Aussie Style Moments

Fashion Whimsy...

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sun, 30 Jan 2011 16:25:00 +0000

There would have to be no Australian designer who creates more whimsical fashion than Alannah Hill. From the 'secret garden' entrance to the website and through each bright, bold image, her eccentric design and whimsical play with fashion shapes and prints blends to create truly outstanding fashion and images that are just so much fun to look at!

Images via Alannah Hill website

Hope you are having a fabulous weekend! M xx

Pink and White Perfection - Summery Goodness from Fleur Wood S/S Collections

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 17 Jan 2011 19:42:00 +0000

I've never made much of a secret that I really like Fleur Wood dresses - and these are no exception! These all have such beautiful, sugary colours and ultra-feminine details - what every girl needs for dressing up for summer.

Have a wonderful week - M xx

Fashion for flood relief - Booty Huggers

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 12 Jan 2011 11:34:00 +0000

With the floods in Queensland continuing to wreak havoc, a great many people have pledge support to those who have been affected by this crisis. One of those is fashion designer Clint Webster of Clinton Charlie and Booty Huggers. Clint has announced that $10 from every pair of Boot Huggers sold will be donated to help those affected by the floods. So you can look sensational and help a good cause all at the same time - now that's what I call multi-tasking!

To find out more visit Clinton Charlie.

Something for the boys

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 10 Jan 2011 10:11:00 +0000

Oh alright - and little something for the girls! I know how much you all like checking out the male models, ahem, clothes. :)
Joking aside, the trans-seasonal collection from Melbourne based Oscar Calvo has some seriously sharp clothes for the sophisticated man in your life.

The brand is described as
"a young, cutting edge contemporary Melbourne-based label making its mark on the Australian fashion scene...The Collection and Designer re-invent the contemporary genre and inject the menswear fashion scene with its unique brand of modern, sexy, edgy yet upscale and wearable offerings for the active urban man. The collection for this season continues its tradition of excellence in quality and construction, favoring a range of natural luxurious fibers including cotton, silk and linen blends."

You can find out more at the Oscar Calvo website.

Have a great week everyone!

Goddess of Summer - Australian Frocks from Miss Lyndel Yeo

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 14 Nov 2008 14:13:00 +0000

Firstly, I want to thank everyone who is reading - I was blown away when I checked out the number of readers over the last month despite zero posts. My writing commitments for work and getting ready to launch the new look blog soon are to blame, but I hope when it's finished you'll all come to the site and check it!

I've never made any secret of how much I love Australian frocks and the new Summer Goddess collection from Miss Lyndel Yeo is no exception. I got these gorgeous pics today from the lovely Lyndel and just have to share them with you. These are just the kind of gorgeous Australian frocks to make a big impression as we start into the silly season.

This collection is described as having a "gorgeous pallet of hazy sunset shades, carefully balanced with a mix of floating silks". This along with the dramatic styles and cut of the dresses is everything devotees of this label have come to expect. Miss Lyndel Yeo does frocks well. I'm sure you'll agree this talented designer's latest summer styles are no exception!

So without further ado - the Summer Goddess collection from Miss Lyndel Yeo!

To find out more visit Miss Lyndel Yeo online.

Spring Frock Frenzy!

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 03 Oct 2008 01:11:00 +0000

Well spring is really upon us now and I'm totally loving this fabulous weather and the chance to start getting outdoors and warm up a little! For all you fashion lovers out there spring means lots of gorgeous dresses and of course the spring racing festival is just around the corner.

If you're looking for the perfect dress, whether it's for Spring Racing or a spring party - then you have to check out these gorgeous summer frocks from Fleur Wood and Carl Kapp. These sensational Australian fashion dresses are just the ticket to a stylish summer!

Carl Kapp - Sunray Kimono

Fleur Wood - Spotted Lurex Dress

Carl Kapp - Sundress

Carl Kapp - Twilight Dress

All these Australian fashion dresses are available online from Vivienn - who are also having a sale on select items right now!

Spring & Summer Frocks From Miss Lyndel Yeo

Frocks

Leona Edmiston - 'Frocks'

Spring/Summer 2008 - Love is Treason

Fleur Wood, Ghost & Lola and Josh Goot at Vivienn

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 22 Aug 2008 08:13:00 +0000

Today's long overdue post provides an introduction to the fantastic Vivienn - which is dedicated to promoting Australian fashion online. If you love fashion and you haven't discovered Vivienn yet then you've been missing out! Vivienn provides a unique concept for making fashion more accessible to all fashion lovers.

