Brigadeiro

Street Style at the Autumn/Winter 2013 Fashion Weeks - Nautical Stripes

2013-05-24T14:59:00.001+09:30

pics via camilleovertherainbow, grazia.it, style.com

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What I'm wearing today: Zara embroidered bomber jacket and Isabel Marant Bobby sneakers

2013-05-22T15:59:00.002+09:30

After seeing these pics I changed into my larger-sized bomber, I think I like it slouchier when worn with sneakers...

Ah, please excuse the (usual) lame expression and the hideous hair! I had to cancel my last haircut, and never got around rescheduling it until this week! Which means that my last haircut was last year! Yikes!

I didn't actually crop my face out, my camera did...I'm terrible with tripods!

Was going to wear my Zara skort today, then swiftly changed my mind on seeing how horrendously pale my legs are...

1. Zara embroidered bomber jacket (was lazy and borrowed previous pics from here - it was too hard getting the camera to focus properly with the timer function!)
2. Bonds neat raglan t-shirt (bought for $15!)
3. Topshop Boutique silk jogger pants (sold out, but similar here - am thinking of upgrading mine to these, mine are a bit big, and I have to roll the waistband a few times)
4. Isabel Marant Bobby sneakers in Taupe (available here, and in craie here)

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Speaking of packing, Louis Vuitton teaches us 'THE Art of Packing' - A.M.A.Z.I.N.G!

2013-05-21T22:27:00.001+09:30

Not quite helping me with what to pack into my suitcase, but rather, how to pack them in my suitcase, Louis Vuitton recently released a series titled 'The Art of Packing', with many helpful hints (although the actual 'tips' flash on the screen so crazy fast on the website)! Some of them I've used before (I layer my pieces on top of another before folding them, but there is lots to learn:

pics via park & cube
(can be viewed larger when clicked on)

click to enlarge

Tips from LV's Art of Packing series:

1. Place heaviest items towards the bottom of the suitcase (e.g. 2-3 pairs of shoes can be placed in each corner)

2. Central area is great for accessories (e.g. travel guides and toiletries bag) - I am actually planning on bringing the Jiffy Esteam, a travel steamer I recently bought (I absolutely abhor ironing). Just because my usual 'wrinkled look' may look out of place during Haute Couture week...

3. Lay delicate items like shirts and dresses

4. Fold and roll t-shirts

5. Fold a suit carefully and put in the separate compartment

6. Roll belts or place them along the exterior wall, with buckle facing outwards

7. Place on top delicate items such as sunglasses and jewellery

8. Jeans are simply rolled from bottom up

9. Knits & tees, fold and roll to save space

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How to pack for a holiday in Paris and Haute Couture Fashion Week with two babies?

2013-05-20T23:38:00.002+09:30

In 6 weeks time I will be strolling around Paris, arriving the day before Haute Couture Week. I know it may seem early to start thinking of packing, but having to also pack for Lil' Brigs #1 & #2, and knowing I usually leave things to the last minute, it is probably ~~wise~~ imperative to do. I am also starting early because I really I am struggling to think things through...Traveling with kids is a whole new ball game when it comes to packing, my already limited suitcase space is made even more limited by the fact that we have to bring the kids' stuff too, as well as baby gear (nappies/pram/travel cot/etc)! Also, I have to be even more practical with my sartorial choices than usual. Having said that, somehow, I will have to fit a couple of dressy outfits, as I will be attending a couple of fashion shows (haute couture week!), and possibly even meet with an haute couture designer or two!

I found the following 'how to pack for a holiday' post from 'A Pair and a Spare', which started the ball rolling:

How To: Pack For A Holiday

How to Pack (I adapted her tips to what I'd pack):

Step 1. Check the weather and the cultural expectations – Lucky for me, it will be summer in Paris. Lucky, because clothes are less bulky, and I don't need as many layers (tights, scarves, coat, etc).

Step 2. Gather Your Basics - breton style nautical top, black and white tank/tees, khaki cotton jacket, shorts, denim jeans, one LBD (am thinking 3.1 Phillip Lim's rosette t-shirt dress, so it can be dressed up or down) and a white (or black?) silk collared shirt. As in every day life, good basics are the foundation of a versatile travel wardrobe.

Step 3. Add key colour items – choose a colour palette for a few additional pieces. This reduces the likelihood of having mismatched outfits. You can of course choose a couple of colours for your palette, just try to make sure they are all compatible. I haven't added many 'key colour' items as yet...

Step 4. Rationalise your shoes - Shoes are the bulkiest part of your luggage and the lesser the number of shoes the better. But you don’t want to feel like you lack shoes either. Usually I used to bring a pair of ballet flats, a pair of dressy shoes and a pair of sandals. This time, for the first time in my adult life, I will be bringing my sneakers! Yes, my Nike's are coming along. I'm also thinking a pair of boots that I can walk in, but that will also allow me to go out for a nice dinner, and then heels, which will depend on the outfit(s) I pick for the fashion shows...

