are nervous about their butts. If in doubt, frills will do often do more good for any figure then bad.

The other item that stands out to me is this perfect stripe dress, there are a lot of stripe dresses out in the chain stores at the moment, but I'm finding a lot of them are looking generic and cheap, this strapless style hits the nail on the head, looks amazing.

The piece I reeeeeally want though is this Kaftan style dress. Kaftans flatter almost everyone out there so long as it come in at the waist. I love the colours, neck detailing, and can picture myself wearing it almost everywhere this summer. In fact this is me running out the door to grab it ...

All Products available online at www.forevernew.com.au 

Loving this week: Cadbury Dark Bubbly and Benefit Watt’s Up

I can’t say that this has been the greatest week of my life, new house that has yet to be fully unpacked, immense work stress with no clear end in sight, on top of this whole internet fiasco are leaving me in need of some quality me time at the end of my days. Enter chocolate. I recently discovered Cadbury’s latest flavour and have to say I’m a fan. I love dark chocolate, and it’s been proven to be good for you (in moderation) time and time again. Now to just learn to stop at a few pieces.

Watt’s up is one of Benefit’s latest offerings, a gorgeous suit anyone highlighter in Champaign. It comes in a stick form with a clever built in diffusing brush to help blend the cream to powder product on your face. I think it’s perfect for helping to sculpt your cheekbones with its subtle shimmer. I’m dying to get my hands on it.

Watt's Up! Highlighter by Benefit

Loving this week: Alannah Hill Cardigan and Scarf

I have been neglecting my Alannah Hill obsession for a little while now in an effort to save money, but I thought it was high time to go down there to check out the summer range and gasp at all the pretty little details.
I have to have this cardigan. it doesn't matter that now in Brisbane it's too hot to wear it until next year, I will love it for years! I'm a complete sucker for a cute motif, and this one takes the cake. It also carries over to the back of the cardigan too. Bliss.

Care to play cardigan by Alannah Hill

Another item that caught my eye was this cute as scarf, yet again, it's Spring, in Brisbane so no wearing until next year sometime but I can't help it! Winter clothes are just so much nicer! Circle design so it's not just your normal see everywhere scarf, I can see it sitting on tank tops and coats alike.

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