Ever fancied sitting in the front rows at the shows a-la Anna Wintour - well Vivienn brings the next best thing to us mere mortals through a unique 'showcase' format. Designers whose collections are presented through Vivienn get the opportunity to showcase their collection to the public as it was intended to be seen. In this way the complete collection of Australian fashion is presented. This allows the story behind the design to be revealed to the buyer, rather than simply being presented a series of items on a rack in a store.

A certain number of items are held in stock at the store, but primarily customers view the collections and select items they like during a pre-order phase. For those fiscally challenged customers who can't live without high-end fashion, a 30% deposit is paid to secure their order, instead of the lump sum at once, with 2 further instalments and the final balance paid upon delivery. This lay-by system means you can not only purchase your Australian fashion online, you can own an item without paying the whole price at once.

What I like best about Vivienn is that it has a strong online presence and a commitment to making Australian fashion globally accessible (which is after all what I'm trying to focus on here). With spring fast approaching, here are some fabulous floral fashion items available from Vivienn now - these are guaranteed to have you hanging out for summer and the warm weather!

Fleur Wood - Summer 2008 Galle Maxi Dress

Fleur Wood - Summer 2008 Poppy Dress

Ghost & Lola - Cosmos Jewellery

Ghost & Lola - Grace Jewellery

Josh Goot - Mini Tee Dress

Josh Goot - Wing Layered Dress

You can find out more about Vivienn and view the full range of current Australian fashion online at www.vivienn.com/

** Thanks to Hedy at Vivienn for the photographs and support!

Celebrities Heart Frocks from Aussie Fashion Designer Leona Edmiston

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Tue, 12 Aug 2008 10:06:00 +0000

I think I've made no secret of the fact I love Leona Edmiston's Frocks, but I was pretty blown away by this stunning picture of singer Joss Stone wearing this Leona Edmiston dress. The Australian fashion designer's stunning frock was worn by the singer in this picture that appeared on the cover of Los Angeles trade publication LA Weekly.

Joss Stone wearing Leona Edmiston for LA Weekly

So basically as an excuse to find out which other celebrities heart Leona Edmiston Frocks, I hunted high and low to get these celebrity fashion shots! (Oh ok, the kind folks at Leona Edmiston gave them to me - they're super cool people over there!) It's great to see our fabulous Australian fashion designers getting plenty of recognition. To share the love I thought I'd include just some of the celebrities who have shown their impeccable taste wearing frocks from Australian fashion designer Leona Edmiston.

Emma Bunton in a Leona Edmiston frock

Jennifer Hawkins wearing Leona Edmiston (with Sex & the City's Chris Noth)

Sex & the City's Kristin Davis wearing the Tiffany frock from Leona Edmiston

***Thanks to Prue at Leona Edmiston for again helping out by supplying photographs

Endota Spa Cinnamon & Manuka Honey Lip Balm

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 04 Aug 2008 12:19:00 +0000

Endota Spa is an all Australian company that is dedicated to providing Australian organic beauty and skin care products. Endota Spa is a national organisation based around beauty spas across Australia. The 'spa in a jar' philosophy that goes into each product brings together the knowledge of the many Endota spa therapists. The feedback from the many satisfied Endota Spa customers is testimony to the popularity of these carefully formulated Australian organic beauty products; making them an ideal option for those seeking a unique and luxurious skin care experience.

Endota Spa produces the Australian organic beauty product Cinnamon and Manuka Honey Lip Balm; which I've been lucky enough to have a chance to review for this post. This sumptuous lip balm is a great softener for the lips, blending warm cinnamon with Manuka honey (a honey specifically from the Manuka tree). Honey has been used in skin care products since ancient times as a great way to deliver vitamins, minerals, enzymes and antioxidants directly to the skin, without the use of chemicals. The popularity of honey is attributed to its regenerative qualities which leave the skin smooth and soft.

I love the unique scent of the blend of the Manuka honey and cinnamon in this luxurious lip balm. This all organic Australian beauty product is not only free from chemicals and it also provides a deep moisturising balm that is guaranteed to leave your lips plum and kissable!

