Stylus Muse

Stylus Muse Is Moving!

2011-11-22T06:02:00.000+11:00

When I decided to start blogging earlier this year, I had no idea where it would take me or if it would amount to anything. Since my first post, I have met so many amazing and talented people in the fashion industry including, designers, retailers, PRs, stylists, writers and bloggers, who have taken the time to speak to me, answer my questions and support me.

I've learnt so much about the industry and how tough it is for independent designers and retailers, and how it is so important for us to support them, particularly during these tough economic times.

In order to keep blogging and sharing the experiences and knowledge of the people I have met in the industry, I have decided to combine my blog with Thom from Everyone's Celebrity to create Couturing.com which will be a one stop, online media source for fashion events and news.

Thanks to everyone who has taken the time to support me so far, and a big thanks to the people who have taken the time to read my little blog and comment! I've loved writing and researching it and hope you continue to follow me at Couturing.com!

Check out Couturing.com here.

Like Couturing.com on Facebook here.

Christine Centenera - European Fashion Week Style Diary

2011-10-17T06:02:00.002+11:00

Here's some Monday morning style inspiration with Australian Harper's Bazaar Fashion Editor Christine Centenera's European Fashion Show Style Diary.

Mixing Australian designers such as Josh Goot, Dion Lee, Scanlan & Theodore and Bassike with International labels including Balenciaga, Celine, Alexander McQueen and Tom Ford, Centenera always looks amazing.

Celine knit, Dion Lee skirt and Balenciaga shoes
outside the Gucci show, Milan

Anne Demeulemeester top over a Josh Goot tank, Balenciaga skirt,
Balmain jacket and Tom Ford shoes at Jil Sander, Milan

Christine wears Josh Goot jacket, Scanlan and Theodore top,
Celine belt, Balenciaga skirt, Tom Ford shoes and
Jordan Askill jewellery at the Balenciaga show, Paris

Celine necklace, Bassike t-shirt, Josh Goot pants and
Balenciaga shoes outside the Christian Dior show, Paris

Ostwald Helgason knit, Miu Miu skirt,
Balenciaga shoes at the Christopher Kane show, London

Givenchy t-shirt, Balenciaga skirt, Hermes notebook
at the Richard Nicoll show, London

Burberry coat, Givenchy t-shirt, Balenciaga skirt and
Alexander McQueen shoes at the Tom Ford presentation, London

Balenciaga necklace, Anne Demeulemeester top over a Josh Goot tank,
Balenciaga skirt, Balmain jacket and Tom Ford shoes at Jil Sander, Milan

Images courtesy of http://harpersbazaar.com.au

Fashionistable - Street Style

2011-10-13T06:02:00.012+11:00

Style icon Anna Dello Russo
captured by Dvora

As part of the recent Filofax campaign, bloggers were asked to creatively photograph one particular Filofax range from a choice of 4. One of the bloggers asked to enter the challenge was the amazing photographer Dvora who has her own blog Fashionistable which features her amazing street style shots.

Dvora photographed The Chameleon in four different colours for her feature. Once the feature was shot, Dvora was kind enough to giveaway three of the filofaxes to her readers. I never win anything but thought it couldn't hurt to enter and amazing won the beautiful red Chameleon Filofax!

I just wanted to say a huge thanks to Dvora for running such a great giveaway and share with everyone her wonderful blog!

Make sure you visit Fashionistable and check out the fashion she has captured on the streets from around the world!

David from The Nyanzi Report captured by Dvora with the
red Chameleon Filofax

Here are some of the amazing images captured by the talented Dvora:

Images courtesy of http://fashionistable.blogspot.com

What's In For Spring - Part 1

2011-10-10T06:02:00.004+11:00

Although Melbourne weather is very unpredictable it seems like Spring could finally be here! To get you thinking about what will be in your wardrobe this season, I've put together a few of my favourite looks from some of my favourite designers and retailers.

NEVENKA

Nevenka's romantic and bohemian Love Collection is perfect for beachside getways and balmy nights.

PAMELA USANTO

If you are looking for the perfect races dress, Pamela Usanto's range of feminine pieces can help you standout trackside.

MOLTEN STORE

With a range of unique jewellery, Molten Store has amazing standout pieces which will complement any outfit.

TREASURETTE
New to the Melbourne fashion scene, Treasurette is quickly becoming the go to place for edgy, unique accessories which will stand out in any crowd.

GREEN WITH ENVY

Stocking a range of designers such a Rachel Gilbert, Nicholas, Dion Lee, Josh Goot and Ginger & Smart, Green With Envy is the perfect place to find a dress for any occasion!

CAMEO

Featuring cute prints and cutout detailing, Cameo will have you in fashion this season without breaking the bank!

TONY BIANCO

With an amazing range of on trend styles, Tony Bianco is a one-stop shop for shoe-loving fashionistas this Spring and Summer.

