CUT IT OUT

Kurt Geiger / ASOS / Windsor Smith / Topshop / Verali / Wittner 

Tuxedo Madness

Someone says 'designer sportswear,' you generally think.. Stella McCartney for Adidas?
Until now that is, the racer stripe of a loose fit trouser, suit pant or cigarette pant will fit into your wardrobe easier than your little black dress.
Not only a key staple for monochrome dressing, the sleek stripe adds a little more fun to your 'typical slept in, only have 10 minuets to get ready' favorite.

For a causal look, try a plain black or white t-shirt and statement necklace in silver, a sharp blazer and red lip for work with a pointed kitten heel and for a weekend with the girls? Colour block all you can! Stick to a simple top in a bold colour, such as fuchsia and accessories with an tangerine bag and lip.  

TOPSHOP X J.W ANDERSON LOVE

For anyone who has ever spent more than 30 seconds with me, they will begin to understand my deep love and affection for everything Topshop. It may have something to do with London culture, the diverse weather change from sunny Australia, or the simple fact that I dream of rolling around Oxford Circus gaging for the retail madness. 

Either way, the latest collaboration with J.W Anderson has been no exception to the usual heart palpitations (hello cardiac arrest) I experience when viewing new Topshop lines. 

The collect is so simple and mod: simple colours, simple cuts and simple lines… it even had loafers and backpacks. I’ve picked a few of my favourites from the range (excluding the boutique leather skirt, but I just thought it matched perfectly!) I adore the colour used for the dress and top, I just feel it’s such a trans seasonal and wearable colour. What do you think? Would you wear it? The full line can be viewed here at Topshop here 

PU

This seasons take on the never fail military jacket? The addition of leather sleeves. 

It's the coat that can take you from walking to lecture to lecture in the rain to a stranger mistaking you for an off duty model (with the addition of a slouch beanie of course.)
The added detailing of the sleeves is a knock out all round, suiting the chicest chicks to the grungiest of grunge girls: so there is no excuse not to get your paws on this perfect outwear.
After reading that, I know what you're thinking: 'there is no way in hell I can afford leather sleeves,' and fact of the matter is you're probably right. That's why I've done the hard work and found four show stoppers that meet the trend with out leaving your debit account empty. The answer: PU sleeves. A synthetic leather made to look and feel the same, a cheaper alternative with out the cheap feel. Give it a try, pull up your skinnes and lace up those boots and prepare yourself for war.

From left to right:
Begining Boutique $149
Boohoo $59 

JayJays $60
The Iconic $160

Casual Call Out

Recently I was browsing around the world wide web, I stumbled upon Cotton On's website where I discovered that the fashion chain has added another brand to their growing line: 'CO. by Cotton On.'The current collection is made of very trendy and fashionable pieces, that all have an edgy rock star finish. With a little something for everyone the new line is extremely wearable and versatile and includes everything from scuba dresses to faux fur jackets to pleather pants, tees and textured knits.   

For a quick, pull on and go look I've selected CO.'s 'Edge Contrast Vest' for $49.95 and paired it with a classic black skinny jean. As far as foot wear goes I don't think anyone can resist these Alexander Wang boots... they give me some serious chills. 

Vest is available at http://shop.cottonon.com/cobycottonon/shop/
Boots are available at http://www.shopbop.com 

Slouching Around

We all have those days when we 'just can't be bothered.'

No energy to put that coat of mascara on, no time create a show stopping look, because in fact you just want to run down the street, do what you have to do an pray you don't run head first into anyone you know. But aren't these the days when (excuse my language) look and feel like absolute shit, it seems like everyone you know has been condensed down into a small population that finds themselves inhabiting the one place you need to duck into? 

My advice here is; when you feel your worst, dress your best. When you're not rocking your confident self on a Saturday morning, do you think throwing on your daggiest trackies and a slouchy tee is going to make you feel any better about yourself? 

Now i'm not implying that you should do your weekly groceries in Louboutin heels and a leather midi skirt, something simple, chic and comfortable with a little colour will do just the job. Spend that extra 5 minuets in front of the mirror and pull that hair into a nice bun, not a messy 'I'm having a bad hair day bun' and combine a simple pant and relaxed fit top of your choice.

 Slide on a coloured shoe and a simple stud to match, and make sure that manicure has been topped up and is ready to go. Now you have an efforless look that prepares you for anything the day could throw at you, you're dressed to impress! (and not to scare away the cashier at the register!) 

Enjoy your day fashion lovers x

Get Out Your Pencils

   

Before you thank me for introducing you to some if the coolest pencil skirts of the season, let us take a step back to theb1940's, where Christian Dior designed the revolutionary 'H' skirt for the up and coming business woman.

As times have drastically changed we no longer see the pencil skirt restricted to the office in a black polyester cotton blend, the style has been freed into the creative world of street style.

With the Spring/Summer trend in no shortage of colours, prints and fabrics there is a little something for everyone one every occasion. 

