Object of Desire: Emma Cook dress

Just spotted these AMAZING Emma Cook dress- an exclusive to Net-a-porter. Its already sold out but hopefully they will consider running the style again if enough people wish list it. Made of silk & embellished in diamantes with the best print EVER of a donkey wearing an ivy wreath.

YES PLEASE!

http://www.net-a-porter.com/product/179187

Tuesdayitis- vintage earrings by Mimi Di N

Mimi D N (Niscemi) was born in Sicily and started working for a jewelry manufacturer who produced Schiaparelli jewelry, and for Arnold Scassi in the 1950s as a designer with jewelry marked "Jewelry by Scassi". In 1959, she worked for Robert De Mario, then Brania with jewellery marked "Brania/Mimi di N". Mimi di N opened her own shop in 1960.

I love her bold & elaborate animal based works, if you scour vintage sites you will find her exquisite gold earrings & belt buckles. Be warned - she is long retired so any new work attributed to her would not be authentic.

Here are a couple of pairs of earrings I have collected of hers that I adore.

camp edit

Its getting to holiday season & with all the globe trotting, epic wedding & a hectic year we have decided to take time out a little closer to home this year. My husband suggested we go camping, which sounded slightly terrifying to me. The whole idea of camping conjures images of sleeping in dirt, remaining unshowered & eating cold beans out of a can. But as I thought on it a bit more I figured there is always a way to do everything in style, so I started to do a little research on what a designer camp site & a designer camper might look like. Here is what I came up with.

Obviously you need seating so I started with these amazing plywood chairs designed by Christian Desile. They fold down amazingly flat so not only are they stylish, they are also practical.

The Vivienne Westwood swiss army knife is just friggen awesome- I am not sure how I have gotten by without it in my Chloe tote. Stylish Missoni blanket (love the Missoni Home line)& a Louis Vuitton picnic trunk- Ok I could never afford the actual trunk pictured but here is a similar one closer to reasonable budget & still stylish, plus it has everything you could possibly need for civilised noshing.

The notebook grill offers both contemporary elegance & practicality as it also folds flat to store. But I have saved the best for last these amazing tents from field candy. These tents come in limited addition, designed by artists in amazing quirky designs, they will certainly stand out at your camp site or music festival.

1. plywood slimline folding chair

2. vivienne westwood pocket knife

3. missoni husky blanket

4. louis vuitton picnic trunk

5. notebook portable grill

6. tweedle do tent from field candy

So onto the perfect ensemble. 

Obviously there must be a stylish way to orienteer? Yeh well I'm loving this beyond cute mini compass necklace from etsy.com - purveyor of goodness... I love men's watches- particularly vintage ones & having just bought my husband a vintage omega watch I am developing a serious watch envy. I love this rustic band & gold face, by its very nature the size of a mens watch makes your wrist look elegant & slender.

A little hippie flavour is necessary for getting back to nature, but there is no reason it shouldn't be awesome & adorned with hand braiding detail. I am a shoe-a-holic these Seigerson Morrison booties are divine in spotted calf skin, I love the open top & delicious were heel.

How fun are these fox earrings from vintage Lea Stein? I have been a huge fan of Lea Stein for years already procuring several amazing vintage brooches while in the UK. The Marc by Marc Jacobs Delancy Parka is divine, not just fur its delectable fur surround but I love the feminine belted waist.

The jade tribe travel bag is made from fair trade fabric hand woven & dyed in Laos, its so inspiring to want chic fashion that has a conscience & not just recycle. Recycle is amazing and as a flanny is a must for camping I managed to source this caped Valentino flannelette shirt, I mean seriously- if Valentino camps it can't be that bad. Missoni socks - I have a collection, they are just impossible to pass up with there amazing prints & luxe textures & why can't socks be an amazing fashion item, they really can make all the difference in styling.

Finally I couldn't resist the quirky brogues from Acne. They just look so damn rustic & the proportions are just so astonishingly cartoon like I cannot resist offering them to you.

So, yes camping can be chic & luxe in theory........ I will let you know how it goes in practice! xx

1. compass necklace

2. vintage mens omega watch

3. tie dye tank

4. spotted calf boots

5. distressed skinnies

6. foxy earrings

7. parka

8. handwoven bag

9. vintage valentino bluse

10. missoni socks

11. acne leather brogues

Tuesdayitis- Legends of Rap Trading Deck

Here's something fun to break up the week. The Legends of Rap Trading Deck has 32 awesomely illustrated trading cards celebrating the groundbreaking pioneers of early hip hop. Each card has the bio of the hip hop legend which is great for us fact loving geeks. ;)

Word.

http://www.legendsofrap.com

buy them here

Playin with the big cats

I am into tiger & lion prints at the moment so I decided to do a 'big cats' edit for you all to check out. Here are my fave cat print pieces.

