chanel

THE DESIGNER GIFT GUIDE


‘Tis the season is almost upon us, so I wanted to share with you my ultimate gift guide of designer goodies from Farfetch...


Dior, Givenchy, Valentino and Chloe, are always on high rotation as some of my favourite designer options and I’ve hand-picked some of my season must-haves for gift giving this season. 

Whether you’re giving or receiving, when it comes to gift giving, I always opt for quality over quantity. With this in mind, if you’re looking at spoiling yourself this festive season, or want to drop a few helpful hints to your other half, I say stick to one key accessory that you are guaranteed to get wear out of for years to come.


If budget is no option then it’s all about a signature IT bag, or street-snap-worthy statement shoes…or both! Afterall, a girl can never have too many shoes or handbags…right?



When it comes to bags, my first visit is always the designer vintage category. Pick up a pre-loved, rare, Louis Vuitton, or Chanel, or Hermes for something extra, extra special. Or if you prefer something sparkly new, IT-girl-favourite Chloe will definitely turn heads.


From Jimmy Choo to Alexander McQueen, sandals to pumps, there is definitely something for every shoe lover. I often tend to go all out when it comes to my shoe decisions, so more is definitely more. Keep a statement pair of heels simple with a white tee and jeans, or opt for a bold look with a gorgeous cocktail dress.


If you’re on a bit more of a budget, then I’ve handpicked some of my favourite accessories which come in under $250. I think this Moschino belt is an absolute must-have for all fashion lovers, and instantly adds a splash of glam to a simple black dress or pair of shorts. Jewellery is always a fabulous gift, especially when you’re not sure where to start. I opt for fine pieces, which can be mixed and matched easily with existing jewellery. Always a winner.

And there you have it – a few of my fashion favourites. You can shop all thesestyles and more [here]

THE IT BAG 

Louis Vuitton Vintage
Chloe 'Drew' shoulder bag
Chanel 'Lego' bag
  
STATEMENT SHOES
Jimmy Choo 'Vesna' gold pump
Alexander McQueen 'laser cut' sandal

Delpozo 'bow detail' sandal


UNDER $250
Moschino logo belt
Comme Des Garcons wallet
One Oak by Sara necklace


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in partnership with Farfetch

OUI OUI PARIS


 The city of love and style, J'aime Paris!






If you're following me on instagram, or snapchat (@friendinfashion), you would have seen my latest adventure from one of my favourite cities in the world, Paris!

France for me, naturally optimises style, so my dress code is simple - black, white, stripes and Chanel of course.

I'm in town with Veuve Clicquot, to celebrate their newest product Rich (trust me - it's amazing!), which, luckily for me, means a gorgeous visit to the Champagne region of France (Reims), as well as some fun in Paris.

More on this soon...

I'M WEARING
Nicholas Ball Skirt
ASOS Turtle Neck

MY SECRET TO GLOWING SKIN

STATEMENT LACE JUMPSUIT

Black Lace Street Style, Revolve on Friend in Fashion, www.friendinfashion.com.au

Dress it up or dress it down...

Black Lace Street Style, Revolve on Friend in Fashion, www.friendinfashion.com.au

Black Lace Street Style, Revolve on Friend in Fashion, www.friendinfashion.com.au

Black Lace Street Style, Revolve on Friend in Fashion, www.friendinfashion.com.au

Black Lace Street Style, Revolve on Friend in Fashion, www.friendinfashion.com.au

Black Lace Street Style, Revolve on Friend in Fashion, www.friendinfashion.com.au

Black Lace Street Style, Revolve on Friend in Fashion, www.friendinfashion.com.au

Black Lace Street Style, Revolve on Friend in Fashion, www.friendinfashion.com.au

NBD lace jumpsuit via Revolve / Chanel bag, by jasmin 'carpe diem' necklace

To me, lace is always so classic and a timeless addition to any wardrobe.

