design+style

design+style on hiatus

2010-12-22T14:29:00.002+10:00

Hi everyone

After a few lovely years of posting on the design+style blog, I've taken a small hiatus due to other commitments.

Thank you for all your wonderful comments, enquiries and support and hopefully one day design+style shall return!

Until next time, all the best to you and yours,

d+s

Steal her style

2010-08-19T10:46:00.004+10:00

If like me you're enjoying this amazing weather in Brisbane at the moment, you'll have also started to think about how to dress for the change of season (ie. wearing a dress but need something to keep you warm when your in the shade).

Check out a few cheap ways to get these great celebrity looks, all from local Brisbane chain stores - one under $300 and the other, just over $100.... bargain!

d+s

Ultimate Style Icon: Olivia Palermo

2010-08-16T15:03:00.008+10:00

Dear Miss Palermo,

I'd like to firstly give you props for being one of the most amazingly sophisticated and beautiful young things in America (or, dare I say, the WORLD). Your style is to die for and you never seem to put a foot wrong in the fashion stakes. It's also nice to see a celebrity who doesn't think their outfit should revolve around them showing off a mass of skin or make them look like a Vegas show girl (Paris, I'm looking at you here).

I'm so incredibly taken with your clothing choices and ability to put together timeless, elegant outfits that I've decided that you are going to be one of my Ultimate Style Icons. You should know, this is quite an accolade as I don't hand out the term lightly. You're currently running a close third to the one and only Audrey Hepburn and my very own Mum (see, up there with the best....).

I hope that since I've decided to give you this accolade, you won't mind if I steal your style just a smidgen. You see, I spend a lot of time (on weekends of course) looking at blogs, celebrities, magazines and websites and have come to the realisation that you far surpass so many ladies out there in the A-List world at the moment that I think it's worth looking to you for inspiration.

I only hope to do you some justice when heading to the Gold Coast in the coming weeks for a Girls Weekend by using your style as a base for my outfit. Thanks to some of your wonderful fashion risks, I've warmed to the fact that sequins are not just for ballroom dancers or costume parties. Therein lies the reason for my purchase of the below skirt by Australian label, Pink Stitch (available through Shop Til You Drop although I managed to pick mine up from Nami in Byron Bay, on sale for just $30).

Thanks to a quote I've lived by for a while now about "showing the top OR the bottom, never both" (ie. show off your clevage or your legs, not the two together) I'll be wearing it with back stockings, a black singlet and chunky necklace (another of your favourites I see).

Add a cute black clutch (something basic so as to not detract from the focal point of the outfit, the skirt) and some killer heels (and yes, I now see that stockings and open toe shoes are wearable) and I think I'm getting as close to the mark as one can get when they are on a limited budget, don't have access to some of the world's most amazing fashion houses and don't work on a TV show (oh, and Brisbane isn't exactly the "New York" of Australia so that doesn't help much either come to think of it).

And so to the Gold Coast I will go - with you in mind, I do hope I can carry off my outfit with as much style, grace and poise as you do and will forever live in the hope that one day, I might just get photographed for the social pages and can for a split second, pretend I.....am Olivia Palermo.

Yours in fashion,
design+style

NB. All photos are thanks to the latest blog I'm in love with Olivia Palermo's Style.

d+s

It's a wardrobe clean out, everything must go!

2010-07-21T11:00:00.002+10:00

Yes, more items are up on eBay for sale & auction. Tell your friends, tell your family, tell the world. I'd love to get some more wardrobe space for pretty new things (not that I have any, just for the future when I can actually afford them again).

If you wish to purchase items through the blog, I'll waive the postage fees (I'll still accept PayPal or Bank transfer payments but you don't have to go through eBay if you don't want to).

Check out the items (sorry, no pics on this post but click the links to see them)

Black & white long striped cardigan $40 (Buy it now)
Click here

Zebra print black & grey short cardigan $30 (Buy it now)
Click here

Beaded charcoal short sleeve tee $25 (But it now)
Click here

Email me with any questions.

d+s

Are you on the Maxi Skirt bandwagon yet?

2010-07-12T15:45:00.007+10:00

I think I am. Not in the sense that I've bought one but definately that I want one.

I've been through this phase before about 5-6 years ago but when I was wearing them then, they were the tiered style, that sat just around ankle height and I only owned one black one and 2 hippie style printed ones (one of which I still have and wear around the house in summer).

What clearly seems to be the style coming out now though is more of a jersey/cotton fabric in plain colours, mostly blacks and greys. My Mum recently bought one but hadn't quite worked out what to wear it with so I thought I might help her out with a few options.

My first choice has to be the basi white tee or singlet, as seen on Ashley Olsen and Nicole Richie (don't be put off by the fact that Nicole is pregnant in these pics - maxi skirts work on you weather you're pregnant or not!).

I really love a monochrome outfit and with a few pieces of the right jewellery and a little pair of sandals, this sort of outfit really can make the transition from the cooler months into Summer an easy one.

One other look I have seen a lot on a few fashion blogs lately is the black maxi skirt with stripes on top. It's such a cute look, especially when teamed with a cute little hat and some shoulder embellishments like this gorgeous gal from Chictopia.

So where to you get them from? Well, keep your eyes peeled in all the usual outlets in Australia (Witchery, Sussan, Sportsgirl etc) as they are likely to start popping up everywhere once it starts getting warmer.

In the mean time though, there are a few online shopping sites selling all manner of the maxi skirt.

Asos - the Seam Detail one in particular is my favourite

All About Fashion

Forever21

d+s

Can I steal your wardrobe please?

2010-07-08T10:07:00.005+10:00

Candy from Come Over To The Darkside

Have been seeing a lot of celebrities wearing the skinny cargo pant lately, definately a hot new tend (although be careful - I've also seen a lot of celebrities not wearing it well!)

Lena from Quality Rivets

d+s

Leather... or Pleather?

2010-07-07T14:11:00.006+10:00

Let's face it, it's not like the faux fur debate now is it? While I'm sure there are a number of people who are against the wearing of real leather based on it's origins, you don't see people being smeared with red paint just for wearing a leather jacket down the street (thank god). I've personally however have been debating the actual purchase of either a leather or "pleather" jacket this Winter.

When the trend came back into play last year, I saw them everywhere but alas, never found one that I thought was worthy of all that hard earned cash. In the past few weeks though I've seriously been considering spending a few bucks on a good quality 'leather look' jacket (and yes, I realise saying good quality and leather look in the same sentence is a bit of an oxymoron).

While still wanting to dress well and wear a little something new out on a weekend when you have little to no money, I figure going for a pleather jacket might be the best option. Plus, on the off chance that for some reason I decide after a few years it's totally not the right look or style for me, I won't feel so bad for forking out hundreds of dollars for one!

Above: photo courtesy of Chictopia

Above: Jessica Alba (photo courtesy of Popsugar)

Above: Nicole Richie (photo courtesy of Nicole Richie Fashion)

Above: Lauren Conrad (photo courtesy of Google Images)

And so it's to a few Aussie websites I treked recently to see what is out there in the faux leather department. I have to tell you - you'll be surprised.

After taking a look at a number of these in store, not only do they meet the budget friendly shopping I've been having to do lately but they so easily pass for the real thing, even a cow would do a double take. Check out a few real and fake ones I've got my eye on....

Above: Valleygirl Faux Leather $59.95

Above: Just Jeans Leather $199

Above: Valleygirl Faux Leather $39.95

d+s

Wardrobe clean out sale

2010-07-05T16:24:00.004+10:00

Hi everyone

It's certainly been a while so I apologise for the lack of posts. I started a new job just over 4 weeks ago and just simply haven't had the time to write anything (I get the odd few minutes here and there to trawl the internet though so I do have a few things I'd like to load up soon, I just need the time!).

I wanted to let you all know that I'm having a little bit of a wardrobe clean out and have got some items on eBay for sale. If you have anyone who you think would be interested in these items, please pass this on!

Here is what I'm selling:

1. Sportsgirl Shrapnel Tee $25

CLICK HERE

Size XS - NEVER WORN

RRP $39.95

Brand new goregeous charcoal t-shirt with holes (yes, I realise buying something with holes is odd...). Looks great with a white t-shirt underneath and jeans or jazz it up with harem pants and a khaki parka. Please note, the colours you see underneath in all images are not part of the shirt.

2. Sportsgirl Festival Cargo Pants $25

CLICK HERE

Size 8 - Worn ONCE

RRP $79.95

Great, lightweight grey pants, can be worn with the hems rolled up for the "cargo pant" look or leave them down for more of a harem pant style (ankles are elasticated). Beautiful, soft material, easy to wear in both Summer and Winter and can easily be dressed up or down.

3. Sportsgirl Black & White Stripe dress/tunic $30

CLICK HERE

Size Small - Worn twice

RRP $49.95

Cute striped stretch tunic/dress/top - looks great with leggings, stockings or even over jeans. 3/4 sleeve and round neckline, a good dress to layer under a jacket and scarf for Winter.

4. Sportsgirl "The Flash" dark denim leggings $30

CLICK HERE

Size 8 - Never Worn, Still with Tags

These sold out in stores within days. Great stretch dark denim leggings (or jeggings!) with gold zips at the ankles and elastic waist. No pockets on back or front, will fit a standard size 6 or 8.

I can post to anywhere in Australia for $5 or Express Post for $7.

If you wish to purchase something through this blog, rather than eBay, POSTAGE IS FREE! Just email me: hannahwest10@gmail.com

d+s

SATC2 Premier

2010-05-26T08:44:00.003+10:00

Not that anyone would have expected anything else but what great dresses on all the SATC2 girls at the world premier of the new movie. Sigh..... just divine!

d+s

More Malene Birger

2010-05-24T14:34:00.005+10:00

Some of you might remember me posting about the label By Malene Birger a little while ago so you won't be surprised that I'm talking about her again.

While I know we are going into Winter in Australia and this collection looks much more suited to Summer, I just adore everything she does so much I couldn't not post these pics.

There is something so right about how she works shapes and colours together - this is exactly how I love to dress! If I could only have one label in my wardrobe, I think it would be Malene (followed closely by Witchery which now that I think about it, is quite the chain store copy of Malene Birger don't you think?).

Click on the images to view them larger.

You might be thinking sequinned harem pants are a little crazy (third image from the left, above) but if they're in the new Sex & The City 2 movie (Samantha wears them in one scene), then they must be HOT!

(NB. I don't think I'll be seen in sequinned harem pants but that's mostly because I live in Brisbane and am simply not fashionable enough to get away with it - Samantha can).

d+s

A little love for Chictopia

2010-05-24T10:01:00.003+10:00

So I've been spending lots of time in Chictopia lately as I'm really starting to find it handy for that age old dilema of "I can't afford anything new and need to put together an outfit for the weekend".....

While flicking through magazines for the millionth time usually provides me with some inspiration, Chictopia is turning out to be far superior. The best part being that you can actually do a search on a particular item or colour.

For example, this weekend just passed I wanted to wear a blazer and green pants (see previous post to check out the pants) but was tossing up what top to wear with it. So I simply did a search for both items and scoured the site til I had a few ideas.

While tooling around on this search, I came across a few fantastic outfits that I just had to share. Enjoy!

I came across a cute as a button striped blazer in Target the other day and couldn't quite work out how you would wear it - then I saw this girl. Love it!

I love how this gal has managed to look so chic but still casual - this is exactly how I wish I could dress everyday but it never seems to work out as well as this!

A-dor-able. I just love this type of look - so classic and perfect for any occasion. I have every intention of stealing this whole outfit for an event soon!

d+s

What to wear: What I'm wearing today

2010-05-17T09:28:00.003+10:00

Happy Monday morning to you all!

Since it's my weekend today and tomorrow, I'm finally going to visit my Mum for a belated birthday and Mothers Day dinner. Since it's quite chilly today and I always make sure I wear something stylish when I visit my folks (being they are such a stylish couple themselves!) I put together a snazzy little outfit based on these great army green pants that are currently on sale at Sportsgirl.

I'm off to do the food shopping first this morning so I actually left the blazer at home and just threw on a little grey cardi to keep it a bit more casual (the people at Coles Nundah would probably look at me funny if I walked in wearing the below outfit).

I'm very much looking forward to seeing my parents and always love going to Byron even if the weather isn't the best - in fact, sometimes overcast days are even better cause it gives you an excuse to stay inside, rug up, cook a warm meal and have a few vinos..... if only they had a fireplace at their house we'd be set!

In the picture:
Blazer $49.95 Valleygirl
Singlet $39.95 Witchery
Pants $48.95 Sportsgirl (on sale)
Scarf $19.95 Sportsgirl
Earrings $165 and Bracelet $370 both Tiffany & Co
Shoes $175 Sambag
Handbag $269.95 Witchery

NB. These aren't actually the shoes I'm wearing today (I have a pair of MUCH cheaper silver ballet flats!) - they are just the ones I've got my eye on at the moment. I tried on a pair of Sambag flats recently and am SO in love with them. They are easily the most comfortable flats I've tried on in years - I guess that's why they are $175!

Have a great week everyone, till next time...

d+s

What to Wear: Pencil Skirts

2010-05-12T09:06:00.005+10:00

A little while ago.... sorry, ok a LONG time ago, a friend of mine, Miss S, asked me to keep my eye out for good pencil skirts for her to look at for work.

Since I'm off to see Miss S for coffee today, I thought I should finally put a What to Wear together for her on pencil skirts (especially since I've seen some nice ones around lately).

So, apologies Miss S, for taking so long to put this up but hopefully if you haven't found one yet, these will help!

