fashion

December 16, 2022

In HomePage-Blog, Shopping, Style

11 Questions to Ask Before Buying at Black Friday Sales

They’re so tempting.

Black Friday sales. Clothes, shoes and accessories are reduced to excellent prices.

You think, ‘That’s a great deal! Quick, I better buy, buy, buy!’

WAIT ✋ – I’m putting on my party-pooper hat here.

Does it pain you to think how much money you’ve wasted on unworn sale items over the years?

It’s something to ponder.

Filling your wardrobe with random items leads to “I have a wardrobe full of clothes but nothing to wear.”

Here are 11 quick questions to ask yourself before clicking the ‘Buy’ button or tapping your card in-store:

Would I buy this item if it wasn’t on sale?
Does this item suit my style preferences?
Which three things in my existing wardrobe will mix and match with this new purchase?
Does it fit my current body shape and proportions?
What are the cleaning/laundering instructions? An everyday blouse with a ‘Dry Clean only’ label translates into an expensive garment.
Is it a colour that is flattering on me?
Is it comfortable? (especially shoes.)
Is it good quality, so it lasts?
What is the fabric component?
How often will I wear it? (this question is related to cost per wear per item.)
Is it very similar to something I already own?

Shopping with intention ensures you wear what you buy because it ticks all your boxes. Answering the questions will keep you in check. Your bank balance, psyche and wardrobe will thank you for it. ❤️??

Sticky

November 23, 2022

In HomePage-Blog, Shopping

8 Ways to Include Fashion Trends Without Becoming A Fashion Victim

Woman at an open air market wearing golden yellow coloured coat, teal felt hat and animal print scarf.

Want to try a new fashion trend and not sure if it’s you? Buy a less expensive item, like a scarf, and wear it in small amounts.

I get it. You want to look current and modern, but not appear like a fashion victim. So, how can you look stylish and up-to-date yet still be true to yourself and your style preferences?

Fashion trends are there to inspire us. They inject a sense of newness and interest into our wardrobes and keep you looking fresh.

Holding onto clothes that are past their use by date can make you look frumpy. But, dressing head to toe in the latest trends that don’t suit you will have you looking like a fashion victim. How to find the perfect medium?

Use these 8 easy ways to include fashion trends without becoming a fashion victim:

Combine an ‘on trend’ item that speaks to you and pair it with timeless classics. All you need are a few current items mixed with clothes you already own to stay looking up-to-date.
Only buy the trends you love and that resonate with your personal style preferences. This includes your personality, body shape, and your colouring. Be careful about being too influenced by others who you see as stylish wearing the latest trends. For example, you might love that floaty boho (bohemian style) dress on Sienna Miller or your best girlfriend but it doesn’t mean you’ll rock it if your personality style leans towards classic.
Choose from the current selection of trends – the ones you love, then wear them, wear them, wear them! A few years later you’ll be ‘over it’, the trend will have died, the garment will have worn out and it will be time to let the item go and find a new trend to play with.

Smiling woman wears a red and white stripe blouse with white jeans. She has her arms crossed.

Stripes are always in fashion.

Spend less on fashion trends, yet still buy quality. You want the fabric and fit to be on point.
Ask yourself: Does the trend flatter my body shape and proportions? If the answer is a definite “no” and your aim is to look and feel your best, then leave it alone or find a way to modify it. E.g. If oversized shirts and jackets swamp you, wait until more fitted styles are available or buy two or three sizes smaller than your standard size.
Colour trends are worth considering as well. Currently, greens are everywhere in stores, make sure you know which is your best shade because the wrong shade will make you look unwell. Not sure which versions of green suit you? A colour analysis will be a great investment to save you time, money and energy when shopping.

A multi-coloured scarf in orange, blue and leopard print.

Use the colour swatch from your Personal Colour Analysis consultation to choose clothes and accessories in the colours that are perfect for you.

Patterns come and go, but there are some that are classic like stripes and animal prints. Florals are always around, but their expression changes. Only choose the patterns that you really love and skip the others.
If you want to include a trend that isn’t a true representation of your style wear it in small amounts rather than an entire outfit. E.g. If animal print is trending, wear a scarf or a belt rather than head-to-toe leopard print.