Step 5. Complete with Accessories - A few nice statement pieces of jewellery to dress up any outfit if needed. I also almost always take a bag with a long shoulder strap so it can be worn cross body, especially with 2 'babies' (well, Lil Brigs #1 is now 3, but I still call her my baby). I am bringing my Dries Van Noten large gold ball necklace (even though the one pictured below is silver, mine's gold). Normally I'd bring a scarf, but seeing it's summer, I may forego that one.

Other tips from the author?

Make sure to roll your clothes up tightly so all of the above can fit in your carry on (I do this already).

Do a layout – when packing make sure to lay everything out on your bed so that you can visualize the outfits and how they will go together. This has been the one single factor that has helped me to create better holiday wardrobes.

Well, I thought I'd use Polyvore, haha! My sister laughed at me, attempting to 'pack' online, and also pointed out the obvious: the numerous striped tops I am 'packing'. But in real life, I use stripes almost every day! I know it's cliche to use stripes in Paris (and later we'll be heading for a week in Provence), but I can't not wear them (oh, and the 'Bonjour' top is coming for sure)!

Ok, so I started with this:

I am going to bring my Topshop harem pants as PJ's, so then it can fill in as an extra pair of pants if needed, same will go for the top. I am also bringing my Suno plaid playsuit (which I haven't included in my sets).

trying to narrow it down...

Packing attempt (take 1) by brigadeiro

Decisions, decisions...

Decision, decisions by brigadeiro featuring a tshirt dress

I still need to decide between bringing:

1. My Balenciaga Extra Courier in 'blood orange' (not quite the colour below), or the slightly smaller Courier in Anthracite. This will be my travel/nappy/daily bag.

2. Was thinking of bringing my Chloe's, but was worried about them being ruined. Considered the Isabel Marant Bobby's, but two pairs of 'sneakers' is probably too much, even if the IM Bobby's are 'dressier' than the Nike's. Today I purchased the Isabel Marant Dickers in Anthracite as I've heard how comfy they are, although I still really want the gris/grey/taupe version.

3. Decide which 3.1 Phillip Lim rosette dress will come. The black t-shirt dress will be more practical (sleeved and not white), so am leaning towards that one.

4. Decide on my 'dressy' outfits - that's a tough one, I only want to bring one pair of shoes, and that's tricky, 'cause whatever I choose will have to go with the same pair of shoes/heels. The Margiela x H&M beige plexiglass pumps are quite versatile, but won't go with some of my dresses...

Ok, this is me trying to 'think out loud'. Hoping that I can visualize this better once this post is up. Will update when I figure things out further...

What are your packing tips?

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Recent buys: Preen, 3.1 Phillip Lim x Koi Suwannagate, Dries Van Noten, Equipment Signature Silk shirt, Asos striped 'Bonjour' jumper & THE Zara skort

2013-05-20T08:31:00.001+09:30

I have been a little pleased with myself that up until recently I have mostly been adding pieces to my wardrobe that I actually wear day-to-day...But I am feeling slightly guilty because I have recently 'relapsed', even though some of these items have been on my 'obsession-list'...

The Preen 'Akiko' dress (on sale for a steal at Boutique 1) and 'Kimono' sweater (now sold out at My Wardrobe) are from one of my favourite collection by Thornton & Bregazzi for Preen, remember me posting about it here? I am ~~crazily~~ slightly obsessed with this collection; practically every single piece was absolutely amazing! And you all know how much I love oriental/kimono/Japanese prints...

The 3.1 Phillip Lim strapless rosette dress is something I've ~~drooled~~ dreamed of since it was first shown on the runway. Remember this post with my 3.1 Phillip Lim pieces (strapless dress in taupe, and the rosette tank dress in navy) from his collaboration with Koi Suwannagate. Since then I've added the rosette t-shirt dress in black and white. This ivory linen strapless rosette dress was erroneously listed as a maxi dress, which means the bidding war was less vicious than what I have previously witnessed on rosette pieces, serendipity!

I recently bought the Equipment signature silk shirt in black, and as soon as it arrived I knew I just had to also get it in white, I see this will get plenty of wear (providing I don't stain it *cross fingers*)

It seems like every ~~man and his dog~~ blogger out there has a pair of these Zara skorts. Since discovering the comfort of playsuits, I love the fact that I can still run around with two little ones while keeping my decency in shorts, which these skorts will also afford me. I plan on bringing them with me on my upcoming Paris trip (more on this to come).

