Style Discovery

Fenella Peacock at the Antipodium Fashion Talk

2009-11-11T23:13:00.005+08:00

Fremantle Arts Centre organised four fashion talks by some big names in fashion in Australia. The very first of the four talks started tonight with hilarious Fenella Peacock from Antipodium. To be totally honest, I didn't know what to expect. Ignorance is bliss in this instance. On top of Fenella being totally engaging and funny, the talk itself was inspiring and informative. I also learned that Geoffrey J Finch, who couldn't join us for the night, was the other half of the creative brain for the label. Mr. Finch is proudly from a country town which was rather unlikely place for a flamboyant (if I could call him that after sighting just one photograph of him) fashion designer with distinctive creative vision also happen to be very 'fashion forward'. Well, anything is possible I suppose remembering even Tom Ford is from Texas of all places....

Apart from being held on weeknights, it's a brilliant idea to get out there to hear some inside stories of the fashion world. For example, we were told a very amusing stories of Antipodium's last collection, Totally Taro (I believe taro cards were used as patterns for the dress shown in the photo). Geoffrey and Fenella actually went to see a psychic (maybe she enlighten them with the importance of Taro cards and their play in our lives?) in her 70s who happened to be the longest serving UK Vogue employee (who was sacked after having an 'affair' with a security guard)...this was just one of many amusing stories told during the night.

Fenella and the host of the show, Jo Pickup.

Antipodium is an interesting and quirky label - if I could call it that. I appreciate brands and fashion labels that are true representation of designers themselves. That way I feel like I actually know the designers - there would definite connection and I don't feel cheated somehow. Strange concept you think? What I'm getting at is, basically, Fenella and Geoffrey are Antipodium. They are funny people really. How about 'Up Chic Creek' for a name of a dress? Or 'Well hung Tux' for a jacket?

They are planning on creating another label soon. Also, I found out that they would be collaborating with a celeb next year to create a line of clothing just like Kate Moss for Top shop maybe? Just so you know Antipodium is having a massive sale in their studio in Fremantle. When? This Sunday between 10am and 5pm - 31 Pakenham Street, Fremantle. How about that for a timing?

Leanne Lim's WA Designer Collection 2009

2009-11-09T22:00:00.003+08:00

2008 Perth Fashion Festival's Student Designer Award winner Leanne Lim's dresses are more than suitable for weddings whether it's for brides or for just guests. This is just continuing with the wedding theme this week.

It turned out one of the models (in the centre) was wearing a necklace from Estreya.

I had a look at this dress way before the festival in September but I couldn't show it to you because the designer requested not to at the time. If I was a diligent sort of a blogger I would have processed these about two month ago. It's better to be late than never?

More photos for Leanne Lim...

Mystical Lotus Fashion Show 2009 for St. Vincent de Paul

2009-11-09T06:51:00.000+08:00

Mystical Lotus Saree Production 2009 was a total blast. The show's MC, Tania Jeyamohan, the parade, mid show entertainment and the closure of the show were all seamless. When Asha Selvendra first contacted me to promote the show I took it as just one of those fashion events. I did know it was a charity show. That could usually mean a sub standard show. I was totally wrong there. It turned out Mystical Lotus have been going on for many years in support of St. Vincent de Paul and Asha works as a professional event coordinator! Aha.. no wonder.

The hair and make up was spectacular. It was great to see that each model's look was different.

There were 23 saree productions by WA Institute of Fashion & Design (Swan TAFE). To see every piece I suggest looking through the slide show at the bottom of the post or visit the Facebook album (vol 1 and vol 2). Designers were given 6 yards piece of Indian fabric to give a little twist to traditional Indian Saree.

The show wasn't only there to present pretty saree modified garments but also to ask the audience to choose their favourite while a judging panel was looking out for two of the best designs from 23 designs. In between, there was a sight and sound show provided by Laliya as well. Laliya's sound was perfect for the occasion.

The Audience award went to the elegant design by Serena Howard. The runner-up went to Henriette Truscett with her 'Melbourne Cup appropriate' outfit. The winner was none other than Cynthia Chong with her three piece evening outfit. She was one of the WA finalist and took away the national runner-up for Do it with Demin 2009 earlier this year.

It was fantastic catching up with the girls from Swan TAEF as well. I spotted Saschy Singh with her mega cool partner. Nicola Potter with her new hair-do (No 20). Erin with her lace dress and Jeremie Liew (in red, third photo in the top row) whom I've been meaning to meet but never managed until the show. :)

Most importantly, the event was able to raise $20,000 for St. Vinnie's school support program. Amazing considering only last year they raised 12k. On top of that, the designers donated their prize money for the cause making all the more special and heart warming for those who attended the show.

It was an honour to have met Asha Selvendra after having just email contacts until last night. She did such an amazing job of putting this show together and I'm grateful to be part of the amazing group of volunteers. I cannot wait for the next year's show. Asha and I were already talking about possible venues and a layout for the next parade. Can't help ourselves really.