Stay tuned for Part 2!

Images from Nevenka, Pamela Usanto, Molten Store, Green With Envy, Cameo, Tony Bianco, Treasurette

Spotlight On: Parisian Street Society

2011-10-06T06:02:00.000+11:00

Tucked away in a little arcade off Toorak Road in South Yarra, Parisian Street Society is the realisation of a long-term dream by owner Shannyn and her mother Terry. Filled with treasures which have been collected by Shannyn and her mum mostly during yearly trips to France, Parisian Street Society is the perfect place to find a unique statement piece to complement any outfit.

During each trip to France, Shannyn and Terry trawl markets, brocantes and vide-greniers, carefully mapping out and planning their way around Paris and French countryside markets in search of beautiful collectible pieces.

Most of the jewels and accessories in Parisian Street Society are from the 60’s, 70’s and 80’s. Collectibles from mainstream designers such as Chanel, YSL, Christian Lacroix, Lanvin and Givenchy, are mixed with treasures from rarer designers such as Isabel Canovas, Inna Cytrine, Dominique Aurientis and Edouard Rambaud. There is also a small selection of new French clothing labels from Zadig et Voltaire, The Kooples and Isabel Marant with a handful of wearable vintage garments from Givenchy and Hermes.

So make sure you stop by and check out all the beautiful pieces Parisian Street Society at Shop 7, 101- 105 Toorak Road, South Yarra. You’ll be in good company with Olivia Newton John visiting the store during her most recent trip to Australia, buying a lot of pieces including a Chanel backpack! Make sure you also check out the Parisian Street Society blog and Facebook page for stock updates and wardrobe inspiration.

Thanks to Shannyn and Terry for showing Thom from Everyone's Celebrity and I around your lovely boutique, and to Kyra from Pybus PR for introducing us to this hidden gem!

Loving this amazing Chanel cuff with feather detail

How cute is this little collectable Coco Chanel!

Thom from Everyone's Celebrity with one
of the many beautiful Chanel bags

Thom modelling a vintage Chanel barrel bag

A beautiful Hanna Bernhard heart necklace

Check out this beautiful lucite Inna Cytrine bracelet
with stunning gold scrolling detail, paired with
an amazing Christian Dior ring

How amazing is this vintage YSL gold metal tassel shoulder bag!

Images by Stylus Muse

Behind The Scenes - Spirithoods

2011-10-03T06:02:00.001+11:00

What do you get when you mix, 8 models, 6 make-up artists, a creative director, a photographer and 8 Spirithoods? An amazing photoshoot that captures the spirit of each animal in each image.

A cult item in the US, Spirithoods have only recently been introduced to the Australian market. Seen on celebrities around the world, there are a variety of Spirithoods to choose from to suit any personality.

In a concept created by Thom from Everyone's Celebrity, each make-up artist was given the challenge to transform their model into the their chosen spirithood without making the model look too theatrical.

Captured in the studio by the talented Myung Ho Kim the model 'became' their animal in this amazing shoot.

Check out the amazing final shots and behind the scenes action:

Click here for more images from Everyone's Celebrity.

Behind the scenes action:

Miss Aimmey doing Jess' make-up for the Red Wolf Spirithood
Check out more images at Aimmey's blog here!

Justine making up Lorna for the Leopard Spirithood

Creative Director Thom with Jess and Aimmey

Having fun with the hoods!

The stunning Jess

Leopard spots for Lorna

Ross giving Sofia some panda eyes for the Panda Spirithood

Lorna working it for the camera

So cute!

Kate turning Jayde into a Husky

Congratulations to the team on an amazing shoot, and a big thanks to Thom for letting me come behind the scenes!

To get your very own Spirithood visit Lenko Boutique.

Images by Suzanna Zhang and Stylus Muse

Fashion Event - Treasurette and Nevenka VIP Night

2011-09-29T06:02:00.009+10:00

Newly opened boutique Treasurette and Melbourne based label Nevenka joined forces to host a VIP night for their customers. Guests sipped champagne as they checked out Treasurette's range of beautiful shoes and accessories, sourced from around the world, and Nevenka's romantic, bohemian SS11 Love Collection.

Check out some of the pictures from the night:

The stylish hosts for the evening Emily, Marketing Manager for Nevenka,
Nevenka designer Rosemary and Treasurette owners Deb and Alice

The range of beautiful Nevenka pieces.
The collection is selling out quickly in stores so make sure you
visit before everything is sold out!

Lady Gaga would love these Finsk wedges!
Individually hand crafted by an atelier in Brazil from leather
from by-products from other industries, Finsk shoes are not only
stylish but ethical too!

Some of the well dressed guests!