Ordinarily, I'm drawn to white lace, but for something different (and a bit more winter-friendly), I opted for a black version of this striking jumpsuit. I think the plunging neckline adds a perfect modern twist. 



MBFWA WRAP UP

Four days, four new outfits…welcome to my MBFWA.
Last week, I had the pleasure of attending MBFWA! Here is a wrap up of my fashion week wardrobe. 

DAY 1 - STRIPE ON STRIPE
To kick off fashion week, I opted for a bold and colourful look. I took these incredible striped separates from Aussie label MacGraw and complimented them with key bold accessories. This green Furla clutch and a pop of lip colour with my new beauty must have Estée Lauder Pure Color Envy Shine in 'Surreal Sun'.

DAY 2 - ALL BLUE EVERYTHING
Back in colour for day two but this time I stuck to some OTT baby blue. To break up the block colour, I opted for my favourite Givenchy floral clutch, nude sandals and a soft pink lip created with Envy Shine in 'Charmed'.


DAY 3 - 70s REVIVAL

It's all about 70s style on the runway and street style is no exception. For day three, I managed to track down these incredible Shakuhachi flares (my new wardrobe staple) as my outfit starting point. I completed my inner-70s-child by layering some more stripes, these electric blue shades and of course a strong bold lip colour - this time my choice was Envy Shine in 'Empowered'.


DAY 4 - CROP IT
For my final fashion week outfit - I thought I'd have a bit of fun contrasting prints and patterns. I love to mix, match and clash! So I styled this Clover Canyon neo-prene crop, with this stripe skort. I decided to keep my accessories to a minimum for this look, with Classic Chanel and a nude lip (Envy Shine - 'Discreet') for the perfect finishing touches.


And there you have it - my fashion week wardrobe all wrapped up! 
Which was your favourite look?
  
Photos / Street Style Australia


WHITE DRESS, PASTEL PINKS


As a fashion blogger, I take great joy in uncovering new design talent...
Georgia Annabelle dress / Pink Coat from Hong Kong / Chanel Wallet On Chain / by jasmin jewellery

A short while ago, while tumbling around instagram, I came across this beautiful mesh ball dress, by graduate Sydney designer, Georgia Annabelle.

This backless dress, is definitely head-turner, and was the perfect outfit option for the Melbourne Fashion Festival closing event celebration.

Keep an eye on this up and comer. 


PHOTOS /


STREET STYLE | TRAVEL ESSENTIALS



As a fashion and travel blogger, style and technology go hand in hand.

When packing for a trip, I'm drawn to quality pieces that not only look great, but will also stand the test of time.

Here are a few of my travel essentials.

STYLE ESSENTIALS

+ Comfy shoes - for all travel and transit well worn in flats are essential. At the moment, my Valentino rockstuds are on high rotation. Once I hit the street, a pair of classic black pumps take-over.

+ Travel bag - a great small cross body bag is another essential of mine. Chanel is my everyday go-to. I love a cross-body style when travelling because it is a more secure option and it also leaves your hands free for signing documents, handling cash, or importantly taking that perfect photo.

+ Sunglasses - a classic oversized style is a saviour after a 16hr flight, especially when your eyes are a little worse for wear. Prada cat eyes are my style of choice.


TECHNOLOGY ESSENTIALS

+ Quality headphones - these are a MUST for all flights and will not only help you enjoy your inflight entertainment in style, but they are essential for blocking out additional cabin noise. 

BOSE are my go-to headphones every time, I love their styling - they are sleek and compact (great space-savers when packing) AND best of all they are bluetooth compatible, which means I don't have to rely on cords or cables.

+ Laptop & Camera - I don't travel anywhere (even for a day), without my laptop and camera. I always shoot on a Nikon, and rotate between my DSLR and compact cameras depending on my destination and how long I'm away for.

+ Portable speaker - This BOSE SoundLink portable speaker is the newest addition to my carry on and I am in love! It's small and compact, which is extremely practical for travel, and, as with the headphones, these also operate via bluetooth.