I'll be seeing more of Swan TAFE guys work on December 1. Watch this space for more fashion and festivities for the end of the year.

Wedding dresses by Lin Pin - PFF09

2009-11-08T20:03:00.003+08:00

Have you been to Hustle in fremantle? I've been meaning to do a feature of Hustle for ages as I visited the store in September hoping to see Linda, the designer of Lin Pin. I couldn't as she was too busy preparing for the Fashion Festival. Hustle is an interesting boutique. The store logo looks a little like a sporting gear branding. Then shop front has wedding dresses by Lin Pin and funky outfits by Mandi Mac.

When I was at the Gallery, parade by designers from Fremantle project managed by Teagan Swell, I knew why Linda was so busy. Her wedding dresses were the total show stoppers for the night.

I've been saving (or rather savouring) these for weeks and releasing them now for you as so many people seem to be getting married or attending someone's wedding.

I got married so long ago. Only thing I can hope for, maybe, is renewal of our vow for another dressing wearing occasion? Oh well, nonetheless, the dresses and the head pieces by Lin Pin were just spectacular.

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Couture Friday by Fashion WA at Bistro Felix

2009-11-08T13:17:00.004+08:00

Fashion WA guys, Jacqui and Chelsey always seem to be doing interesting stuff for WA fashion supporting fantastically talented local designers. Couture Friday at Bistro Felix was one of those events. Fine dinning at Bistro Felix then pretty models from Scene walking around the table showing lovely garments. I later found out that the models even got paid. Yes, fashion models don't always get paid for what they do, you know...

Although I was feeling rather crook, I did pay a visit to see the crew before the show. Petticoat Minx's fasciantors fascinated me. I hear that they are all individually handmade. Cool? Don't you love the crazy brow make up by Penny?

Ah, I was thrilled to see Paper Skye's new design (second row)! The venue, Bistro Felix, was cool although it wasn't that parade friendly. I could see that the food was quite sumptuous. I loved their vintage style prints on the wall.

It was also great to see some familiar faces and getting to actually know names of some of the faces (as well). I finally got to meet Greg from the West. I see him in most events I attend but I never knew his name although he is rather famous in his own right taking photos from the biggest paper in WA. I was also approached by Emma Bergmeier, Fashion and Art editor from X-press magazine. She was asking me if I could 'shoot' for X-press at all graduation shows. Yeah, why not. I don't know exactly what's involved but I'm sure that means processing photos as soon as the shows are over... more sleep deprivation is in order it seems. I also saw Teagan (one of the project managers from the Perth Fashion Festival 2009 and Fremantle High Street Collective 2008) who is preparing to launch her own jewellery label. I hear that her stuff will be stocked at the famous Varga Girl. The flagship store was relocated from King St. to Oxford st. in Leederville recently. There will be an official opening of the store. It's going to be big. I'm so excited about it... probably there will be a personal tour of the store by Teagan herself before then! Hurrah.

Back to Couture Friday, fortunately, I didn't get to see the entire show. Regardless, I like the idea of lunching and fashion show. Will they be next time, Jacqui? Please count me in.. I might even get to sit down next time for a change?!

Fashion WA's store is selling all you see in the photos (of course, not the girls or the wine...)

The future Modelling of Sudan Parade

2009-11-07T09:12:00.006+08:00

This week just flew by and last night was the night for the Sudanese African Girls' fashion parade night in Perth. Organised by WA's top model Sarah Ayor from Scene Model Agency, the show effectively paved its way to become a platform for up and coming African models to showcase their talents.

As far as I know this is the very first of its kind in Perth. Apart from Sarah and garments donated by fabulous designers - Betty Tran from Betty Sugar and Taku M from Ribbons of Africa there were no pros involved and it was all supported by friends and family members. As Taku pointed out it takes a lot of guts to put something like this together. There was obvious chaos backstage (as with any fashion shows) and the show was delayed (as with all fashions shows). There was a police vehicle outside the building for no reasons other than a whole bunch of African guys attended the show in support of the community. Nothing exciting happened outside as far as I know.

Inside the Morley Recreation Centre, however, was rocking. As I always say, it doesn't matter whether it's a fancy luxury brand show or charity show (bad lighting and a so so venue) if there is good loud music, a runway and pretty girls I'm there. So it was plenty of fun with African style enthusiasm even from a small crowd of people. Boy, they can really shout and cheer. That made the show all so special I thought.

I could see that Sarah (in black pants and polka dot dress) put a lot of effort into training the girls.

It's been announced that The future Modelling of Sudan (or Africa) will become an annual event. And, there will be a modelling competition. Now, that's going to spice up things a little. Why is Sarah doing all this off her own bat without any commercial help or assistance? I can only guess that as a mother who had a child at the age of 17 it must have been a quite a life turning experience modelling for Scene and appearing in magazine covers and having her photos in London and New York. That gives a lot of hope for young African girls. That should be reason enough I think.