Thom from Everyone's Celebrity and Alice in a
beautiful Vassilisa scarf

The edgy structural designs of Dominic Jones

Alice and Deb try on all the shoes before they select them for the
store to ensure that they are not only beautiful to too but,
but comfortable as well for shoppers!
Now that's service!

You have to check out the elegant Vassilisa cashmere and silk scarves named after
the famous Russian fairytale 'Vassilisa the Beautiful'.
Featuring bold and romantic prints, Vassilisa designer Nadja Solovieva
trained with Vivienne Westwood and Alexander McQueen before releasing her
own label featuring unique digital prints.

Loving these sparkly Pedro Garcia's!
Mixing traditional craftsman skills and advant-garde style Pedro Garcia's shoes
are the favourite of fashionistas around the world.

I'm in love with these amazing Aperlai shoes!
Designed by Alessandra Lanvin, Aperlai shoes are not only
architecturally breathtaking but they are designed
with the help of an orthopedist!

Loving this amazing Dominic Jones scarab ring!

Emily in the Blue Valentine Silk Blouse paired with
the Nostalgia Cotton Skirt both available at Nevenka now!

Check out this beautiful white Rick Owens clutch!

Thanks to Alice and Deb from Treasurette and Rosemary and Emily from Nevenka for hosting such a wonderful evening!

Make sure you check out all the beautiful pieces at Tresurette at 140 Little Collins Street in Melbourne, and the stunning romantic inspired Love Collection at Nevenka at 12 Howey Place in Melbourne (click here for more stockists).

Also make sure you click here to vote for Nevenka in the Caulfield Cup Classic Style Award. Rosemary's beautiful design is modelled by Nevenka Marketing Manager Emily!

Images by Thom Whilton and Stylus Muse

Fashion Event - Myer SS 11/12 Australian Designer Preview

2011-09-26T06:02:00.003+10:00

With designer Toni Maticevski

To celebrate the new spring/summer collections by some of Australia's top designers, Myer hosted an evening hosted by Lauren Phillips in their refurbished city store where shoppers could browse the new pieces at meet the designers.

In attendance was designers such as Toni Maticevski, Leona Edmiston, Magdalena Velevska, Manning Cartell, Simona, Teresa Liano from T L Wood and Wayne Cooper.

Each of the designers was interviewed by Lauren and spoke about what inspired their latest collections.

This new season promises to bring beautiful prints, flowing dresses, and bright colours.

Thank you Myer for hosting such a great evening!

Make sure you visit Myer and support some of Australia's most talented designers!

Amazing Proenza Schouler PS1 bag

Esther from Myer TV interviewing Toni Maticevski

Designer Adam Tsen from Tsen with partner Laichi

What I Wore
Dress: Lover Serpent Dress from Green With Envy
Cuff: Ghost and Lola
Ring: Matina Aminata
Clutch: Made from book

Images by Thom Whilton

An Afternoon With Livia Arena

2011-09-23T06:02:00.001+10:00

Since starting my blog, I've been surprised at the number of people I've met who started their career in a completely different industry to fashion, but have then decided to follow their passion and either start their own store or label. Livia Arena is one such designer. After working in banking for two years, Livia decided to change career direction and went back to study fashion where she learned the design skills she so wonderfully uses today.

I was lucky enough to spend an afternoon with Livia in her workspace in Carlton. With all her garments made entirely in Melbourne, Livia is doing a fantastic job of supporting the local industry.

Livia's workspace is what I imaged a perfect design studio to look like. With exposed wooden beams and sewing paraphernalia such as a dressmakers dummy, an old Singer sewing machine from her parent's farm, spools of brightly coloured thread it was a designer's paradise! Livia has decorated her place with cute little trinkets like an old bone under a glass dome, a bowl full of old globes and beautiful wooden branches which gives the space a unique feel.

Livia has just released her second collection, which includes a collaboration with Melbourne Jewellery designer Deirdre Hoban to create a beautiful colourful spot print. Highlights from the new collection are the creative inside collars, sheer tops and dresses and the voluminous circle dress (stay tuned for the lookbook images!).

Thank for letting me spend an afternoon with you Livia! It was great to learn more about your experiences in the industry. I have no doubt your label is set for amazing things!

Check out Livia's beautiful workspace:

Livia with her cute assistant Angelina Ballerina!

Check out the detail on this beautiful windmill dress I wore here!

Images by Stylus Muse

MSFW - Obus Party

2011-09-21T06:02:00.001+10:00

Suzi, Leeyong and I

To celebrate MSFW the Obus Store on Flinders Lane held a Mexican themed party. The shop was decked out with brightly coloured decorations and an amazing art mural.

Guests nibbles on salsa and corn chips as they browsed the new season stock. With lots of bold prints and colour, the spring/summer collection had me wishing warmer weather was here!

