fashion blog

SUMMERS, SEA-SIDE


Summer time in Australia, generally means spending dawn to dusk close to water...




For me, there is nothing I love more than the beach, so over the weekend, I dropped by my local swim spot, and enjoyed the sun and salt water. 

When it comes to summer fashion, I love to mix and match, and this Backstage crop and wrap skirt, (which I recently picked up from Westfield Doncaster) is absolutely prefect for this gorgeous warm weather.

Light, and flowing, I love these two pieces because they can be worn so many different ways. Together, as separates and I have also worn this wrap skirt as a strapless dress!

Perfectly versatile and perfect for summer. 

I'M WEARING






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.

SHOP THE CITY, MELBOURNE


As I’m sure you would agree, the lead up to Christmas, with what to buy, where to shop, and who to buy for, can be overwhelming. With this in mind, I’m going to take you on a tour of some of my favourite places to shop when in Melbourne and share with you some of my top gift selections for the festive season. 


For me, my first (and only stop), when it comes to Chrissy shopping in Melbourne, is the City. And to make things easier, iconic Melbourne shopping destinations: Melbourne Central, Emporium Melbourne, QV Melbourne, The Strand Melbourne, Melbourne’s GPO, Myer and David Jones are joining forces to offer extended trade, free parking and more in the lead up to Christmas!

Each within walking distance of one another, you have your choice of Malls, Department Stores and boutiques (over 1000 in total), carrying most, if not all the brands that you desire.

To kick off the tour, we head to Emporium Melbourne, where my first stop is always Dion Lee. This is where you are guaranteed to find that extra special wardrobe addition for the fashionista in your life. My top pick's - Dion’s signature 3D filter jacket and leather biker jacket. Guaranteed to impress!

When in Emporium, I also like to swing by Kate Spade for some conversation-worthy statement accessories. This pom pom hat and Mr & Mrs clutch are gifts that will definitely be remembered. 





Next up, is The Strand Melbourne, and a must for lovers of bright, quirky and colourful, is Gorman. My top pick is this beautiful bright pink sweater and contrasting purple shades. The bold and beautiful socks, and accessories make for the perfect Kris Kringle / stocking fillers also.


Now it’s time for a quick recharge, with a coffee (or peppermint tea in my case) at my favourite little nook at the Melbourne's GPO – Federal Coffee Palace. If you’re in need of something a bit more substantial, I love Mama's Buoi for some tasty Vietnamese treats!


Then onto QV Melbourne, where one of my favourite boutiques, Incu offers all of the best brands from Acne to Isabel Marant. You can’t go past these Rag and Bone fedora’s for a great gift. A small hop across the lane and you also have Incu for men, to pick up something for the special men in your life. Republic Boutique is another great store for the gents, great street-wear and sneaker collections featuring Kenzo to Yeezy. 

Next up, on my Shop The City tour is Melbourne Central.
Bul is great for women who appreciate more classic, minimalist design. I love this pinafore dress as a top pick.
For chocolate lovers, Kit Kat have a pop-up store which allows you to create and order your own, personalised Kit Kat creations (delicious!). And, for all the beauty and makeup lovers, a visit to Melbourne Central’s newest addition, Sephora is an absolute must. I wrapped up my action-packed day of shopping with a mini-makeover – there perfect way to end the day!



And finally, for the high-end designer lover, a visit to the major department stores - Myer or David Jones is always a good starting point. 
My top gift pick (from David Jones) are these incredible cuffs from Valentino – the Rock Stud sandals won’t go astray either. If Valentino isn’t to your taste, indulge in brands including Chloe, Proenza Schouler and Saint Laurent to name a few.

If you're having difficulty narrowing down your selection, head to Myer, who are offering a personal shopping service which will help you take the guess work out of choosing the perfection present.


If you stick to my itinerary when approaching the daunting task of Christmas shopping, you’re guaranteed to find something for everyone, all within walking distance of each other – best of all, you can knock off all of your Chrissy shopping in one hit, so never fear if you’ve left your shopping to the last minute. 





CECILIE COPENHAGEN | ONE DRESS, 3 WAYS


There is something to be said about filling your wardrobe with great quality essentials.

The art of mixing and matching wardrobe basics is almost an art - an art made easier when you have some great staples in your on hand.










From day to night, I’m going to take my favourite dress by Cecilie Copenhagen (via Farfetch), and transform it simply with the use of some key accessories.

LOOK 1
Who says you can only wear a dress like a dress? For a perfect casual look, I’ve tucked my smock dress into my favourite black jeans and teamed with a great black lace up heel - done!