Speaking of Paris, when I saw the striped Asos 'Bonjour' sweater on the stunningly gorgeous Nicole Warne of Gary Pepper Vintage, I was giddy as a little schoolgirl, only to be let down by the fact that it sold out. Ok, I know I should be chastised for this, but I found it on Ebay 'scalped' at double its retail price. But I didn't care, it had me at 'Bonjour', stripes and all (I asked myself, if I didn't know what brand it was, if I saw it on a rack for that price, would I buy it, my answer was 'yes'). Call me cheesy (I know my sister will, and her French boyfriend will cringe), but I absolutely cannot wait to wear this in France. Hope I don't get ~~any~~ too many dirty looks.

1. Zara black skort 2. Dries Van Noten striped silk Cee top 3. Preen Akiko silk dress (still available on sale at Boutique 1) 4. Preen Kimono sweater 5. 3.1 Phillip Lim strapless rosette dress 6. Asos striped 'Bonjour' jumper 7. Equipment Signature Silk shirt in Nature White

pic via atlantic-pacific

pic via Gary Pepper Vintage

pic via atlantic-pacific

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OMGoodness! 50% off selected Isabel Marant, Stella McCartney, 3.1 Phillip Lim at The New Guard!

2013-05-17T13:13:00.001+09:30

This just in (literally, I only just opened my email, and excitedly clicked on to The New Guard's site to check their sale out), and just had to share. These are all open in my tabs, and I almost don't want to share them in case they sell out (must not to be selfish, you see). At the same time it'd probably be a good idea, because I am debating about a pair of Isabel Marant Dicker boots I tried in store this week (shame they're not on sale *sigh* - I was on the waitlist for a pair at Matches Fashion, but they somehow sold out within hours! Boo!), while the gorgeous and lovely Erin (co-owner of TNG) was there, as well as a Dries Van Noten dress (also sadly not on sale)...

I can't believe I have not written about The New Guard until now. I was uber excited when they first opened a few years ago, as we don't have that many good stores/labels here in Ads. My excitement grew as they stocked more and more of my favourite labels (which I cannot believe I can now find here!). Anyway, I digress, here are some of my 'sale picks' (some at 75% off):

Stella McCartney Christine pants now AUD$449 (sadly not in my size, this has been on my wishlist from day one)

Etoile Isabel Marant Calvin perforated leather jacket (seriously considering this, but am telling myself I need to wear my Burberry washed navy leather jacket more)

This Stella McCartney knit top now $399

Acne With You Tape Shirt $175

Etoile Isabel Marant Anderson jacket now $299 (the matching 'top' to the pants I want, which sadly TNG don't have in stock)

Stella McCartney Anemone dress (ooh, so tempting!)

Isabel Marant Manet pants (was a bargain at $169, but not my size)

Etoile Isabel Marant Calvin leather jacket again, but in blue

Isabel Marant Serra pants now $149!!! (seriously! 75% off)

Isabel Marant Vatelle Suede jacket now $865

Isabel Marant Tundra skirt now $249! If I had the models' pins I would definitely snap them up!

all images via thenewguard.com.au
(sorry, I didn't get to link each picture to the product page like I usually do, but they're easy to find)

Have a great weekend everyone!

xx
CC

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What I'm wearing today: Isabel Marant Bobby sneakers, Balenciaga Extra Courier bag & Nautical stripes

2013-05-16T14:40:00.000+09:30

My day-to-day outfits are pretty much a variation on a theme:

Usual 'uniform' = Top/Tee/Knit/Button-down shirt (usually striped) + casual pants (jeans/tailored joggers/harem) + comfy shoes (sneakers, low-heeled boots) + bag slung across the body (need two hands when you have two kids, although four would be nice) + jacket (if required)

Velvet by Graham Spencer striped top (available here and here - both currently offering free shipping, for Matches Fashion enter MAYFREE at checkout)
Rag & Bone 'The Dre' jeans in Wells (mine have stretched and I so wish I could find another one in a smaller size! I really like the wash on these jeans!) (available in different washes here, here and here)
Isabel Marant Bobby sneakers in Taupe (available here, and in craie here)
Balenciaga Extra Courier bag (aka my 'baby/nappy bag - which is really a men's travel bag, yeah, it's huge) (available in cobalt here) - I use it practically every day (remember when I posted about it here? Occasionally I use it's slightly smaller version, Courier bag, in Anthracite)

What is your 'uniform'?

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New Kid on the Block - Fatima Mendes Online Store

2013-05-16T07:57:00.000+09:30

As you all may know, I am an avid online shopper. Every so often I discover new stores, by trying to find a particular item or designer. I was uber excited to find Fátima Mendes' online store, and just had to share it with you all. Even though the physical store has already been around for 30 years, and boasts six branches in Portugal, it is only recently that Fátima Mendes launched her presence on the 'world wide web'.

What do I like about this online store? It isn't just that labels like Céline, Chloé, Christian Dior, Dolce Gabbana, Lanvin, Gucci, Givenchy, are stocked. What I got very excited about was the fact that it has everything for everyone, for myself (miss), Mr Brigs (mister), Lil J #1 (little girl) and Lil J #2 (little boy). And that it currently offers free international shipping (you all know how I feel about free shipping!)