In the picture (from top left):

Gold button military skirt $79.95 Sportsgirl

Basic black pencil skirt $69.95 Sportsgirl

Grey pencil skirt $99.95 Witchery

Basic black pencil skirt $69.95 Witchery

White shirt $129.95 Sportscraft

Animal Print Top $29.95 Valleygirl

Black Patent Heels $149.95 Wittner

Black Seude Points $59.95

d+s

design+style newsletters

2010-05-12T08:59:00.002+10:00

Hi everyone

Just to let those of you who are subscribers know, the d+s newsletters are taking a little break.

I'll still be posting things on the blog but you just won't be getting emails to let you know new posts are up.

Hopefully this won't last long and I'll have the newsletters back up and running in the coming months.

Thanks to all those who are subscribers (and to all my readers!), your support is very much appreciated!

d+s

By Fryd - New Online Magazine

2010-05-10T11:28:00.003+10:00

I came across another great online magazine this morning and while I may not be able to understand any of the words (I'm guessing it's Swedish or something!), it is SUCH a visual feast, it's worth just flicking through for the pictures.

Check out By Fryd here.

And here are just a FEW of the gorgeous images in it..... (I have to say thanks to the lovely blog MadeByGirl for these pics - my Photoshop decided not to work this morning so I couldn't get my own images...annoying!).

d+s

Happy Birthday to my Mum!

2010-05-06T09:41:00.006+10:00

Happy Birthday to the most wonderful, beautiful, stylish, considerate, caring, fun, vibrant, amazing woman in the world........... My Mum!

d+s

Photoshop Fail

2010-05-05T11:14:00.003+10:00

While it may not be a nice thing to say, I sincerley hope the graphic designer who worked on this SATC2 poster was wrapped across the knuckles for making Kim Catrall look like a wax figure.

I know a tonne of media has already gone nuts over the over-use of photoshop on this particular image so this post isn't exactly anything new but I simply couldn't leave it be. I may not be a professional graphic designer but I do know when enough Photoshop is enough. And this is WAY past enough.

While SJP, Cynthia Nixon and Kristin Davis still manage to look like, well, themselves, Ms Catrall barely looks like even a related family member, let alone the stunning lady she actually is.

I do wonder whether this may have been done on purpose -some people do say any publicity is good publicity but you have to question whether this kind of publicity actually does the movie any good (I suppose it's not exactly going to stop anyone from seeing it though is it?).

What does annoy me though is that age old debate of making women look completely nothing like themselves in order to sell something. Don't get me wrong, I don't have a problem with airbrushing to sell magazines or a little Photoshopping to make you buy perfume/make up/clothes etc. but to go to this extent seems a little over the top. I would only hope that the actresses are as appauled by this poster as the rest of us and do something about it.

I guess it has certainly gotten more publicity for the movie though hasn't it - hell, I'm talking about it here so they've done their job!

Sex & The City 2 opens in Australia on June 2nd. Click on the poster to see a larger view.

d+s

Style Crush: Zoe Saldana

2010-05-04T16:10:00.006+10:00

d+s

Logies lovelies

2010-05-03T16:19:00.004+10:00

If you watched the Logies last night, you'd have to agree there were some gorgeously dressed ladies out on the red carpet, no? Here's a few dresses I fell in love with....

Margot Robbie (Neigbours) - such an improvement from her outfit last year!

Jessica Marais (Packed to the Rafters) - this was a noticable hit on all the best dressed lists. Not only is the dress very demure, her make up was so subtle, she was truly glowing.

Jennifer Hawkins - ok, ok, so with a body like her's, it wouldn't matter what she wore but still... such simplicity but such elegance - Toni Maticevski of course.

And my favourite.......drum roll please!

The stunning Esther Anderson (Home & Away) in Lisa Ho with her Dad. I missed seeing her on the red carpet on TV but when I saw a shot of her at her table, I knew I was going to like her whole outfit (even though I could only see her from the waist up!). Such a gorgeous dress, a great big, beautiful cuff and a great smile... just divine!

d+s

Winter Essentials - How to wear them

2010-04-30T17:10:00.004+10:00

Ok, so now that I've given you a few of my picks for Winter, I thought I'd best show you just a few quick ways to put them together (not that I'm sure all you wonderfully dressed ladies don't already know how to dress yourselves of course....).

Start with the top, add a bottom that works, pick a piece of jewellery, maybe a scarf or even some stockings or leggings and a bag and you're ready for anywhere, anytime.....

d+s

Winter Essentials

2010-04-21T15:32:00.005+10:00

It's been a little while and I apologise but I've finally finished putting together a list of a few esssentials you might need to add to your wardrobe this Winter.

Firstly, I have to acknowledge Miss M who specifically asked me for this post. With a budget of just $500, she wanted to know a few cheap but chic items worth purchasing for the cooler months and I've had a great time searching the internet for you.

Every item I've chosen is under $200 so you should easily be able to make your budget stretch across a few pieces instead of just one or two and most of what I have chosen is reasonably classic so they should last you a little while longer than just this season.

I've broken things up into a few categories - Tops, Dresses/Tunics, Bottoms, Softgoods & Jewellery so you can check out what you think you need easily. Apologies if any of these items are no longer available as I did start this a few weeks ago.

I hope this helps with your shopping for Winter Miss M - be sure to let me know what you do end up buying and whether my list has helped! Happy shopping everyone.

d+s

I'm working on a little something

2010-03-30T10:20:00.002+10:00

Hi everyone

Apologies for the lack of posts lately, it's been a hectic few weeks.

I am currently working on something though - a friend recently asked me to help out with finding some cheap Winter essentials so I'm currently putting together a massive list of things you need to add to your wardrobe for the new season.

Watch this space!

d+s

Oscar Oscar

2010-03-11T07:47:00.006+10:00

So I've trawled through as many red carpet photos as I can in the last 2 days to try and work out who I thought was the best dressed on Oscar night and I think I've got my pick. Drum roll please......

Congratulations Ms Nicole Richie!

(This may not come as a surprise to some!)

While I agree with a few other bloggers about her eye make up being a little bit too futuristic, that dress is just to die for. And well done to Ms Richie (or her stylist/hairdresser) for chosing to go with a simple up do so as not to detract from the dress - just divine. Sometimes I do think the make up artists go a bit overboard with the nude lipstick (give them just a HINT of colour, please!) but that leads me onto my second pick for best dressed....

Enter Maggie Gyllenhaal.

You have to give this girl credit - she always goes a little left of centre with her fashion choices but pulls them off every time - and this Oscar outfit is no exception. I love that she chose a print, I love that she went with some simple earrings to compliment it and I absolutely LOVE the shade of pink lipstick she topped off the ensemble with! You really can see the confidence in Miss Maggie, she's just a gorgeous creature all over.

While there were a few other mentionable outfits (and some unmentionable!), these two were by far my favourites. Well done on chosing something timeless and elegant ladies.... applause now please!

d+s

Happy birthday to me

2010-03-10T08:57:00.002+10:00

Birthday's simply don't get any better than a big turquoise bag sitting on your kitchen bench waiting to be opened when you wake up...... oh Tiffany's - how I love thee.

Happy 28th Birthday to me today.

d+s

What to wear: Things I'm lusting after

2010-03-02T14:08:00.002+10:00

Today's title is actually a little incorrect - it's should really be What to Buy. Because instead of an outfit, I decided to pop up a few things I'm currently lusing after.

Since my man asked me yesterday what I wanted for my birthday, I thought I'd show you a few things I'm currently lusting after in the fashion and furniture department (I hope you're reading this babe, hints don't get any bigger than this...haha).

In the picture

Shop Til You Drop subscription 12 issues $59.95 Magshop

Instyle subscription 12 months $79 isubscribe

"Daria" handbag in Mocca $269.95 Witchery

Apothecary bottle $89.95 Domayne

Biker jeans $119.95 Witchery

Balloon Girl brooch UK$21 Stolen Thunder

'h' tote bag $39 Lola & Bailey

"Return to Tiffany" bracelet $135 Tiffany & Co

Since I just couldn't do this post without an outfit though, here's what I'm thinking of wearing to dinner on Saturday night with my parents. With all this rainy weather in Brisbane, I'm thinking of taking a blazer just in case it's a little chilly out. Mecca Bah here we come...mmmmm

In the picture

Beaded cami $55.95 (on sale) Sportsgirl

Jeans $89.95 Witchery

Blazer US$32.80 Forver21

Heels $89.95 Lipstik

Earrings $16.94 Sportsgirl

Bangles $24.99 Diva

d+s

design+style recommends: Mrs Lilien

2010-03-02T13:10:00.004+10:00

Blogs worth checking out: Mrs Lilien

You just have to check out Mrs Lilien.... it's hard to describe this lovely blog but lets just say all the "Mrs" this lovely lady puts together are to die for. Not to mention she comes up with the funniest and clever little poems for each (I wish I could rhyme that well!).

I'm not going to bore you with words explaining Mrs Lilien because I think it's worth checking out for yourself. If you're anything like me, you'll drool over the gorgeousness as much as I do and sign up quick sticks!

d+s

2010-02-25T14:17:00.005+10:00

Greetings readers and apologies for the lack of posts lately. I don't have much time over the next few weeks to be scouring the internet & magazines for all the usual fabulousness you receive from design+style due to work commitments so I thought I might try and get in one little post this afternoon before I head off to do the Thursday night shopping shift.

I haven't posted much from Chictopia in a while but when I jumped onto the website today, I simply couldn't stop drooling - is this image on the homepage to die for or what? I am in LOVE with all those cozy knit layers she's wearing! I just wish it got cold enough in Brisvegas to dress like this. I simply can't WAIT for winter......... brrrring it on!

I've not been too sure about the whole shorts & stockings thing since seeing Nicole Richie wear it to launch her Winter Kate collection recently but after seeing a few extremely fashionable ladies on Chictopia put together some knock out ensembles, I think it works (mind you, I don't have legs like this young lady so there's every chance it wouldn't look anything like this on me!).

Enjoy your weekend everyone, I hope to be back again soon!

d+s

What to wear: Working on a Sunday

2010-02-14T08:04:00.003+10:00

Unfortunately, some of us now have to work Sundays..... which while fantastic for my bank account, is not so fantastic when it's a) Valentine's Day and b) my feet are so sore from 4 straight days of working that I can barely move them!

Alas, I still have to get my butt into gear and get off to my first Sunday shift. I just hope my legs will hold out on me and the day goes really quickly! Here's what I'm wearing to work today....

While a lot of people could wear this outfit without the skirt, I simply can't get away with leggings as pants (nor do I really like it!) so I like to wear a shirt mini skirt when tops aren't quite long enough to be dresses (with this great animal print top, you can tuck it in or leave it out with the skirt, it looks great both ways).

I know I've been posting a lot of Sportsgirl items in What to Wear lately but I promise it won't be this way all the time, I'll be back to all brands in the next few weeks or so (once I have finished showing you all the great things I've been buying from work!).

Happy Valentine's Day....I hope you all did something lovely with your other half!

d+s

It's a new dawn, it's a new day....

2010-02-09T16:23:00.008+10:00

And I'm back in the workforce..... eeeek!

I start my new job tomorrow and thought it only fitting that I do a What to Wear and show you what I'll be wearing for my first day.

Thankfully you don't have to be top to toe in their label (phew!) on your first day but lucky for me, I actually had a scarf I picked up from them recently that will at least mean I've got something on that's from their current season.

Knowing what girls can be like with labels (cause I know I am picky) I thought I need to wear something that looks like it could have easily come from the Sportsgirl store even though it actually hasn't so I've stuck with just simple black skinny jeans, black flats (for comfort), a yellow singlet with a white one layered underneath, some simple pearl studs, a few silver bangles and the scarf. The yellow of the singlet is actually identical to the yellow on the scarf so the it picks the colours up well. Here's hoping I fit right in when I rock up in the morning!

I also thought it fitting to include this great song by Nina Simone that I've been listening to this afternoon to get me into the right head space - I thought the lyrics were quite appropriate.

Wish me luck!

d+s

EDIT: The shoes in the picture are also Sportsgirl, $69.96, sorry for missing them.

What to wear: Rainy Day Sunday

2010-02-07T12:52:00.004+10:00

Could it be any wetter in South East Queensland & Northern New South Wales this weekend?

After a few days of non-stop rain and storms here in Brisvegas, I thought it only fitting I put together a cute Sunday afternoon What to Wear for a rainy day just like today. While the water has stopped for the moment at my house, it's still very grey outside and (thankfully) the temperature has dropped so it's definately slipper and DVD weather.

You may notice I've started putting the details of each item within the picture - I apologise for not having links to everything but it just makes things a little easier for me when I put the outfits together! Of course if you get stuck looking for a website that I've taken an item from, just email me and I can send you the details.

You'll also probably have noticed a new look for my blog, I thought it needed a little change. Instead of completely re-designing the header I took some inspiration from the March edition of Vogue and just changed the colours - what do you think?

I've decided that I'll change the colours over as the seasons change so keep your eyes out for some more great combinations!

Enjoy your Sunday afternoon, whatever you're doing - I'm in my trackies watching the cricket, go Australia!

d+s

How time flies

2010-02-04T10:35:00.006+10:00

I truly can't believe it's February already, what was I doing while January passed right by me?

I came to realise yesterday that it feels like Christmas was a lifetime ago when it was actually only a month or so. All that time has passed and I've never posted about two of the amazing gifts we received from my parents.

What reminded me of this was a trip to an antique store earlier in the week and a little purchase I made for my folks. My Mum searched high and low for one of my Christmas presents and her hard work paid off - check out the stunning ginger jar she found for me that now proudly sits atop our side cabinet.

So when I came across this cute mini version that just screamed "buy me, your Mum will love me!", I just couldn't pass it up. I loved it not only because it is likely to have some crazy story behind it (at least I hope it does) but also because the flowers on it look like oriental lillies which waaay back when I was in high school and my Mum was laid up in bed for a month after having some surgery, someone bought her a giant bunch of the most amazing pink oriental lillies I'd ever seen. The smell took over the entire house and ever since then, I've always been reminded of my Mum when I see or smell these flowers.