If the beautiful bright coloured pieces aren't reason enough to shop at Obus, it's great to know that Obus are an entirely Melbourne based brand, with all their garments manufactured in Melbourne. This means that any money you spend at Obus stays in Melbourne supporting the local craftspeople and local economy!

I was lucky enough to attend with the busy Leeyong from Style Wilderness who covered MSFW for City Weekly. She looked fantastic in her Frida Kahlo inspired outfit.

Thanks to Obus for hosting such a wonderful party!

Check out the pictures from the event:

With Tim, the Designer and Director of Melbourne
based shirt company Poplin & Panache (gentleman, if you're
looking for the perfect shirt for work or the races then make sure
you checkout Poplin & Panache's online store!) and the
amazing Kyra from Pybus PR (Kyra's dedication to her clients has
seen her organise wonderful events
such as the recent L'Heure du Thé (a French High Tea)

Tim and Leeyong in front of the
amazing mural!

Amazing Elgar & Lyle designer Braham
wearing one of this own necklaces, with Leeyong and I
Stay tuned for Elgar & Lyle's Spring Summer collection to be launched soon!

Talented Obus designer Kylie Zerbst with Leeyong
looking amazing in their colourful outfits!

Lady Melbourne and Kyra enjoying the party!

What I Wore
Dress: Kings of Carnaby Lovello dress (available in store now!)
Shoes: Christian Louboutin

Images by Suzanna Zhang

Fashion Event - L'Heure du Thé (a French High Tea)

2011-09-19T06:02:00.007+10:00

Over the weekend, L'Heure du Thé (a French High Tea) was held to raise awareness and funds for the amazing work of the National Breast Cancer Foundation.

Surrounded by talented, inspiring and glamorous ladies!
From L to R: Leeyong from Style Wilderness, Kyra from Pybus PR,
Iolanthe from Ruby Slipper Consultants and Jessica who made her own hat!

Organised by Pybus PR and Le Style, the decadent High Tea, hosted at the beautiful Langham Hotel in Melbourne, treated guests to beautiful desserts, a live harpist and tea provided by Madame Flavour. Domain Flowers kindly donated all the beautiful floral pieces on each table and installation in the Petit Emporium.

The Petit Emporium housed a variety of pop-up stalls showcasing French-themed treasures. Amongst the stalls was beautiful jewellery from the talented Wendy from Ghost & Lola and perfume from Peony Melbourne Haute Parfumerie.

Melbourne fashion institution Madam Virtue & Co presented a beautiful installation showing a select range of stunning couture gowns from their own in-house label and private collection.

Miles Mason Training Company donated a beautiful Marianne Guedin candle luxuriously scented by wild flowers, sage and sheets of tobacco for the best-dressed guest.

Thanks to Pybus Pr, Le Style and the Langham for hosting such a wonderful afternoon!

Here are some of the beautiful pictures from the event and the stylishly dressed guests:

Entrance to the beautiful Langham Hotel

Thom from Everyone's Celebrity, stylist and vet Cecylia,
designer and one half of Madam Virtue JC,
Chian and Sarah from Sarahs Style Emporium

Check out the beautiful ladies in their cute French Maid outfits,
kindly provided by I Heart Dress Up Parties!

The stunning Madam Virtue & Co couture installation.
Here's a bit of trivia for you, the stunning black opaque paillette gown
in the middle is the prototype of the gown commissioned
and worn by Jane Menelaus (Mrs Geoffrey Rush) to the 2011 Oscars!

Kyra and JC, both decked out in Chanel accessories

Me with the amazing stylish duo from Madam Virtue Dean and JC
standing in front of their stunning couture installation

Kyra, Jessica and Iolanthe looking glamours in their
Parisienne themed outfits
Kyra's stunning Luca Luca gown is available from Paris 99 and
her stunning vintage Chanel jewellery is available from
Parisian Street Society

Cecylia, Leeyong and Suzi looking very classy!

Check out this amazing couture gown embellished with safety pins
dipped in gold bath and hand placed
to form a beautiful architectural pattern by Madam Virtue designer JC

JC with one of the french maids!

Iolanthe with her beautiful dress
which had a pretty star print!

Suzi, my amazing photographer looking cute in her red beret!

With the amazingly talented designer of Ghost & Lola, Wendy.
You have to check out Wendy's stunning designs which
are stocked in Nordstrom in NYC and Liberty of London.
All her pieces are handmade from vintage treasures so no
two pieces are the same.
I'm wearing a beautiful swallow cuff from Wendy's collection
which will no doubt be the first of many pieces I get from
Ghost & Lola!

Thom wearing one of Wendy's beautiful feathered necklaces
as a statement accessory!

With the beautiful Lady Melbourne looking
glamourous with her Chanel accessories from the wonderful Parisian Street Society!
Check out Lady Melbourne's blog post to learn more about the wonderful treasures at the Parisian Street Society

Kyra, Thom and Dean

With Kyra, Sha from from Le Style dressed by Madam Virtue in Lanvin
and Leeyong who had the cutest Chanel brooch in the shape of a
bottle of perfume!