To find out the location of your nearest Endota Spa visit www.endota.com.au and view further details about both the spas and the products online.

Spring and Summer Frocks from Miss Lyndel Yeo

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 30 Jul 2008 08:45:00 +0000

Well I have to say I love these designs and I've been hankering for my own ever since I was lucky enough to get my first glimpse! Miss Lyndel Yeo is designed by Melbourne based Lyndel Yeo. Following a successful launch as a finalist at the Mercedes Benz Start Up parade in Melbourne in 2005, this unique fashion label has been going full-steam ahead. Winning the 2005 'Designer of the Year' at the Federation Square fashion showcase was just the beginning. Since the inaugural collection in 2005 this fiercely feminine fashion has gained a number of avid fans and continually succeeds in producing compellingly unique frocks that women love.

The label is described as a combination of "Tokyo Street Chic and School Girl Innocence". The words that came to my mind when I first clapped eyes on this season's frocks are "cute, cute, cute"! These gorgeous dresses have quirky details and I love the reversible options. The Spring 2008 frocks bring together a limited edition range of soft silks with oriental prints; combining bold colour and dramatic cuts. Being from a Melbourne based designer, the obvious destination to wear a frock like this is none other than the Melbourne Cup. If the Spring Races are high on your social calendar, then the cute Rose fascinators are the perfect complement for just such a destination!

Here is just a taste of what to expect for spring 2008 at Miss Lyndel Yeo:

Earth Dress

Wrap Top

Silk Tie Dress

Silk Cloud 9 Dress

Reversible Earth Dress

Silk One Frill Dress

The Miss Lyndel Yeo range is available from selected boutiques in Victoria, New South Wales and Queensland. For those in other states or overseas visit http://www.misslyndelyeo.com/ to view the collection and purchase your own MLY frock online.

Tom, Dick and Harry - New season collection

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 25 Jul 2008 03:08:00 +0000

Tom, Dick and Harry is the men's fashion line from designer Faydi Saddik. This Australian designer label was started in 2004, with the debut collection presented in 2005. Following a showcase at the Mercedes Australian Fashion Week in Melbourne in 2006, Tom, Dick and Harry hit the international stage in 2007. The launch of the label in London and Tokyo in 2007 coincided with a four part documentary series being aired on Fashion TV, following the label's journey and success.

Last week those lucky enough to make it to the Blue Hotel in Sydney's Woolloomoolloo (incidentally one of my all time favourite spots!) got to see the launch of the forthcoming Spring/Summer collection. The collection features a blend of tailoring and style that encompasses the many elements that complete the overall wardrobe, from casual sportswear to three-piece suits. The inspiration for the new season was the fusion of Japanese Art and Rock; with Japanese art forms highlighted in prints and embroidered work, as artsy graphics and abstract patterns dominate the collection, alongside sharp, tailored suits.

So today I've got some pictures to give you a taste of what to expect this season from Tom, Dick and Harry!

I also managed to get these behind the scenes shots with designer Faydi Saddik right in the thick of things! The backstage buzz of a runway show has a unique vibe all of it's own and I thought these few shots here really capture a glimpse of how it all looks behind the scenes at the shows....

Tom, Dick and Harry can be found online at http://www.tomdickandharry.com.au/

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 16 Jul 2008 09:09:00 +0000

Love is Treason is one of the hottest new labels around this season. I'm loving this ultra-hip range of women's clothing is the latest from designer Andy Wilson of Rufus Green. Launched at this year's Rosemount Australian Fashion Week, the women's collection features dramatic prints, bold styling details and a fresh take on high-end urban fashion. Here are some favourites from the forthcoming Spring/Summer 2008 collection.

Sweet Confection Scoop Neck Low Tee Shirt Dress in Black Zee's print

Don't Sing At My Wedding Dress in Fishbones print

Whoop Di Scoop Neck Low Tee Shirt in Black and High Above Burma High Waisted Skirt with Frills in Fishbones Print

Sweet Confection Scoop Neck Low Tee Shirt Dress - Black

Whoop Di Scoop Neck Low Tee Shirt White and
Margot Tago Pleated High Waisted Skirt in Black Silk Linen

The Love is Treason range blends soft cottons with the finest silks, creating a sexy couture designed to offer a unique alternative in day to night dressing for women. I think these are seriously hot clothes, totally wearable and luxe at the same time.
This groovy new label is coming to stores around Australia, so to find out where you can get your own Love is Treason fashion, visit the website at http://www.loveistreason.com.au/

Fleur Wood Spring/Summer

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 14 Jul 2008 03:43:00 +0000

This week is all about what's happening for spring/summer 2008 in Australian fashion, while the weather outside is still looking pretty wintery round here, I think it's time for a sneak peek at what is coming this year in the 2008 spring and summer collections. For today's post I've found these gorgeous dresses from the Fleur Wood collection, coming soon to Vivienn.

