Rise of the Fashion Sweatshirt

Who would have thought that the humble sweatshirt would be such a street style staple? Once only reserved for sweaty gyms or those Friday nights at home, the humble sweatshirt is literally everywhere. However instead of the classic heather grey sweatshirt, they are adorned with embellishments, wild prints and even embroidery. It is these elements that turn the sweatshirt into a statement piece.

Although some of these sweatshirts can retail for up to a thousand dollars, a collection of homage tees and sweatshirts have emerged. Brands spend thousands, if not millions, to protect their brand and brands such as Reason have put a cheeky spin on the designer sweatshirt. Brand names have been 're-phrased' into a more humorous take of the name such as 'Homies' (Hermes), 'Partier' (Cartier) and 'Ain't Laurent' (Yves Saint Laurent).  This Homie tee from Reason would be a great wardrobe staple for layering or even the sweatshirt would be a great alternative for the colder months. Are you on this bandwagon because I definitely am.

This is my first post after a month long hiatus. I definitely needed a break from blogging and just enjoy my winter break. I just started the Spring semester a couple days ago and it was time to get back into the swing of things again. I am definitely looking to refresh my blog with a new layout because from time to time we just need to start afresh. Until then you can follow me on my social media channels below and stay tuned for some exciting changes!

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images from here, here, here and here

winter wardrobe restock

1. NYCPARIS Celine Me Alone T-Shirt / 2. Forever New Laney Check Shirt / 3. French Connection Floppy Hat / 4. Rag and Bone Floppy Brim Fedora / 5. BB Dakota Catrall Colourblock Coat / 6. Topshop PU Panel Sweat Dress / 7. J Brand Maria High Waist Skinny Jeans / 8. Unique Tux Jacket / 9. Topshop Advance Cutout Western Boots

We have just celebrated (I'm not sure if that is the right term but let's continue) the first official day of Winter in Australia and it was just another reminder that I desperately needed to stock up on some winter basics. This is also a time where I could also stock up on some comfortable items to wear to university instead of my uniform. This uniform normally consisted of some jeans, combat boots and a utility jacket, an ensemble which I have worn to death. In light of this, I have curated a group of items which I hope to acquire over the Winter break. Also, on that note, I finished my first semester of university roughly two weeks ago and I am extremely relieved to have done so.

Now back on topic. I know that cutout boots have been all the rage and I have been a bit slow when it comes to wearing this trend. However, I wanted to find a pair which allowed me to wear some footlets (because the thought of wearing boots with bare feet kinda gross me out). This pair from Topshop are great because they you can still wear low cut footlets without getting smelly feet.

A plaid shirt is a great layering piece especially in the warmer months and I am currently on the market for one. I tend to lean towards plaid shirts with red and navy because it is incredibly versatile especially with items from my wardrobe. This is also a great piece for those 90s grunge outfits. Another piece which I am eyeing is this coat. I have made it a habit to pick up a new coat every time Winter comes around - this immediately makes Winter more enjoyable for me. I have contemplated about buying this coat for a while because I love the colourblock detail of the coat. The neutral shade is also great with virtually with any outfit as well.

Even though most of you are not in Winter at the moment, what else would you add to this list? I am in dire need to suggestions - I definitely need to replenish my winter wardrobe.

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outfit: spiked jumper + leather shorts

ASOS Beanie, DIY Cropped Jumper, Leather Shorts from eBay (first featured here), ASOS Sandals, Kate Moss for Rimmel Matte Lipstick in 111

When a rare warm winter day comes around, it is best to take advantage of it. However, I still want to have textures synonymous with winter. Textures such as leather and terry cloth are reminiscent of winter yet they are still great for those warmer winter days. I also upcycled this jumper where I simply added some studs. This is a simple DIY which anyone can do.

I also completed the two outfits with my DIY transparent clutch, DIY wire chevron rings and two spiked bracelets from eBay.

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trend to try: palm print

Summer is in full spring for those who live in the northern hemisphere while us folks down under are braving the winds and early morning fog. However, that didn't stop me from sharing some insight on summer trends. One that is making the rounds is the palm print. Palm prints scream summer and the tropics and who wouldn't want to spend their days on a tropical island. I guess this trend is one way of bringing tropical destinations much closer to home. 

For those wishing to try this trend out, I suggest starting off small with perhaps a jacket or even a scarf that way it won't be too overwhelming. For those who are a bit more adventurous, try a short suit for those casual days out. Readers, what do you think of this trend and how would you wear it?