Another great gift my man received was this fantastic Guiness poster. If you're after a cool blokey present that doesn't cost the earth, I highly reccomend items like these! My Mum and I love old posters and artwork and she knew this one would work perfectly with the little bar area I want to set up for my man (I'm looking out for an old school drinks trolley to do up - more on that in the coming weeks!).

This great print has pride of place above our dining table at the moment as it's a little large to sit above the side cabinet where we keep our scotch decanter & glasses (see first image) but when I eventually find the drinks trolley and a place for it, I think we'll have to move it into the "man's domain".

I'm not 100% sure which website my Mum purchased this poster from but here are a few sites I know of:

Blue Dog

Vintage Venus

All Posters

d+s

Blogs worth checking out x 2

2010-02-02T08:41:00.002+10:00

I know I post about other people's blogs all the time and today is going to be no exception. Especially after I came across two fantastic new blogs that you just HAVE to check out.

1. Ish & Chi
Meet Viv, a young Sydney girl with a beautiful Etsy store, husband, little boy Robert and an eye for great design! From the minute I started reading this blog, I just couldn't stop. I have enjoyed seeing some of the re-worked second hand pieces of furniture she's been painting and seeing how their beautiful little house is coming along. If you're an avid Real Living magazine reader, you might recognise their house from the November 2009 issue (yep, how lucky are they!).

I just love Viv's taste in home decor and her great sense of style - especially because most of what she posts about, makes and sells is actually affordable as well. Head over to have a read now, you won't be dissapointed!

2. My Life, My Loves
Another local Aussie blogger I stumbled on this week is Sharnel (a Brissie girl!) who loves interior design, party planning, great design and more. I came across Sharnel's blog through Amy Atlas and let me tell you - if Amy Atlas posts about your dessert table, you're doing something SO RIGHT!

If you don't have the time to read all of Sharnel's blog, you just have to check out her house (here and here). Designed by the amazing Anna Spiro of Black & Spiro, it is so out of this world that I can't stop looking at it. I think I want almost everything in it - if only I could afford it all!

I'm not posting any photos from these two blogs today because I simply can't chose which ones I like the best! All I can say is grab yourself a cuppa, a comfy chair and a good hour of free time to sit and enjoy these two blogs, you will not be dissapointed!

d+s

Cup of tea dear...?

2010-02-01T17:08:00.004+10:00

I just baked a batch of apple & blueberry muffins and just had to share!

In case you're wondering, my cup & saucers are from Maxwell & Williams and the lovely rock paper weights were handmade (and hand painted!) by my lovely Mum!

While enjoying a cup of tea and devouring 2 of my freshly made muffins, I thought I'd include a What to Wear..... and today, everything you see is coming courtesy of my new place of employment (everything minus the tea cup that is).

In the picture:

Dress $99.95

Bracelet $24.95

Sandals $59.95

Clutch $39.95

Earrings $9.95

All available from Sportsgirl

Tea cups $139.95 for the set from The Cooking Company

d+s

Art inspired by Elk Accessories

2010-02-01T14:25:00.004+10:00

If you haven't already seen, heard or read about Elk Accessories then you have go to check out their website.

I'd seen their products in a number of magazines but never in the flesh until I was in Byron Bay over Christmas with my family and discovered one of the shops just off the main drag stocks a number of their products (including this gorgeous trilby my Mum bought me for xmas!).

After seeing their brooches in countless magazines, I fell in love with the shapes so much I decided to use them as inspiration for an artwork for my bathroom. Not only was this an easy little set to put together, it only cost me $18 for the 3 canvases ($6 each from Riot Art, I prefer to buy the better quality canvases as they hold the paint better).

And here are the brooches I was inspired by.....

d+s

Grammy's style

2010-02-01T14:08:00.004+10:00

Award season is well and truly underway and this morning's Grammy's certainly showed off some of the most interesting style choices so far! (I know Lady GaGa likes to make a statement but I don't understand why she can't do it tastefully!).

Here's a few of my favourite shots from this morning's red carpet (pictures courtesy of Popsugar & News.com.au).

The snazzy lads from Linkin Park looking every bit stylish in their black and charcoal suits (nice choice boys - I may be biased cause I love these guys).

Ok, ok, she's a Victoria's Secret model so she would look good in a paper bag but still. Marisa Miller showing off her insane pins.

I'm not a Glee fan but I'm a Lea Michele fan - she hasn't put a red carpet foot wrong and this dress is no exception.

The beautiful Jennifer Hudson looking smashing in an all black ensemble - take note, this is how to make your shape work for you!

I think I have a girl crush on Carrie Underwood. I'm not a fan of her music but she is so darn gorgeous and wears the most amazing dresses, you've got to give her (or her stylist) big wraps for putting her in some stunners.

Congratulations to Keith Urban and ACDC who were the only 2 Aussie award winners, good to see them flying the flag for us!

d+s

Hearts, roses and all things red

2010-01-28T17:16:00.005+10:00

Ok, ok, so Valentine's Day is just another Hallmark creation and something I've never really been into (unless you count when I was in Primary School and got a "secret admirer" card from someone who's hand writing I could pick a mile off). But alas, I think I've fallen prey to all the advertising card and gift companies do for February 14th and am feeling like a Valentine's Day post is in order.

I've been keeping my eye on things in the blogs I read and in recent shopping trips and whether you've got $5 or $500 to spend (or even nothing!) check out just some of the great ideas that are out there for your special someone.

Items in the picture are:

Double initial necklace US$22 from Solomon Lane Jewellery on Etsy

Heart shape egg mould US$9 Fred Flare

Red spotted bra $22 Cotton On Body

Satchel bag $69.95 Sussan

Sweetheart compact mirror US$1.50 Forever21

Paper message flowers (free!) - instructions from Martha Stewart

"From the bottom of my heart" greeting card US$1.25 Minted

Heart tie US$31.75 Zazzle

Rose petals from your local florist (display them in a heart shape on the table with a candle in the middle and... voila! World's cheapest Valentine's centrepiece)

Moet & Chandon (prices vary) available at your local bottle shop

d+s

design+style recommends: Ask Me Makeup

2010-01-28T09:25:00.005+10:00

1. Ask Me Makeup

I've been a big fan of Amy B's Youtube Channel for a long time and am totally in love with all her new business ventures. As a fully qualified makeup artist, she started posting video's of great ways to apply makeup, what you should have in your make up bag and even ways to get great hairstyles to match your dolled up face.

With her own website, askmemakeup.com that includes a link to her blog, Meet Me at Ruby's and a downloadable online magazine, she's now branched out into the world of photography and is doing a bang up job of it!

I first came across Amy B when I went searching for ways to get Audrey Hepburn's make up from Breakfast at Tiffanys and ever since then, have fallen in love with her videos. If you're after tips on how to do a smokey eye, formal looks, berry eyes and lips and even costume inspired makeup, check our Ask Me Makeup now.... I know you're going to love her....

Here's just one of my favourite video's of Amy's, the classic smokey eye (what I'll be doing for my girls night out this Saturday!)

d+s

Girl crush: Marion Cotillard

2010-01-27T09:34:00.005+10:00

Man, can this gal do no wrong in the fashion stakes. Sure, being French generally means you've got fashion in your genes but Marion could make a potato sack look couture..... She's just devine!

d+s

What to wear: What I'm wearing

2010-01-25T08:50:00.003+10:00

Yes, it's another What to Wear today but instead of showing you something that could be worn, I thought I'd show you what I am wearing to my girls night out this Saturday.

Unfortunately I couldn't get my hands on an image of the dress I picked up from Witchery on the weekend (it's not available on their website yet) so I'm apologising for the crappy quality of the photo I had to take myself (take my word for it, the dress looks fantastic on if you think it looks a little average in my picture!).

I had my eye on this dress ever since it popped up in the store and just new it would work really well with some black accessories. Not only is it able to be glammed up with a big black cuff and some shoulder dusters (ie. big earrings!) but I know I'll be able to put it together with some nude coloured accessories for a wedding I have later in the year.

The neckline and sleeves are ever so flattering and I thought I'd include an example of how I'm going to do my hair to go with the outfit (or rather how my hairdresser will do it!).

In the picture
Dress $169.95 Witchery
Belt $69.95 Sportscraft
Earrings $129 Mimco
Clutch $24.99 Equip
Cuff US$6.80 Forever21
Shoes $89.95 Lipstik

d+s

What to wear: One Stop Shop

2010-01-22T17:17:00.007+10:00

After a few hours of shopping with my Mum yesterday, I realised something great about so many brands we have available to us in Australia - so many stores can offer you an entire outfit for a reasonable price. While a lot of people put down 'chain-store chic', they certainly know their markets well. Check out just a few locals who can help you put together a quick fix (including one for the boys!).....

In this picture - Witchery Woman
Dress $189.95
Shoes $169.95
Bag $69.95
Ring $59.95
Earrings $39.95

In this picture - Witchery Man

Shirt $29.95 (on sale)

Shorts $29.95 (on sale)

Bag $199.95

Shoes $49.95

Sunglasses $69.95

Watch $299.95

In this picture - Sportsgirl

Dress $69.95

Shoes $89.95

Bag $39.95

Nail Polish $7.95

Sunglasses $39.95

In this picture - French Connection

Dress $129.95

Shoes $249.95

Bag $49.95

Necklace $79.95

LAST MINUTE EDIT:

For those of you in need of new shoes, get yourself into Wittner FAST!

They are having an 80% off sale for 4 days only - yes, 80% off!

d+s

Little bit of this, little bit of that

2010-01-21T07:47:00.004+10:00

So my lovely Mum is coming up to spend a few days with me today and I can't wait to catch up with her. While it hasn't been that long since she was here last and we talk a lot, I always love it when we get time to shop, have coffee, gossip etc. She is the only person I know that can shop as long as I can and not get bored (or get sore feet!) so to have her here to do the whip around Brisvegas is always such fun (it helps we have such similar taste in everything as well, we always want to go into the same stores!).

One thing I'm going to get her to help me with when we do go shopping is a dress I need for a girls night in a week or so. Every year my girlfriends and I try to catch up for a Christmas dinner but some years it's so hard to get everyone together on the same night that we end up having to have a belated Christmas 'do' in January. This year is also going to be the first time we have almost all of our group back together since approximately 2006 (unfortunately one lovely lady - Miss K - is still overseas and can't make it but I know she'll be there in spirit!). As you can imagine, everyone is super excited about having our friends all together again so it's no doubt going to be a big night.

The one dilemma we of course always face (other than trying to find a date everyone is free!) is what to wear. This is actually part of the reason why I started the new segment on the blog a few weeks back. I am always scouring websites for inspiration on what to wear to most events but I particularly love putting together an outfit for our GNO's (Girls Night Out) because it's one of the few times in the year I really get to dress up.

So far, I've put together 2 options for a Girls Night Out in What to Wear today. First up, something a little goth inspired - Dark Romance. I remember seeing a great black lace dress at Barkins a few months back and wished I'd bought it then as lace is definately big in the coming seasons. So when fishing around on a few sites yesterday, I came across this cute Valleygirl lace dress (check out that awesome price!) and thought it was screaming out to be put in my What to Wear section.

Some tough boots and long chain bag make this look a bit more tough than girly and to top it off, a lick of bright red lippy would go down a treat. Just remember - if you have a stand out lip, go easy on the eyes (never do both). If you're not one for red lipstick, a nice smoky eye look would work with this as well, just be careful you don't make yourself look like you should be in a Twilight movie!

In the picture

Dress $29.95 Valleygirl

Shoes $52.50 (on sale) Mollini

Bag $19.99 Equip

Earrings $24.99 Diva

Lipstick $33 Napoleon Perdis Goddess Lipstick in Xenia

The complete opposite of the Dark Romance look are some pretty florals. There are print dresses everywhere at the moment so it's hard not to get swept up in the cuteness of them all. While in this weather a blazer is simply too hot to wear anywhere but in air conditioning, I love the look of one with a strapless dress so included it none the less. By chosing a basic colour for your accessories, the dress is the stand out in this outfit and with a little fake tan to top off the look, you'll be giving Lauren Conrad a run for her money in no time.

In the picture

Dress $69 Ladakh (available from Freez)

Blazer $79.95 Forcast

Clutch $89.95 Witchery

Shoes $37.50 (on sale) Mollini

Ring $22,99 Diva

Bangle $39.95 Witchery

Earrings US$3.80 Forever 21

I also had to include some of my favourite dresses from this week's Golden Globe awards in the US. I was watching Entertainment Tonight yesterday and couldn't help but laugh when they brought on their "fashion guru" Cojo to do the best and worst dressed. How can someone give his opinion on the best and worst dressed when he turned up wearing a pale pink tuxedo jacket and has long, blonde locks that look like they're a week away from dreadlocks? Go figure!

So anyway, since I didn't agree with his list of best and worst, I thought I'd just show you my favourites (just the best - I don't believe in talking about the worst, they all looked pretty fantastic to me!)

d+s

What to wear

2010-01-20T12:24:00.007+10:00

Another 2 What to Wear for today since I haven't posted for a few days. First up, a little something perfect for an Australia Day BBQ. It's always nice to get a public holiday in the middle of the week and as we all know, Australia Day is a favourite. Beers, BBQ's galore, Triple J's Hottest 100 countdown, you can almost smell the sausages cooking already!
In the picture:

Dress $89.95 Sportsgirl

Bag $229 Country Road

Necklace $24.99 Diva

Belt $44.95 Sussan

Sunglasses $129 Vogue

Sandals $99.95 Witchery

Next up, a little something different for you - this time costume inspired! My man and I were out shopping for new clothes for him recently and when standing at the counter of Universal, I came across some of the most crazy jewellery I've ever seen. Made by a company called Icon Brand, it was a great range of necklaces, bracelets and more for both men and women. But the one that caught my eye was the cutest little silver necklace with a teacup and spoon pendant on the end.