Do you struggle figuring out what really works for you?

Would you love to find the right current trends to modernise your wardrobe? I’d love to help make this a fun, stress-free experience. Book a shopping trip and I’ll help you get your style sorted.

Sticky

June 27, 2022

4 Secrets You Can Learn About An Elevated Wardrobe From Coco Chanel

The Devil’s in the Detail

Gabrielle Chanel was a fashion trailblazer. She designed timeless, elegant, luxurious clothes and accessories that are still used to create garments we buy today. Her personal style, individuality, and how that translated into her designs are beautifully displayed at the ‘Gabrielle Chanel. Fashion Manifesto’ exhibition at the National Gallery of Victoria (Australia).

I hadn’t realised before my visit that Chanel’s genius lay with her apparently simple designs paired with divine attention to detail. We can use her creations as a source of inspiration. ‘Simplicity with a twist’ is something you might consider when creating your own outfits.

Excerpt from L'art et La Mode, 'Chanel's creations are always the epitome of grace and youthfulness, and delight through the simplicity of the line and carefully considered details.'

Excerpt from L’Art et La Mode, September 1932.

Look at the skirt and top ‘sportswear ensemble’ below. The outfit appears unadorned, but cast your eyes down to the arrow-like features on the skirt – so subtle, yet very distinctive, and a luxury design detail that elevates the outfit to a whole new level.

Over to you: What are the components of your outfits that make your look elevated?

How Chanel created outfits for her lifestyle

Coco Chanel designed garments to suit her lifestyle. She was active (thus the short skirt in the image above), forward-thinking, had a strong practical side, yet had a deep appreciation for elegance and femininity. She loathed the restrictive clothes of the past; tight corsets, long skirts, high necklines, and layers of fabric. Instead, she favoured styles that allowed freedom of movement and comfort and allowed for the practicalities of everyday life.

Over to you: What’s not working for you in your wardrobe?

Chanel was the master of the timeless wardrobe.

One huge room in the exhibition featured dozens of Chanel’s iconic suits with their collarless, buttoned, boxy jackets and straight A-line skirts. Yes, they all had similar lines; however, each one was unique due to the interesting details that had been added.

Over to you: How much of your wardrobe is classic and more timeless, and how much is looking dated?

Practical Chanel

Gabrielle Chanel was free-spirited, was a rebel, and she enjoyed experimenting with style. She created garments on a mannequin rather than sketching them first. Fabrics such as jersey that had only been used as underwear were now outerwear in garments such as the Breton tee. Jersey fabric is easy to wash, with no special care required.

The quilted 2.55 bag – She threaded a fine stripe of leather through the metal chain, so it didn’t make any noise and was quiet to wear. Inside the bag was a special compartment for your lipstick (How often has your lipstick got lost in the bottom of your bag?)

Chanel’s two-tone slingback pump was beige, so it’s elongating and very versatile. The toe was black, so it was easy to polish if it got dirty or scuffed.

Over to you: Is your wardrobe working in the practical way you would like it to?

What have you realised about your current wardrobe after reading this? Is it as elevated and stylish as you would like it to be? Is it a pleasure to wear because it’s comfortable? If you’d like some help curating the wardrobe that really works for your life and style, discover how you can work with me. I’d love to help you create a beautiful wardrobe that makes you feel stylish, comfortable, and confident.

Sticky

March 15, 2022

In HomePage-Blog, Reviews

Statement Necklaces to Liven Up Your Outfits

Statement necklaces provide an attractive focal point and turn a boring outfit into something special.

Eye-catching necklaces are a simple way to express your personal style. From classic to quirky, feminine to playful, there are plenty of designs, colours and styles to choose from.

Are you finding it hard to find accessories to go with your outfits?

People often ask me to find unique jewellery pieces for them or want to know where to find them. I thought you might like to see some of my suggestions.

Here are 10 statement necklaces to add to your jewellery collection.

Tip: Click on the image to take you to the source.