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images from here, here, here and here.

new in: nike free tr fit 3

Nike Free TR Fit 3

Another purchase, however, I don't think this one goes anywhere near the fashion and style sphere (unless you count the 90s resurgence of Nike Airs). I have been wanting a pair of Nike Frees for the longest time. They previous shoes were just heavy and just didn't fit my foot at all. These on the other hand were as light as a feather and the sole is quite flexible. I believe in investing in a good pair of running or training shoes because if our feet are not taken care of, it can lead to poor alignment of feet and ankles which furthermore lead to poor joints. Can I also mention it can affect the lower back as well? I have already tested them out and they are definitely the best pair of training shoes I have ever owned. The colour range is great but I just stuck to black since it wouldn't get dirty easily and it would match pretty much everything. I purchased these on ASOS with a student discount and I definitely don't regret it. This latest purchase has also motivated me to start running again. I absolutely detest running, no matter how hard I try to like it, it just never happens. What is your stance on running? Like it or hate it?

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aspirational homes | artworks + decor

Continuing in the series of my photographs of aspirational homes, (you can see the other two posts here and here) we are focusing on the little things - artworks and decor. If you were to strip a home of any decor or pieces of art, the home would be bland and cold. This is truly a testament to why the little things really do matter.  Also, these artworks weren't priceless portraits, rather they were minimalistic or simple. Things like dots placed in a rather haphazard fashion or simple floral prints can make effective pieces of artwork which can easily fill up an empty wall. In terms of decor, they normally consisted of small trinkets and plants. They quite often reflected and complimented the colour scheme and tied the entire room together.

Readers, what are your favourite pieces of art or decor pieces in your home?

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in rotation

It has been quite some time since I have shared what has been on my playlist so I though now would be a great time. These songs have been on repeat, each having their own reason. Firstly, can we take a second to appreciate how good the soundtrack to 'The Great Gatsby' is. Especially with Lana Del Rey's track, 'Young and Beautiful'. It is somewhat haunting and sombre and fits the story perfectly. It has only been released a couple days ago in Australian theatres and I am definitely going to go watch it after the semester is over with. Also, Jack White's 'Love is Blindness' is another favourite from the soundtrack.




Next is one of my favourite songs when it is performed live and by one of my favourite bands. In one word, it can be described as epic. Live renditions of 'Let The Flames Begin' by Paramore are always full of energy and epic. However, this one in particular at the Reading Festival in 2010 is their best performance to date (a quick suggestion if you are playing the video down below, listen to it with some earphones). It is a shame that they lost some of this sound in their new album but I guess that is how bands grow and evolve. I have yet to get a physical copy of their album (I know, I'm a bad fan) but I'm definitely making the effort during my Winter break.



I must apologise for the lack of updates on this blog. The last week of semester is hectic, but after that I have an almost two month break. I have some posts lined up and expect them within the next fortnight or so. Thanks for hanging in there!

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attempt at the transparent clutch

my attempt at the transparent clutch

In my last post, I shared some inspirations for the transparent clutch. I have decided to give it a go and hoped for the best. I went to my local hardware store and picked up some transparent vinyl (I bought half a metre, although I only needed half of it). I drew out a stencil and cut out the transparent vinyl to form the shape needed. I secured it with a few stitches of white thread and that was it. However, I have found some problems which needed to be corrected. I would definitely buy the thickest vinyl they had, that way it wasn't flimsy. Also, it would have added some studs to make the clutch more secure and added more detail to it. For my first try, this wasn't bad but I am definitely making some adjustments before sharing how I actually made it. What do you think of it and do you have any other suggestions?

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inspiration | the transparent clutch

the transparent clutch (image from here)

I am back. I have found a small amount of time to blog and I thought I could do an inspiration post since I haven't done them in a while. My love for all things lucite in interior design and decor, such as the Philippe Starck Ghost Chair have crossed over into the world of fashion. It has been a while since the transparent clutch has burst onto the scene but they have survived through several seasons and they are trendier than ever. Now I know they are not the most practical bags, especially for that time in the month, but they transparent details gives such an unexpected twist to such a classic accessory. This has definitely given me a push to try and make one of these myself, it doesn't seem too hard to make.

The likes of Charlotte Olympia, have done their own interpretation of the trend and have also added colour to them. Valentino has also done transparent bags as part of their Rockstud collection and if you are looking to take the next step, perhaps a transparent tote by BCBG Max Azria might be the one for you. I might have a go with trying to make a transparent clutch and check back in with the progress. Until then, follow me on my social media channels below!

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images from here, here, here and here

five picks from asos

from left to right: ASOS PREMIUM Top with Allover Applique,  ASOS Linen Mini Skirt with Wrap Detail, Glamorous Boyfriend Jeans in Light Wash Distressed Denim, ASOS Leather Look Quilted Biker Jacket

This is another round of five picks and I know I haven't updated this blog for a week. Don't fret, I haven't forgotten, I've just been enjoying my mid-semester break. All of these five pieces I have been eyeing for quite some time and I thought I would share them in this round of five picks.