This ultra-feminine, floral creation is one of my favourites, and with the dramatic impact that florals have been making in the Northern Hemisphere this summer, I'm sure it's highly likely this trend will follow through here making this a sure style winner.

Bella Dress with Removable Cape

This hand-embroidered dress is simply stunning, the marigold colour is one of my favourites and these cute hand-crocheted cardigans are a soft and sumptuous option to keep you warm in the cooler spring days and summer evenings.

Matilda Embroidered Dress and Hand Crochet Knit Cardigan

Fleur Wood's flowing, rosy take on the maxi dress is typical of the feminine and floaty style that is popular in this year's spring/summer style trends. Dress this one up or down for great summer style and feminine dressing when the weather warms up.

Keira Plain Maxi Dress

The crochet garments in the Fleur Wood collection are a unique element to the summer season, and the warmth in the crochet dresses and cardigans are a great addition during spring while the weather is still transitional. This cute dress with the a-line skirt, paired with the contrasting crochet cardigan fits the bill perfectly.

Wool Embroidered Cocktail Dress and Hand Crochet Knit Cardigan

For a fresh take on the little black dress, this cocktail number is ideal for evenings out. Providing stylish design with wool embroidered details, this is a beautiful dress that is sure to make a big impact this spring.

Wool Embroidered Swift

The Fleur Wood collection is fabulously feminine and offers unique statement dresses, cardigans and fabulous design.

To find your own Fleur Wood dress, visit Vivienn.com - this great Australian retailer is one of my favourites. Vivienn is dedicated to promoting Australian fashion and delivering the best of our Australian designers to the world through the online retail format. Please visit them at www.vivienn.com

Aussie Celebrity Style - Kylie Minogue

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 11 Jul 2008 12:04:00 +0000

Now as much as I don't want to give everything away about my age, I'm old enough to remember Kylie Minogue doing the 'Locomotion'. This was the start of a musical career that has taken a lot of twists and turns along the way; and seen this Melbourne girl transition from the tomboy Charlene on Neighbours to a pretty fabulous woman who has overcome breast cancer, recently celebrated her 40th birthday and been awarded an OBE in June. There are a few noteworthy fashion moments along the way, but boy has Kylie become fabulous! So today I've decided to take a look at a few moments along the way, and reveal how Kylie Minogue has found her own sense of style.

Well as I mentioned, Kylie had us all doing the 'Locomotion' in the late 80s, and at around that time a girl called Charlene (Kylie) married a guy named Scott on Neighbours. Of course, in true 80s style she had puff sleeves, a perm and a wicked song by Angry Anderson - wow, there wasn't a dry eye in the place!

So following this there was of course the aforementioned 'Locomotion', and no child of the 80s in Australia could have possibly missed this one. Here the look was fluorescent tights, stilettos and figure hugging mini-dresses (and yes, that was tres cool!)

Well the hype around Kylie continued into the early 90s, and the (probably unfairly) nicknamed 'singing budgie' caused quite a stir when she appeared on the arm of the late rocker Michael Hutchence with this blonde crop. Such was the buzz around her at the time that speculation was rife for days, and debates about whether this was a wig or the real thing made it into every newspaper and television news bulletin nationwide. This period also served to somewhat cement Kylie and ensure her transformation from bubblegum pop to where she has ultimately ended up.

Fast forward a few years and an older and wiser Kylie was strutting her stuff in the video for the song 'Spinning Around' when her gold hot pants started to make a big impact. Yes, Kylies bum was suddenly the stuff that PR dreams are made of and the release of the 'Spinning Around' video had the world this time buzzing about what good shape the girl from Down Under was in.

Not long after this the Showgirl tour that Kylie was taking around the world was cancelled with the news announced that this was due to the fact that Kylie had developed breast cancer. After time spent away from the spotlight, the singer re-emerged looking fabulous and feminine in her first public appearance sporting a short crop and a great smile, despite the difficulties of the disease.