I love that I can now take my tunes down to the beach or pool and the sound is absolutely incredible - perfect for an impromptu summer beach party.

What are your travel essentials?

I'm wearing: Bose headphones, Zara knit, Seven For All Mankind jeans, Jimmy Choo pumps, Chanel wallet on chain


In partnership with Bose.

#BECAUSENOREASON

Friend in Fashion guide to the Spring Racing Carnival on www.friendinfashion.com.au Friend in Fashion guide to the Spring Racing Carnival on www.friendinfashion.com.au Friend in Fashion guide to the Spring Racing Carnival on www.friendinfashion.com.au Friend in Fashion guide to the Spring Racing Carnival on www.friendinfashion.com.au Friend in Fashion guide to the Spring Racing Carnival on www.friendinfashion.com.au Friend in Fashion guide to the Spring Racing Carnival on www.friendinfashion.com.au Friend in Fashion guide to the Spring Racing Carnival on www.friendinfashion.com.au Friend in Fashion guide to the Spring Racing Carnival on www.friendinfashion.com.au Friend in Fashion guide to the Spring Racing Carnival on www.friendinfashion.com.au Friend in Fashion guide to the Spring Racing Carnival on www.friendinfashion.com.au

I'm convinced I was Parisian in a past life

There is something incredible about France - the home of fashion, incredible food and drink, and of course history. I love the culture and the people and always have the best time when I visit. 

The Champs Elysees, Love Lock Bridge, Eiffel Tower, Jardine De Tuileries…CHANEL! I mean what's not to love about oui oui pari!

So on a not so special day I decided to re-live my very first Chambord experience, the memories of that first sip surrounded by the sights, sounds, and smells of a Parisian street in Summer.

Sometimes when I'm craving some French fabulousness, I like to dash around Melbourne, dressed in my favourite brenton stripes. Who says you have to be in Paris to live like a Parisian. 

Around every corner, Melbourne is filled with little french surprises, so my adventure isn't too much of a stretch. Bonjour to the barista, merci to the market stall holder, au revoir to the assistant. 

Pretending for a day can be just as fun!

People watching over a croissant and a coffee, a visit to the flower markets, a spot of shopping, naturally Chanel and Celine are at the top my list, and of course a cheeky Chambord Royale - (a splash of the delightfully French Chambord Black Raspberry liqueur, mixed with my favourite French champers) to top off the afternoon. 

A visit to Madame Brussels, a French-inspired rooftop favourite of mine is the place to be. Parasoles, rooftop views and a fanciful stroll down a fruity garden path! Once you visit you'll understand what I mean.

Just a few of my favourite french things whenever I feel like it – #becausenoreason.


Follow the adventure at @friendinfashion on instagram

Photos / RAZ




FRIEND IN FASHION’S GUIDE TO SPRING RACING

Friend in Fashion guide to the Spring Racing Carnival on www.friendinfashion.com.au Friend in Fashion guide to the Spring Racing Carnival on www.friendinfashion.com.au Friend in Fashion guide to the Spring Racing Carnival on www.friendinfashion.com.au Friend in Fashion guide to the Spring Racing Carnival on www.friendinfashion.com.au Friend in Fashion guide to the Spring Racing Carnival on www.friendinfashion.com.au Friend in Fashion guide to the Spring Racing Carnival on www.friendinfashion.com.au Friend in Fashion guide to the Spring Racing Carnival on www.friendinfashion.com.au Friend in Fashion guide to the Spring Racing Carnival on www.friendinfashion.com.au
Peter Pilotto dress, Lady of Leisure Milinery | Roland Mouret dress, Lady of Leisure Milinery |
Chanel Wallet on Chain | Prada heels  

I’ll begin this post by declaring my love of any opportunity to dress up for an occasion.

The Spring Racing Carnival is in full swing in Melbourne, a time of year when the streets and courses are laden with elegantly dressed ladies and dapper gents.