I wouldn't mind any of the pieces from the store's gorgeous magazine-style editorial:

Went 'window' shopping for the whole family:

Miss

Lanvin dress

Gucci floral 'sweater'

Gucci coat - how absolutely stunning in this?!?

Mister

Lanvin blazer - hot!

Little Girl

Left to right: Dolce & Gabbana striped skirt (too cute! 'excuse me, do you have this in my size?), American Outfitters foulard, Stella McCartney bomber (to match 'mommy'), Gucci floral sneakers

Little Boy

Gucci 'mum' handbag, Stella McCartney Tiger Intarsia sweater , Stella McCartney sneakers, Gucci hat (even though I'm not one for logos, how cute is this? there's a pink one for Lil J#1 too!)

They even have a really cool 'movie' for their web launch:

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What I'm wearing today: Ginta embroidered jacket

2013-05-15T11:33:00.003+09:30

Took a quick snap with my iPhone as I left the house to run some errands today:

Ginta embroidered bomber jacket

Glassons merino striped wool top (I shared about these recently)

Topshop Boutique black silk jogger pants (wish I could get another pair!)

Nike sneakers (seriously one of my best buys of 2013 so far)

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Step back in time: Stella McCartney's iconic 'Horse' collection for Chloe Spring/Summer 2001

2013-05-13T12:19:00.000+09:30

I was flicking through my wardrobe seeing what I can fit into, and sighed when I saw my strapless Chloe horse dress, leading me to reminisce. The 'Chloe horse' collection is in all likelihood my all-time favourite collection of Stella McCartney's to date (or one of my all-time favourite collections period).

Starting with the 'fruit' blouses with their unique sleeves (and the humorous line on the back of the 'banana' top: "keep your bananas off my melons), to the amazing horse prints (how iconic is that brown silk chiffon dress with the ivory horses printed on it, worn by 'Carrie' on 'Sex and the City"?), the flouncy sleeves, the beautifully-cut man-style pants, some of my favourite models (especially Caroline Ribeiro)...It was hard to 'edit' and whittle down my favourite looks (apologies in advance for the RSI that may be induced by scrolling down):

Worn by Kate Moss in a shoot

Am absolutely kicking myself for not pouncing on this dress when I saw it on Ebay (I couldn't fit it at the time, but would now, boo!)! This is one of my favourite pieces of this collection...

I have the 'negative opposite' of this dress (ivory horse on brown dress) - and must say this pic doesn't do this dress justice!

pics via www.firstview.com

What are your some of your all-time favourite collections?

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Word on the Fashion Street: 3.1 Phillip Lim for Target!

2013-05-10T08:38:00.002+09:30

Ok, so I am typing this with 'Sesame Street' playing in the background. What's the word on the street? Well, it was announced today that 3.1 Phillip Lim will be releasing a collaborative collection with Target on September 15th! I spotted some beautiful watercoloured floral patterns in the vid below! Cannot wait to see images of the collection (and am wondering - how will I get my hands on these? At times like these I wish I lived in the US)!

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Cheap thrills - Glassons Merino tops $29.99 TODAY only

2013-05-07T08:59:00.002+09:30

I was actually going to share about these today anyway, and lo and behold, I got an email saying that these merino tops are only $29.99 for one day only (which sped up my post from tonight to this morning). I recently purchased 6 of these merino tops from Glassons and was amazed at the softness, warmth and comfort of these tops, and at such an unbelievable price (this is not a sponsored post btw, I was just genuinely amazed)! Made from 100% New Zealand merino wool, I bought these as basics/staples for my wardrobe (especially with the weather heading towards Winter), and I think I might stock up on more today to use as PJ's (so cheap, why not?). I had heard about these for years, but couldn't believe they could be good for the price of a 'cheap' t-shirt...but they are! And free shipping too! 5 of the 6 tops I bought were too big so I've sent them back to exchange for a smaller size. I have only just popped one in my washing basket, so have yet to see how the pull up after a wash, but I have read good things about that too.

Ok, am off to get some more black l/s crew neck tops...

Sorry to any international readers, just noticed it's for NZ and AUS shoppers only.

David Szeto Spring/Summer 2013 and Autumn/Winter 2012

2013-05-06T21:02:00.000+09:30

Ah, David...you continue to design beautiful, timeless pieces that are so wearable and covetable!