This year it marks 20 years since the launch of Kylie's first single, and shortly after her 40th birthday, Kylie was presented with an OBE (Order of the British Empire), for her career achievements. More stylish than ever the so called 'pint size princess' of pop was dressed in a gorgeous frock from Yves Saint Laurent, broke protocol during a brief chat with the Prince of Wales and looked sensational.

So there you have it people, the abridged version of the stylings of Ms Kylie Minogue. I think this is a woman who has hit her stride and truly embodies the idea that 'forty is the new thirty'. I'm eagerly awaiting more fabulous style moments in the future.

Photo Credits
Kylie and Jason 'Neighbours' wedding courtesy of SMH.com.au, 'Locomotion' from BBC.co.uk, 'Spinning Around' and photograph taken while being treated for cancer courtesy of Telegraph.co.uk, Kylie with Michael Hutchence courtesy of Ninemsn.com.au, Kylie receiving OBE courtesy of ThisisLondon.co.uk

The best boots for winter

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 04:06:00 +0000

With winter well and truly upon us I've abandoned my study in favour of putting the laptop on the sofa in front of me to keep warm near the fire! We had the coldest day in 3 years the other day, and ok, I know I just recently got back from Europe but please! Anyway, in the midst of this miserable weather we all have to venture out, even those lucky enough to work from home like me! So one of the most essential items for winter is a great pair of boots.

My fashion stylings tend to lean towards looks over practicality, but I've generally found there are loads of boots out there that are perfect for winter, combining style with practicality. A pair of boots can be worn with almost anything; making them a truly versatile element for every woman's wardrobe. Since I own three pairs and really basically think you can never have too many shoes - here are some ankle boots and high boots, because we all love options. (My personal pick are the Elvira boots from Sydney designers Andrea & Joen.)

Here are a few great boots available right now for this season:

Andrea & Joen - Elvira boot

Zu - Arc boot

Midas - Ester boot

Nine West - Kabibe boot (now available at 50% off)

Andrea & Joen available online at www.andreaandjoen.com

Zu shoes available around Australia or visit them online at www.zushoe.com.au

Midas shoes available around Australia or visit them online at www.midasshoes.com.au

Nine West shoes available around Australia or visit them online at www.ninewest.com.au

ClintonCharlie

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sun, 06 Jul 2008 23:27:00 +0000

Designer Clint Webster is the driving force behind Australian fashion label ClintonCharlie. The label is synonymous with its signature item 'Booty Huggers' jeans. These jeans are designed for real women and are popular for their trademark tailoring that ensures each woman's shape looks fabulous.

Clint Webster began his career in fashion in 2002, establishing the '88ounces' label. Not limited to jeans alone, this urban/street wear label included a range of limited edition screen printed tee's, along with jackets, hats, singlets and cuffs sold in local markets and stores in Sydney, Melbourne and Byron Bay. Following the success of this first foray into fashion, Clint submitted a leather fashion outfit for the 2004 Youth Fashion Design showcase, where he placed fourth out of 150 entrants. This cemented his desire to move into the area of women's fashion design, to which end he spent a period of time studying fashion design at both the East Sydney and Ultimo colleges.

The desire to work on women's fashion saw the establishment of high-fashion label ClintonCharlie in 2005. The label first showcased at the Sydney Northern Beaches Fashion Show and the development of a range of clothing with leather and different fabrics was presented under the moniker 'f.rock05'. ClintonCharlie attracted interest among the shows VIP attendees, media and fashion industry representatives; with the success of this showing lead to the opportunity for Clint to work with celebrity designer Jason Chetcuti. Working with Chetcuti, whose past clients include Jessica Simpson and Natalie Portman. Clint had the opportunity to refine his techniques and develop further skills to be applied in the formulation of the ClintonCharlie range.

After the year long period spent learning alongside Jason Chetcuti, the 'Booty Huggers' jeans were released under the ClintonCharlie label. The stylishly cut jeans are designed to ensure that there is no sagging or the dreaded flashing of the g-string. Booty Huggers are designed to fit snugly and provide shapeliness to the woman's silhouette. Available in a variety of styles and different denim shades the Booty Hugger jeans have become firm favourites with celebrities and received a lot of positive attention in the Australian fashion magazines and media.