The set of photos above were just a small selection out of the Young Models' parade. Let's say that if I was a casting agent I would have had a second look at the girl in top two photos. After sitting behind a camera in numerous shows, I know a thing or two about 'spotting good models'. I wonder if any of these girls will pursue the modelling career in the end.

Perth is a small city but as someone I met pointed out it is full of pretty girls. There are three major modelling agencies. This means there's a bit of competition. It may seem all glamourous but it's not all that lucrative and I know for a fact that a lot of people work for free. That is true with all fashion industry related jobs. There I said it.

Is money everything though? Of course not. So here we are (there I was as well) for love of things. Sarah's emotional speech at the end of show summed it up. It's about giving girls hope and opportunity to experience something different.

For a show organised by a first time show organiser, fashion model, Sarah, it was pretty damn good. I'm looking forward to the next year's Future Modelling of Africa (as I'm sure there are other African nation girls with similar aspiration). Well done, Sarah and congrats to all the girls in the show.

Sixteen Acts by Central TAFE Fashion Graduates 2009

2009-11-04T21:51:00.004+08:00

It is that time of the year again with a series of graduate fashion shows. I love it. This year, I will get to go to each one of them. This is a little different from last year as I had such a hard time finding out when the shows were actually on in 2008. For 2009, however, I was at the WAAPA (ECU) exhibition this week as a start of the graduate show season. We still have Central, Challenge, and Swan (WAIFT - WA Institute of Fashion and Textile) TAFE and Curtin University. As it happens they are not all just runway type of shows. For example, Central TAFE guys are putting Sixteen Acts together at His Majesty's Theatre - one of the most prestigious venues in Perth. I'm guessing it will be a theatrical show. I was promised a spot to watch and take photos of the show in a dress circle upstairs. I'm thoroughly excited. At the same time, I do feel a little bit of performance anxiety already. I'm sure the guys (16 graduates) are going through some crazy times right now getting ready for the show which will be on the 23rd of November.

We've already had a Glimpse of their hard work and talent a few weeks ago. That exhibition was possible with the support of Jackie Harley, their lecturer who always does more than what's required. I'm sure Sixteen Acts will be equally or if not more impressive. Here's another sneak peek at their creative talent.

This is going to be a difference experience for many of us. I usually go to His Majesty's all dressed up typically for ballets, operas but not for fashion shows. Well, yes, it's not going to be a fashion show as we know it. Regardless, I'll be in my jeans and white tee probably. Blah! Anyway, knowing these guys I'm sure it's going to be one hell of a show. Interested?

Tickets are going for $30.00 and they are available available from Pigeonhole stores (Bon Marche Arcade and Shafto Lane).

Pigeonhole -Shop 16, Bon Marche Arcade 80 Barrack St, Perth - Shop 7a Shafto Lane 401 Murray St, Perth (08) 9221 9837 hannah@pigeonhole.com.au

Sixteen Acts When: November 23 2009 Venue: His Majesty's Theatre (825 Hay St, Perth), When: Doors opening at 6pm

FashionWA's Couture Friday at Bistro Felix

2009-11-03T20:28:00.001+08:00

What are you doing for lunch this Friday? How would you like to have a sneak peek at WA's top fashion designers and labels shown by fabulous models from Scene Models. How is it possible?

Fashion WA and Bistro Felix got together to give you just that. All you do is book a table and order food (as you would having lunch). While dinning, models walk around to show you works from Paper Skye, Tu, Gospel, pinchandpsoon, Petticoat Minx and Anoushka.

Models? Gemma Bidstrup, Jessi Moloney, Parris Maflin, Courtney James, Zoe Peet, Sarah Langley as shown in the collage above.

Details:
date: Friday 6th Nov
time: arrive at 12.30pm
where: the gorgeous Bistro Felix in Subiaco - a fashionista's destination is Subiaco.
cost: no cost... just the meal that you order!

Call Bistro Felix on 9388 3077, say "I love WA fashion" and receive a $20 gift voucher for Fashion WA's online store.

I wish I could join you!

WAAPA Graduation Exhibition at Parmelia

2009-11-02T21:58:00.005+08:00

I haven't had much to do with Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts until now. We know that Hugh Jackman and late Heath Ledger studied there. I was given opportunities to interview some of the costume design students from WAAPA earlier on as part of the Perth Fashion Festival 09 but I never managed to do so. Logistically very difficult to mobilise students from three or four different schools while holding a full time job etc.. etc same ol' story I suppose.

Anyhoo, I was able to meet some students from WAAPA as part of the festival and, as a result, I received an invitation to the opening night of the graduate exhibition for 2009. Yeepee. You would think that there should be a parade of some sort. Remember though there's more to theatre design than just costume.