Spring/Summer 2013

Szeto's recent Spring/Summer 2013 collection titled 'Massai Irma la Douce'
boasts some absolutely glorious colours and beautiful shapes:

The Samantha dress in beautiful tangerine is sitting patiently in my wishlist at Shopbop and Farfetch (I prefer the latter version, which isn't one-shouldered, as it'd be more practical/easy-to-wear in the end). How gorgeous is that cocoon-shaped electric blue coat? I must admit I was uber excited (yet equally surprised) that David Szeto was recently stocked at Shopbop, it wasn't quite the store I had pictured this designer to be stocked, although I am not complaining, I must say that I don't think Shopbop pictures of the clothing do it justice though...

David's Szeto trademark pleating takes centrestage in this nude colour...so beautiful!

The Tribal Manteau again - electric blue mesh neoprene coat, lined in silk - absolutely beautiful, although I would probably look silly in it.

An example of how different a piece can look in a different colour, this 'Standard dress' in dark chocolate looks so different to the 'nude' above, but oh so striking!

I am seriously considering the tangerine version of the Jordana skirt on Shopbop, the shape is so beautiful and wearable! Wouldn't mind tracking that Jacks top too! Love the subtle draping and easy shape, and especially the hand rouching on the sleeves...

I like the bird print on the Shirley dress (available at Farfetch), but even more so on this (easier-to-wear) 'Samantha' version available at Barneys.

Autumn/Winter 2012

Collection: coco barbès

Mixing identity through dressing, David Szeto reinterpretated classic Chanel suiting, chains, pearl black/white and gold trimmings through the eyes of Afro-Parisian women with ‘ikat’ checkers and leopard prints on silk twills, draped into dresses and tops, occasionaly trimmed with chunky chains and buckles in a beautiful colour palette that includes deep purples, emerald greens, midnight blue, greys, red and black with white.

Apparently these 'Easy top(s)' (its actual name) can be tied in a variety of ways, with a bow front blouse in silk matt twill, here made up in an 'ikat' black white and red checkered digital print, the chequered digital prints are my favourite.

This Romy green ruched dress reminds me a little of the green David Szeto dress I have and wear a lot...except more subtle with the ruching, which makes it even 'easier' to wear..Here it is in navy:

Gabrielle Jacket - Chenille tweed jacket with silver chain sewn at the hem for that extra something.

N°5 Top Black/Off-White - Jersey top in black and white, completely hand ruched topped with a velvet bow at the top of the collar. I like the dress version available at Barneys.

Quite possibly my favourite piece of the collection, the 'Valentine' dress

Recent buys - PS. Free Shipping at MyTheresa!

2013-05-05T21:35:00.001+09:30

Ah, 'coupon codes' - where would we be without them? With a fatter wallet, most likely...but I have made heavy use of them on recent purchases that I was going to make regardless, so perhaps a slightly fatter wallet with them? Well, that's my story anyway, better stick to it for now...

The latest free shipping code I came upon cinched the deal on an item I had on my 'wishlist' for quite some time and was almost about to purchase without it *whew*

From top centre and clockwise: Willow classic silk tuck shirt (with the 30% off code Willow recently offered for 24 hours only), 3.1 Phillip Lim black cut up silk 'Nueva York' top (MyTheresa has free shipping until the 7th of May! I usually baulk at their €60+ shipping fee), Zara crossover checked shirt, Isabel Marant Bobby sneakers in Taupe (am head over sneakers 'in love' with these, and its uber soft velvet leather! Wish I had bought them from the start!), Equipment black silk Signature shirt (made use of the recent 20% off code Shopbop had on offer), Velvet by Graham Spencer Yurel striped top - free shipping at Matches Fashion! Use code: MAYFREE), Current Elliott Infantry jacket (again, MyTheresa has free shipping until the 7th of May!), and Zara embroidered bomber (ok, confession time, I bought another one, one size smaller than the first one - which I used today, as I wanted a 'back-up', as I like mine so much, plus I wanted one not-as-oversized).

Hope you all had a fabulous weekend!

Lil J&J's turned 1 and 3 respectively yesterday, and it was a crazy busy week for me (despite the simple party we threw), but it was absolutely worthwhile in the end, seeing how happy they were (especially Lil J#1 - she had an absolute ball this weekend, not only at the party, but having her cousin lil J#3 visit from Sydney).

xx

Free Shipping Code for Matches Fashion

2013-05-01T11:45:00.004+09:30

Hip hip hooray! Free shipping code for Matches for the entire month of May! Just enter MAYFREE when you checkout at Matches, you can click here to start shopping or on the pic above.

Now to whittle down my wishlist (which has already been whittled down considerably to this)...

From top to bottom: Isabel Marant Etoile Anastasie pants (I am a fan of all things with a touch of sportiness), Linda Farrow for The Row 26 sunglasses (added these to my wishlist the day before I found out about the code, serendipity?), Velvet by Graham Spencer Yurel sweater (target already acquired - it's on its way to me), Linda Farrow for The Row 26 sunglasses (hm, black or tortoiseshell?), Isabel Marant Silvio sweater (on sale! But the last size is a 42, and I really like those epaulettes, wonder how it looks 'oversized'?), and Acne black pistol boots, along with Isabel Marant Dicker boots, which have sadly sold out in my size, the Pistol's have also sold out in the 37.5 that was in my wishlist, I'm usually a 38, but found these ran oversized when I tried them on in Melbourne's Acne store, anyone else found that?)