Clint Webster cites his influences as Roberto Cavalli and Karl Lagerfield, and the influence of the latter is visible in the dresses that hold elements of Chanel styling. Currently the range can be viewed on the recently revamped website Clintoncharlie.com, and the clothes can be purchased directly there or at landmark Sydney destination, Paddington Market. The website will shortly be relaunched to increase the convenience for potential customers and further increase the accessibility of this up and coming label.

The future is positive for this talented Australian designer, with a recent visit to the US seeing him secure an agent in New York to help in the transition to the American market. Alongside of this Clint is working on a new project with model Silvia Grenova, creating a movie called Sky which is focussed on high-fashion art. This movie is testimony to the increasing buzz around the ClintonCharlie brand, and has the attention of entertainment heavy weight David Letterman.

To find out more about this exciting fashion label then be sure to visit the website, which will be expanding soon to include new videos, refreshed designs and increased options for online buyers.

www.clintoncharlie.com

Cool Jeans to Keep you Warm this Winter

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 02 Jul 2008 01:40:00 +0000

I love my jeans. Nothing probably that unique there, but I love how versatile this one simple item of clothing can be. A good pair of jeans is probably one of the most forgiving items of clothing around, and they work day or night, summer or winter. The great Yves Saint Laurent himself famously stated that he wished he had been the one to design jeans. So here are my top picks in both men's and women's jeans for this winter.
Being down under and out of step seasonally with the northern hemisphere offers us one advantage - we can plan ahead a bit with our looks. Right now faded, vintage style jeans are making a huge comeback for summer 2008 in the US and Europe. Jeans are the kind of thing that just get better with age, so I say why not get in early? With the shift away from the dark denim that has been hugely popular the last few years why not buy a pair of faded jeans to 'wear in' for this summer.

Here are my favourite Australian designer jeans for women:

Ksubi - Super Skinny Jeans (vintage indigo)

Sass & Bide - New Worlds of Art (quadra drive)

Alice McCall - First to Dance Skinny Jeans

Nobody - Relaxed Bootleg

18th Amendment - Lollobrigida Jeans

And a few for the guys:

Denim and Thread - Men's Rogue Straight Leg (aged blue)

Ksubi - Men's Raval (worn grey)

Nudie - Average Joe (rough dark)

Pictures courtesy of MyCatwalk.com.au
All the jeans featured are available from the fantastic online Australian designer retailer - MyCatwalk.com.au. So no matter where you live, you can buy great Aussie fashion online!

Fabulous Friday Fashion Profile

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 27 Jun 2008 12:53:00 +0000

Australian fashion designer Wayne Cooper has been very much in the spotlight this week. I started writing this profile previously to this and as this is a fashion blog, I've decided to post this profile as planned. This is a profile of a designer; I have no interest in the other matters, nor do I intend to voice any opinion on them here.

Wayne Cooper is one of Australia's foremost fashion designers and his recent presentation at the Rosemont Australian Fashion Week (May 2008) marked his tenth year at the fashion week shows. While he has firmly established himself in the Australian fashion community, Cooper is in fact from London, and started out on quite a different track before his move into the world of fashion. While having a strong sense for design, Wayne Cooper studied law before deciding that his true calling lay in the world of fashion design.

Deciding to take a leap of faith, Wayne Cooper left the UK to follow his desire to work in fashion and arrived in Australia in 1985. Here he took a job at Sydney fashion store Masons and undertook training in fashion at the East Sydney Technical College. After a seven year business partnership and period of 'learning the ropes' in the fashion industry Cooper decided to strike out on his own by starting the Brave fashion label. Together with stylist and creative director Jean Ferraud, the Brave label was developed alongside the exclusive Wayne Cooper label started shortly after in 1996. Hallmark features of the collection were established early on, with the designer and creative director spending time in Paris, London and New York, ensuring that the finest of fabrics and textiles were chosen for the 'Wayne Cooper' label.

In 2002 the designer took the bold step to implement a sexy, youthful range to replace the Brave label. A cheeky and irreverent label - Wayne - was launched. This saw the shift from the more romantic influence of Brave to a funkier, rock-n-roll styled label that gained massive appeal with models, actresses and bright young things everywhere. A rapid ascendancy in the Australian fashion ranks saw Cooper become a regular fixture at the annual Melbourne Cup, giving live coverage from the event with his irreverent humour and witty commentary being a hit. Following on this success he participated as a co-host on the Australian series of 'What Not To Wear'. Not afraid to tell the stylishly challenged exactly how it is, the success of Cooper was cemented in his role changing women from femme fatals to femme fatales.