This handmade necklace in cool blues is made from Tagua nuts. It would look gorgeous with a scoop neckline. I love the organic shapes and adjustable cord (which can be lowered or raised depending on the top or dress you’re wearing).

Here it is in beautiful warm greens.

Now here’s a very versatile piece! Multi-coloured links made from resin. I can see it working with a great variety of outfits from super casual weekend wear (tee and jeans) right through to an office environment.

It’s handy to have a long necklace in your accessory stash. This style comes in 13 different colours including sunny orange, tradition black, and warm and cool reds combined. Don’t get too hung up on the silver beads if you suit warm colours – it’s far enough away from your face and in such a small quantity not to matter. Just make sure the coloured beads are in your palette.

If you’re looking for feminine sophistication, this Kate Spade ‘Lady Marmalade’ short (16″) necklace is a perfect choice. It will team nicely with a V neckline or an open collared blouse.

‘Glamour personified’ is how I’d describe this statement necklace. Don’t you just love the glittery bits?! The shape is perfect for everyone because it’s not quite square and not totally round. Perfect for special occasions, the office or when you need a little sparkle in your life 🙂

Statement Necklaces from Nature

This gorgeous bib necklace is made from strands of black onyx. The same style comes in seven other stones including lapis lazuli, turquoise, tiger eye, and amethyst.

There’s so much to love about this cultured freshwater pearl necklace. At its shortest length the strands are 45 centimetres (18 inches) long and at their longest, 58 centimetres (23 inches) long. This stunning piece comes with a certified Seal of Authenticity. These silvery grey pearls are perfect if you suit cool tones.

I couldn’t leave my warm sisters out of the pearl party. Here’s your version of the multi-strand cultured freshwater pearl necklace. I love it!

So romantic! Swarovski’s Infinity Heart necklace features a white crystal heart and a rose gold infinity symbol that intertwine elegantly together. It may not be big, but this necklace really makes a statement – it’s a very special piece.

When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Sticky

February 11, 2022

Perfect Maxi Dresses for Summertime Bliss

Down here in Sydney Australia, it’s Spring, moving into Summer. And with that comes the call for dresses: for parties, the races, hot days, and warm, sultry nights.

Sometimes it’s hard to know what to wear. So, I’ve put together a collection of my favourite maxi dresses for all occasions.

But, before you spend any money, here are a few things to keep in mind when choosing your maxi.

Maxis are often loose and flowy, so if you have a defined waist, show it off by adding a belt.
Are you petite? The hem should be ankle length.
Depending on the occasion, you can wear heels, sandals, wedges or sneakers with your maxi. Boho styles look great with cowboy boots.

Tip: When I refer to sneakers, I mean slimline white, neutral, or coloured ones that relate to the colours in your dress and not anything chunky or heavy-looking.

Avoid maxis with volumes of fabric unless you are very tall.
Look for solid colours, dense all-over prints, or vertical prints if you want to look taller and slimmer.
Choose prints that are proportional to your scale. (We cover proportions and scale in a Personal Style Consultation)
Soft, floaty fabrics will be cooler and more flattering.
If your maxi is too long, i.e. hits the ground or fabric pools on the floor, shorten it. This is mainly for safety reasons. Tripping on your long dress is only going to end in tears!
Dresses in plain, solid colours lend themselves to being accessorised. If your dress features a busy pattern, allow it to be the focal point and go easy on the jewels.

Seven maxi dresses in cool colours. Five of the dresses feature floral and paisley patterns.

Click here to shop this board.

How to Accessorise your Maxi Dress

Let your imagination run wild!

You could go understated with stud earrings, a simple necklace and a daytime tote. Or, you could add larger jewellery pieces to make more of an impact. How about some bling earrings and a statement bag for the evening?

Seven maxi dresses in warm colours. Five of them have either a floral or paisley print.

Click here to shop this board.

Now’s a Great Time to Buy

Are you (and your wardrobe) ready for all of the fun get-togethers and parties that happen this time of year? Don’t find yourself stressed out with the “I have nothing to wear” syndrome. Shop early so you’ll be prepped for summer – stepping out in style.

Watch the video to see why I’ve selected these maxi dresses.

Do you need help sorting out your wardrobe, creating new outfits and shopping for the new season?