As soon as I picked it up, I thought of Alice In Wonderland and so with the new Tim Burton version of the movie due out in Australia soon, I thought it was only appropriate to put together a little crazy Alice costume that shouldn't cost you the earth.

In the picture

Dress $29.95 Barkins

Shoes $175 Sambag (for cheaper, try Target or Rubi Shoes)

Brooch US$12.50 Etsy (Clayshion)

Tights $19.90 Costume Box

Headband $14.99 Diva

Rabbit doll $26.95 Jellycat (available from Peanut Gallery)

Apron US$21 Etsy (Kathys Aprons)

d+s

What to wear: Hello Weekend

2010-01-15T09:09:00.006+10:00

Ok, Ok, so I'm going a bit overboard with the new segment but I can't help it.... Hopefully some of you have got some inspiration out of the few What to Wear's I've posted so far and since no-one has complained about them, I can only assume you are enjoying them!

Today I'm posting two outfits both perfect for the weekend ahead. Outfit one has a little French Riviera feel to it - stripes will do that! The good thing about this outfit is it's versatility - great if you've got a spot of shopping to do, going to lunch with friends or even heading down the Gold Coast for Big Day Out on Sunday!

Outfit one:
Top $79.95 Piper Lane (from BirdMotel)
Shorts $89.95 Witchery
Hat $19.95 Just Jeans
Sunnies $169 Saba
Belt $44.95 Indy C
Bag $39.95 Indy C
Shoes $39.95 Globe (from City Beach)

Our second outfit today is inspired by The Hills star, Audrina Partridge. When visiting Oz a little while back for the MTV Awards, she rocked a great white T and jeans ensemble that I have always loved. I'm a big fan of a really simple top, great jeans and black heels - a staple outfit you can always fall back on if you have nothing else to wear. The ripped jeans give the outfit a bit of a rock-chick edge and if it's a bit chilly outside, just add a tailored black blazer just like Miss Partridge did.

Outfit 2:

Top $59.95 Witchery

Jeans $139.95 Just Jeans

Belt $69.95 Country Road

Blazer $169.95 Sportsgirl

Necklace $16.95 Sportsgirl

Shoes $59.95 Payless Shoes

I hope you get some inspiration from today's outfits, enjoy your weekend whatever you're doing and pray for a sunny day, no lines to get a drink and some killer bands at Big Day Out 2010.....

And.... just to get you in the mood for the weekend, a little music (my favourite Friday afternoon track).

d+s

What to wear: Summer Garden Party

2010-01-14T12:02:00.004+10:00

Another What to Wear for today (cause they're so fun to do and I got some lovely feedback from Miss S, thank you!).

Since it's a very warm day here in Brisvegas today, I thought I needed to put together a nice light, summery outfit. I remember seeing this great Barkins dress in store and in a magazine a month or so ago and I just noticed it's now on sale. Perfect for an afternoon garden party or even a summer wedding which no doubt a lot of you have coming up. Keeping the shoes simple, I picked up the lovely green colour in the print of the dress by adding a cute emerald clutch and bangle. Definately wedding worthy and under $300 for the lot!

In the picture:
Dress $29.95 (on sale) Barkins
Clutch $49 Ninewest
Bangles cream US$4.80 Forever21
Bangle green US$3.80 Forever21
Shoes $169.95 Witchery
Earrings $12.95 Sportsgirl

d+s

I'm in LOVE........

2010-01-14T11:11:00.007+10:00

.....with label By Malene Birger.

It's not often you see a designers collection and can say without a doubt that you love every single piece in the campaign but with Spring/Summer 2010 from label Malene Birger, I can!

Without a doubt, I am totally and utterly in love with this label and want every outfit in the collection. The tapered trousers, those beautifully cut dresses, that flash of light blue (a huge colour for this season if you haven't noticed it in stores already), the jewellery, the hats...... arrrggghhh!

Check out all the loveliness....
(click on the images to see larger versions)

d+s

New segment: What to Wear

2010-01-13T08:33:00.006+10:00

It's time for a new addition to design+style!

Plenty of bloggers do this so it's nothing new in the online world, just new for design+style - please welcome our new segment for 2010, What to Wear. If you're not one to scour fashion websites but need some inspiration before hitting the shops then keep your eyes out for these posts!

First up today, I've created a look for those who might be feeling the post-Christmas pinch. It might take some a few months before you have another event to attend after all the celebrations of Christmas and New Year but for others, it doesn't stop.

Ever had one of those last minute Friday meetings and are looking a little too much like you're ready for drinks and it's only 11am? Then keep a black blazer at work - they smarten up any outfit in seconds. BUT.....Don't want to look too much like you've gone straight from an appointment to after work drinks with the gals? Then ditch the blazer and add a snazzy necklace. By keeping your shoes and bag basic (ie. no gladiator heels at the office), your 9 to 5 outfit says lets get down to business while your after hours look says ladies, lets dance!

In the picture:

Blazer US$29.80 Forever 21

Skirt $29.95 Valleygirl

Tank $19.95 Witchery

Bag $24.80 Forever 21

Shoes $89.95 Lipstik

Belt $29.95 Sportsgirl

Necklace $39.95 French Connection

If you've got a fashion dilemma and want me to put an outfit together, feel free to email me! I hope you enjoy the new segment, comments welcome as always.

d+s

Blogs worth checking out, Big Day Out + more

2010-01-12T10:41:00.012+10:00

I've recently come across 2 fabulous new blogs that you just MUST check out. Judy & Jane Aldridge are an American mother & daughter team who are so amazing that I have been spending all my morning blog reading time going back over their posts for 2009.

I won't ramble on about them because I think you need to see the blogs for themselves - Judy's Atlantis Home and Jane's Sea of Shoes. You can tell they are big on the fashion scene when they have articles written about them in Teen Vogue & Modern Luxury (an American home magazine) and even get invited to visit Coco Chanel's apartment in Paris - helloooo!

I try and update my list of links regularly with all the new sites I find so don't forget, it's over in the right hand column titled md+s recommends (just scroll down the page if you can't see it).

Is anyone heading to Big Day Out on the Goldie this Sunday? We are and I'm so excited! After a dissapointing Stereosonic festival in early December, I'm looking forward to seeing the awesome bands that are playing at BDO this year. On our list of who to check out is Karnivool (their song All I Know I voted number 1 on Triple J's Hottest 100 for 2009!), Temper Trap (love, love, love their song Sweet Disposition), Itch-E & Scratch-E, Calvin Harris, Muse and if we can make it from the main stage to the Boiler Room without getting trampled to death, we'll try and catch Groove Armada. If you haven't seen the timetable and map for the festivities, it's online here.

Of course, once our timetable has been organised, I've had to work out what to wear. Normally I stick with shorts, singlet and bikini top but this time round I've decided to wear something a little bit "festival-ish". I was doing a quick whip through the cheapo stores recently (because I'm on a strict spending budget) and came across the cutest, cheapest singlet in Valleygirl that I just had to have. As soon as I saw it, it reminded me of a top I'd seen Nicole Richie wearing a few years back that I absolutely loved. I'm hoping to pick up a pair of denim shorts to wear with it and will accessorise with a tan belt, tan shoulder bag and black havaianas - a cheap but chic outfit perfect for BDO. I also always make sure I don't take my expensive D&G sunglasses to festivals on the off chance that I will lose or break them so I'm going to go all out and wear a pair of Wayfarer copies I bought for a costume a year or so ago (I never thought I suited this style but I figure if Audrey Hepburn can wear them, I can too!).

Floral Ruffle Singlet $29.95 (Valleygirl)

Wayfarer copies $39.95 (Sportsgirl)

Denim shorts $27.99 (Ally Fashion)

Tan Plaited belt $69.96 (Country Road)

Metal Logo thongs $21.95 (Havaianas)

Nicole Richie's top that inspired my purchase.

d+s

Mood board: Burnt Orange

2010-01-08T08:36:00.003+10:00

After eyeing off a gorgeous Audrey Hepburn print on Etsy the other day, I thought it was time for another mood board. Since the print had the most fantastic colour orange in the background, I figure that was the perfect colour to use as inspiration. Enjoy.

Credits (left to right, top row to bottom)

Oranges photo: Leslie Thomson on Etsy

Party invitation: Minted.com

Baby Switch bag $96: Louenhide

The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes: Popular Penguins

Lace back detail tank: Witchery

Lea Michele from Glee at the People's Choice Awards: Popsugar

Karen from Where Did You Get That

Audrey print: Doc Martin Studio on Etsy

d+s

New year, new you (or rather... me)

2010-01-05T16:42:00.004+10:00

Yes, I sound like a Jenny Craig commercial but let me assure you, this has nothing to do with weight loss. This post is more a I don't make new years resolutions but feel I need a change type thing.

I'm normally not the kind of person who starts the new year by making promises to myself and this year is no different. What I have decided though, is that I need a bit of a change in my appearence. No, I'm not going on a diet. Yes, I'd like to get fitter but even that might be pushing it. It's much more boring than that. I've decided to cut my hair.

Some of you might think this small in the grand scheme of things and you're probably right but I think that with a new do, I might feel like I'm starting afresh and I think I need it. The back end of 2009 was unfortunately not the best time for me so I think now is as good as any to cast of all my negative vibes from last year and get 2010 moving in a new direction.

We've always looked to celebrities for ideas and styles and there can be none bigger in the past decade than the drastic haircut Mrs Beckham undertook way back when. Those long, lushess locks she sported on the side of the soccer field (majority fake FYI) were all cut off and the asymmetrical bob (or Pob - short for Posh bob) was born. It's likely that there is nothing this woman can't pull off (including the aforementioned Pob died peroxide blonde) but you have to give it to Posh - she knows how to start a trend. In fact, even my own MUM has had her hair cut in a similar fashion (Posh would be proud).

Victoria's own little protege Katie Holmes was one of the next celeb's to copy the drastic cut and I think you'll all agree - it was for the better. The sweet, fresh faced gal from Dawson's Creek standing next to her new husband Tom Cruise looked like she could be hugging her Dad with all those long, wavy locks. The best thing she did for her appearance was to make the chop and re-invent herself as a hot new Mum. I loved her look the best when she appeared on the red carpet in 2007 with a short, blunt fringe and dark black eye makeup - right (not to mention that stunning gold shrug).

Newspapers went mad when Katie cut her bob even shorter accusing her of being a mini-Posh in the making but really, did anyone care? If I was Posh, I'd be flattered a good friend thought that much of me to copy my haircut.

The long-to-short trend has captured everyone in Hollywood from Eva Longoria to most recently Hayden Panettiere and they're all pulling it off with ease. I even have a few friends from my last place of work who decided to bite the bullet and cut their long locks off for a sleeker, shorter chin length style so it's no surprise that I'm thinking of something new myself.

What I will need to be careful of though is how short is too short. I have had my own hair shoulder length a few times before and always loved it every time so it's possible I'll go back to that again (for fear of not being able to tie it up in a ponytail when I don't want to do anything with it). My fail safe image I've been taking to my hairdresser for years has been that of a favourite celeb of mine, Nicole Richie.

Whether it's straight or wavy, honey blonde or dark brunette, I've always loved the side swept look Nicole pulls off. While at many stages her hair has been long thanks to some blonde extensions and the gold House of Harlow head pieces aren't really quite my thing (although she does look cute in them), the gorgeous shoulder length bob I found when google searching hairstyles a few years back has always been a great backup when my hairdresser asks "So what are we doing today?" (see image 2 in the above series for the one I use).

I'd love to take a big risk and chop it off even shorter (like image 3, above) but my Mum made a good point when I told her about my hair appointment. If it's that short, you can't tie it up easily. Ok, ok, so Mum's are always right. Mind you, doing the same thing I've done for the past few years won't really be much of a change now will it? I think I'll have to sleep on it and since I've got until Friday before my appointment, no doubt I'm going to toss up whether to go longer or shorter a million times before I decide what to do.

Till next time readers..... when my hair is shorter!

d+s

Ring in the New Year - in style

2009-12-31T11:40:00.003+10:00

If I was hosting a New Years Eve party at my house this year, I'd be taking inspiration from the amazing people at In The Now Weddings. I saw this shoot posted over on Green Wedding Shoes this morning and couldn't help but post it myself. Those fantastic colours, the wonderful decorations, the ideas!

How great that they took traditional NYE party ideas and gave them a cool, modern twist. I'm in lurv.......

Happy New Year to everyone, I hope 2010 brings you joy, laughter, happiness and success.

d+s

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year

2009-12-24T16:20:00.003+10:00

A very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to you all readers, I hope you get what you want from Santa and that you have a lovely NYE celebrating the coming 2010 year. I only hope that it brings you bigger and better things and that your lives are filled with joy and happiness througout the entire 12 months.

Love from me, my man and little old Diesel who would only pose in front of the Christmas tree if I had food in my hand (if only he'd moved his head a little to the right it would have covered up the electricty switch in the background. Oh well, you can never work properly with animals can you)......

Enjoy your holidays wherever you are.

d+s

Little elephants

2009-12-22T05:54:00.005+10:00

I couldn't help posting this today - a special one for my friend Miss S and her nieces first birthday. I don't know if the party has happened yet or not but if not, your Sis might get some inspiration from these beautiful photos! (Miss S, please send some photos of the event!)