First of all I love the Theyskin's Theory sleeveless blouse from ultimate Hong Kong department store Lane Crawford I have teamed it up with Current Elliot leopard print jeans- I am really into this 'pyjama dressing' style wearing one or similar print from head to toe, it has an ultra modern feel & the sharp lines of the blouse paired with the ankle freezer pant really works.

I have broken up the print with this gold triangle collar tip- it adds slickness to the look. Combining with the Miu Miu tiger print brogues- I love how the heel matches the upper with ankle freezer trousers really epitomises the modern take on tailoring.

I have an earring fetish, as you may know, so these Coro Tiger earrings are essential. I have numerous tiger head earrings but these really caught my eye.

Plus I have added a few contemporary accessories to complete the look- DVF Iphone pouch, Jerome Dreyfus Leopard wallet with super cute french ribbon detailing, Topshop leopard umbrella (I love how the leo print rains down the umbrella) & Indy C patchwork leather pony skin mixed leopard belt.

Oh yeah & a Bengal Cat- how divine are they? Must have companion/ accessory.

xx

1. Topshop Umbrella

2. Miu Miu Tiger brogues

3. Theyskin's Theory  Blouse

4. Current Elliot Jeans

5. Golden Triangle Collar Tips

6. Indy C Leopard Ponyskin Belt

7. DVF Iphone Pouch

8. Jerome Dreyfus Ponyskin Wallet

9. Vintage Coro Lioness Earrings

10. Bengal Kitty

Its beginning to look a lot like Christmas

Christmas is nearly upon us & it got me to thinking what is my ideal Christmas ensemble? Here's a little something I've thrown together- the shoes & cuff are a serious splurge but everything else is within reach, besides I think they are too fab for words. I also found the fab new OPI axxium long lasting gel lacquer available in Australia through ebay.com.au which lasts for weeks without chipping- ideal when you're ripping open all those pressies Christmas morning. I think the dress is the perfect shape- a little drape to cover the Christmas belly & not to revealing as to upset Granny- but still chic. What can I say about the earrings but- LOVE, I think I must buy them & the little ASOS ball clutch gives a wink to the classic Christmas bauble, plus its on sale, which is always better. Love to know what you think? x

1. http://www.etsy.com/listing/84975249/schiaparelli-1950s-auroraborealis-head

2. http://www.matchesfashion.com/fcp/product/Matches-Fashion/Shoes/stella-mccartney-SM-B-272700-WOH80-shoes-GREEN/51135

3. http://www.asos.com/ASOS/ASOS-Premium-Red-Perspex-Ball-Clutch/Prod/pgeproduct.aspx?iid=1723726&cid=8730&Rf946=2241&Rf-200=1&sh=0&pge=0&pgesize=20&sort=-1&clr=Red

4. http://www.brownsfashion.com/Product/Women/Women/Accessories/Fashion_Jewellery/Hammered_brass_cuff_with_opal/Product.aspx?p=2551959&pc=1949746&cl=4

5.http://www.whistles.co.uk/fcp/categorylist/dept/shopresetFilters=true#ID=id_903000057501_dresses&category=dresses

6. http://www.maxandchloe.com/fulldetails/15412/-1/266

7. http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/OPI-Axxium-Soak-Off-Gel-CAJUN-SHRIMP-AX-413-21-oz-BNIB-/130591295805?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item1e67d9093d

I Love Pineapples

I am not sure why but I have always loved pineapples. I love their quilted form with their regal crown of leaves atop. I am particularly fond of golden pineapples- so here are a few I have been coveting.

http://www.etsy.com/listing/37327157/vintage-pineapple-earrings-vintage

whistles.co.uk/fcp/categorylist/dept/shop?resetFilters=true#ID=id_903000057564_dresses&category=dresses&utm_campaign=whistles111208-welcome&utm_term=week45&utm_source=fresca&utm_medium=email

http://www.etsy.com/listing/42746243/vintage-1950s-devilbiss-perfume-bottle

http://www.etsy.com/listing/75282204/pineapple-brooch-pin-vintage

http://www.etsy.com/listing/84389773/vintage-brass-pineapple-container-of

http://www.etsy.com/listing/84978780/hollywood-regency-italian-hand-carved

Object of Desire: Rodarte for Opening Ceremony booties

Deep sigh...... I am in love once again & once again its with shoes. I am currently stalking this pair designed by the amazing sisters Kate & Laura Mulleavy of label 'Rodarte' in collaboration with the inspired conceptual department store come art space 'Opening Ceremony'. 

Each pair has a unique room print upper & stunning little peep hole at centre front. They would make me feel like some modern day Marie Antoinette.