LOOK 2
Festival-friendly, I’ve grabbed my favourite boater hat, and statement ankle boots to once again transform from a simple dress, to street-snap worthy style.

LOOK 3
Time to dance - I’ve cinched in the waist with a skinny belt, and a statement heel to transform the look from day to night. I couldn’t resist styling with my favourite new Dior shades for a touch of metallic glam.

And there you have it - one dress, three ways! Which look is your favourite?


I’M WEARING






SPORTS LUXE | SWEATY BETTY













I first came across Sweaty Betty active-wear when living in London, and immediately fell in love. Not only is the design bang on trend and fashion forward, but the quality is absolutely second to none.

Followers of my Fit. Eat. Repeat. website (www.fiteatrepeat.com / @fiteatrepeat), will already know that I'm a huge supporter of empowerment through fitness, particularly for women, and Sweaty Betty is one brand that not only preaches this mission but also embodies this ethos right through to it's design.

So when I found out that Sweaty Betty are offering free shipping to Australia, until December 16th, I had my excuse to shop up big (not that I really needed one)!

Here are my favourite pieces from the latest collection.

LOOK 1

LOOK 2

LOOK 3


Photography / Tina Kay



SUMMER STYLE

MIAMI'S CALLING


It’s your last chance to win a trip to Miami for you and three of your friends!

Keep reading to enter...














A unique blend of sun, sand and nightlife, my friends at VOGUE eyewear are giving you the chance to win the ultimate Miami experience with their Summer House contest.

It’s simple to enter and up for grabs is an unforgettable, week-long
vacation in a luxurious house for you and three friends in Miami, the magic city.



STYLE TIP – COLOR BLOCKING SHADES
To create a head-turning summer-ready look, colour block bold shades, with a colourful playsuit or dress.

If you prefer a more classic look, then tortoise shell frames are guaranteed to mix and match easily with any summer style.


Competition ends November 13 2015, 11.59pm.


WAYS TO WEAR - NORMCORE



I’ve previously shared my love for ‘normcore’ dressing - unisex, ‘unpretentious’ dressing at it’s finest. Picture 90s throwback, low-key cool, with a splash of athleticism...


'Normcore seeks the freedom that comes with non-exclusivity. It finds liberation in being nothing special, and realises that adaptability leads to belonging. Normcore is a path to a more peaceful life,' states K-Hole in Vogue. 

One of the biggest appeals to this trend is really a minimalist approach to fashion. It’s all about bringing things back to basics and not using fashion as a way of determining and highlighting gender.

Don’t get me wrong, I’m the first one to grab a dress of the rack, but day to day, the appeal of throwing on a pair of boyfriend jeans, a slouchy tee and a pair of trainers definitely reigns supreme.

To master this look, I love to reinvent key styles from my other half's side of the wardrobe or, failing his enthusiasm of me ‘borrowing’ his favourite sweater, a quick shop in the men’s department works a treat. 

When approaching normcore, opt for sweaters, that double up as dresses, or the perfect ‘men’s white shirt’, which is one of the most versatile wardrobe investments. Wear it on its own, tucked into denim or tied up with midi skirts or shorts. Instant chic!



GET THE LOOK 



CARVEN white shirt

LINDA FARROW sunglasses 




NIKE tennis classic AC trainers




BEC & BRIDGE X INHABIT

WIN A TRIP TO MIAMI

THE SWIMWEAR EDIT


As the weather starts to heat up here in Australia, it's time to start thinking about summer swim trends...











The scuba essentials collection by one of my Aussie favourites, Baku, is spot on. The soft neoprene fabrication is perfectly lined, and provides great support. 

I've hand-picked three swim styles, which fit this brief to a tee (style and comfort) and will complete your swim wardrobe this season. 

LOOK 1 

LOOK 2

LOOK 3


THE DRESS OF THE SEASON


There are some dresses that were just meant to be worn and twirled in...








I picked up this knock-out of a dress from ASOS (here) and I wasn't surprised to see that it sold out almost immediately.

There is nothing that frustrates me more than seeing a style I love, only to not be able to buy it.

Unfortunately I can't help you with this exact dress, but I did track down three similar styles that would be perfect for the upcoming spring racing season here in Melbourne, or any event you want to turn heads at. 


I'M WEARING
ASOS dres
Mode Collective heels

FREE SPIRIT


#TodayIAm free-spirited...








Spring has sprung in Melbourne and to coincide with Westfield's new #TODAYIAM campaign, this season I'm all about channeling my inner Boheme.

Inspired by the world, my travels, and the cities and people around me, I'm embracing romantic prints, billowing sleeves, folk-gypsy details and feminine flowy dresses.