In my selection above I've incorporated seasonal and reoccurring trends, so your new pencil skirt can become an investment instead of a one night stand. 

1. Raquel Allegra, handmade cotton blend. 

2. Topshop, Pow Boom Print.

3. Stella McCartney, floral polyester with metallic weave.

4. The Row Norick, 100% leather (lamb) in navy.

5. Jonathan Saunders Shannon, 100% wool and fully lined. 

Chilly Vision

Although i'm currently sitting in 30+ degree heat, my mind can't help to wonder into the chiller months ahead. (This may have something to do with the global line up of fashion weeks kicking off as of now.) 

We all have those days at work that drag on for what seems to be an eternity, often followed with dinner or drinks with loved ones or colleges. So for your benefit and mine I've put together and quick, versatile and stylish outfit that requires little thought. (which is vital when you a generally late to everything like myself.. sigh.) Stay simple with a black long sleeved shirt or blouse tucked into a peplum skirt- this combo alone has the power to knock a few kilos off your waste and hips before you even leave the door. Accessorising is always the funnest part of any out fit- for a more serious occasion try an array of black and gold accessories,  no other colours scream class as much as these do.

 If the event is a little more playful and light hearted, don't hesitate to throw in some colour! By adding a pink shoe and statement necklace in a light hue the outfit is touched with a sense of play and innocents- making you feel that bit cuter and slightly more spontaneous. 

Get Trenching

I believe that there are two types of people in this world: the people who see a classic Burberry trench that die a little inside and would happily pass over their credit card details while in a Burberry coma. (I may or may not fall into this category…) Then there are those who think, ‘really, it’s so boring I wouldn’t by one for my nana.’ (Secretly I’m still hoping my nana will slip me one for a birthday.) 

Yet this season mega British fashion house Burberry Prorsum has successfully cultivated a piece to satisfy all; the Metallic Trench. The Spring/Summer trend is available in 6 electric shades and can be purchased at http://us.burberry.com/store/trench-coats/womens-trench-coats/. It’s time to choose your armour!
Try a cheaper yet still viably trendy Plastic Trench from ASOS. I promise this one won’t break the bank!

Can’t quite picture yourself shining down the street in electric pink?
Try a cheaper yet sill viably trendy Plastic Trench from ASOS. I promise it won't break the bank! 

And for those who fit into the first caterogy...
Here's a little something we can dream about tonight! X

HOW YOU DO: Wide Leg Pants

Seen the wide leg pant roaming around your neighborhood? Time to introduce yourself and befriend a pair.

Like many people, this style of trouser can be a little scary to try on; (anyone else get that initial tent feeling?) 

but when styled right can be a knock out piece for the office, the weekend or a classy night out. 

For the office: Try a peplum style top as it adds the required element of structure while still keeps you in your feminine. The other work option is a simple tee, tucked in and belted to define your body for a clean and sophisticated look.
Weekend wear: The thing about a great investment piece? It can carry you from work to the weekend. Wide leg pants really are no exception. For lunch dates and Saturday mornings to yourself try a light tucked in top with a pattern or colour. If you're feeling super stylish play up your masculine, try a classic man style shirt half tucked in with sleeves rolled up. Feel  the power! 

Night out: Take your legs out for a spin and add a little sparkle! To keep it simple again try a shirt tucked in, but of course go for something with lots of detail like sequins or beading. For the serious street style gals, show off the midriff and wear a cropped shirt. The fullness of the pant allows for some skin to be shown, so if you've got it, flaunt it! 

Still have an excuse not to try a pair? I'd love to hear why below!
If not, it's time to get walked away with wide legged pants.   

A Boyfriend kind of Saturday

And by that I mean your boyfriend jeans of course! Sleek that hair into a clean bun, apply a dark shade of red to your lip and grab your favorite black bag. (Think either something along the lines of Chanel lambskin or large Longchamp tote.)  Leave your real man at home and go treat yourself to a morning of retail therapy and lunch with your favorite girls. Have a little you time this weekend! 

Boyfriend jeans are a great option compared to your usually skinny - they're way more comfy and look 100 times cooler when styled right.
Stylist tip: Remember to incorporate elements of structure into your assemble featuring boyfriend jeans, so you yourself avoid looking like a man. Either add a structured shirt, or in the example above a extremely structured shoe and hair style. That way you're still feeling mega comfortable and looking ultra chic, win win!  

Stripe Story

As most of my week has been spent recovering from wisdom teeth surgery, I have quite enjoyed over indulged in two things - 1. The joys of pureed fresh fruit & 2. Watching countless Ready to Wear shows for Spring 2013. The things that delight me about these new indulgences? Easy; not having to chew my food and the astronomical amounts of fun designers are putting into their collections for the season. Whether it's Louis Vuitton's chessboard mini dresses, Fendi's coloured leathers or Marc Jacob's serious stripes, Spring is defiantly a season that needs to be jumped into with full fashion force. Spring is officially the best time to try on those tricky patterns, wear stripe on stripe (as featured above) and add a little funky to your style. (Yes I did just use the word funky, but I do feel it was appropriate.)
So ladies, Time to uncover from those winter coats and jump into something a little more fun... You'll be haunted by shop windows of colour and print if you don't give it a try!   