The gallery exhibition was a perfect format for set, prop and costume design students to showcase their work from WAAPA. It was actually much more intriguing than I initially expected. I specially liked the conceptual processes (drawings and photo documentary) and set designs. It was also fun seeing those garments I saw at the festival up close.

Of course, the night such as this cannot be completed without some 'cool people spotting'. The exhibition runs until Friday so you can make your way down there if you're out and about in the city. It's at the Parmelia Hilton building.

Photo in the middle - Costume Design Students from WAAPA.

CASSI LEE Clothing Parade at Skatt

2009-10-31T14:48:00.003+08:00

I never get bored of looking at clothes backstage before any runway shows imagining what they'd really look like on models. I get drawn to blings (studded and zipper black dresses) backstage then I'd later see some simple dresses blowing me away during the show. This time around, I really liked what I originally spotted and got excited about backstage even at the show.

Okay, let's take a step back.. what am I on about??? I've sort of become a resident photog for all Skatt's fashion events. Well, it's not official and there is no arrangement of any kind. It's just that I always turn up and set myself a chair with armrests (so that I don't break another rib) and shoot away. Lisa from Skatt kindly sent me an email with her personal invitation to Cassi Lee Clothing's spring fashion show the other day so that's where I was last night.

It's a new find for me as I don't usually venture into Mt. Hawthorn for shopping. Mind you, Mt. Hawthorn is where the legendary New Norcia Bakery is located so it is a tempting location all around. Get your hair done at Skatt, get some frock for Spring races and carnivals at Cassi Lee and enjoy High Tea at New Norcia. There, I give you a sweet plan for an outing with your girlfriends.

Four beauties from Chadwick Models - Jess, Jenna, Michelle and Crystell

Personally, I don't know much about the store owner and designer, Cassi. What I know now is that she doesn't just sell other labels. She also designs. What you see here in the last set of dresses is her latest summer collection which will be available in December. The show was pretty clever as someone pointed out. Melbourne Cup is just a day or two away and girls all want to get a sexy short dress with a fascinator. That's exactly what the show was about more or less.

Knowing so many budding designers struggling to make living out of fashion design it's quite interesting to see a commercially astute fahionista like Cassi. I'll soon have to find out what Cassi's secret is in putting a show like this one, owning a shop and launching a collection for this summer. A visit to her store would be a good start I suppose...

Nearly, forgot to mention, Cassi Lee also carries Men's wear. I mean at least some cool tees and jeans. No, the guy is not for sale.

Cassi Lee's summer collection!

I really wanted to post all 120 photos in this post simply because it's easier that way than deciding what to post. Heck, I guess it's my job to show you what I really like so that's what I did here. That doesn't mean all other photos are rubbish so I decided to include a mini slide show if your broadband happens to work well.

As you know there's a gay parade tonight and a dress up party at Flying Scotts Man. I won't be attending either of them because I decided for once to spend some time with friends. How about that! :)

Cassi Lee Clothing 2/190 Scarborough Beach Rd, Mt Hawthorn Tel: (08) 9443 8418

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WAIFT - SWAN TAFE Graduation Show tickets on sale

2009-10-30T12:47:00.007+08:00

It's going to be a big show. I was there last year with some camera issues. Hopefully, I'll have a better time this year. How would like to support young designers! Some of last year's graduates went on to be part of WA Designer Collections at the Perth Fashion Festival. Of course, you'll also see my stars - Zoe Trotman and Andrea Wolf. How about Graeme with his extraordinary costume dress!

Tickets: $ 40 Call 9267 7200 or email lauren.massy@swantafe.wa.edu.au

Mystical Lotus Fashion Show 2009

2009-10-29T22:34:00.002+08:00

What are you doing next Saturday? I needed to answer this question myself actually. There are so many events happening that weekend as you might have seen in the Style Calendar. I was a little puzzled as to what I should do. Mystical Lotus Fashion Show might be the one for you as I think I'll be there as well.

It is a fundraising show for the St Vincent de Paul's School Support Program, assisting disadvantaged children with school and educational expenses such as stationery, tuition fees, among others. From the proceeds of the last show in 2007, they raised over $12,500, and this helped over 50 families in Western Australia. Pretty cool, I say. Asha Selvendra is the girl behind this amazing effort. This year, with your help of purchasing tickets, donating or sponsorship, Asha & Co can hopefully raise even more! If fashion, culture and philanthropy is your cup of Chai, this might be the place to be next weekend. What do you think? Feel like some bollyhood fun this spring?

{images from Mystical Lotus Facebook event page}

This year, Asha has a fabulous lineup for the show. Sam Proctor will showcase his original moving projections as a stage backdrop. Warren Clark will spin some amazing tunes and Laliya will entertain you with their world music entertainment. All these to accompany the fabulous volunteer models while they parade the amazing designs on the catwalk.

Date: Saturday, 7 November 2009 Time: 4.30 - 6.30pm Venue: Perth Town Hall

Call Asha (0401 103 202) or Karen (0411 681 642) for tickets.