And as for the motto I choose to live by... explore more, adventure awaits...

#TODAYIAM is all about empowerment and inspiration and my wanderlusting ways are often reflected in my wardrobe choices. Not only is this dress perfectly spring, it packs down small in my suitcase, and barely needs ironing. 

And as for the motto I choose to live by... explore more, adventure awaits...

Bring on the adventure!

I'M WEARING
Backstage Dress (SHOP), from Glue Store at Westfield Doncaster



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

MONOCHROME


Nothing beats the classics...





Black and white - the two colours which fill the majority of my wardrobe.

Classic, simple and always on trend.

I'M WEARING
C/MEO Collective bustier
Backstage culottes


70s VIBES


From the catwalk to the streets, this season it's all about that 70's vibe...



For me, 70s is a return to rompers and flares - plunging necklines and platform heels. 

Colours - blue denim, tobacco suede and tan.


I'M WEARING
Denim Romper / Bec & Bridge
Platform Heels / Windsor Smith
Shades / Ray Ban


WAYS TO WEAR: SKINNY JEANS

SOMETHING IN THE AIR


There's something in the air in Palm Springs...



Something that has me channeling a Slim Aarons portrait.
The heat, the architecture, a retro dream-state.

I'M WEARING
Platform Heels / Windsor Smith

POLKA DOTS IN PALM SPRINGS


Palm Springs, California has to be one of my most favourite places to visit in the world...






Sunshine, a breathtaking backdrop of desert, mountains, palm trees, and some spectacular architecture and design, Palm Springs is a 2 hour drive out of Los Angeles and a must-do on any Cali-adventure.

Summer in Palm Springs, is hot, and I mean really hot, even by Australian standards, so in between pool sessions, and chilled agua fresca on tap, I managed to step out in my favourite summer polka dot maxi, in front of one of my favourite Palm Springs homes.



I'M WEARING
Platform Heels / Windsor Smith
Jewels / by jasmin


THE WATCH EDIT

Friend in Fashion, Watch, Ways to Wear, Casual Fashion, Rado


Friend in Fashion, Watch, Ways to Wear, Casual Fashion, Rado
Friend in Fashion, Watch, Ways to Wear, Casual Fashion, Rado
Friend in Fashion, Watch, Ways to Wear, Black Lace, Evening Wear, Rado, Diamonds
Friend in Fashion, Watch, Ways to Wear, Black Lace, Evening Wear, Rado, Diamonds
Friend in Fashion, Watch, Ways to Wear, Black Lace, Evening Wear, Rado, Diamonds
Friend in Fashion, Watch, Ways to Wear, Denim Shirt, Casual Fashion, Rado
Friend in Fashion, Watch, Ways to Wear, Denim Shirt, Casual Fashion, Rado
Friend in Fashion, Watch, Ways to Wear, Spell Byron Bay, boho style, Rado
Friend in Fashion, Watch, Ways to Wear, Spell Byron Bay, boho style, Rado

I'm all about the accessories and watches are always such a subtle and chic way to add luxury and elegance to an outfit.

When searching the Rado collection, I was impressed to find such a vast array of styles for every taste and occasion. To showcase this great variety of on-trend time pieces, I've created four separate looks - from casual to evening.


LOOK 1 - WINTER WARMER

As well as being a girl's best friend, diamonds can instantly add that touch of glamour and luxury to any outfit. To create an on-trend, street-style worthy look, simply take your favourite pair of jeans, add a warm chunky knit for winter, a pair of statement heels and complete the look with the RADO DIAMASTER DIAMONDS watch in ceramic black.

Simple and understated. 


LOOK 2 - NIGHT OUT

Black lace, diamonds and a red lip, the winning tri-fector when it comes to evening glamour.
The RADO HYPERCHROME DIAMONDS is my favourite piece from the collection, and is simply stunning. 

The diamonds sparkle like nothing you've ever seen. A definite head turner, perfect for a night out.


LOOK 3 - CASUAL CHIC

For perfect everyday wear, you can't beat a denim shirt, which I've paired back with a bold, contrasting striped harem pant. When accessorising this look, I've opted for the RADO COUPOLE CLASSIC, a minimalistic, easy to wear watch staple.

Simple and chic.  


LOOK 4 - BOHO BABE

For that summer-ready look, I've teamed my favourite broderie white maxi dress, with the RADO TRUE time piece to create a bold white on white look.

This ultra-thin watch is amazingly light and scratch resistant, so it's perfect to wear all day, without worrying about bumps or scuffs.


If you're looking at updating your accessories collection, and are looking for a beautiful, luxury time piece, I urge you to check out Rado's latest collection.

You won't be disappointed.