Sticky

November 09, 2021

Click here to shop this board.

Funky Flat Sandals for Easy Spring and Summer Style

Flat sandals are so handy to have in your wardrobe for spring and summer.

They allow your feet to breathe, and you can wiggle your toes (LOL)! They’re such an easy ‘grab and go’ option for the warmer months.

Nude coloured flats that are close to your skin tone are the most versatile. Then, neutrals like tan, navy, white, grey, brown, and black are handy because they mix and match with every colour. And finally, fun, interesting colours such as green, red, orange, purple etc., are the least adaptable but will add an element of interest to any outfit.

If you have skin with warm undertones, choose yellow-based colours. And, if your skin is ‘cool’, then select blue-based colours. I’ve included a range of both warm and cool coloured flat sandals, as you can see in the shoppable boards below.

Stylish flat, open-toed sandals in warm colours - perfect for spring and summer outfits.

Funky flat, open-toed sandals in cool colours - perfect for spring and summer outfits

Click here to shop the board.

Watch this video to see why I chose these flat sandals:

If you’ve had your colours done, you’ll know if you should be focusing on the warm or the cool range of colours. If you’re at a loss as to whether you suit yellow or blue-based colours, a personal colour analysis consultation will take all of the guesswork away.

What To Wear with Flat Sandals

A maxi dress
Jeans
Casual skirt
Knee or above the knee length dress
Culottes
Shorts
A jumpsuit
Cargo pants
Casual pants made from light-weight fabric like linen

Let’s just look at #1 and #4. Flat sandals and casual dresses are a match made in heaven. These are two wardrobe items that require minimum thought and time, with maximum impact. No worrying about which top and bottom coordinate together – just slip on your dress, slide into your sandals, grab your handbag, and you’re out the door!

Here are some long and short dresses that would look great with your flat sandals.

Long and short dresses to wear in spring and summer

Click here to shop this board.

Sticky

September 10, 2021

Jenny Kee and Linda Jackson: ‘Step Into Paradise’ exhibition

In 1973 Jenny Kee opened her Flamingo Park store in the Strand Arcade. ‘Step into Paradise’ was the sign that hung on the door. The shop was described as “romantic, exotic and kitsch” by Jenny – a riot of colour, texture, and pattern. It showcased vintage clothing finds from London, Linda Jackson’s unique creations, and Jenny’s famous knits.

The exhibition is showing at the Powerhouse Museum in Sydney until 22 March 2020. It celebrates the creative partnership between these two inspiring Australian fashion designers as well as their individual achievements in the fashion world. Over 150 garments, textiles, photographs, and artworks are on display. These items give us an in-depth insight into their design style, sources of inspiration and creative evolution.

Flamingo Park was a ‘must-see’ destination in the 70s and 80s. Famous visitors included David Bowie, Christie Brinkley, Lauren Bacall, and Olivia Newton-John. They were a global sensation! Local and international celebrities wore their clothes. Remember the media frenzy when Princess Diana wore the Jenny Kee koala jumper to a polo match in 1982?

Jenny Kee and Linda Jackson’s creations were brightly coloured, heavily patterned or both. They were inspired by everything iconically Australian. Years spent exploring the bush, especially in and around the Blue Mountains, influenced their Australian flora and fauna themes. Other sources of inspiration were semi-precious stones like opals, Australian landmarks, and indigenous art.

Here’s a sneak peek into some of the fabulous outfits on display.

Step Into Paradise: the store

Mock up of Jenny Kee's Flamingo Park store in Sydney circa 1973

Mockup of Jenny Kee’s Flamingo Park store in Sydney, 1973

Bright pink, over-sized knitted top with Jenny Kee motif on the back. Mannequins in 50’s style outfits on the right.

Glamorous evening gowns inside the mockup of Jenny Kee’s store, Flamingo Park.

Three dresses from the Flamingo Park store circa 1973

Australian Themes

Hand knitted wattle dresses 1978

Waratah dress

Three garments featuring Australian wildflower motifs and boomerangs.

Australian wildflower themes with hearts and boomerangs

Three Jenny Kee hand knits in earthy colours.