Check out the entire result of the collaboration at: http://www.openingceremony.us/products.asp?designerid=693&view=all

http://www.shopbop.com/printed-cutout-high-heel-bootie/vp/v=1/845524441920812.htm?folderID=2534374302073392&fm=other-shopbysize&colorId=37555

http://www.openingceremony.us/products.asp?designerid=693&productid=46468

cyber shop- sale sale sale

Everything must go so here are the hot tips on where to pick up your pre-Christams bargains & make sure you look beyond amazing for the silly season.

http://www.djpremium.com is offering up to 60% off with the code CYMON60 for today only. This street smart store offers brands such as Wildfox Couture, Melissa shoes & Acne amongst other faves.

Home of US fashion http://www.shopbop.com is offering 20-30% off for every $250 & above spent with the code BIGEVENT at checkout- if your a big spender this is one not to be missed- they always have free shipping and a very straight forward returns process if you aren't happy with your purchase- I love this store.

So the bays don't miss out www.matchesfashion.com is offering 20% off menswear. Shipping is pretty exy from this store but I always love their curation, so definitely worth a look for fashion savvy fellas.

For today only uber chic US mini major intermix is offering 15% at their online store http://www.intermixonline.com/ with the code CYBER15 plus up to 30% off accessories. The concept of intermix is to select the best of the best- a few pieces & many exclusives from the hottest designers in the world edited together to create the perfect season selection- so its always worth a look although shipping isn't a bargain.

Jewellery online store http://www.maxandchloe.com is offering 20% off with code THANKS11MC for purchases over $100. Once again shipping aint cheap but they have some pretty special products- the selection of Kenneth Jay Lane goodies is a particular favourite of mine & some of the bling can really add a spectacular touch to your special occasion ensemble.

http://www.saksfifthavenue.com is onsale with up to 40% off starting November 30 US time. Plus they have flat rate shipping of USD$19.99 for Australia & a range of international locations with code ROWSHIP. With a huge selection of labels including Rebecca Taylor, Rag & Bone & Derek Lam amongst them.

Happy shopping xx

some things never get old

So I love supermodels, & I really don't think there is anything more spectacular than the infamous george michael clip for freedom:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=diYAc7gB-0A

enjoy the 90s sweetness... really lusting after a good turtleneck hmmmmm

Hedi Slimane

Hedi Slimane is one of those geniuses that makes us want to go into a dark room & just stop trying.  Appointed Collections and Art Director at the house of Yves Saint Laurent in 1997 he moved on toDior designing the mens line Dior Homme in 2000. In 2002, the Council of Fashion Designers of America named him the International Designer of the Year in New York. He also designed his own fashion line rejecting the offer of a later under the LVMF banner, rather choosing 'creative freedom'. 

Today if you look for Slimane you will find his amazing website http://www.hedislimane.com/diary/ full of his astonishingly beautiful photographic work. I am so inspired by his collage work, it really speaks to me- I think poignance lies in todays overwhelming world of media & visual communication.... I guess we just relate to the chaos.

Here are some of the stunning images from his fashion diary. 

Tokyo Design Tour Apps

I was in Tokyo during October & this being my first visit paired with my complete lack of Japanese language skills & wanting to ensure I didn't miss any of Tokyo's famous culture, shopping & mad architecture I thought it was a great opportunity to road test a couple of the design/ style type apps offered for iPhone.

The first app I downloaded was the Wallpaper city guide for Tokyo. Having used the paper guides in the past & finding them of great value I was excited to see what the app had to offer.

The app had some of the classic elements like an insiders guide- giving you a local's perspective on what to do in Tokyo & 24 hours - the best of the city in one day.

But I was most interested in the shopping guide which was a little disappointing with only 19 stores listed. This considering Tokyo is on of the worlds shopping meccas. The stores listed were mostly in Shibuya & Harijuku so they were very central- but given Wallpaper's reputation for style & insider knowledge there were no massive revelations there & once I had checked out said areas there were some glaring omissions.
So all in all a disappointing purchase- I have noticed updates already coming through so lets hope it improves- it has a good rating on the appstore but I found the content an hours reading at most.

The second app I went for was Superfuture Tokyo Superguide- so this guide was much more informative, with are specific guides covering much of the city as well as a useful info/ at a glance section & suggested itineraries per area. The content is fantastic with hot tips for all kinds of awesome stores including 'pass the baton', 'original fake' & 'the monocle store' amongst my faves.

The only issue with this app- & unfortunately its a major one, are the maps. Maps are confined to areas & don't connect, they also don't make local subways & streets very clear- so while I was on the street lusting after objects du jour I couldn't find any of them! Needless to say- I recommend repurchasing a 3G connection before you hit Tokyo - as no apps really cut it on the mean streets & you can't buy a pre-paid connection while there.