Style Calendar

2009-10-28T19:53:00.004+08:00

Here it is- my attempt to organise my 'Style Calendar'. I get invited to lots of things. The point is not so much about me attending all of them but more about sharing the info. If it sounds a little like an excuse of a busy and lousy blogger so be it. I do have commitment to certain events but not all. I hope this is helpful. I'll link this page at the top my the blog so that it's accessible anytime.

In case you don't know what to do with this, Click each entry to find out what they are about. I'll add as much info as I can. I'll be updating this as I get new event info and details.

Town & Country Designs in Swan Valley

2009-10-27T20:52:00.004+08:00

It was pretty grey and cold when I was looking at the Food & Wine Trail Map last Saturday while we were staying in Swan Valley for our wedding anniversary weekend. I wasn't looking for a place to do any sort of shopping. All we were hoping for was finding places to buy some wine and grab some food.

Nestled in amongst many eateries, Town & Country Designs was something that I didn't expect to find. I wasn't looking for any blogging material while I was 'away' but I promptly put on my blogger's 'hat' and started talking to the daughter of the shop owner, Melanie, after a bit of shopping that is.

As the name suggests, Town & Country specialises in country style designs. Much of it reminded me of Martha Stewart stuff. It's definitely French and European. Not something I'd have in my house but very pretty to look at. The shop had so many interesting things. Personally, I don't know of any boutique in Perth featuring stuff like this.

It turned out Melanie recently started her own jewellery label. Her extra long necklaces are all made with silver, stones and semi precious materials. I was particularly intrigued by the round pendants which were called 'wheel of life'.

If you're into French Provincial style, this is the place to visit. It's a boutique to leisurely browse around with some tea in nice tea cups or Champaign.

I'm looking forward to seeing more of Melanie's jewels although I ended up buy Love from Venues necklace for $224 which is quite a huge amount of money for me to spend on a necklace but it was a special occasion after all. :)

It was a little sad when I saw the Town & Country's website though. The web address is not that easy to remember (tckd.com.au) and the site's design does not do justice for the owner designer, Maggie Milligan's style. The most important thing is that the site's content is not very search engine friendly. Ahhh it could be so much better. I also think about return on investment for websites. Don't bother with a website if all the right boxes are not ticked, I say - simple, easy to find, right portrayal of the owner or business. Can't be that hard, right? But it doesn't seem so.

Anyway, enough of my ranting. Town & Country is located at the top end of West Swan Road on John Street.

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Swan Valley weekend- 12th wedding anniversary

2009-10-26T20:32:00.003+08:00

It's tragic when life gets in the way of blogging. It's tragic that I think of my blogging space as another sphere of life. Oh, is it more tragic that I write in this kind of tone. No, our weekend away to Swan Valley wasn't tragic. It just meant that I didn't have time to think anything other than having 'real' fun (as supposed to virtual) with my guy to celebrate our 12th wedding anniversary (my 11th anniversary post here). Yes, 12 long years and we are still together. Our relationship has never been stronger although both of us having a bit of challenging time at the moment. We decided to pamper ourselves by staying at a heritage hotel, Rose & Crown in Guilford, Swan Valley and spend a fun filled weekend.

Check out the massive four poster bed in Sapphire Room. $270/night isn't cheap but it was grand and quite fitting for the occasion. I don't recommend that room until they get a proper sound proofed window though. It was rather noisy during the night so we had to get a different room for the following day.

Dinner at the Rose & Crown's outdoor restaurant was rather romantic and the food. Well, it was okay. Passable should I say. Wine was good though. The waiter person knew his wine and was able to recommend good grog.

A trip to Swan Valley cannot be completed without a visit to a winery. I picked the most obvious one - Sandalford and grabbed a few bottles. As I'm still a 'kid' when it comes to wine I got two bottles of Element Late Harvest and my guy got himself a Shiraz.

Another quintessential place to visit is the Chocolate Factory. I'm not much of a chocolate person but we did get a small bag of chocolate coated macadamia nuts. That's very Australian isn't it?

That wasn't the end of our weekend but I'll have to do another two posts. One for a cool shop I found and the other for a grand dinner we had.

By the way, my doctor tells me that I have bronchitis. This could well mean that I won't be so active with my mails, blogging responsibilities and other online duties people might be expecting from me. Sorry folks.. I need to get better first. I'll take it easy so you do the same. Ciao.

Songy's Makeover by Taryn at Head Studio

2009-10-22T21:43:00.007+08:00

After my first major hair cut early this year, I've been suffering from the 'staleness' of my hair style of late, specially since the Perth Fashion Festival 09. I've had enough to time to really take care of myself. Until now I've been a loyal customer of Skatt Northbridge. Just after the festival, however, Mark from Head Studio emailed me offering a complementary hair cut and style. As I posted a few weeks ago, I rarely get anything for free and when I do I worry about possibly sad consequences of mediocre service which I have nothing good to say about.