60 second interview with Erdem Moragliou

2013-04-24T07:00:00.000+09:30

Loved this brief and fun interview with Erdem, and his answers! I would love to see him work with a ballet production, I also love Tilda Swinton, and am also a huge fan of American Idol, haha!

Willow 30% discount code - 24 hours only!

2013-04-23T20:17:00.001+09:30

Just in time! I had been going back and forwards on Willow's Classic Silk Tuck shirt ever since I first laid eyes on it. After trying it on in stores I was torn on whether to cinch the deal or not, its beautiful simple elegance with subtle draping truly makes this classic and very wearable, but the price tag made me hit the pause the button. When I received an email from Willow saying there'd be a 30% off code for 24 hours only, I hit 'buy' as soon as 'doors were open'. It's still quite a bit for a blouse, especially since I just bought this Equipment silk shirt with the 20% Shopbop code, but I really hope this piece becomes a staple in my closet:

After securing this blouse I am now looking through other items on my 'wishlist':

For your 30% off, just enter Q5TFD at checkout.

Has anyone else made their Willow purchase?

Shopbop 20% off Discount Code

2013-04-17T22:52:00.002+09:30

I meant to share this earlier, but my laptop AND desktop 'died' on me last week (I'm so lost without my computer!), and now I'm quickly borrowing Mr Brigs' laptop (which he uses for work) to share this code with you all. Just enter 'WEAREFAMILY13' when you checkout at Shopbop to get 20% off your order (including sale items!)

On my wish list:

Equipment Signature Silk shirts (although I wanted Nature White instead of Bright White), Velvet by Graham Spencer Yurel striped pullover and Current/Elliott Infantry jacket (although the ones on Shopbop aren't the colours I was after)

The Ginta embroidered jacket I already have in my closet is on sale too (so an extra 20% off)

Unfortunately 3.1 Phillip Lim is under the 'exceptions' list, otherwise this would be on my wishlist:

3.1 Phillip Lim Pashli bag and 3.1 Phillip Lim 31 hour bag

Ah, Giovanna! Pt 10 - Giovanna Battaglia's Street Style at the Autumn/Winter 2013 Fashion Weeks

2013-04-02T23:21:00.004+10:30

pics via grazia.it, collagevintage.com, vogue.com, wmagazine.tumblr and carolinesmode

Oops, I did it again! Recent Buy: Zara embroidered bomber jacket

2013-03-27T15:48:00.002+10:30

And so continues my obsession over embroidered bomber jackets...

I was recently chatting to my sister (who lives in London and blogs for J'adorais), about an exciting find I came across on Zara's website. As I was typing that to her, she was typing about a jacket she saw in Zara with my mom when visiting her in Paris, and that they both thought of me on seeing it. I sent her the link to mine: and voilà! It was the same jacket! They know me too well!

Remember the embroidered bomber jacket I scored for $5 at NHK's flea market in Tokyo during my Japan trip? Unfortunately, being vintage, the jacket had seen better days, and it was always a little too big for me, as it was in fact a man's jacket. Regardless, I wore/wear it a lot. But I was always on a lookout for a replacement (although I'll still keep and wear the Japanese jacket). Isabel Marant's Pieric silk jacket almost fit the bill, but sadly its price did not. In fact, I like the embroideries on the Zara jacket much much more!

I hunted one down in my size (it's not currently in stores here Down Under, and don't know when/if it will be), and am so glad I did! I find it absolutely beautiful...Oh, and it's reversible! Its simpler black and 'silvery taupe' side can be thrown over almost any outfit.

PS. Doesn't mean I have stopped day-dreaming about the 3.1 Phillip Lim bomber, (even if I found a money tree in my garden, I have only found the yellow version in a US size 2), but I almost like them on par...

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Taylor Tomasi Hill: Queen of Accessories Pt 12 (at Autumn/Winter 2013 Fashion Weeks)

2013-03-26T21:56:00.000+10:30

I like the fact that Taylor wore several pieces a few times in different outfits/combinations during Autumn/Winter 2013 Fashion Weeks (as well as pieces worn in previous Fashion Weeks, like her Junya Watanabe skirt), the gorgeous Dries Van Noten oriental pleated skirt (even though it was marred by being worn over pants - a trend I wore in the 90's, and can't seem to bring myself to do again), and of course, her trademark use of cobalt blue:

pics via vogue.com, grazia.it, collagevintage.com, garancedore.fr

Street Style at Autumn/Winter 2013 Fashion Weeks - The Embroidered Bomber Jacket

2013-03-20T21:42:00.001+10:30

my pic - a sneak peek of an upcoming post (watch this space)