I discovered these this morning on Head Of the Table and am totally in love with this blog. I could look at photos of table settings and party themes all day. Another great one for party inspiration is Party Perfect. Some fantastic ideas for kids and adults alike. These two are definately going in the favourites list. I also know a few friends who have some wee ones first birthdays in the coming months that will no doubt drool over these blogs! Enjoy everyone.

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It's (finally) beginning to look a lot like Christmas

2009-12-20T17:41:00.006+10:00

While it may have taken a bit longer than usual, it's finally beginning to look (and feel) like Christmas in my home. I managed to get to Ikea earlier today and low and behold, I came back with some bargain Chrissy decorations and oddly named furniture that my man had to put together.

To make our little house a bit more festive, I managed to pick up a gorgeous wreath in the Christmas decoration section - on sale for just $9.99! Being only a week before Christmas, all their decorations and trees were marked down and I've been looking for a non-traditikonal wreath for years. I simply added a little red ribbon to jazz it up and I'm so in love with it, I'm wondering how long I will be able to leave it on the front door for before my man tells me to take it down.

Left: Ikea Kotte Wreath, Right: Hanging on our door

We have 3 spare rooms in our house - one for the guest bed, one for the weights bench which never gets used and one for my desk and the ironing. I've longed for a beautiful home office for years and am slowly getting close to it. I may not have everything matching exactly just yet but I know one day I will. I picked up a very reasonably priced bookshelf whilst at Ikea and now have all my paper, ribbons and magazines off the floor where the dog enjoys putting little claw holes in everything.

Now if only I could get the place to look something like this, I'd be the happiest woman in the world! (don't you just love the wallpaper?)

After watching my man get a blister thanks to the bookshelf assembly, I re-organised the office room and sat down to read a few blogs. If you haven't checked out Parcel Post yet, you are missing out. I found out that this particular blog is the work of a lovely young couple who own a store in Venice, California called Urbanic. And I tell you, this is my DREAM shop. All that stunning paper and stationery, bookshelves full of ribbon and gifts and invitations..... lord I would go nuts in a place like this. If I had the money, I'd be out scouring Brisbane for a shop front to fill with things just like the products at Urbanic right now. I think I'm going to start buying lotto tickets - first on my list would be travelling to Venice to check these guys out, then back home (maybe via New York, Paris, Greece) to set up my own shop....... Ahhhh, one can dream can't they?

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Blogs worth checking out: Magnolia Gray + more

2009-12-19T04:22:00.008+10:00

Weeeellll, it didn't take me long. I've had my computer back for less than 24 hours and I've already found things to post about.

It's unfortunately 4.26am Saturday 19th December. Yes, I'm awake and posting. For some reason, I woke up at roughly 3am this morning (actually, I know the reason and it had everything to do with my bloke throwing his arm over me in his sleep but unfortunately not in a "I even want to cuddle you while I'm asleep" kind of way). Once awake, I started thinking of a million things and couldn't get back to sleep: Why can't I find plain white gift tags for my christmas presents anywhere? Am I going to have to make them myself? I really want to go to Ikea tomorrow but I know I will end up spending money we don't have and my man will kill me (I wonder if I showed him my list whether he'd allow me to go and promise not to get anything more than what's on the list). What am I going to wear to a friends BBQ this afternoon? Why did I drink so much wine last night (wait - I think I know the answer to that one). I wonder what my dog thinks of me sitting in an almost pitch black room in front of the computer at 3am?

And the list goes on...... I'm sure you can now see why I got up.

Anywho, I'm babbling so I shall get on with it. I realised after doing some general web browsing that it's been about 8 months since I started this blog and in all that time, I can't remember dedicating a post to a cute blog by some close friends of mine. So belated it may be but ladies and gentlemen, here is Magnolia Gray!

Ok, so I'm sure I've mentioned it before and there is a link over there ----> to their site but I can't seem to remember doing a "Blogs worth checking out" on them. The two lovely ladies who are Magnolia Gray are Merrin & Courtney. I went to school with Merrin and Courtney is her soon to be sister in law. And I tell you, these two have such an eye for great things, it kills me.

Since I've got so much time on my hands of late, I went to visit Merrin and her little baby Evie yesterday afternoon and as always, had to stop myself from admiring everything in her house and not paying attention to our conversation. After looking at their blog and their wonderful assortment of hand made gifts, baby clothes and more, you'll see why I enjoy visiting Merrin and checking out her house so much.

They sell their items to friends and family but also at the Powerhouse Markets. Back in October they invited a bunch of people around to drool (and purchase) their items and I tell you, I was in heaven. They make everything from decorated rompers and baby singlets to hand painted artwork and gift cards. I got myself a cute bird image frame but can't seem to find my picture of it right now (I shall post one later though).

I'm not sure how frequently they attend the markets these days (Merrin/Court, if you're reading this, please let everyone know!) but be sure to check out their blog and contact them if you want to purchase any of their items (I believe they are working on a website so I'll post about that when it goes live).

Another reason for my early morning post this morning is gift tags. A few weeks back I decided to can christmas cards completely. While I love getting and giving cards (and enjoy making my own) when it comes to christmas cards, I just can't get excited about them. You have to think of a million different things to say to each family member, they read it and tell you how lovely it is then put it in the pile with all the others while they attack their gift. So to a) avoid buying or making cards that will only get thrown out after a few months and b) help save some trees by not buying/making them, I decided that the best way to personalise each present while still allowing me some space to write a small sentiment was to use gift tags (sorry ozone layer - I will need some paper for this).

The problem with this idea though? They are not easy to find ready made. Which normally is fine by me, I would rather make my own. However, what I've been searching for for almost 2 months is plain white, blank pre-cut gift tags that I can personalise with my own images, stamps, text etc. Can I find them anywhere though? No. And it's slowly driving me insane (hence I'm up at 4am writing this....).

I have found some at a local newsagent but they are that lovely shade of cream - you know, manilla folder cream and unfortunately that colour just doesn't go with my christmas tree nor my christmas presents (my decorations are red, blue and white and I match all my wrapping paper and ribbon to the tree decorations).

One of my many reasons for wanting to visit Ikea is there is every chance they have some in other colours - apparently Courtney managed to pick some up from there (thanks for the tip Merrin!) so I'm desperate to get down there and find them. Failing that, I know I'm going to have to make my own.

While this isn't a hard task (draw the shape, print, cut, personalise), I do like ready made ones with the little punched hole and cute die cut shapes. Plus anything that requires me to cut non straight lines makes me shiver, I'm hopeless at getting cut edges to look professional.

And so my search continues. Should anyone know where I can find some blank gift tags (other than ebay or etsy as it's a bit late for delivery so close to christmas) I'd love to hear from you! If my search brings up nothing, I shall document my attempt at making them and endeavour to post all about it in the coming weeks.

Since it's now 5am and I'm ready for cuppa number 2, I shall bid you farewell and only hope that you're not up reading this as I hit post.....

d+s

Where have we been?

2009-12-18T13:12:00.002+10:00

Yes, it's been a while readers.

I'd firstly like to apologise for the lack of posts in recent weeks (or by now, it's probably months). Due to some unforseen circumstances, things in my personal life have changed and I just haven't been able to spend much time searching the net and finding interesting things to write about.

I do hope that this will change though and whilst I have some time off I will be able to post a little more for you all. I've been without a computer for almost 2 weeks so now that I'm back online, I feel back in the land of the living and shall endeavour to update you on all things design+style (I had every intention of doing some special Christmas posts but alas, the world had other ideas for me).

Secondly, we have a winner in our Westfield Gift Card competition! We have randomly selected (and by randomly, I mean everyone's name went into a Tiffany's box and I had my man pick one out with his eyes shut) and one lucky person will in the coming weeks be the happy owner of a $50 Westfield Gift Card.

Congratulations to Miss J Cook! I'll be getting in touch with you soon via email to get your address details.

And lastly, a big thank you to YOU, the readers for coming back and checking out my blog this year. While I may not have a cult following (I'm certainly no Satoriliast) I love finding things to post about and only hope that you all enjoy reading them.

A very Merry Christmas to you and all the best for 2010. I hope it brings much joy and success for you all and your friends and family.

Till next time....
d+s

When materials are limited

2009-11-26T14:42:00.006+10:00

Ever needed to wrap something with limited access to fancy materials? Never fear. There is always a way to make something look just that little bit special without a lot of effort (or money!).

A roll of brown paper, a clever quote that relates to either the gift or the recipient, a bit of coloured paper, printer, scissors and your in business.

I recently created a design in Illustrator that my Mum fell in love with when she noticed I was using it as a bookmark. We came up with the idea that it would look great in a white box frame and set out to find one. While the Country Road option was great quality, the price was a little more than what I intended to spend (especially since you can get the same thing for half the price in a number of other stores).

After some more searching, I found a medim sized white stand alone frame in the Reject Shop in Byron Bay for just $19.95. I printed out the image to size, removed the white board from the inside of the frame (I could have left it in but wanted as much space as possible for the print for more impact) and whola! Instant gift.

My intention was to give the gift to my Mum as part of her Christmas present but after hearing about a difficult situation she had to deal with at school (she's a primary school teacher), I thought the frame could be just the thing to pick up her spirits.

The only set back was I had everything ready to go at work but no wrapping paper or ribbon. But that didnt stop me from thinking outside the box. With a little brown paper from the stationery cupboard, a little folded red paper ribbon (that wont get crumpled when packaged) and a nice quote glued to the front, it's cheap, effective and will most certainly make her feel better.

If you're wondering what the quote was I used, here it is:

The mediocre teacher tells.

The good teacher explains.

The superior teacher demonstrates.

The great teacher inspires.

William Arthur Ward

For a massive list of fantastic quotes, I use The Quote Garden. Almost every subject you can think of, and more!

Hopefully when my Mum receives the gift she might leave a comment on how it went down when she opened it (hint hint Mum!).

Till next time....

d+s

Blogs worth checking out: The Cherry Blossom Girl

2009-11-25T08:21:00.003+10:00

The Cherry Blossom Girl

I dont think this little lady needs much of an introduction other than she's gorgeous, she's French and she loves fashion. If you don't like reading but love having a sticky beak at what's hot on the other side of the world, you've got to follow Alix. A fashion designer and amateur photographer, visual candy doesn't get any better than this.

Well worth keeping in your favourites, go check her out!

The Cherry Blossom Girl

d+s

Thats a wrap - part 2

2009-11-12T14:37:00.007+10:00

Finally..... having 2 computers can be such a pain in the you-know-what. I've finally managed to get the photos of the engagement gift I made/wrapped from one computer to another ...... and so here they are in all their glory!

You've already seen the canvases..... but here they are again just in case you haven't.

Add some brown paper (recycled of course)....

Find some ribbon and a matching gift tag..... wrap the present

Tie the ribbon to the gift and add the wooden letters....

And voila!

It may not be as fancy as A Gift Wrapped Life but it still had the desired effect - I got word from the newly engaged couple that they couldn't bear to open the present but when they did, they loved it so much they put the canvases up straight away!

d+s

design+style's first giveaway!

2009-11-09T13:09:00.005+10:00

For the first time on design+style, I'm giving one lucky subscriber the chance to win themselves a $50 Westfield Gift Card. Imagine all the lovely things you could buy.... an early Christmas present to yourself perhaps? Or maybe a special something for your special someone. Personally I've got my eyes on a cute little bright yellow singlet in French Connection but unfortunately I can't enter my own competition.... damn.

All you need to do is subscribe to our newsletter to be in the draw, it's that easy (if you're already a subscriber, you are automatically in the draw). To subscribe, simply enter your email address in the "subscribe" section over to the right ---->

If you are already an avid reader, I'd love for you to pass this on to friends and family, and what better time to subscribe than when there's a $50 Gift Card up for grabs! The competition's open till the end of November and the winner will be announced the first week of December - just in time for any pre-Chrissy sales at your local Westfield!

d+s

Terms & Conditions: Winners must become a subscriber before November 30th, 2009. Winner will be drawn Thursday 4th December and will be notified by email (prize will be sent via Express Post). Gift Cards only valid in Australia at participating Westfield Shopping Centres. T&C's for the Westfield Gift Card can be found on their website. Design+Style is not responsible for lost and/or stolen gift cards. All care will be taken to ensure the prize is delivered to you safely however I'm not responsible for missing mail sorry! Any questions in regards to the competition, please email me.

Thats a wrap

2009-11-06T15:32:00.006+10:00

It's Friday.... finally! I apologise if anyone was waiting for photos today, I simply haven't had the time to find any (I have a few but to just post 3 feels a little lame).

Instead, I couldn't help but post about the wonderful new additions to A Gift Wrapped Life (this is her online shop, for the blog click here).

If you're ever stuck in one of those "what to buy someone who has everything" moments and you know they like stationery, gift wrap, ribbon and all manner of beautiful things, here is the solution.

It may seem odd to give someone gift wrapping materials as the actual gift but if the person you giving to is anything like me, they'd think they've died and gone to heaven. Included in this lovely wrapping sets is everything you need to re-create what's in the image. Beautiful paper, quality ribbon, decorative labels and even things like the goregous white paper rose above.

I was so inspired by these adorable packages that I came up with a fabulous idea for an engagement party gift I have to have ready for tomorrow evening. While trawling through Lincraft recently I came up with what I thought was a brilliant and cheap idea for an engagement gift - 2 canvases, paint, first letters of the couple's first names and glue. Get the idea? Well, I did (at least in my head).

Unfortunately, when my man asked what I was doing with armfuls of crafty nick nacks and I explained the concept, he pointed out that the weight of my letters was going to be too heavy for the thickness of my canvases.... ooops. Yes, I could have nailed the letters instead of just glued them but I'd then have to have the letters sitting right over towards the edge of each canvas. Not what I wanted.