Oh boy am I glad that I accepted that kind offer from Mark Jnr. Anyway, there were more than a few reasons I took the offer gladly in the first place. I really liked the photos Mark sent to me. They were interior photos of his salon(s). I also remembered seeing some girl carrying a shopping bag from Head Studio and it was quite striking. You know me. I'm all for good marketing and good aesthetics.

I got a reminder call from Head Studio the other day and there I was in front of the King street branch of Head Studio. What a location! It's located in the newly revamped end of King Street -a fashion mecca in the CBD. What a space! Head Studio is a true family business which began 21 years ago by Rose and Mark Cain Snr in Rockingham and Success. They are still running these salons and Rose recently celebrated 30 years of hairdressing! Mark Cain Jnr and his sister Marie opened the King St Salon in 2008. The space was personally designed and renovated by Mark and his brother and it's to-die-for. He kept old (brick work, copper pipes and steel structures) and added new (funky drawings on the wall, rustic wooden structures, sleek modern furniture together with retro charm). Interestingly, that's exactly how I would like to decorate my own home in the future if I ever get a chance.

You know what I thought immediately.. fashion events! Little parade and product launches for styles that may not suit say, Skatt. Skatt is a wonderful space, don't get me wrong but not suitable for everything. I thought Head Studio could be used for more high end stuff as the location suggests.

Taryn, my stylist for the day has been working for Head Studio for the past seven years. Good grief.. she is very young you know although I wouldn't want to disclose her age here. She started early and she loves what she does. I love it when I meet people like her. Happy vibe is infectious. Interestingly, she and other other senior stylists serve a lot of famous people in Perth, namely, Lisa Scaffidi, Perth very own stylish Lord Mayor.

So finally on to my hair, my hair was a little too long and became shapeless and boring. Ashely, the apprentice started the session with a gentle aroma therapy head massage and shampoo. Then Taryn came over to have a little chat about what I was hoping to get out of the session. With her clever styling I look much better. Wouldn't you say? I wish I had a little lippy and powder on my face..GRRR.

I'll be seeing Taryn again in four weeks to keep up the funk. That time I'll be a paying customer. Actually, I didn't just walk out empty handed. Could you ever? Well, no one pushed me into buying anything but I had to as the 'product' Taryn used to shape my fringe was so cool. It's called Gritty Business by Kevin Murphy. I have to warn you though I haven't been very loyal to my stylists. I moved around a lot for the past 10 years. I may well go back to Patrick sometime when my hair is a little longer, maybe? Who knows who will tempt me again with more of funk and beauty.

Unfortunately, I never got to Meet Mark as he was busy helping the other salons but I'd love to catch up with him over a tea. I like the sound of him, good and considerate boss with incredible sense of style. I hear that he may well get trained as a stylist himself. Imagine the boss being an apprentice!

Update on October 29: It turned out got quite a few facts wrong as I was getting some second hand information not directly from Mark Jnr himself on the day so I had to re-write a few bits as I got some corrections from Mark. Sorry folks.

Perth Stylish Spring Events Calendar 2009

2009-10-22T19:51:00.003+08:00

I'm taking a little break from the daily posting due to hell of workload with my day job. While I'm working away there are tons of stylish events happening around the city. I won't be able to make it to all but I trust you'll find the following information useful. Basically, this is my list of 'events I'd attend if I had lots of free time'.

York Jazz Festival this weekend

Voix de la Ville by Ash Baroque - performances by drag Queens and Kings at the Castle on Sunday 25th October

Northbridge Piazza opening on Thursday 29th of October

Halloween dress-up party "The Dreams of Poe..." by Travis Betts on Saturday 31st October at The Flying Scotsman.

PRIDE Homecoming Gay Parade on Saturday 31st of October

Fashion WA's Couture Friday lunch at Bistro Felix on Friday 6th November

Future modelling of Sudan on Friday, 06 November 2009 at 17:00

2009 Mystical Lotus Fashion Show on Saturday, 07 November at 4:30 PM

Fremantle Festival Saturday 7 – Sunday 15 November

Antipodium Fashion Talk on Wednesday 11 November

Challenge TAFE graduate Fashion Parade at Deckchair Theatre on 12 November at 6:30 PM

Yes, the list goes on but I'll stop here. There are more of TAFE graduate fashion parades and summer events. What do you think? Which ones are tickling your fancy?

Perth Finalist for FTV Diamond Model Awards

2009-10-19T21:27:00.003+08:00

Huge congrats to Lucy Nicol (in the middle) who will be representing Perth in the Grand Final of the Diamond Model Awards for FashionTV. Lucy was a definite crowd favourite. 2nd runner-up was Stacey McWaters and Kalistah Shaw was the 1st runner-up.

Lucy, Stacey and Kalistah being interviewed after the announcement and Lucy with her mother at backstage. Good luck to Lucy. The grand final is on November 2.