Hand knitted pieces in earthy tones. Intarsia knits. The Australian bush inspired these scribbly bark and leaf patterns.

Two outfits that feature water themes, dolphins and fish.

Celebrating the ocean and Australia’s Great Barrier Reef.

Jenny Kee and Linda Jackson: Bold Colour and Pattern Statements

Jenny Kee mannequin wears her iconic red glasses and densely patterned scarf and jumper.

Beads, feathers, ruffles, and striking colours.

Mannequin wears an bright, bold outfit featuring large rounded shapes.

Bright, saturated colours and large shapes make this outfit anything but ‘beige’.

Asian inspired jacket with pointy, exaggerated shoulders and appliqué.

Ethnic Themes

An outfit from Linda Jackson’s ‘Indigo’ collection

Outfits feature beading and vivid colours

Beading, vivid colours, triangular and diamond shapes give these outfits an African feel. Colourful organic shapes reference Australian opals.

Jenny Kee ‘Harvest Goddess’ costume designed for the opening ceremony of the Sydney Olympic Games in 2000

Portraits of Jenny Kee and Linda Jackson

Mixed media portraits (drawing and paper collage) of Jenny Kee and Linda Jackson were a fitting way to end the exhibition.

Jenny Kee

Linda Jackson

Would you like to see more photos of amazing outfits and jewellery from fashion designer and artist exhibitions? Here are links to Dior, Cartier, Guo Pei, Hermes, Frieda Kahlo Museum, Viktor & Rolf.

Sticky

March 02, 2020

In HomePage-Blog, Reviews

Guo Pei: ‘Legend’ extravaganza at the NGV

The National Gallery of Victoria’s impressive inaugural Triennial exhibition featured displays of contemporary artists from 32 countries. A stand out for me was the collection of wonderful creations from Chinese born fashion designer Guo Pei. The stunning costumes were from her 2017 Spring/Summer ‘Legend’ couture parade.

All of the ‘Legend’ pieces were on loan from a private collection. These amazing gowns showcased Guo Pei’s remarkable imagination and design prowess. Bringing her phenomenal concepts to life took hundreds of skilled artisans thousands of hours to complete.

Pei’s inspiration came from her visit to the baroque cathedral of St. Gall in Switzerland. She was mesmerised by the stunning ethereal murals, its dome and the rich gold ornaments. And so began a two-year journey of inspiration and creation leading to these impressive haute couture gowns.

This display was a feast of sparkling crystals, sumptuous embroidery and silk. As well as feathers, metal, PVC, dazzling gold thread and organza.

Here are some of the photos I took during my visit.

Ensembles

Black chest piece and lace gown

Lantern sleeve gown

Deep green and gold dress

Feathered gown

Angel gown with gold

Skirt of Angel dress with gold

White Goddess

Luminous spirit

Fantasy Footwear

Suede and beaded shoes from Guo Pei's Legend collection

Gold fantasy footwear Guo Pei Legend collection

Fabulous Fabrics

Red Goddess dress metallic fabric Guo Pei Legend collection

Heavily embroidered fabric Legend Collection Guo Pei

Dazzling emboidered fabric from Guo Pei's Legend collection

Silk, polyester, pvc and emboidery used to make a Guo Pei Legend collection dress

Feathers on fabric Guo Pei Legend collection

The Finale

Guo Pei’s ‘Legend’ couture fashion show ended spectacularly with this Red Goddess gown. Carmen Dell’Orefice, octogenarian and American model, paraded the gown which is said to symbolise blood. Made from metallic fabric, silk, crystals and embroidery, this sculptural piece makes a dramatic statement as you enter and exist the exhibition.

Guo Pei Legend collection Red Goddess ensemble

Red Goddess ensemble with train Guo Pei Legend collection

Ann Vodicka is a Sydney based image consultant and personal stylist. She believes that all her clients have their own unique sense of personal style and she delights in helping them express it!

Image Confidence was created to help you look your best with minimum effort and maximum impact.

Contact Ann to start your transform to image confidence.

Sticky

March 21, 2018

In HomePage-Blog, Reviews