It comes no secret to those (1 or 2) of you who have been following my blog for some time to know that I have a huge weakness for embroidered pieces, particularly oriental-themed embroidery. I am also a huge fan of 'sporty luxe' items like silk hooded and bomber jackets, and tapered jogger pants.

pretty embroidery + 'sporty' pieces = match made in heaven

Obviously I'm not the only one to think so, as embroidered bomber jackets made quite a few appearances 'on the street' during the Autumn/Winter 2013 Fashion Weeks. My favourite piece obviously being the breathtakingly beautiful 3.1 Phillip Lim jacket (almost as breathtaking as its price, and the fact that even if I came upon a money tree, it'd be to no avail, as they're practically selling out everywhere, boo!), as well as the Ginta embroidered jacket:

3.1 Phillip Lim Embroidered Jacket

Proenza Schouler jacket

Three Floor Fashion Ginta embroidered bomber jacket (can't wait to wear mine)

3.1 Phillip Lim embroidered souvenir jacket

pics via grazia.it, vogue.com and style.com

For those who are interested:

The Ginta Embroidered jacket can be purchased here.

The 3.1 Phillip Lim embroidered jacket (the first and last jacket pictured) are available for purchase at (although they're selling out as fast as I can blink):

Net-a-Porter and Net-a-Porter US

Saks Fifth Avenue

Kirna Zabete

Selfridges

Just putting it out there so I can live vicariously through you...

Yasmin Sewell - The Girl from Oz Pt 8 - at the Autumn/Winter 2013 Fashion Weeks

2013-03-19T23:10:00.002+10:30

Taylor (Tomasi Hill) has her cobalt blue, and Yasmin looks fabulous in navy. I must admit that although Yasmin is one of my favourites, there were a few outfits that made me furrow my eyebrows. Those silver platforms? And then, again? But with socks? The ensemble with the silver 'arrow' along the side (worn with said silver 'flatforms' - although it doesn't look bad in the pics below, I saw some other pics that weren't as flattering), and the skirt over slightly flared pants I wasn't a fan of, but that blue coat, clutch, sunglasses and turtleneck knit (even the bowler hat, it looks cute on her!), I am:

Pics via vogue.com, style.com, harpersbazaar.com, grazia.it

How to Edit and Organize your Wardrobe

2013-03-18T14:50:00.000+10:30

Apologies in advance for the length of this post...

I am by no means an expert on editing or organizing wardrobes. Not. at. all. Last week I received an email from Gwyneth (well, from her Goop website), that would have been useful a few months ago. Knowing I had to downsize my wardrobe when we moved house in December, I tried editing and culling my wardrobe. I was pretty ruthless (or at least, it seemed so, with multiple trips to the charity bin to take huge 'rubbish' bags and bags and bags of clothes/shoes/bags/accessories - because I didn't have time to sell/consign them), and yet, it still seems like I barely made a dent!

My new bedroom has a WIR (walk-in robe), but it is way too small for my our needs, so I built another wardrobe just for my 'good' clothes, which sadly had to be smaller than my previous one (which was already bursting at its seams - literally! The door hinges of the 'coats' section had come undone). I removed from my wardrobe some of the clothes I no longer fit but want to keep (I have given myself a year to lose my 'post-~~wedding~~ pregnancy' weight, and put them in the upstairs wardrobe (guest room). I say 'good' clothes, as they are mostly clothes I would wear out (as opposed to when I stay home, which with 2 babies, is most of the time nowadays). Most of the clothes I wear on a regular/daily basis (tees, jeans, casual pants) will be kept in chest of drawers or hung in the (small) WIR - alongside Mr Brigs' clothes.

Some time last year I came by a brilliant guide on how to edit your wardrobe by personal stylist Kate Suzuki, author of the blog 'Everyday Glamour'. I must admit I had completely forgotten all about it when I was editing my wardrobe (silly me!). But somehow, as I pulled it up after receiving my 'Goop' email, I realized I did most Kate's suggestions in the guide (which you can get free from her website with a simple and quick email to her!).

Kate suggests you edit your wardrobe every six months, which is what I used to do (back in the day when I actually had time), so for my own reference I thought I would consolidate what I did, with Goop's and Kate's tips on how to edit, spring clean and organize the wardrobe, in the hope that I stick to making this a regular thing. Each section of my wardrobe required several 'rounds' of editing, which I did quite well at first, but not so well as I ran out of time with others.