Over 100 photos were uploaded in Flickr for your pictorial pleasure... or if you have tons of free time and want to catch up on Heat 2 and Heat 3 you could be looking at over 400 photos. How about that?

Fashion photo shoot

2009-10-17T23:55:00.003+08:00

Just came back from the Fashion TV Diamond Model Awards Perth final. Before that I was in Fremantle doing an all-day photo shoot. Tired. Here's a selection of images. Maybe I'll post the model awards photos tomorrow (probably not)

Have a very warm and lovely Sunday!

The Future Modelling of Sudan by Sarah Ayor

2009-10-15T21:57:00.003+08:00

Meet Sarah Ayor. She was born in Ethiopia and spent some time in Sudan where she lost her father at the age of two. Her mother and five kids had to do their time in a refugee camp in Kenya before arriving in Australia . She is one of very few lucky people who were able to have a new life. I guess this isn't anything new. I'd think that there would be still hundreds and thousands of other African girls dreaming of the kind of life Sarah has - safe place for family, food and regular life. Sarah is lucky enough to have more...She has signed up with Scene - one of the premiere modelling agencies in Perth. We saw her at the Betty Sugar launch, Perth Fashion Festival 2009 and Styleaid 09.

Mother of two year old boy, Sarah isn't just enjoying her success as a leading fashion model in Perth alone. She decided to help other African girls specially those from Sudan by teaching them how to be models.

That's how The Future Modeling of Sudan came about. I visited the gang last Sunday during their practice session. How fun it was! Making them pose for photos was fun. Giving them some advice on how to 'walk' for photos on catwalk was interesting. I'm dying to see them on November 6 for the show. Interested in seeing them all transformed into catwalk models? Ticket is going for $30. It's all in the spirit of supporting the Sudanese community!

For further enquiries and tickets, contact Jacqui (Scene Model Management) 0431 115 370 or 9486 9994 The Future Modeling of Sudan Friday, 06 November 2009 at 17:00 Location: Morley Recreation Centre Street: Cnr Wellington Road & Mangini Street

Featuring Fashion Catwalk with designs by: Celestial Tenielle Betty Sugar Collection Ribbon of Africa

Lots more pictures in Facebook and in Flickr.

EP Bar Northbridge - Paradise found

2009-10-14T21:09:00.003+08:00

This is a totally random post. I go out to Northbridge pretty much every week for cheap and cheerful meals. All this time, I didn't know a place like EP Bar even existed. I only found it out from going through the Outskirts map provided as part of the Perth Fashion Festival 09.

EP Bar, as I know it, is an interesting place. It's not visible from the busy William Street. I barely noticed the William Lane where the bar is situated. When I first walked in I was so surprised by the 'tranquility'. Maybe it was the time of the day?

There's distinctive retro charm with modern quirkiness. It will be just the place for Friday afternoon chill-out. I wonder how busy it will get at night. It will have a totally different feel to the place after dark I'd imagine. The clientele was an interesting mixture as well - young and old. I'd want to go back there for a drink after a hard day at work. This week is out but maybe next week or the week after?

View Style Discovery - Eating and drinking in a larger map

Fashion TV Diamond Model Award Perth Heat 3

2009-10-13T19:21:00.000+08:00

Yeah, I went there again last Saturday for the Heat 3 of FashionTV Diamond Model Awards Heat 3. Perth Final coming up this Saturday I didn't really have to go there but I did. It's a bit like participating (as an observer or a judge) at a beauty peasant. The lighting was truly rubbish for a fashion parade. It was as bad last time I don't know what was happening there.

I did spot a couple of different dresses by Tarvydas. Bernice Sara's swimwear was awesome. I did see some eligible models. Having missed Heat 1 I don't know who other four finalists are which is a bit of pity. I could have had a complete set of Perth events. Oh well. Bernice did mention that it'd be good for her to have me at the Grand Final in Melbourne. Oh well again.. without anyone sponsoring me I cannot make it there really, can I?

Thanks to Charlene and Vinod from VSK for being such wonderful hosts. My guy was enjoying these outings. Not so much for seeing models in bikinis but for generous hospitality that he was offered thanks to having a wife like myself!

All the photos from Heat 2 and 3 are in the usual place. I also have photos in Facebook for your tagging pleasure..ah I nearly forgot so the four finalists from Heat 3 are: Lia Tapper, Juliana Nuic, Ionela Pop and Kalistah Shaw.

Estreya Accessories Launch at Bamboo main stage

2009-10-12T18:04:00.005+08:00

As an accessory junkie I won't say No to any accessory related events as long as I have some free time. Last Saturday, I went to the Estreya Accessories launch party at Bamboo Main stage.

First thing, it was a pretty slick party. I've never been to Bamboo before and I was pleasantly surprised by the sheer 'coolness' of the place. The main stage was large enough for any kind of concert. The sitting area was nicely designed and comfortable enough. For Summer coming up, I can see how popular this venue will be...