Wayne Cooper is today recognised as one of the foremost designers in Australia fashion, and through the careful mixture of luxurious fabrics, lavish design and the innovate and technology savvy fashion shows this designer has firmly established his own niche in the industry. Particuarly celebrated are the unique shows staged during Australian fashion week. These are the one event that most express the unique influences and intrigues of Cooper as a designer. Over the past 10 years Cooper has staged some of the greatest must see events of Fashion Week. The key to these events is the lavish styling and dramatic production, combining unique locations with cutting edge technology and sensational soundtracks. Cooper's muses include Talitha Getty, Faye Dunaway and Michelle Pfeiffer, and international models including Sarah O'Hare, Amber Valetta, Eva Herzigova and Linda Evangelista have participated in Coopers shows.

This year's collection was no exception and the 2008 Ultraviolet collection was a much anticipated event bringing together a beautifully staged show with lavish designs and superbly made, luxurious clothes. Wayne Cooper has in the course of his career in Australia established a much loved clothing label and established himself as one of the leading designers in the country, bringing a unique flair to Australian fashion.

2008 Ultraviolet Collection photos from WayneCooper.com.au

Winter Dress Ups

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 25 Jun 2008 12:41:00 +0000

Well I think I’ve made no secret of the fact that I’m a huge fan of the frock, but so many are quick to overlook this failsafe of elegance and fashion in favour of pants when winter sets in. For the truly stylish woman however this is the ultimate in winter ease. There is nothing that sets you apart as truly elegant so much as a winter dress worn well with a good matching coat. Since the revival of knee high boots as a fashion staple, it is easier than ever to remain warm in a good dress during winter.

One of my favourite dresses is from Australian label Anna & Boy, this black button-thru dress is truly the definition of simple elegance, with black ribbed cotton and a draped style that sits below the knee with a deep v neck and long sleeves. I think this dress lends itself to both office wear and cocktail elegance and is the ideal little black dress (LBD) for the winter months.

Another gorgeous dress to bring a splash of summer to the winter months is the Fleur Wood Evoking Thoughts Dress. This dress is available in black, white, red and marigold. It is the marigold coloured dress that I particularly love; this dress is a little ray of sunshine for winter wear. I love the casual styling of the pussy bow collar and the ever so chi-chi details in the 3/4 length sleeves.

The ultimate cocktail dress is the DISAYA Swan Lace, Cut-out Sleeve Dress, which truly epitomises the direction that winter 08 has taken in Australia this year. This dress layers the crochet lace with hear details over a satin shift that sits at the knee. The lace detail extends across the bodice and along the sleeves.

There are so many more dresses to choose from than the few mentioned here, whatever your taste, to achieve the true height of winter sophistication then you are sure to find a dress that is an elegant and timeless winter option.

Anna & Boy Button-Thru Dress at LeBlackBook.com.au - $256.00

Fleur Wood Thought Evoking Dress at FleurWood.com - $390.00

DISAYA Swan Lace Cut-out Sleeve Dress on sale now from Runwaygirl.com.au - $332.80 (from $512.00)

Hot Hoodies and Cool Tees from Decibel Clothing

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sun, 22 Jun 2008 12:48:00 +0000

If you are looking for something casual to wear that incorporates great design and the best of local talent, then Decibel Clothing is just the ticket. I love these great tees and hoodies that incorporate exceptional art from local designers with well cut, quality fabrics.
Decibel Clothing is a local design company from Adelaide in South Australia. The ethos of this company is based on an underlying focus on quality and specifically non-sweatshopped products. Decibel source designs from local artists in South Australia, giving them a unique chance to have their designs incorporated and utilised by this growing fashion label.
There is a strong commitment to South Australian themed products in the art used for this clothing label. Being a South Aussie myself my personal favourites are the Frog Cake t-shirts. These cute t-shirts feature the green frogs of every SA child’s schooldays with a simple “riddup” written over head.
I love these original designs and funky styles and I strongly recommend you take a further look at this range of clothing if you are after something uniquely Australian and comfy; be it a warm winter hoodie or a cool summer tee. Whatever the season, Decibel clothing has something original for you.

http://www.decibelclothing.com.au/

Stay hot when the temperature drops!