So in summary- both apps helpful- neither perfect, superfuture is better for shopaholics, but stay tuned for updates & pre-purchase 3G.

Asos Summer Sale

Australians love ASOS- it is our number 1 favourite fashion e-tailer with over 6% of the market share, so to thank us for our devotion ASOS are having up to 30% off their Summer stock & free shipping to Australia. Also if you are planning a trip to the Northern Hemisphere well they are offering up to 30% of coats & Winter accessories.

http://www.asos.com/au

Urban Outfitters

So its getting to that time of year again..when we have no money & everyone  is throwing irresistible offers at us. Urban Outfitters is already up to no good with free shipping for Australian customers. Simply jump onto http://www.urbanoutfitters.com type FREEFOROZ at checkout & get free delivery on all orders over $150USD.... deep sigh....

If I where you I'd spend it all on Jeffery Campbell shoes, or a pacman alarm clock, so good its torture.

*%^#$* I love shoes

So I have a wicked shoe addiction- I am sure its only slightly unnatural but really the pleasure I get from a stunning pair of designer shoes- whether from my own pen or others more brilliant than me- not much compares.

So I have to give a mention to the most recent special shoes in my life- my wedding shoes by Miu Miu.

I have several pairs of Miu Miu shoes & I have to say you really are buying a pair of comfortable & quality shoes when you buy from them- if you look after them you can have them for many years to come & maybe hand them down. They really are the epitome of quality, comfort & style.

Having said all that I am sure I would have spent the whole of my wedding on hot coals to wear these luminescent lovelies- & because I went against the grain of wearing white these ink suede heels with rhinestone heel were a perfect fit.

My earrings as pictured below were vintage Coro purchased on www.etsy.com & the art deco inspired pair of slave bracelets are by Kenneth Jay Lane bought on www.maxandchloe.com

designer dog

So if you are the proud owner of a non miniature dog then you may have noticed its not so easy to find cool stuff for your designer hound.

So when I was in Hong Kong a few weeks back I couldn't resist this wee Jeff Koons style ballon dog. I think Mr Koons would appreciate the pop art value of his sculpture turning dog toy & every time I trip over it in my home it makes me smile.

Would have been slightly more awesome in metallic gold but beggars can't be choosey. My boxer Houndslow loves it- somehow I am sure he appreciates the cool factor....

Christmas is here-ish

So it has taken me a while to get on board with Christmas decor- but now I am the first one to get that tree up & add to my collection of Christmas decorations.

This year is no exception & I detect a distinct scandinavian theme forming with the goodies I have come across this season. A few years back we bought a massive black faux tree which makes everything look amazing- particularly red & white.

So check out my deer bells, antler, Bambi ceramic models, alpine knit baubles & timber tree decoration. These are all from the fabulous Bauhaus store on Rundle Street Adelaide- this store always makes me happy with its eclectic mix of goodies from around the world. I collected some last Christmas & some this year- but they always have desirable delights when in Adelaide definitely check it.

The little striped bauble is a vintage hand me down from my nana. It brings back amazing memories of Christmas as a kid- decorating the tree & nana redecorating it nicely once we had gone- a woman after my own heart ;). It is so delicate & precious I am down to 3 of them & I will cherish every year I get with them.

The last couple are from Country Road-the star- a gift from friends adapted to purpose & the birds a purchase from a couple of years ago. 

The collection continues..... Ill keep you posted x

waxing Brazilian

I was lucky enough to be in Tokyo on holidays last month. I was wandering around the AMAZING Isetan department store in Shinjuku when I stumbled upon these babies (if you ever go there don't miss the food court-  for eternal happiness). They are a collaboration between the ever fab Mykita optical & Brasilian designer Alexandre Herchcovitch. It is such a marriage made in heaven - both designers famous for their clean streamlined shapes, both able to turn classic into modern & simple into avante garde. I love the 2 tone, the sharp lines, the slightly mirrored sepia lens- just so much goodness.

Check out other collaborations at http://www.mykita.com

and check out this pair, current object of my desire: http://www.mykita.com/articles/index/lite-1#peppi from the Mykita current seasonal line. Unfortunately I am only slightly blind & I already have a disproportionate collection of optical given my mild condition.

Maybe I will ask santa......

Give me Givenchy

So if you were wondering what to get me or any self respecting fashionista for Xmas look no further than vintage Givenchy earrings. I have developed an obsession with them in the last few months & have been diligently collecting from easy, ruby lane & ebay. I love all the shapes & I am particularly addicted to the logo motifs, the bigger the better- plus you can get them for under $10 if you look hard enough & bide your time. Here are some of my faces & below are the original pair that started my addiction.

Welcome

Well hello..... & welcome to my blog about fashion, travel, eats, treats, architecture & all things awesome. In the words of swiss artist Ugo Rondinone.....