It is this occasion; I felt it obligatory to share with you my guide to staying fabulously sophisticated this race season.
_________________________________________________________

STEP 1 : DRESS THE PART



This is the time of year to go all out with your wardrobe selections – the opportunity to feature that one-wear statement dress. You know that dress that you fell in love with at first sight, but would never buy because it isn’t a practical wardrobe addition.

It is my opinion that the Spring Racing wardrobe philosophy should be IF YOU LIKE IT, DO IT: 'BECAUSE NO REASON'. Throw restraint out the window and experiment with beautiful prints and colour. Sure you may only wear the dress once, but you will turn heads, and that’s half the fun.

When it comes to your race wardrobe - BE BRAVE, BE BOLD.
 

STEP 2 : MARVELLOUS MILLINERY MAKETH THE (WO)MAN


Millinery, more than just an accessory when it comes to the races, and equally as important a decision as your fashion selections. The opportunity to express your own individual sense of style and attitude.

I love to accentuate and exaggerate the details of an outfit with my millinery selections. For example, if my outfit is all about a print, I love to feature complimentary colours in my headwear. Likewise if my outfit is all about bold colour, I opt for contrasting bold colours with my millinery.

My milliner of choice - LADY OF LEISURE.
My approach to millinery – BE ADVENTUROUS, BE DARING.
 

STEP 3 : THE DEVIL'S IN THE DETAIL


The right accessories will make or break your time at the races.

You’ll be on your feet most of the day, so it’s important to nurture what will be propping you up all day - party feet are always a must.

When it comes to your shoe of choice – I’d avoid wearing a pair of shoes that are straight out of the box. If you have purchased new shoes for the races (never a bad excuse for new shoes in my book), wear them around the house for as long as possible before you hit the racecourse – your feet will thank you!

Your bag selection is equally as important. MY TIP – opt for a clutch or purse that has a shoulder strap. This will ensure that your bag is attached to you all day (no risk of leaving it behind somewhere), and will also free up your hands for that glass of something special, or that selfie with your girlfriends.
 

STEP 4 : DRINK RESPONSIBLY



The races are a great opportunity to celebrate, and naturally the beverage selection will be plentiful. A cocktail of  CHAMBORD AND CHAMPAGNE is my race-day drink of choice. It is on this note that I emphasise the importance of decorum at the races. Drink, have fun, but remember the importance of staying hydrated. This will ensure that your race-day fun is prolonged and you’ll remain as fresh as a daisy for the after party and the after, after party to follow.
 

TO SUMMARISE


Spring Racing is the perfect excuse to dress up, defy expectations and celebrate in style.
WHAT ARE YOUR SPRING RACING TIPS/TRICKS?



IN PARTNERSHIP WITH CHAMBORD

 

CROPS, CHANEL & PENCIL SKIRTS

Chanel, Pencil Skirts, crop tops, Street Style on www.friendinfashion.com.au Chanel, Pencil Skirts, crop tops, Street Style on www.friendinfashion.com.au Chanel, Pencil Skirts, crop tops, Street Style on www.friendinfashion.com.au Chanel, Pencil Skirts, crop tops, Street Style on www.friendinfashion.com.au Chanel, Pencil Skirts, crop tops, Street Style on www.friendinfashion.com.au Chanel, Pencil Skirts, crop tops, Street Style on www.friendinfashion.com.au Chanel, Pencil Skirts, crop tops, Street Style on www.friendinfashion.com.au

I think one of the hardest challenges when styling a crop top is finding the perfect accompanying skirt, pants or pair of shorts to team with it.

I love just a flash of midriff with a crop, so I tend to be drawn mainly to high waisted styles, in turn avoiding too much skin on display.

The silhouette of a pencil skirt is spot on for me and adds instant sophistication to any outift.

What do you like to wear with a crop top?