The beautiful Marianne Guedin candle for
best dressed from the Miles Mason Trading Company

Thom and I in front of the beautiful harpist
What I Wore
Dress: Livia Arena silk Windmill dress
(it has the most intricate detailing
on the sleeve like a windmill!)
Bag: Chanel make-up bag from Madam Virtue
Hat: Mini top hat from Diva
Accessories: I started the day with lace gloves from
the Lost & Found market and finished the
day with my new Ghost & Lola cuff! (check out the Stylus Muse
Facebook page for a close-up picture)
Shoes: Tony Bianco

Images by Stylus Muse, Suzanna Zhang and Thom Whilton

MSFW: Fashion Event - Fashion Connect

2011-09-14T06:02:00.002+10:00

As part of MSFW, OC Communications & Events hosted the amazing Fashion Connect Event to raise money and awareness for the AIDS Trust of Australia. Guests in their most fashionable attire, were treated to mini ice-creams from Trampoline, coconut water from Cocobella and the most amazing giftbags packed by Managing Director of OC Communications & Events, Oscar Calvo.

Attendees were treated to a performance by drag duo Minty Fresh and Cher Nobyl who were also taking pictures of guests on the night with event sponsor Polaroid's mini cameras!

Thanks OC Communications & Events and Oscar Calvo for hosting such a wonderful evening of fashion and fun, raising money for a wonderful cause!

Check out some of the stylish guests:

With the stylish ladies!
From L to R: Suzi, April, Emily and Aimmey

Trampoline ice-cream!

Stylish Director of Poplin & Panache Tim with lovely April,
talented make-up artist Aimmey and the amazing Emily

Thom from Everyone's Celebrity
rocking a kilt a la Alexander McQueen, with friend Sanem

Thom and I with one of the hot drag queen
who were part of the entertainment for the evening

Tim with the ladies!

My wonderful photographer Suzi with
stunning model Hitomi

With the lovely ladies from L to R, Jan, Siobhan and Hitomi

The stylish Dean from Melbourne's iconic Madam Virtue
with talented stylist Ramona

Hitomi and Siobhan having fun with ice-cream!

Thom and Amber Renae

With the amazing Oscar Calvo who organise the event!

Making friends!

With the lovely Kyra from Pybus PR

The most amazingly talented and inspiring ladies!
From L to R: Kyra from Pybus PR, Jessica,
Iolanthe from Ruby Slipper and Jane from Jane Hayes Consulting

With stylist Greg Dennis and Aaron

With the beautiful Hitomi

With Everyone's Celebrity Thom

With Dean, one half of the amazing Madame Virtue!
What I Wore
Dress: Madam Virtue Couture Gown
Headpiece: Paula Kyle Walden
Shoes: Christian Louboutin

MSFW - Young Republic Parade and Party

2011-09-13T06:02:00.001+10:00

To celebrate some of the amazingly talented designers in their stable, Young Republic hosted a Parade and Party during MSFW at Baroque in Melbourne's CBD.

Em, myself and Thom from Everyone's Celebrity
with Event Co-Ordinator & PR Officer
of Young Republic Natarsha Kershaw

Guests were treated to champagne and fingerfood as models walked the runway in new season designs.

Young Republic are a fantastic company supporting up-and-coming Australian designers. It has created Australia's first interactive market place which focuses purely on helping independent designer market their brand on a local and international scale. With the Australian retail economy struggling, it is even harder for up-and-coming labels to survive so it's important for consumers to support companies such as Young Republic and the brands they house.

Designers which featured on the runway included El Amuleto, Inspektor Federation, Cohelo, Angie L Designs, Pine Lime, Monolog, Banjara Jewellery, Accompany By Imagery and Denise SL Spalk. It was fantastic to see such a great range of talented designers and get some styling ideas for Spring and Summer!

Thank you to the team at Young Republic for hosting such a wonderful event!

Next time you are tempted by a spot of online shopping, before you check out overseas sites such as Asos and Net-A-Porter, why don't you hop onto Young Republic and support the amazing emerging labels labels which are the future of Australian fashion!

Check out some of the pictures from the event:

Suzi, Steve and Em

Em and Suzi

Vincent, Steve and Saul

Backstage at the Young Republic runway show:

Natarsha, myself and Thom with stylist for the event, Greg Dennis

Vincent, Saul and Steve

Images by Suzanna Zhang and Stylus Muse

MSFW - Designer Series Gala

2011-09-12T06:02:00.000+10:00

Thom and I
What I Wore
Top: Dion Lee dress worn as top
from Green With Envy
Skirt: Magdalena Velevska
Shoes: Tony Bianco Carlottas
Ring: Molten Store

MSFW's first official runway show was a display of colour and texture, featuring some of the country's most talented designers.