For wardrobe pieces, I separate my items by 'type' (short sleeves blouses, long sleeved blouses, jackets, coats and finally dresses) and then in them in 'chromatic order':

via goop.com

(n.b. Kate suggests editing over 3 days, mine probably took longer, but that is because I was fitting it in with packing up house, as well as taking care of the 2 babies (well, make that 3 if we count Mr. Brigs...don't tell him I said that)

Checklist

1. Matching hangers. Kate suggests you should start with 200 hangers. I like simple wooden ones, but ran out towards the end. Unfortunately, they can be quite bulky, it's a shame I don't like the look of thin, space saving hangers.

2. Plastic trash bags - be careful to label them well to differentiate between the 'rubbish' and 'to donate' bags.

3. Shopping bags to tote alterations and/or dry cleaning (which I had to place immediately in the back of the car, or they'd stay in there for months...) .

4. Stickers and a pen to label bags and boxes.

5. Nice cardboard boxes with lids (the black boxes from Net-a-Porter boxes and colourful boxes from Matches Fashion are perfect for this) - this is where I store items that would not store well on a hanger, like my 3.1 Phillip Lim Rosette dresses, a heavily sequinned Dries Van Noten dress, as well 'archived' pieces such as my wedding dress.

6. I wished I had a collapsible rolling garment rack. These would be handy when I periodically edit my wardrobe. Instead I cleared a rack on one of the wardrobes, and hung items there as I went, not ideal, but it sufficed considering my time constraint.

7. A full-length mirror (essential).

via goop.com

(n.b. Re: #3 - that went for a lot of items that went in my donation pile, I wonder whether the potential buyers in these charity stores will recognise the labels like Dries Van Noten and Chloe, but it was a donation after all...

Left to right: Alice + Olivia Jabot silk shirt (comes with a navy tie, wore it out to dinner last week), Asos silk chiffon blouse, Mary Katrantzou for Topshop floral silk sleeveless shirt, Dries Van Noten cotton floral shirt, Dries Van Noten 2-piece blouse (sleeveless beaded vest goes under the floral top), David Szeto Camellia pale grey blouse, Dries Van Noten ikat kimono blouse, Thakoon eyelash print silk chiffon blouse, Chloe (from Stella McCartney days) silk jersey top with a woman's face on it, Country Road tan/nude/caramel silk shirt - I bought 2 of these, one for rough wear which gets trashed, and another for my 'good' wardrobe, as they were heavily reduced, I also have it in ivory), Peter Som floral silk blouse with black lace top and collar, Dries Van Noten orange silk blouse, Thakoon pink petal blouse, Chloe floral silk chiffon blouse.

via goop.com

I found the tips given below quite useful, some of which I was not previously aware of:

The following is from Kate's guide (from Everyday Glamour):

via everyday-glamour.com

I dare say, that since 'editing' my wardrobe for the move, I have tried making an extra conscious effort to really really think every wardrobe purchase through, and have held back on many more purchases than I normally would have (believe it or not). Sometimes I wistfully think of culling my wardrobe right back, and thoroughly enjoy reading blogs (that talk about culling or minimal wardrobes, and/or about carefully thinking every purchase through, such as Prêt à Porter P, Dead Fleurette, mycatssaymeow) as well as the Vogue Forum thread on culling your wardrobe. Although I know that realistically, this will never happen. Even though I try to edit my wardrobe, at the moment I just aim to edit it to an extent that I love and wear every single piece in it, that is still a work in progress. That is why I like the last paragraph of the 'guide' above, and will strive to do just that...

Even though it may seem from these pics that my wardrobe is 'done', I still have a lot to do (in addition to the continued editing), which includes: organize and edit my accessories, unpack (and find a place to store) my bags and shoes, and organize my daily/regular clothes. I also need to get off my behind and put more effort into listing the clothes I am storing in the upstairs wardrobe that didn't get donated, and that I plan to sell, either in 'My Shop', or on Ebay (that seems unlikely, as I dread doing the latter). SO much to do, so little time!

What are your tips to editing or organizing your wardrobe?

Miroshka Pt 5: Miroslava Duma Street Style at London, Milan and Paris Fall/Winter 2013 Fashion Week

2013-03-15T21:55:00.001+10:30

Following on from the last post on Miroslava's style at New York Fashion Week (although the first two pics below are also from NY, I had to include them again as I could see more of the outfit), she continued to bring us beautiful, polished and fun outfits in London, Milan and Paris.

Fab glasses! In the first pictures I ever saw of Miroslava, she wore an equally brilliant pair that caught my eye.

Hm...not feeling those boots, too go-go girl, but the hat's too cute!

A no-nonsense umbrella completes the outfit, but wait, is it matching the 'stones' on her collar?

The 'fur pompom' makes an appearance again (previously featured in two different colours during NYFW)

Remember my post on my 'Dr Zhivago coat'? Now this is a Dr Zhivago coat/outfit!

Oh my, this coat is too stunning for words, seriously!

Another gorgeous coat, and an outfit that you'd actually see on the street.

pics via vogue.com and grazia.it

Wishing you all a FABULOUS weekend!