Follow the adventure at @friendinfashion on instagram

Photos / RAZ


BLACK ON BLACK

Friend in Fashion, all black Street Style, Chanel, Cameo on www.friendinfashion.com.au Friend in Fashion, all black Street Style, Chanel, Cameo on www.friendinfashion.com.au Friend in Fashion, all black Street Style, Chanel, Cameo on www.friendinfashion.com.au Friend in Fashion, all black Street Style, Chanel, Cameo on www.friendinfashion.com.au Friend in Fashion, all black Street Style, Chanel, Cameo on www.friendinfashion.com.au

Cameo The Label Shirt | Cameo The Label Pants | Chanel Wallet on Chain

Following on from my last outfit (white on white) - I thought I'd contrast a little, with another classically Melbourne look - all black.

Winter or summer, you can't go wrong with black on black, and I always love to style with a splash of colour, either with a bold lip or a printed accessory.

These leopard heels were actually a sample that sadly never went into production - luckily for me, I'm sample size!


STREET STYLE | SUMMER WHITES


Tokyo street style, summer fashion, white dress, chanel on www.friendinfashion.com.au
Tokyo street style, summer fashion, white dress, chanel on www.friendinfashion.com.au
Tokyo street style, summer fashion, white dress, chanel on www.friendinfashion.com.au
Tokyo street style, summer fashion, white dress, chanel on www.friendinfashion.com.au
Tokyo street style, summer fashion, white dress, chanel on www.friendinfashion.com.au
Tokyo street style, summer fashion, white dress, chanel on www.friendinfashion.com.au
Tokyo street style, summer fashion, white dress, chanel on www.friendinfashion.com.au


Zara crop & skirt / Chanel purse / 
by jasmin fine jewellery

Yesterday, I shared with you some behind the scenes of my most recent trip to Tokyo.

True to form, I packed terribly for this trip - leather, sweaters and brogues - not realising just how warm summer in Tokyo is.

Left with nothing appropriate to wear for long days exploring the massive Tokyo city, I dashed into the nearest Zara and picked up this outfit to get me through the Tokyo heat.

Funnily enough - this has turned out to be one of my favourite outfits.

Easy, breezy and perfect for summer. 

Follow the adventure at @friendinfashion on instagram

Photos / RAZ


STREET STYLE | GOOD MORNING TOKYO

Isabel Marant, Chanel, Dr Martins street style on www.friendinfashion.com.au Isabel Marant, Chanel, Dr Martins street style on www.friendinfashion.com.au Isabel Marant, Chanel, Dr Martins street style on www.friendinfashion.com.au Isabel Marant, Chanel, Dr Martins street style on www.friendinfashion.com.au Isabel Marant, Chanel, Dr Martins street style on www.friendinfashion.com.au Isabel Marant, Chanel, Dr Martins street style on www.friendinfashion.com.au
       Isabel Marant sweater via Avenue K / Guess jeans / Viktoria + Woods CoatDr. Martens shoes / Lack of Colors hat / Chanel purse /  jasmin wanderlust necklace


As the weather here cools down in Melbourne, it's time to whip out the layers.

Sweaters, coats, hats are all on the playing cards, until another tropical oasis calls my name. 

I'm not one for winter, but there is something inherently chic about dressing in layers.


BACK TO BASICS

Street Style on www.friendinfashion.com.au Street Style on www.friendinfashion.com.au Street Style on www.friendinfashion.com.au Street Style on www.friendinfashion.com.au Street Style on www.friendinfashion.com.au
                       

Black, white, grey, repeat.

Over the weekend I had the absolute pleasure of catching up in Melbourne with UK bloggers/vloggers The Beauty Crush and Tasha Green.

It was great to catch up with the girls (who I have to say are absolutely gorgeous inside and out) - and who have inspired me to play around with a vlog of my own...well at least a couple of videos.

I'm thinking of sharing some of my fashion purchases as well as my favourite travel destinations and tips.

If you have any other suggestions, or things you'd like to see from a Friend in Fashion YouTube channel, let me know in the comments below.