I attended the Designer Series Gala with Thom from the amazing blog, Everyone's Celebrity.

Guests were treated to beautifully constructed gowns with detailed draping and embellishments, carefully tailored suits and vibrant colour.

The face of MSFW, Sophie Van Den Akker opened the show in an amazing Richard Nylon headpiece and was joined on stage by ethereal looking models dressed by up-and-coming designers Neo Dia.

Sophie also closed the show in a dramatic black Rachel Gilbert gown.

The night wasn't without controversy with PETA protesters interrupting Rachel Gilbert's runway show, angry at the designer's use of fur in her AW11 collection.

Despite this, the runway was a great success and showcased a great range of Spring/Summer looks which no doubt will be seen on fashion lovers this season.

Check out some of the pieces from the night:

Richard Nylon Millinery dressed by Neo Dia

Christine

Nicolangela

Arthur Galan

Yeojin Bae

Dom Bagnato

Thurley

Gwendolynne

Aurelio Costarella

Rachel Gilbert

Some of the amazing MSFW volunteers!
Without them, MSFW would not be possible!

Images by Thom Wilton

MSFW In Pictures

2011-09-09T08:29:00.003+10:00

Technology these days is so amazing. With the great camera quality of the iPhone you almost don't need to bring a camera around! I've had an amazing time at Melbourne Spring Fashion Week so far and thought I'd share some of my favourite images I've captured on my phone:

The end of the runway show at the
Designers Series Show - Boutique Series

Loving the lights on the runway

The face of the festival Sophie Van Den Akker
closing the Designer Series Gala Runway
in Rachel Gilbert

Thom from Everyone's Celebrity's amazing jacket!
He sewed on all the studs!

Young Republic Runway show

Richard Nylon Millinery with models dressed by Neo Dia

My amazing Molten Store Pyrite Ring

Dannii Minogue's J'Aton dress displayed in the Melbourne
Town Hall

White Suede on the runway with
amazing Alexandra Blak perspex jewellery

Amazing paper horse in the window of Hermès
by Anna-Willi Highfield

The opening of the Designer Series - Gala

One of Dannii Minogue's beautiful J'Aton dresses
worn on the British Tv Show X-Factor

Images by Stylus Muse

MSFW - Street Style Part 1

2011-09-08T06:02:00.000+10:00

Checking out the street style fashion during fashion week maybe even more fun than watching the runway shows! It's always intriguing seeing the unique way people put together clothes.

Here are some of the stylish people captured by Thom from Everyone's Celebrity and I during MSFW:

Amazing gold top and red lippie

Cute jacket!

Loving the Prada banana print skirt and Prada heels!

Loving the colours in this stylish group!

Perfect accessories for a black and white outfit,
bright aqua clutch and spiky bracelet

Beautiful bright blue and yellow satchel

Love this patent black bag and stripy skirt

Check out this hood!

Images by Thom from http://everyonescelebrity.blogspot.com

Fashion Event: Stonnington Spring Fashion Runway

2011-09-07T06:02:00.078+10:00

With the Spring Racing Season just around the Corner, Stonnington City Council hosted their annual Spring Fashion Runway show. As always, the line-up featured some of Australia's most talented designers. Designers showing their Spring/Summer 2011/12 trends were Dhini, Alpha60, Alannah Hill, Gorman, Lisa Ho, Connie Simonetti, Craig Braybrook, Hemden, Stevie, John Cavill, Leon Edmiston, Lisa Barron, Mathieu Salem, From Luka, Medwin, Soho Workshop, T.L Wood and Tiffany Treloar.

Thom from Everyone's Celebrity,
Nick one half of Kings of Carnaby

Aimmey from Miss Aimmey Makeup and Hair

and the lovely April

Bags, hats, shoes and accessories were provided by Steve Madden, Alan Pinkus, Nude, Nine West, errie Stanley, Pater Jago, Paris Kyne, Spencer & Rutherford, Mimco, IMP jewllery, Catanach jewllery, Oroton and Novo.

This year writer Janice Breen Burns and designer Victoria Cascajo were recognised for their contribution to the fashion industry by being inducted into the Stonnington Fashion Hall of Fame. Each were interviewed by host Jan Jacklin as their work was displayed to the audience.

In order to recognise up-and-coming designers Breen Burns selected four talented Melbourne labels and presented their collection in the Emerging Designers Runway. Make sure you keep an eye on Kings of Carnaby, Livia Arena, Lui Hon and Pink Stitch who are the future of Australian fashion!

Thanks to the City of Stonnington for hosting such a fantastic and fashionable evening!