There were ladies wearing Estreya pieces very elegantly. The creator of Estreya, Arna, kindly directed me to these ladies so that I could see how Estreya pieces could be styled. Estreya gets another tick from me for being pretty clever about who wears what and how. Nice styling goes a long way. And should I mention that there was a little burlesque act from Sugar Blue Burlesque. My obsession with all things burlesque has been well documented.

Estreya sounds very much like Australia, doesn't it? It doesn't get another tick from me for that but what it does give us is an online store which looks to me very simple to use and elegant enough to get my attention. What I wonder is how people will be attracted to buy these accessories online. Specially, when there are so many accessories retailers flogging their stuff so cheap.. What is Estreya going to do differently to stand apart from these large retailers?

What I can see is variety and lots of it. Estreya doesn't just do cheap costume pieces. Along with the ten dollar gear there are exquisite pieces with prices to match. Maybe, that will set them apart from other labels.

As usual, it was lovely taking photos of lovely people wearing lovely accessories. I also got goodie bags with some silvery summer earrings, a wooden bangle and a little scarf. All I need now is a Summer getaway plan to an exotic island. Any care to join us?

Blogger's Disclaimer

2009-10-10T17:32:00.003+08:00

When I started Style Discovery I didn't have any plan to make money out of it. I was realistic enough. That's one of the reasons why I don't clutter the site with adverts. I've been contacted by advertisers to put their ads. I've been also contacted by people who asked me to do advertorials (paid-posts). I ignore all these. I'm not about to change my direction.

Then, a parcel arrived the other day. Shiny black box with a silver ribbon was full of tampons and pads. Duh! I do remember sending a postal address to someone at a PR company in the East. I didn't expect to receive a box full of tampons and pads though.

That made me think about other 'free stuff' I received as a blogger until now. To be honest, I rarely get anything for free. If anything, I spend so much money shopping around visiting cool shops, spend hours sorting photos and posting them online.. okay I do all this because I like doing it not because someone is paying me to do it. Fortunately, I never have to write stuff that I don't feel right just because I receive some gift.

The very first freebie I received was a Pilgrim's bracelet with a alligator charm from Elaine of Behind the Monkey.

Then there are times when, as a blogger, I get the same kind of treatment as regular media people. That means I get media kits which sometimes contain goodies. Franc Essential serum was really part of a media kit.. and I'm loving them. Megan Parker from Petals in Disarray also gave me a logo printed tee which I love.

Do all these freebies make me change my opinion on things? Actually, no. If I don't like something I'd say nothing. I want to still own my 'space' here and I'll say what I want when I want. That was the whole point of not having any adverts and not doing any paid posts. People may well give more freebies in the future hoping that I'll just say nice things about their products or businesses. It's a tricky business I know. It will be a balancing act. So this has been my little disclaimer as a blogger.

Now, back to the instigator of this post. I will not do an in-depth review of U by Kotex, thank you very much. All I can say is I'm partial to easy to use products and the new U by Kotex Platinum gets my vote for ease of use. Twist opening for tampons is a must for me and pads that only require 'one peel' is a great thing. There are pads with multiple sticky things that I needed to peel three different things to stick it on.. not good...I have been a U by Kotex user anyway. That's all I'll say.

Now, I'm off to a couple of events tonight.. full report maybe tomorrow. Ciao.

Red Stripe Clothing - Outskirts

2009-10-09T22:10:00.004+08:00

I was first introduced to the 'Pretty-Punk-Retro-Fun' style when I was at the launch of Red Skull and Ignite Gear. One thing led to another, I got to finally step into Red Stripe Clothing, the mecca of Pretty-Punk-Retro-Fun in Northbridge.

I thought I knew what to expect - Rockabilly, retro, goth, and punk as stated in On William. What I didn't expect was finding something that I really covet. Also, there was a couple - father and daughter shopping in Red Stripe. The girl was so cool that I had to ask her to be a model and I've asked her to show off the thing that I really liked - leather bag with studs. I just loved that bag..Can you also see her groovy skull pants? Shenekwa Quartermaine is her name. She was very shy. I wonder what would be like to have someone like her father as a father who takes his daughter to a shop like Red Stripe. Having a father like that takes away the novelty of being rebellious, doesn't it? She may well go to places like Country Road just to be difficult for her parents. Ha. That will be funny.

Back to the store, Red Stripe Clothing has lots of interesting things as you can see from these images. They have a really cool website where I found more interesting and covetable things. Surprisingly, you can buy these online. I'm definitely checking out the shoes and the bag this weekend. What do you think?

Red Stripe Clothing (more photos) 8-10 Roe Street Northbridge, 6003 Western Australia red stripe clothing is open 7 days.. Tel:+61 8 9328 1983 View Style Discovery - Shopping in a larger map