PHOTOS / TRACEY AH-KHEE


P.S. It's GIVEAWAY time over on instagram - win a by jasmin + Bahagia ring party *


MONOCHROME

Monochrome Autumn Winter Fashion on Friend in Fashion Monochrome Autumn Winter Fashion on Friend in Fashion Monochrome Autumn Winter Fashion on Friend in Fashion Monochrome Autumn Winter Fashion on Friend in Fashion Monochrome Autumn Winter Fashion on Friend in Fashion Monochrome Autumn Winter Fashion on Friend in Fashion
Target Vest Dress, Lack of Colors Hat, YSL Clutch, Alex Perry heels, Target Floral Pants,
Viparo Leather Jacket, Birkenstocks, Target Wrap Skirt, Chanel purse


Recently I was invited by Target to pick my favourites from their new season collection to share with you. 

 As we inch closer to Autumn/Winter here in Australia, I find myself more and more drawn to a wardrobe of monochrome, which is reflected here in this blog post.

 I'm definitely a summer girl, so my A/W wardrobe generally consists of great trans-seasonal pieces like this amazing vest-style dress, or wrap skirt, which I can wear as is, or easily layer with leather jackets, coats, tights and boots for the cooler weather. Versatility is key to my wardrobe.


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PARIS













With love from Paris. 

One of my favourite cities in the world. 

Absolutely beautiful in its appearance and culture, and not to mention a haven for some of the finest shopping in the world. 

Savouring each and every pinch-worth moment. 


BACK TO BASICS



Blumarine trench (similar here), Bassike tank, New Balance trainersChanel purse

The last few days exploring Oslo have been phenomenal. Despite the rain, this has been such a great city to visit, with great natural and built beauty, fabulously friendly people and great design.

After almost four months on the road - my time in Europe is almost up.

One last stop in Paris, before two months exploring The Americas: NewYork, Brazil and Argentina.

I'd love to hear any of your own travel tips - so feel free to tweet, insta or email me.

Instagram @friendinfashion to follow my travel adventure.



Photos / Tim Florea 

FRIEND IN FASHION INSTAGRAM


Six months around the world. 

Follow the adventure - and get my fashion and travel tips on instagram @friendinfashion

DOMAINE CHANDON SECRET GARDEN PARTY






White Suede dress / Aldo heels / Chanel clutch

Yesterday, my husband and I had the pleasure of attending Domaine Chandon's Secret Garden Party, in the picturesque Yarra Valley.

The picture perfect afternoon was spent enjoying Chandon’s finest vintages, delicious culinary treats (of which included these very pretty 'edible pot-plants'), the beautiful voice of Clare Bowditch and of course some garden twister, croquet and chess.

A scene taken straight from The Great Gatsby.

A big thank you to Domaine Chandon and Undertow Media for such a stunning afternoon.

Photos /  Jacqui Holt

STATEMENT PEPLUM

Cameo Peplum, Chanel, Bvlgari on Friend in Fashion Cameo Peplum, Chanel, Bvlgari on Friend in Fashion Cameo Peplum, Chanel, Bvlgari on Friend in Fashion Cameo Peplum, Chanel, Bvlgari on Friend in Fashion Cameo Peplum, Chanel, Bvlgari on Friend in Fashion
Cameo peplum top via Market HQ / Zara leather panel jeans / Chanel purse / Bvlgari watch / Mac Morange lipstick

I've decided to continue to embrace all things monochrome. As I've mentioned before, I'm never one to steer clear of colour, but sometimes, change is as good as a holiday right?

Speaking of which, I'm in the midst of planning out another global adventure. The thing with travel is that once you start, it becomes incredibly difficult to stop. I find myself compelled to explore new uncharted territory, whilst at the same time being drawn to my sentimental favourites.

As Bill Bryson puts it perfectly - to my mind, the greatest reward and luxury of travel is to be able to experience everyday things as if for the first time, to be in a position in which almost nothing is so familiar it is taken for granted.

For now it's back to the planning station.

Photos / Tim Florea