Check out the pictures from the event:

Host Jan Jacklin interviewing writer Janice Breen Burns,
Fashion Hall of Fame Inductee

Janice Breen Burns and designer Victoria Cascajo being inducted
into the Stonnington Fashion Hall of Fame

The lovely Nick from Kings of Carnaby
who featured in the 2011 Emerging Designers Showcase
and will also be on the runway at MSFW tonight!

My amazing photographer Suzi!

What I Wore Dress: Thurley
Necklace: Atta Krisna from Madam Virtue
Shoes: Tony Bianco Karissa Heels (also seen here)

Clutch: Made from old book

Images by Suzanna Zhang

MSFW - Spotlight Emerging Designer Series

2011-09-06T06:02:00.003+10:00

As part of MSFW, 1000 £ Bend (361 Little Lonsdale Street, Melbourne) are hosting the MSFW Emerging Designer Exhibition to showcase some of Australia's most exciting emerging designers.

The Exhibition features pieces from the following designers:

* Alexandra Blak * Lisa Taranto

* Bhalo * Livia Arena

* Bioperspective * Neo Dia

* Ellison * Pageant

* Jack Loder * Phong Chi Lai

* Kaori Kato * Stella Blanche

There are also beautiful fashion images featuring some of Australia's most talented designers including Pamela Usanto and Sara Phillips.

It's fantastic that the fashion industry is supporting the future of Australian fashion through exhibitions such as these.

The exhibit is free so there is no excuse not to attend if you are in Melbourne!

The exhibition will run till Sunday 11 September and is open from 10am to 6pm Monday to Friday and 10am to 5pm Saturday and Sunday.

Check out some of the amazing pieces on show:

Images by Stylus Muse

Meeting Dion Lee at Green With Envy

2011-09-05T06:06:00.030+10:00

To celebrate the launch of Dion Lee's Spring/Summer 11/12 Collection, Green With Envy hosted an evening with the designer at their Chapel Street boutique. One of the most exciting designers to come out of Australia in recent times, Dion Lee is not only catching the attention of the Australian fashion industry, but he is quickly gaining fame overseas, stocking on international fashion giant Net-A-Porter.

Guests were treated to champagne as they browsed the amazing new pieces. Focusing on black, greens, cyan, creams and bold smokey crystalised prints, Lee's new collections stayed true to his unique design aesthetic featuring his trademark cutouts and impeccable tailoring.

Lee is one of the most exciting designers on the Australian fashion scene. He's not afraid to experiment with shapes, colours, materials, prints and techniques to create pieces that are at the cutting edge of fashion.

The amazing Green With Envy team were on hand to help guests who were trying on the beautiful pieces. Lee mingled with guests taking the time to talk to everyone. The lovely and talented Irene Nicholas, founder of Green With Envy and designer for in-house label Nicholas, also took the time to mingle with shoppers. Although the retail economy is struggling, Irene has managed to take Green With Envy from strength to strength and it continues to develop a loyal following among Australian fashion lovers.

Customers were given a signed copy of Dion's coffee table book which features images from his additional range, LINE II. Keeping with his unconventional designs, Lee's amazing book has two cutouts through the middle and features beautiful images showcasing his stunning collection.

Thanks to Dion Lee and the wonderful Green With Envy Team for hosting such a great evening. Make sure you head into Green With Envy stores to check out Dion Lee's amazing collection before it's all sold out!

Check out the pictures from the event:

Dion and I

Stunning Green With Envy ladies
modelling the new Dion Lee' collection

Love the bold prints and cyan

The lovely and talented Green With Envy
owner Irene Nicholas and amazing Green With Envy
Brand and Marketing Manager Lucinda

Dion with the amazing and stylish
Green With Envy girls Jaquie, Elly and Lucinda

Images by Stylus Muse and Green With Envy

Melbourne Spring Fashion Week 2011

2011-09-05T06:02:00.000+10:00

Today marks the official start of Melbourne Spring Fashion Week 2011! With the spring racing season only a couple of months away, it's the perfect time for fashionistas to get some style inspiration. With Sarah Jessica Parker confirmed to attend Oaks Day, it's set to be a fantastic season for fashion.

With many free events around the city, Melburnians have no excuse for not being apart of MSFW! For more information on the MSFW program visit the official website here.

For those not in Melbourne, for live updates from MSFW events make sure you like Stylus Muse on Facebook here and on Twitter here.

Looking forward to sharing my MSFW adventures with you:)

Interview - Paula Kyle Walden Part 2

2011-09-02T06:02:00.002+10:00

In Part 1 of my interview with jewellery designer Paula Kyle Walden, we learnt about her background and the process of making jewellery. In Part 2, we learn more about her work and challenges facing designers.

6. Your designs are fantastically unconventional, bordering on art. How do you balance your design aesthetic with creating pieces that will appeal to the commercial market?

This year I’ve really been focused on this. I’ve focused on finding a balance of creating a commercially viable product whilst keeping true to my love of creating pieces that are considered artistically directed. I’ve really started to look from the outside - in when in my creative process and I’ve done some serious market research on what Australia consumers are pursuing.