And so onto Plan B. I decided to ditch the wooden letters and paint the J and A straight onto the canvas. And since I'm not one for painting the straightest line in the world, I simply typed out the letters I wanted, printed them onto A3 paper, cut them out and traced around each one. To ensure they didn't look like baby blocks I turned one slightly to the left, the other slightly to the right and left the '&' symbol dead straight with each letter so big, it's edges just go over the side of the frame.

After completing the canvases, I was at a total loss as to what to do with the leftover wooden letters I had purchased. Neither my nor my man's name begins with a J or an A and I don't know any other couples who are a 'J & A'. Here's where A Gift Wrapped Life came in. I've always thought adding an embellishment to a gift is almost better than a card - why not take the extra time to make the gift itself look spectacular than spend half an hour in the newsagents looking for an overly priced card that you're only going to end up writing the same thing on it that you did the year previous and the recipient will keep for 2 months then throw out with every other card they've been keeping for the last 10 years.

Lacking in funds, I've armed myself with some brown paper, thick brown twine, black, white & red ribbon (to match the black and white letters I've painted on the canvas) and....... those pesky wooden letters. Once I've wrapped the canvases in brown paper, I intend to paint the wooden letters and attach them with the twine and ribbon. Not only will it stand out against everyone elses gifts but it's handmade and the couple will get to keep the little wooden letters to put somewhere in their apartment.

Once I've actually put the whole thing together, I'll be sure to post some photos. In the mean time, check out the letter canvases (note: these aren't actually complete - if you ever paint a canvas and have some white space, never leave it the white of the canvas, it just looks silly).

And in case you're wondering, no the couple who are receiving the gift don't read this blog so I'm not giving away the idea before I give it to them!

Watch this space for more pics after I've attempted to uniquely gift wrap the aforementioned canvases!

Enjoy your weekend.

d+s

A little bit racy

2009-11-03T13:39:00.005+10:00

Today's mood board proudly inspired by Melbourne Cup....ok, so traditionally Derby Day is all about black and white but I do like a bit of monotone every now and again (especially when it's clothing, so easy yet so dramatic). Enjoy and I hope you backed a winner!

Credits

Jodi Gordon: Yahoo7

Hat: OperaScurra on Etsy

Sonia Kruger & Jen Hawkins: Yahoo7

Fascinator: Diva

Outfit: Portmans

White dress: Sportsgirl

Race Day cutie: Ninemsn

Lace dress: Birdie on Etsy

d+s

Another day, another mood board

2009-10-30T09:47:00.004+10:00

In the midst of getting ready for work and getting the dog some treats, I was inspired by something in my own house today. The fantastic typewriter I picked up at a garage sale a few weeks back is slowly running out of ribbon but there's just enough left to write funny messages and love notes to my man in the hope that he'll see them when he comes home from Melbourne last night!

I just love the bright yellow and black of my typewriter so thought I'd create a mood board to reflect it (and also to try and encourage the sun to come out in Brisbane since it's been raining all morning!). Enjoy.

Photo credits/items:

Table setting: Design Mom

Jar: Tomato & Cantaloupe Salad from Sunday Suppers

Feather Fascinator: Vie Moderne on Etsy

Necklace: Sweet Surprises on Etsy

Absinthe poster: Blue Dog Posters

Singlet: French Connection

Lady in yellow (and blue): The Satorialist

Jordana Brewster: Popsugar

Bouquet: Green Wedding Shoes

Typewriter: Authors own!

Print: Authors own creation!

d+s

Feeling moody

2009-10-29T10:04:00.006+10:00

I felt like creating a mood board this morning. I may have been inspired by the colours I saw on a few houses while sitting in traffic on the way to work..... lots of beige, grey, off white and a little pale pink in some gardens. Enjoy!

Photo credits as follows (from left to right, top to bottom):
Flower print: Etsy
Table setting: Sunday Suppers
Maxi dress: Rose and Ruby
Married couple: 100 Layer Cake (don't you just love her shoes?)
Name necklace: Simply U Jewellery on Etsy - this was an uncanny find.... I love necklaces with names on them and I actually found one with mine and my partners names on it!
Leggings lady: Chictopia
Paris gift tags: Etsy
Chandelier: Etsy
Suitcase: Rubie Green
Fascinator: Marilena Romeo Millinery from Madaboochoo (this is my all time favourite fascinator.... if only I had the $400 to buy it)
Floral skirt: Chictopia
Bouquet: Pink & Purple Petals (if you live in Brisbane and want a good florist, contact Danielle, she is AMAZING!)
Invitation: Mae Mae Paperie
Nicole Richie: Google

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Tonal love

2009-10-23T11:12:00.004+10:00

I've gone a little tonal today.... and created a mood board comprising of a few things I've recently bought and a few things I want. Starting at the top, check out this gorgeous little cotton dress I bought over the weekend from Sussan. Yes, you heard right, Sussan! It's no longer the Mumsy store it used to be and this great black and beige printed number is going to be perfect for summer, dressed up or down. Worn with a black waist belt, it's even better and a reasonable price at just $119.95.

With such a versatile dress, I've every intention of wearing it for a number of occasions, the first being Melbourne Cup day at the office - all I need to add is a little fascinator. From one of the millions of talented artists on Etsy, the lovely little number top right is from LiveInStyle, a beautiful store full of feathered head pieces and stunning necklaces. Since the Australian dollar is doing so well at the moment, now's a good time to buy up big in the US - total cost of this peacock feathered headband is only AUS$26. Quite the bargain really, hence the reason I just bought it!

A few other purchase I've made in the last week were a cute sale item from Sportsgirl - a girl can never have too many bangles and this wooden & silver animal print one was just $4.95. Not only was it cheap but it works wonderfully well with a great bargain I purchased on Ebay, a cute grey "faux" leather handbag (unfortunately one's bank account doesn't allow for real leather this month). A low, loow $45.45, it's a great piece for when I'm not wearing any black.

Last but not least, on my wish list are these stunning nude coloured heels from Tony Bianco. With a cute buckle and little bit of texture, they'd look great with a dress or jeans (I've got a few light printed tops they would look stunning with!). The "Erin", $129.95.

The reason for my explanation on vintage you ask (since none of the images in the top picture are technically vintage?). This FABULOUS typewriter I picked up at a garage sale last weekend. All I need is some ribbon and I can spend hours writing silly messages to my bloke for him to find when he walks past it next. All for just $25. Now all I need to do is come up with some witty remarks to type..... suggestions welcome!

Enjoy your weekend!

d+s

Friday photos - mix & match

2009-10-16T09:00:00.006+10:00

Today's picks (or pics, however you would like to take the pun) are a bit of a mix of everything, inspired by my new found love of a few blogs I mentioned in my post yesterday.

Of course, there's still a few fashion related images for those of you who might be out and about this weekend doing a spot of shopping like I am. My wonderful Mum is coming to Brisbane for the last few days of the school holidays to do a spot of shopping and to check out Trinny & Susannah at Westfield Chermside on Sunday afternoon (3.30pm if you want to check them out - they're at Carindale at 11am as well).

Lets face it, it's impossible to go past a picture of David Beckham (shirtless or not) without pouring drool all over your keyboard. Or is that just me? Either way, I had to include this smashing image of him at an airport (where he no doubt spends half his life). THAT shirt..... THOSE jeans..... THE Louis bag...... can he do no wrong? Now if only I could get my man into an outfit like that (he may not be a world renowned soccer player but one can dream right?).

Wondering who this lovely young lady is? So am I. That's because I found her on The Satorialist. I am normally one who doesn't mix and match colours in an outfit (ie. if I'm not wearing black, I wouldn't carry a black handbag) but something about this pink dress, those pale shoes and the LV bag just works. The drab black suits around her are helping her stand out like the proverbial but hey, isn't that what most women want?

All I can say is if I look ANYTHING like Faith Hill when I'm her age, I'll be happy (just without the blonde hair and country twang voice). You've got to give her or her stylist props for dressing her in something sophisticated but sexy. Of course we all know you can't go wrong with a black suit but to pair it with a silky unbuttoned shirt and a little "bling" (god I hate that word) hellloooo Mama.

So I've mentioned big necklaces before and if you read fashion magazines or window shop as much as I do, you'll know they are THE accessory for the season. I've been after a "bib" style neckpiece for a few weeks now and Sportsgirl has saved me. Fabulous without being freakishly expensive, this $59.95 stunner is perfect for something that could potentially go out of fashion within weeks. If you're after a cheaper version, Dotti has got a similar shape & look for less (as seen in the November issue of Madison).

Slightly off the fashion topic but still adorable are these fantastic party blowers I found on Utterly Engaged. How great that they give you the instructions on how to make them?! If you've already attempted the gift bow from yesterday I know you're going to love this one... In case you're wondering what velum is, I googled it (having no idea myself) and it looks to be some sort of transperant paper. No doubt your local craft or invitation shop could help you track some down.

I was recently telling a work colleague about my parents old business (anyone know Hatz from Oxford St, Bulimba?) and remembered some of the wonderful feathers my Mum used to use on turbans, hair accessories and hats. They started out collecting the dropped feathers from the cages at a pheasant farm but soon realised the accessories were in such high demand, they needed to buy the birds and pluck the feathers themselves (I have heard stories that they would hang them up on the clothesline out the back of our Bardon house and lop the heads off, pluck the feathers, then have the animal for dinner!). This got me to thinking about the fascinators that are everywhere at the moment for the summer racing season.

There's something to be said for making your own piece of headwear and when I saw these pictures from an overseas company, Bando, I couldn't help but think back to my Mum's feather collecting days. The contrast of brown & beige feathers with the aqua of the bead is to die for. I'd wear this with a beige dress and accessorise with a big aqua ring and maybe matching necklace. The gorgeous model even looks like a girl who used to pose for my Mum's business..... uncanny!

Last but by no means least today, a wonderful image from Blue Dog Posters. If you're after cheap and fantastic posters for yourself of for a gift, these guys are worth checking out. This great Guiness number is just $11 without a frame (not including postage). Get yourself a cheap Ikea or Target frame or send it off to a professional and whola! Cheap & cheerful gift for someone special. Thanks to my Mum for passing these guys onto me. I'm highly considering purchasing myself an Breakfast At Tiffany's poster after the last one I had mysteriously ended up with little holes in it after I found the dog walking around our spare room..... seems our pup isn't a fan of Ms Hepburn.....

Enjoy your weekends, whether your hot (Brisbane), windy (Melbourne) or anywhere in between (the rest of the country!).

d+s

Blogs worth checking out

2009-10-15T15:06:00.009+10:00

So I've been doing a lot of surfing on the information superhighway lately and have come across some fantastic new blogs. Due to my Internet Explorer Favourites getting to be a list as long as about 100 laptop screens, I've started writing them down in a notebook to refer back to. The only problem with this of course is I forget to check them for updates as they're not staring me in the face every lunch time when I sit down to have a sandwich and search the world wide web.

And so today I'm going to post a few blogs that are worth checking out - each one a little quirky, fun and different in their own kind of way.

Free Range Duck
First up is a hilarious website I found whilst looking for some vector images for a work project. I searched for stickers on Vecteezy. I found some. I also found some weird duck images that were totally unrelated but decided to download them anyway. I noticed the web address. Free Range Duck.

A cool project designed to get the cutest little duck image spread to every corner of the globe. I now have my own Free Range Duck on my partition wall at work and intend on taking him for a few escapades around Brisbane to send over to the crew at Free Range Duck. What fun. Completely pointless but fun. Tell me you're not laughing at the hilarious photos from the Secret Garden Party of ducks offering free hugs, right?!

Black Eiffel
I'm a sucker for all things design related - always wishing I'd actually gone to university after high school and studied it (instead of trying to fit in a college course part time while working at the age of 27). I'm also a sucker for a blog with beautiful photos and great links to websites that fill me with inspiration and ideas for things I can make (or design on the computer). I've just started drawing and creating images to start making my own cards for gifts and found a tonne of inspiration on a new blog I came across, Black Eiffel.

You can tell from the first image on the site that Rachel the writer is a graphic designer - her choice of images and words make you want to read through her posts for hours. I also love that she mixes her choice items to post - fashion, photography, music, design and more. One for the list.

How About Orange

So this was actually one of those "stumbled across it through a series of links and found a cool idea" type blogs. I haven't spent much time on the blog How About Orange itself but I noticed it had the BEST idea for crafty types who want to save money, like wrapping gifts creatively and love the adoration when someone comments on how lovely the present is (and they don't want to unwrap it). This is me in a nutshell by the way.

Have you ever wondered how the hell those big bows at the newsagent are made and never just took the time to pull one apart and work it out yourself? (I also can never find the ribbon they use anywhere - can you tell I've tried?). Well, fear not, here is the solution to your craft problems. Grab an old magazine, find a nicely coloured page, cut into strips as instructed, a few pieces of sticky tape and........ tah dah! You've got yourself the cheapest gift bow ever and you've recycled at the same time (ok, so the cost of the magazine may have been twice that of a bow from the newsagent but how many pages are there in the magazine you can make these from?).

Here are the instructions on how to make the bows yourself - and in case you don't have a ruler with inches, here is a quick inches to centimetres calculator.

In case you're wondering, yes I have attempted a bow already. And yes, I did intend on taking a photo and posting it but since it didn't look as nice as the one in the above pictures I decided I'd wait till I get better at it.

Design Mom

I also have to give a shout out to the wonderful Design Mom. I have mentioned her in a few post before but without a doubt, this is one of the coolest blogs I've come across since starting my own. Another designer by trade, the things Gabrielle creates for her kids and the parties she puts together are just wonderful. Should I ever have children, these are the sorts of things I've every intention of doing with them! (even though no doubt at the age of 3 years they are too young to appreciate a fully coloure coordinated get together).