For the past two months, I've been finding the perfect wrap skirt. This has been a 'struggle', (but lets face it, there is more to the world than finding the perfect skirt) mainly because I couldn't find any in stores locally or they weren't at a suitable price point. However, this skirt from ASOS is virtually perfect and at a great price too! Combine it with student discounts and free shipping, I might have to order it for myself.

I know that I have placed an emphasis on building the wardrobe basics, but one trendy piece won't hurt right? This applique top is feminine but is edgy and dark at the same time. This top is great for layering especially when it is coming into winter here in Australia. This can be paired with a black skater skirt for an ultra feminine date night outfit or combat boots for some edgy glam.

ASOS FLIRT Sandals

For my final pick, I chose these pair of sandals. A simple black sandal is a wardrobe staple which can be easily paired with anything especially denim shorts on hot summer days. This sandal also comes in an electric orange colour which can add a pop of colour  to any outfit. The only things that stopped me from buying the orange pair was that I couldn't really wear it with anything. I've bought three of these items already and I may buy a fourth. Take a guess. Hope you enjoyed this round of five picks.

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aspirational homes | the living room

In this post, we are continuing on the series of aspirational homes. These are a series of photographs which I have taken while visiting them and I thought it would be a great idea to share them with you. If you haven't seen the first post about bedrooms, you can read it here. Today, we are focusing on the living room. Living rooms are definitely high traffic areas. A balance of design conscious and practicality is key. By having your furniture appropriate to the scale of the living room and smart storage solutions are just a few ways of achieving this balance. What I have also observed is the styling of coffee tables. Whether it is a vase full of fresh flowers or a stack of coffee table books, it is a great way to create interest and finish off the living room.

Readers, what would be included in your ultimate living space?

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new in | classic button down

ASOS petite shirt

 On the heels of the 'Building the Basic Wardrobe' series, I have started looking into more basic pieces for my wardrobe rather than cheap thrills (also known as that ten dollar that you have never worn). This classic button down top has a tailored fit and will serve me well in the years to come. It is a cotton blend shirt with a three-quarter sleeve. Although I am five foot and three-and-a-half inches, I thought I would still be able to fit into the petite section at ASOS. For those who don't know, the ASOS petite range is made for those 5'3" and under. Despite this, this shirt fit me well. You can purchase this exact shirt here.

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aspirational homes | the bedroom

In the past week, I got the opportunity to look at some houses and their impeccable interior design. What can I say, they were definitely impressive and I couldn't resist the opportunity to take some photographs to share with everyone. Since I did take plenty of photos, I have decided to break them up into different categories so you wouldn't feel like you were reading a large book by the end of the post. 

We spend at least one third of our life in our bedrooms, so it is important to create a space which is intimate yet comfortable. I find that the bedroom is one of the places in your home where you can add the personal touches in order to create an peaceful environment. What the recurring themes I saw in these particular bedrooms where the use of quite large and detailed headboards. These headboards ranged from graphic text to tall, quilted headboards to a parisian chic baroque-inspired headboard. They definitely add some interest to the ordinary bed. Also, bedding and other textiles were not in short supply. Having multiple pillows and cushions create a more comfortable space and it really does feel like you can just dive into bed. Blankets and throws were also a frequent addition to add the finishing touches. 

I am so excited to share my photographs which I have taken in these aspirational homes and spaces over the next week or so. What was your favourite bedroom and what would your dream bedroom look like?

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haul | colette by colette hayman

When a store has 50% off all jewelery, you know you have to take advantage of it and that is what I exactly did. I picked up three items to add to my jewelry collection including two statement necklaces and a bracelet - perfect for arm candy. The first necklace I have been eyeing for a while but I could never justify it because it wasn't versatile for me. However, ever since purchasing it, it is definitely a piece that is great for adding a pop of colour (I know, how cliche can I get?). It also reminds me of J Crew necklaces, but since we don't have it here in Australia this is the closest I am going to get.

There is something about the collar trend that just won't die. Don't even bother looking at me because I don't know either. This trend has translated into statement necklaces as well. This diamante collar necklace is piece great on its own with a simple top. However, I found that it works well under collared tops, especially under the collars of my chambray shirt. It adds the contrast of the casual and ordinary to the dress and glamorous. It is something I definitely recommend for you to try out - it adds a bit of sparkle without it being too much for the daytime.

I also purchased another bracelet because can you ever have too many bracelets? I'm definitely looking forward to featuring this in some of my arm candy. I think I might have to make another stop at Colette soon since their sale is still on. Until then...

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