PRODUCT AVAILABILITY
1. SINGLET - SUPERETTE.CO.NZ
2. PANTS - BARDOT.COM
2. SHOES - CHRISTIANLOUBOUTIN.COM
4. SUNNIES - NET-A-PORTER.COM
5. CLUTCH - AHALIFE.COM
 

Christmas Cocktail

SWAROVSKI by snap-abbbbbie featuring swarovski jewelry

Need a little Christmas cocktail inspiration? Here's an outfit I threw together, simple with a twist- a white leather dress with a stunning statement necklace by Swarovski. The array of coloured jewels gives a feel of play and sophistication, just what you need to continue impressing your boss.. After hours.
Shoes and clutch by the lovely Jimmy Choo.

Why not NEON?

Been dying to try the neon trend, but had no idea where to start? Consider this your go to guide!
Like playing with any accessories, they key is in the proportion and even distribution - unless our aiming for a statement look of course.
Start with a rather plain outfit, I've chosen a black peplum and some printed leggings to set up the fun, daring vibe to carry some serious colour. I suggest picking three main accessories, all sitting at different points of your body. As a stylist I call this the 'dot to dot' system, meaning the eye follows the pops of colour up and down your body, making you appear taller and well put together. (Seriously who doesn't want to look long and sophisticated?!) 
By using simple accessories like earrings and a clutch there is no such stomach turning feeling of the crazy 80's or the sense you should be at a dress up party, instead of your work breakup.

Be daring and enjoy playing it up with some great neon pieces, 
let me know how it works for you! 

PRODUCT AVAILABILITY 
Earrings - pink, romwe.com yellow, stylebop.com
Belt - jayjays.com.au
Clutch - colettehayman.com.au
Shoes - styletread.com.au
Top - topshop.com Leggings -surfstich.com 

All I want for Christmas is...

Personally I have never been one to over indulge in the Christmas spirit, you could in fact call me a modern day Grinch. So this year I'm trying my very best to enjoy the holiday's festivities, so what's a better way to get started than sharing a few little nick nacks I wouldn't mind finding under the tree!

Clockwise from top- a skull tea light holder, I think these are absolutely gorgeous. The one I've chosen is made of ceramic, meaning all you have to do is change the candle so it never burns away and looses shape.
Next is a darling pair of shades from Topshop, perfecting for adding some cute to the grungey festival get up manifesting in  your mind..
Then comes CHANCE by Chanel, because really... who doesn't want a little more Chanel in their life?
Continuing on is a pair of House of Harlow 1960 skull statement earrings, I just think that these are to die for and can easily take any outfit from Plain Jane to fashionista it girl in 10 seconds.
Last but oh so far from least is a pair of show stopping shoes by Frankie, I mean, are they not perfection?

So that sums up my current list of wants, availbility of products shall be listed below... Wishing everyone a safe and fashionable Christmas!
www.dotti.com.au
www.topshop.com
www.chanel.com
www.houseofharlow1960.com
http://shopmarkethq.com/

CAP ATTACK

Clockwise from center
Ruby skater cap, Ruby skater cap both available at www.rubynz.com, ASOS metal plate peak cap, ASOS leather cap both available at www.asos.com.au & studded riding cap available at www.topshop.com 

Why my coffee went cold this morning..

Why my coffee went cold this morning.. by snap-abbbbbie featuring jeffrey campbell shoes

I seem to be finding myself in the hunt for the perfect Summer bootie; something that is oh so effortless chic and can withstand the adventures of a consuming Australian Summer. 

These three gorgeous booties, by Jeffery Campbell (of course) can be found of www.solestruck.com, but I  warn you - sizes are quickly gobbled up my hunger fashionistas like yourself. xxx

Baroque Inspiration

Baroque by snap-abbbbbie featuring a deep v back dress

Sunday Brunch

Some late weekend inspiration.. just throw on your favourite denim! 

Weekend Statement

Don't feel like wearing the same old plain Jane outfit this weekend? 

Time to try one of these gorgeous statement necklaces! 

Use them to play up any outfit, whether it's with the colour blocking trend, a plain shirt and coloured denim or a printed blouse, there is nothing more attention grabbing than one of these bad boys.

These are six of my current favorites, all with a perfect point to difference.

Enjoy wearing them with confidence and get prepared to for all those compliments ladies!  

Chain collar necklace / Chain jewelry, $16 / Angelique Statement Necklace - Free Shipping | THE ICONIC - THE ICONIC, $135 / Collar Necklace - Free Shipping | THE ICONIC - THE ICONIC, $45 / Result catalog - THE ICONIC, $42 / Sheilding Necklace - Free Shipping | THE ICONIC - THE ICONIC, $19