You also have to admire her ability to do all this with 5 children (soon to be 6 as she recently announced she is pregnant again!). Some of the most wonderful images were for her daughters Maude's 10th birthday - a Young Einstein party, just delightful! What 10 year old wouldn't want to eat "brain" cupcakes and make cool science experiments? Not to mention the groovy gifts all the kids went home with (check out the covered clipboards - such a great idea).

I've loads more links to blogs and websites and the like but unfortunately, not enough time to list them so I hope you enjoy at least one of my pick from today. If you have a blog you think I should link to, feel free to comment or send me an email (over to the right is a link to my email address).

Till next time.....

d+s

I've fallen in love with Lonny

2009-10-14T14:22:00.005+10:00

That's right. I've fallen in love with an online magazine.

While flicking through a new favourite blog Black Eiffel I came across this wonderful home/design/decoration magazine called Lonny.

I'm a big magazine junkie which I blame my mother for (50 to 100 copies of Vogue in the house at any given time) but I just haven't gotten into the world of online magazines because you can't sit down with a cuppa, feel the gorgeous glossy paper in your hands or turn page corners down when you find something you like. Yes, I know you can pop your laptop on your knees whilst on the couch and click to turn the page but it's just not the same.

What sucked me in most about this online mag was the people's houses featured in the Fall issue (it's American) have decor and homewares that aren't all worth over $5,000 - and that's just for a lamp shade.

Vogue Living and the like are what I call "scratchie" mags. As in, if you ever win $25,000 on a scratchie you might actually be able to afford some of the items in the magazine. Lonny shows you that the right mix of antique pieces (yes, they can be cheap) and chain store finds can actually make your place look like it should be in the next issue.

I'm also a sucker for photographs of people in their own home with their beautiful pets. People aren't the only ones who make a house a home. The best part of my day is the minute I walk in the door to see my man and our dog waiting to greet me with a mouth full of drool (the dog that is).

The positives of this online magazine though - you can have your lunch break at your desk and read it while enjoying your sandwhich. Even better, check your emails on a Saturday morning over breakfast and flick through it then.

Well worth the read and with barely any ad pages (which we love!) get onto Lonny now and be inspired!

d+s

Friday photos - pay day purchases

2009-10-08T13:50:00.005+10:00

Family comes before blog.... so in light of my trip to the coast tomorrow to catch up with my lovely Grandma for lunch, I'm posting my photos today.

And this week instead of celeb style, I'm going to let you in on what's on my list of things to buy when pay day hits (after I've paid for my Big Day Out ticket of course - mental note, don't bother to get up at midnight to try and score tickets, 9am the next day on Ticketmaster is much easier).

Anyone who knows me won't be surprised I've got a few items on my list from Witchery considering about 90% of my wardrobe is from there. I've got my eye on the Skinny Tough Love jeans ($129.95), a lovely black and white silk blouse ($139.95), some nice casual utility pants ($109.95) - a great alternative to jeans, and to jump on the White Shirt Campaign bandwagon, the most devine necklace & tank combo ($149.95) - the necklace is detachable so it's like you get two outfits in one!

There's plenty more in the latest release of items both online and instore at Witchery so get yourself in for a look see. They've got some gorgeous beach clothes (a few skirts I have my eye on) plus new season shoes and accessories that are on the list for next month!

Also worth a look at their new season stock is French Connection. These guys can be a bit hit and miss but a lot of this seasons summer pieces are more hit.

I'm loving their dresses and tunics especially with this cute black & white print one coming in at under $100, bargain (Under the Sea tunic $99.95). Another cute tunic that could be the perfect addition to my wardrobe to go with leggings when it's a little on the cooler side is the Polished tunic ($79.95). Their Tom Tom pants in black are also a great option if you want the skinny look with wearing jeans ($119.95) and their wrapped disc necklace would love great with a crisp white singlet or T and jeans ($69.95).

Among a tonne of other shops in and around Brisbane, there is plenty more out there that I've got my eye on but with Christmas now not far away and a few too many festivals to have to save for, I'll have to try and keep my spending to a minimum for a few more months.....

Enjoy your weekends whatever you're doing - I'll be spending a lot of time in front of the TV cheering on Holden at Bathurst (yes, I'm a bogan at heart).

Till next time.....

d+s

Easiest & best summer drink..... EVER

2009-10-01T13:23:00.003+10:00

What you need:
- A free Sunday afternoon
- Some great beats cranking out of the stereo/mp3 player
- A few friends/family members (unless you want to enjoy this on your own, then grab a book or magazine)

- Bundaberg Ginger Beer
- Vodka (brand is up to you)
- Handfuls of mint (loads of 'em)
- Ice
- Small tumblers

What to do:
- Turn on music
- Place ice in tumbler
- Pour shot of vodka (or more if you have the day off on Monday)
- Place handful of chopped mint leaves in glass
- Fill glass with Bundaberg Ginger Beer
- Find yourself a seat
- Chill......

Best served with your choice of canapes/nibblies (rice paper rolls are quite good with this, load 'em up with corriander and you'll get double the herb hit).

If this isn't the best drink you have all summer, I'm not a 27 year old chick living in Brisvegas.

d+s

So not celebrity....

2009-09-30T09:01:00.003+10:00

I couldn't help but post a few pics of some non-celebrities I found on the web so far this week. While I don't get a lot of time to write on this blog due to work, life commitments, I always make time in the mornings with a coffee or at night after dinner to check out what's happening on the net.

You all know I love Chictopia and everyone who's anyone reads The Satorialist (where a few photos are from this week) but I also have a few other secret blogs I follow for their interesting images and great links. One of the best ways to find out about other blogs is by checking out who your favourites reccomend.

While checking out one of said blogs today, I came across a picture of these two amazing young fashionistas. Can you believe Noa & Lev are only 14? And they have their own blog..... Brains & Beauty. While people under the age of 17 being more fashionable than most of the world scares me to death, I can't help but admire these two for so clearly knowing what they love and [in this digital age] being able to so easily make it come to life.

The lovely Karen from Where Did You Get That is one lucky gal - not only does she have the body to rival Ms Gisele herself (check out those legs will you) but she's fashionable and has one heck of a photographer for a boyfriend. This shot stood out so much to me this morning, it's making me want to go and buy myself a digital SLR camera even though I can't afford it. Getting the light right in a train? Genius.

Two reasons for posting this shot (apart from the fact that it's a fantastic moving image) - I want those legs and that necklace. Ok, so maybe three reasons - I wouldn't say no to those heels either!

I couldn't miss out a few Chictopia shots either - I'm on the look out for a nice black maxi dress for summer but can't seem to find one. If only this gal was in Australia, she only spent $40 on this gorgeous number from Target!

Ummmm - hello, can I have that necklace please? And while we're at it, that dress is very chic. Most of us couldn't pull off the big shoulders that are around at the moment (since we're not all Beyonce) but this LBD actually works. Not too big that they're over the top but not too small that they look like they're trying too hard. And isn't she just a cutie to boot? I think I'm going to be on the look out for a big chunky necklace in the coming weeks...... can't you tell?

Have a good hump day all!

d+s

design+style for invitations, cards/announcements, stationery, logos + more

2009-09-28T16:27:00.003+10:00

Since I don't have an actual website just yet I'm shamlessly plugging myself in this post today..... design+style now does graphic design!

If you're after invitations, cards or baby announcements, business or personal stationery, logos, brochures/flyers and loads more, design+style can help.

Should you be after something for a wedding, new arrival, new business or just for your own personal use, design+style can assist with the design and printing of any of these items.

To check out some examples of things I've done, click here to see my portfolio.

No job is too big or too small, all queries are welcome! Feel free to contact me via email should you have something you'd like design+style to help with.

Contact design+style:
hannahwest10@gmail.com

d+s

Friday photos, blogs worth checking out and more....

2009-09-25T13:00:00.013+10:00

This week was bursting with great photos, due largely to a few major award nights both in America and Australia. My pick of the Emmy's earlier this week was the gorgeous Kate Walsh and stunning Toni Collete. Kate rarely puts a foot wrong when it comes to style and while I wouldn't normally like this type of dress, Ms Walsh works it well and has matched a lovely shade of light blue/grey with her complexion and hair colour.

There's also no going past our very own Toni Collete. Not only did she look red (or should I say pink) hot at the show, she also took home the Emmy for Best Actress in a Comedy Series for The United States of Tara. If you haven't checked this program out (Wednesday nights, 9.30pm on ABC1) then you need to sit yourself down and watch! Not only is Toni an amazing actress but the story lines and supporting cast are fantastic. Each episode seems to be getting crazier by the week and we just love it in our house (certainly makes you feel like you're not as insane as you thought you were).

It seems there were so many events around the globe this week that I couldn't decide which photos to put up.... so instead of posting evey shot and telling you why I like them, I'm just going to let you gawk on your own. A special note must go to little Miss Dirrty though, Christina Aguilera. After having her little baby Max while back now, we haven't seen much of the songstress (and to be honest, what I have seen wasn't all that great compared to how she used to get dolled up!). But this recent shot of her makes me think she might be making her way back into the celebrity/music world. Plus you've gotta give a girl some credit for finding a look and sticking with it. Platinum blonde hair and red lipstick will never go out of style (and least she's probably hoping so).

I've also been trasping the internet this week for all things bridal..... not because I'm getting married (sorry to dissapoint anyone who's reading this that knows me and my man).

A girlfriend and her partner recently announced their engagement (at their baby shower no less) and I've offered to help her make her wedding invitations. Considering I've only ever made one wedding invitation in my designing life, I thought I better have a sticky beak at what everyone else does (not being married means I have no experience in this field - and what a bloody big field it is).

Enter 100 Layer Cake. I came across this blog while doing a google image search on wedding invitations and immediately fell in love. Their selection of photographs of real weddings, their colour boards, DIY tips and links to wedding supply companies are second to none. The only problem is it does mean you get stuck on the internet going back through old posts for hours. Beware - you will need some time to read this blog, you'll get sucked into the beautiful images and wedding ideas even if you're not getting married!

What I really love most about this blog though are the Real Weddings they chose to post about. Almost every single one has something a little quirky about it - while still being reasonably traditional with bridesmaids, receptions etc, each one really shows the personalities of the bride and groom through colours, invitations, wacky photos and even a few special guests - who wouldn't want their puppy at their wedding?

My favourite idea from the real weddings from these guys though has to be photo booths. It's always fun to see everyone else's photos from an event (especailly when someone slightly more sober at the end of the night has the camera on those who have had a few too many) and this is one idea I would love to steal for any function. Providing a cool backdrop for guests to take their own happy snaps would no doubt leave you with some cool shots for a wedding album no?

What's also interesting is the amount of work the bride and groom from a lot of these weddings do themselves. So many couples create their own invitations, make bridesmaid dresses and ties and even decorate the reception areas themselves. Granted as you read some of the stories you'll find some people work in creative fields which would help with an eye for what works but by searching the internet (and blogs like this) and talking to wedding planners or designers, you'd be surprised at what you could create yourself.

And so into the weekend we head.... it's AFL Grand Final day tomorrow here in Australia and while my team may not have made it into this momentus game (shame Port Adelaide, shame) I still get excited by all the colour and passion displayed by Aussies on this one day in September. Congratulations to Gary Ablett Jr who took out the Brownlow on Monday evening and to his gorgeous girlfriend (see Friday photos above) who was my pic of the best dressed ladies of the evening - very on trend with the big necklace.

I managed to come second in my footy tipping comp this season - pipped at the post by my man - and I tipped Geelong for the win tomorrow but either way, it's going to be a great day and I hope you enjoy the game wherever you're watching from. Lets hope the dust has settled (literally this week!) and it's a warm, sunny weekend for football, festivals and fun.

Enjoy!

d+s

Robot's sometimes get hiccups!

2009-09-25T09:06:00.002+10:00

I just couldn't not post about this!

While checking out Design Mom's new posts this morning, I came across a link to this cute as a button website, Jane the Pink Robot.

Click on the triangle, then hit any key on your keyboard to see what Jane has to say. Great fun for kids and adults alike (if you think Robot's with hiccups are funny that is...)

Adorable!

d+s

I'll have what she's having

2009-09-22T13:04:00.011+10:00

When: Saturday Night

What: Meeting up with an old work colleague back from 2 years in the UK

Where: X&Y Bar, Fortitude Valley (highly recommended)

Wore: Barkins grey boyfriend blazer, Witchery white loose fitting singlet, Dotti black "jeanie" pants (as posted about last week and named so because apparently they make me look like I Dream of Jeanie in them) , Diva black horn necklace, Tony Bianco black suede round toe heels, Portmans black clutch.

Drink: the Applesinthe cocktail $19 - La Fee Bohemian Absinthe, French Apple Liqueur, cloudy Apple Juice, Lemon Juice and Passionfruit Pulp in a tall glass w/ crushed ice.

Ever had drink envy? It's the same as food envy - when someone else orders something and you wish you'd ordered what they had instead of the crap you ended up with. Well I had drink envy on Saturday night. I frequently can't decide what to drink when I'm out because a lot of places have shitty wine selections (and that's mostly what I drink). And so in my hasty decision to pick something so I didn't piss off the bartender, I ended up drinking champagne at $9 a glass (yes, $9 a glass. I can get a whole bottle for that at my local).

What I WISHED I'd ordered was the above mentioned Applesinthe. Two girls beside me at the bar ordered them about half way through the evening and the smell when the cocktail shaker was poured was intoxicating. I could have saved myself some money (and trips to the bar) by ordering 4 of those instead of 8 glasses of champagne but hindsight is a wonderful thing isn't it.

