Balenciaga

48 HOURS IN HONG KONG BY JASMIN HOWELL


There is something which draws me to big cities - I love the hustle and bustle, the sounds the sights and Hong Kong is no exception.










I've returned to Hong Kong for only my second visit and I feel even more in love with this cosmopolitan city. I'm working on a new passion project, that sees me experience some of the best sights, sounds, tastes and style my favourites cities have to offer in just 48 hours.

If you have any Hong Kong tips - please send them my way either via instagram / twitter @friendinfashion or EMAIL me. I'd love to include all your favourites as well!

I can't WAIT to share more of this, and all of my travel tips with you soon - be sure to stay tuned for more coming really soon.


The location was perfect - right in the heart of the action and only from Hong Kong's biggest shopping mall - Harbour City! Valentino and Balenciaga were at the top of my shopping list.

Much love to my amazing French makeup artist and photographer who spent a gorgeous balmy evening running around the streets of Hong Kong.





TRAVEL DIARY | AUSTRALIAN ROAD TRIP WITH BMW


Last weekend I was treated by BMW Melbourne to the ultimate luxury weekend away in the beautiful, Victorian spa-town of Daylesford...










A short 45 minute drive from Melbourne, Daylesford is a gorgeous little country town, synonymous with pampering and luxury.

I had only been to Daylesford once before, on a very quick visit, and to be honest knew little more of this quaint destination.

My itinerary kicked off with a visit to the iconic Swiss-Italian farm, Lavandula. A stunning lavender farm a few minutes out of town. As you would imagine, the farm was stunning across all senses.

Next up, I checked into the très chic Hepburn at Hepburn luxury villas. Nestled in among the hills, this luxe accommodation was designed by award-winning architect David Edelman. A great place to stop and spend the night, the spa bath is truly extravagant and up there with one of the biggest I've ever seen.

Before not too long it was time for dinner, where I was treated to a beautiful degustation of local produce and wines from Daylesford culinary institution, Mercarto. The 'summer garden' starter of locally sourced garden treats was a highlight.

Sunday morning kicked off with a lazy long brunch, before shopping up a storm at the local antique market, where I walked away with some beautiful crystal goodies for the home.

To wrap up this exquisite weekend away, I was treated to a pamper session at Hepburn Bathhouse & Spa. The private pure mineral water bath, that the region is famous for, was just divine, which was followed by a one hour long massage for the perfect cherry on top.

As a traveller, it is easy to sometimes overlook experiences in your own backyard. I had an incredible time exploring Daylesford, and there is nothing better than jumping in a car for a short drive to experience what's on your own door-step.

The brand new BMW 318i M Sport, got me around town with ease and in style and was an absolute pleasure to drive.

A special thank you to BMW Melbourne for a truly luxurious and memorable escape.

FRIEND IN FASHION VAMFF STREET STYLE


VAMFF Street Style - Runway 1, Miss Vogue...


Finders Keepers top, Bassike trousers, Balenciaga heels, Givenchy clutch, by jasmin jewellery

What I wore to Runway 1, presented by Miss Vogue for Virgin Australian Melbourne Fashion Festival (VAMFF). 

This look was all about great silhouettes and statement accessories.
Captured by Karen Woo. 

FRIEND IN FASHION x LIFE with BIRD


Life With Bird, Balenciaga pastel Summer Street Style on Friend in Fashion YSL Balenciaga Street Style on Friend in Fashion Life With Bird, Balenciaga pastel Summer Street Style on Friend in Fashion YSL Balenciaga Street Style on Friend in Fashion Life With Bird, Balenciaga pastel Summer Street Style on Friend in Fashion

To coincide with the their new Chadstone store opening on Saturday 7 December, this week, I've teamed up with one of my favourite Australian designers, LIFE with BIRD, to bring you my favourite looks this festive season. 

 When it comes to party season, I generally head straight to dresses, so I thought I'd mix things up a little and style a range of different party favourites. The first look is shorts - who says you can't wear shorts to a party?

 I love matching separates together and this pretty lilac tank/shorts combo are the perfect splash of colour, and this bomber is hands down one of my favourite pieces from the new LIFE with BIRD collection - so versatile and so chic.    

 So If you're in Melbourne over the weekend, do swing by and join me at the opening of LIFE with BIRD's new Chadstone store. There will be plenty of fun and surprises - I'd love to see you. 

 When: Saturday 7 December, 1pm - 4pm

 Where: LIFE with BIRD, Chadstone Shopping Centre

 Complimentary refreshments provided, as well as your chance to win a beautiful LIFE with BIRD dress.

 Photos / Tim Florea

FINISHING TOUCHES


YSL Balenciaga Street Style on Friend in Fashion YSL Balenciaga Street Style on Friend in Fashion YSL Balenciaga Street Style on Friend in Fashion YSL Balenciaga Street Style on Friend in Fashion
Three of Something cami, YSL clutch via Reebonz, Balenciaga heels, Zara trousers

As I find myself drawn more and more to classic monochrome, I can't help but focus on key accessories when styling an outfit. 

 These Balenciaga heels (also seen here), were picked up on my recent visit to Rome and add a subtle splash of colour. I'm also a fan of patent finishes, particularly when it come to accessories, so I could't pass up this perfectly versatile clutch via my friends at Reebonz.

 Reebonz is one of my online go-tos when I'm on the hunt for luxury items, and they are offering Friend in Fashion readers, an exclusive $50 voucher when you sign up to their website (here).

 Happy shopping!

 Photos / Street Smith

STOCKHOLM STREET STYLE








Summer in Stockholm, has meant, small bursts of sunshine, but mainly cloudy skies and cooler weather - very different to my last few months of Island living across Croatia and Greece.

The benefit of this - an excuse for more shopping (not that I ever struggle with this).

ACNE is probably one of Sweden's biggest fashion exports, so I couldn't pass up on this perfect trans-seasonal ACNE sweater dress, when I hit the shops in Stockholm. The perfect pairing for my Balenciaga heels.

From Stockholm, I'm off to Oslo for a few days, before some rest and relaxation in my beloved Paris - oui oui! 

Instagram @friendinfashion to follow my travel adventure.