7. You work with a range of different materials such as metal and plastic. How do you think this brings an extra element to your label?

I guess it adds diversity and adds further interest to the labels aspect. Its been said that I’m a multi-media artist and that’s really true by definition. It adds an extra element / point of difference as most jewellery / accessory labels aren’t as tactile / artistically directed in approach by the way they develop product.

8. Each of your collections are very unique. How do you ensure that you keep developing as a jeweller and that your collections always bring something new?

Each of my collections highly differ in aspect however there are consistent and repetitive connotations there that are true to my influences and beliefs. Having a self-directed business allows me to continue and indulge with being up most a creative practitioner thus my developmental process is evolutional by a natural consequence.

9. What have been some of the greatest challenges you’ve faced as an up-and-coming designer in such a competitive industry?

It’s primarily fiscal. The greatest challenge I’ve faced is surviving, I’ve really had to look deep in order to persevere. I lost a lot of money when I started out and I really had to learn to be smart and strategic with my finances.

10. What’s next for Paula Kyle Walden?

Business. I mean business this year. My focus has changed from previous years. Cultivating a business whilst studying full-time was challenging to say the least. Now that I get to focus solely on the label I’m getting more and more stockists in Australia. Next year, I’ll be looking at international markets.

A beautiful picture Paula drew for me for my blog
with her amazing tactical response headpiece in the corner!

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Thank you Paula for taking the time to answer my questions! I have no doubt you'll have great success in Australia and overseas with your beautiful and unique designs.

Check out more of Paula's amazing designs on her website and on Facebook.

What's In My Wardrobe - Accessories

2011-09-01T06:02:00.001+10:00

Inspired by the creative images in my post on The Coveteur, I decided to try and take some photos of things in my wardrobe. First up, accessories.

In the spirit of The Coveteur, I decided to photograph my accessories in unexpected places around my home.

Let me know what you think!

Atta Krisna necklace from Madam Virtue

Necklace from sass & bide

Steven Shein wooden block ring from Lenko,
Mimco black flower clip, Mawi earrings

Paula Kyle Walden Tactical Response Headpiece, YSL Arty Too ring

Vintage broach, Samatha Wills snake necklace, Molten Store Pyrite Ring

Alannah Hill white headband with beading

Witchery necklace beaded flower necklace

Forever New earrings, sass & bide ring,
Sarah Coventry vintage earrings from Lost & Found Market

Images by Stylus Muse

F-Commerce - The Next Big Thing?

2011-08-31T06:02:00.001+10:00

Is Facebook the new shop of the future? F-Commerce, or Facebook commerce, is Facebook's version of e-commerce "which utilises the power of a user's network of friends to market products, create buzz and drive sales." Labels are starting to use Facebook to link directly with their online shops. With labels and retailers already using Facebook to connect with consumers directly through polls, competitions, specials and surveys, it's only a matter of time before labels and retailers start using Facebook as an online retail forum.

Australian chain store Witchery has already tested the waters of F-Commerce with their recent White Shirt Campaign. The Witchery F-Commerce application allowed Witchery's 35,000 Facebook fans to browse the White Shirt Capsule collection, designed to raise money for ovarian cancer. Currently users aren't able to buy directly off Facebook and are instead re-directed to the label/retailer's on-line store. Witchery have indicated that they may build on the application making available products from their new Spring/Summer collection if they feel consumers are keen to shop through Facebook.

F-Commerce has become very popular for vintage sellers. Gary Pepper Vintage owner Nicole Warne, uses the Gary Pepper Vintage Facebook to update shoppers on new additions to her online store. This way shoppers don't have to keep checking her site, they can see when new stock is available via their new feeds.

Why are analysts saying F-Commerce could be the way of the future? With 600+ million Facebook users, 50% visiting daily, retailers and designers can reach audiences around the world with the click of a button.

So how can you attract consumers to your site? There are many ways companies can utilise the power for Facebook, for example:

* Run Facebook contests that require a user to 'Like' the page in order to enter. This encourages them to look around your page.

* Post Facebook only promotions and sales.

* Link "deals of the day" or product announcements within their Facebook page and store.

* Reward users who "share" deals or products on their wall.

Facebook is also currently testing a "Buy With Friends" application which will offer users discounts who encourage their friends to buy products by posting it on their friends' news feeds. Users are also able to buy Facebook Credits which are currently limited to buying virtual goods. With the way Facebook is evolving, it's only a matter of time before credits can be used to purchase real goods.

F-Commerce appears to be the next revolution in online retailing. So if it wasn't already hard enough to try and avoid on-line shopping, retailing could be coming to a Facebook page near you!

Information sourced from http://ticketnews.com, http://ragtrader.com.au