If you haven't checked out X&Y yet, I highly recommend it. Funky beats (including some awesome old school tracks), a great cocktail list, a cheeky "hole in the floor" so you can see how busy it is upstairs if you're in the downstairs bar (beware if you're wearing a skirt/dress ladies) and some mega groovy bar staff who wear t-shirts bearing the faces of dead icons such as Michael Jackson, Farrah Fawcett etc. Check out their website or drop in (they're right across from Cloudland on Ann Street, Fortitude Valley) - the cocktails are worth the trip.

d+s

PS. Since we're talking drinks, I came across the easiest and best summer sip at the Westfield Chermside function a few weeks back - vodka, Bundaberg Ginger Beer and loads of fresh mint. Helllllooooo warm, lazy Sunday afternoons............

Friday photos

2009-09-18T09:38:00.007+10:00

Praise the lord, it's Friday. If only we all didn't have to work and it was wine time all day long. I just read a new post at my girlfriends new blog Magnolia Gray and now I'm feeling like I need to be beside a pool sipping a cocktail..... bah! If only.

But I digress. I can't sit here all day and dream of what I could be doing (I should be thinking of all the work I SHOULD be doing!). And so it's to this week's photos we go.

Speaking of all things Summery, check out the always stunning Blake Lively on the set of Gossip Girl earlier this week. Does this chick not have the best wardrobe in the world? (although I can't tell if this is Blake or Serena but either way, I wouldn't be complaining).

Today Fabsugar is asking which outfit is Audrey's best from the premiere's of Coco Avant Chanel. Frankly, who can choose? This girl doesn't put a foot wrong. Not to mention she looks and is named after my ultimate style icon, Ms Hepburn herself! Buuuut.... if I had to pick, I must say, the gorgeous navy blue & white number (far left) is my kinda dress. Classic but just a little bit edgy.

You've got to give it to Lauren Conrad. She no longer has a hit TV show but she still manages to get her lovely mug in magazines, on websites and all over everything else at least once a day. Even when someone ELSE is taking photos of her for her line of necklaces for charity, she gets splashed all over the net. Why did I pick this shot today though you ask (as it is a little bland). Well, because somehow LC makes a plain white singlet, black jeans and silver necklace look good.

Continuing on from my post on Monday about my outfit last week, I thought I might put together what I've got on today. After trapsing around Westfield Chermside last night on the look out for a little something to quench my shopping thirst, I came across the cutest pair of black "fashion cargo" pants in Dotti. Similar to the navy blue pair I picked up in Witchery a few months back, I just couldn't go past the price - $69.95. They're a great cut and look good with both heels and flats. I teamed them today with a loose white racer back singlet (which I also picked up last night in Witchery), a black horn pendant I've had for what feels like a decade (but still gets comments every time I wear it), black peep toe heels and a little red Country Road cropped cardigan to keep me warm in the office.

I've every intention of wearing the pants out to drinks with a friend who's back from the UK tomorrow night but instead of the peep toes and red cardigan, I've decided to try and find a pair of gladiator heels. I don't know if anyone else has this problem but for me, heels with ankle straps of any kind just don't work on my legs (ie. they make me look like I've got tree trunks and body builders calves). However, when worn with pants rather than a dress or skirt, the problem seems to be avoided. And there's no doubt about it - the only reason the harem/fashion cargo pant look with the tapered ankle is back is to show off the over the top shoes that are all the rage.

I'm hoping I might get away with a reasonably cheap pair however as I don't know how long this look will last..... while the tapered ankle pant is likely something that will stick around, you can only wear so many gladiator heels before you get sick of all that embelishment.

In the mean time though, to avoid spending more than $100 on something I may live to regret buying, I've found a few styles in Payless, Famous and Barkins that get the look without the price tag. These two from Payless (right) are just $79.95 - and seriously, is anyone going to be that close to them to notice where they're from? Not likely.

New season items have also come through at Barkins and would be worth a look-see, check out the Boyd and Jacob styles, both just $59.95.

Enjoy your weekend!

d+s

Better late than never

2009-09-14T13:40:00.011+10:00

So I didn't get any photos up on Friday due to my puppy going AWOL. Good thing he decided to jump the fence of a family members house who lives right near the RSPCA and we got him back within a few hours (he must have been jealous we were going to Byron Bay without him so we decided to take him in the end). Just so he doesn't feel left out again, I thought I would finally post a few pics of him today (don't worry, fashion to follow!).

This is our little Diesel as a puppy.....

And how he looks now - still as cute as ever!

Better late than never though right? A few snaps of things I fell in love with last week.

I don't normally rate Whitney Port as I think sometimes she is just too fashion forward (and being such a tall girl, I often think she doesn't wear things to suit her height/shape) but this is just fab-u-lous. Shorts have really become a versatile item and Whitney has really picked her colours well with a nice pastel theme. The perfect Spring ensemble.

I can't say I'm "bananas" for Rachel Zoe but I can see her appeal (I'd also KILL for her job). I'm lusting after a nice pair of pants similar to her's in this photo (and I think I've found some - more on that later in this post).

If you haven't realised chain's & big necklaces are back, you're living under a rock. Put the two together and you've got a rockin accessory. Lily's choice of what looks like her Mum's sweater leaves a little to be desired but the necklace is to die for.

You'd be hard pressed to find a woman who can pull off a platinum blonde quiff and blue eye shadow but Gwen seems to make this look GOOD. Not to mention how chic little Kingston looks with his scarf, parka and matching blonde hairdo! These two make me want to go out and buy kids clothes!

I was also lucky enough to attend a Westfield Chermside Spring/Summer preview last week at the beautiful Mirra in Fortitude Valley (if you're after somewhere a little different for a function, check them out). Stylist Kim Ring went through a number of different looks for the up-coming season all from stores located at Westfield Chermside.

I would have loved to get some photos but unfortunately couldn't. I have however ticked a number of items in my little look-book that I want to purchase from the show so I'll endeavour to post a few pics of them if they make their way into my wardrobe (I think at least the accessories will). One beautiful dress I did find online that was shown on the catwalk was this a stunning floor length gown from Forever New.

And lastly, I had to post a little collage of an outfit I put together last week. After falling in love with a work colleagues snake skin heels from Wittner, I just had to get myself a pair. Alas, funds didn't allow me to purchase the more expensive patent pair she did but who needs them when you can get an identical pair from Payless for just $59.95!

I can't take the credit for the outfit though - that goes to Kate Beckinsale. While she teamed her white shirt, black shorts and heels with a patent red belt (which I'm now on the look out for since I don't have one) I decided the new shoes needed breaking in.

Enjoy the rest of your week.

d+s

Friday photos - She wears short shorts

2009-09-04T16:50:00.004+10:00

Today's photos are dedicated to this lovely weather we're having in Brisbane. Perfect for short shorts in all colours and styles.

Want to get yourself a pair? Look no further than this cute pair from Country Road..... Ink Cotton Shorts, $119 (new season stock so in stores now).

Have a good weekend!

d+s

Popular Penguins

2009-08-26T13:46:00.009+10:00

I didn't think my trip to the Post Office to pay my $3.70 underpaid postage bill was going to be worth the petrol. I was wrong.

On walking out of the Post Shop I noticed a large stand of orange covered Penguin books with titles that I recognised (albeit mostly from movies). Pride & Prejudice, One Flew Over The Cuckoo's Nest, Frankenstein etc. Then I noticed my favourite. The thinner of the bunch, Breakfast At Tiffany's by Truman Capote was pushed to the back of the stand. No matter the length of the book, they were all $9.95.

Not wanting to look like an idiot and go back to the Post Shop counter, I thought maybe I'll just head to the newsagent and stick with getting a magazine. But there was nothing there I liked. I've read everything I wanted this month minus Madison and I just couldn't bring myself to buy it with that cover (the photo of Sienna Miller is the least inviting photo I've seen on a magazine ever).

So I moved onto the gift store. What do you know, they had the same stand. But no Breakfast at Tiffany's. Wait - there is a Mary Ryan's just a few shops up. I've got $10 in my wallet and could do with something light to read at lunch. It must have been my day, I picked up the last copy they had. And I only spent $2 more than I would have on the magazine. And I didn't look like a weirdo going back to the Post Shop counter for a second time.

Who would have thought that this was the premise for Popular Penguins -

The Idea
He just wanted a decent book to read . . .

Not too much to ask, was it? It was in 1935 when Allen Lane stood on a British railway platform looking for something good to read on his journey. His choice was limited to popular magazines and poor quality paperbacks. Lane's disappointment and subsequent anger at the range of books available led him to found a company – and change the world.

'We believed in the existence of a vast reading public for intelligent books at a low price, and staked everything on it.'

Sir Allen Lane, 1902–1970, founder of Penguin Books

Reading habits have changed since 1935, but Penguin still believes in publishing the best books for everyone to enjoy, and that quality books published passionately and responsibly make the world a better place.

At such a small price, I'm planning on buying at least 2 new titles a month. And at $9.95 it's cheaper than the movies and much more educational. Plus I think a nice little stack of orange books could look great on my buffett.....

d+s

Blogs worth checking out: Pacing the Panic Room

2009-08-25T13:08:00.004+10:00

It may seem a little weird (especially to my man) that I am in love with a blog all about babies considering I don't actually have any of my own but I guarantee that after reading a few short posts and checking out some of the gorgeous photography on Pacing the Panic Room, you too will be hooked.

I originally came across the Maternity Series through another lovely blog, Design Mom. It was impossible not to get caught up in the week by week account of the writers partner Cole and the pending birth of their second child. I didn't always have time to read the full posts but the image of the stunning Cole and the description of where she was at with her pregnancy that week were enough. Even cuter was when their first born turned doctor and listened to the heartbeat of his soon to be new brother or sister.

The Maternity Series may have finished with the birth of their little baby girl Tessa but the main blog continues on. I thoroughly enjoy reading snippets on the changes their second child has made to their family life and looking at the beautiful photos of their little family.

Whether you're awaiting the birth of your first, already have a broad of 10, don't want children at all or are still deciding when is the right time, this blog is worth a read, if only for starting at the cute as a button children this lucky couple has.

Enjoy.

d+s

Friday photos

2009-08-21T09:11:00.005+10:00

Blake Lively on the set of Gossip Girl - is anyone else DYING to see the next season?

I'm not in love with her hat but I am in love with the rest of Nicole Richie's outfit. Especially those shoes - I'm looking for a similar pair but without the $1,000 price tag!

The Hills hasn't been the same without Lauren Conrad but at least her replacement has a decent wardrobe to drool over. Kristen looks lovely in her black, white & yellow.

They don't call her Posh for nothing. Flawless as always, Mrs Beckham heads off to another guest judge spot on American Idol. What I'd do for her wardrobe... (and maybe her husband)

What a pair! Cindy Crawford and her daughter out for a stroll both looking fantastic! I think I'm going to steal Cindy's outfit for Saturday night now that I have grey skinnys....

Enjoy your weekend, whatever you're doing - Go Port Adelaide against the Brisbane Lions on Saturday night!

d+s

Close your eyes and tap your heels together

2009-08-20T11:34:00.005+10:00

On my endless quest to find Oz - sorry, I mean shoes - that fit within my depleating budget and new grey skinny jeans, I've come across a number of sale items and cheap shoe stores worth a look see if you're after something under $150 for the weekend.

While wearing heels at the football is not the most practical of outfits, one should always look their best, especially on the off chance a hunky player may walk past after the game.... just don't tell my man I've got a crush on Jonathon Brown - I'll never hear the end of it being a Port Adelaide supporter.

If only Port Adelaide were still just black and white (thanks for stealing our guernsey's Collingwood). Red shoes just don't go with the teal in my team scarf.

Scooter "Longoria" $129.95

A great style that won't date - just make sure you spray on some weather protector before wearing - vodka and suede don't mix!

Mollini "Pepper" $70
A bargain buy and a great shape. Go all out with red toe nail polish to match!

Mollini "Grosgrain ribbon" $128

A classic, girly style with a solid heel and slightly raised sole to stop sore feet after a long night out.

Siren "Appro" $149.95
Not exactly red but they're just HOT. Plus nowhere near as expensive as the original Louis Vuitton design!

Siren "Cult" $139.95
Again, not red but I'm also on the look out for something a little flash to go with my navy blue cargo pants from Witchery and these are right on the money.

If you're really strapped for cash and still want something for the weekend, it's worth checking out Payless Shoes. Most people can't tell the difference between the $200 and the $50 patent black pumps plus you won't feel bad for spilling drinks all over the $50 pair.

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Grey skies are going to clear up

2009-08-19T14:16:00.010+10:00

Put on a happy face (I have!).

I just can't seem to get enough of grey. Light grey, charcoal, marle, whatever your fancy, it's almost as good a staple as black. I recently bought a pair of grey skinny jeans (I can't quite believe how long it's taken me) and now I'm obsessed with looking for things to wear them with.

Thanks to a day off and a quick look in Just Jeans, I'm now the proud owner of a great pair of grey skinnies for only $50 - yes, that's right - $50! Not only were they cheap but they are a great cut and for once I don't have to have the hems taken up cause I'm such a short arse.

The only downside is now I want lots more black tops, red shoes and stripes to go with them (a la Christina Aguilera). I also think I've got another girl crush but this time on Lara Bingle. After seeing a hot pic of her in some grey skinnies and biker jacket (now I want one of these too) I think I'm in love with her style. If only I had the money to buy the labels she did (I wouldn't say no to Michael Clarke either actually).

Yes, the weather in Brisvegas is warmer than a freshly made coffee at the moment and grey is generally more of a winter colour but I don't care. There's something a little rock chick about grey skinnies - especially when you add the right accessories like a black horn pendant, white singlet, black long line cardi and black peep toes which I have on today.

Good thing Country Road has a great loose fitting black singlet for $59.95 available in their city store that I'm picking up tomorrow - that's Friday's outfit looked after.

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