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 20 Jun 2008 05:33:00 +0000

Winter is the ideal time to really let elegance take the lead. In Australia we’re renowned for being casual and laid back in our style, and I think this really goes hand in hand with our hot climate. While it isn’t impossible to be elegant in summer here, it is undoubtedly an easier option when the cool months come along. So with winter setting in, it’s the perfect opportunity to channel your inner film star; sporting your favourite winter coat to combine impeccable tailoring with some of the fabulous scarves, hats and gloves that are in style this year.

I really love the range of gloves from Australian label Tribu, these are one of the hottest items around right now. There are a range of full-length and regular gloves, but I particularly love the variety of colours, including ruby reds and vibrant blues alongside staples in black, brown and taupe. The cuffed Kat gloves are truly chic and the fabulous Claudia full-length gloves are quite unique these days. My personal favourites are the Casey and Jean gloves (pictured); these kind of simple gloves are ideal for all sorts of occasions and will see you through the winter in warmth and style.

http://www.tribu.com.au/

The Fabulous and Famous | Australian Fashion Week

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 05:28:00 +0000

Well this week is the highlight of the Australian fashion calendar – yes, ladies and gentlemen – I’m talking about none other than Australian Fashion Week. So whilst I’m a very busy little vegemite around about now, I couldn’t skip this chance to talk about at least some of the fabulous designers that are showcasing their talent in Sydney this week. Over a hundred designers will be showcased during the week; whilst it’s impossible to cover all of them here, for now let me get started taking you through just some of the designers who have presented collections.

The Week so Far
Since kicking off on Monday, RAFW shows have already been presented by Australian fashion big guns Alex Perry and Lisa Ho, while a debut RAFW collection was presented by emerging designer Konstantina Mittas.

Alex Perry’s show was a classy collection, with gorgeous evening dresses, beautifully cut day dresses and impeccably tailored and elegant suits. This collection suggests an underlying elegance that harks back to the days of glamorous black and white film. The gorgeous detailing and care in the cut of the pant suits paired with elegant and feminine silk shirts suggests an element of Marlene Dietrichesque quality, while the day dresses inspire comparisons to a young Elizabeth Taylor or Audrey Hepburn. This paired with funky sequined animal prints, micro minis and some pretty 50s inspired denim pants and full skirts promises this is a highly wearable collection and one that has appeal for women of all ages and temperments.

Lisa Ho presented a collection that could be seen as something of a departure from what you may have considered the usual apparel of this fashion house. Undoubtedly the new trends have been given a nod and I think if you have associated Ho’s designs with floral, floaty sundresses then you may find this collection offers a new take on this, and a new path for the designer. Big sleeves, short hemlines and other popular sixties elements have been incorporated here in a collection of very wearable, chic dresses.
The more floaty traditionally Ho style dresses have been given a new lease on life, in block colours like deep blue, fire engine red and golden yellow, as well as bold prints. The shift cut dresses paired with silver platforms are characteristic of the sixties feel that is coming through in this seasons collections. For more casual chic the silver thongs offer a summery option and the large bangles in the signature colours of the collection pull the look together and complete the outfits.
Some of the more overtly modern/trendy elements are perhaps a bit more miss than hit, but predominantly Lisa Ho has stayed on track to incorporate current trends in the kind of dresses and other apparel that have long been the trademark of this designer.

Konstantina Mittas debut show incorporates a number of more avant garde elements, with models sporting fringed ‘veils’ hanging to the waist. This sci-fi inspiration makes for a uniquely modern collection for the first showing of this emerging Australian designer. I love the patent leather boots and winged ankle boots. The sheer layered dresses are floaty and fanciful and a great addition for the summer season.
The new take on the little black dress has an eighties feel to it and the carefully cut silk jackets paired with lace under shirts continue along this theme, in a more Victorian-eighties style fusion. For a more casual element, the green sleeveless hoodies are a unique summer take on this staple of winter comfort. Bright elements are also incorporated into the predominantly neutral collection, with turquoise embroidery and green hot pants. This is an unabashedly modern collection, from an inventive and creative emerging Australian talent.

The Lisa Ho and Alex Perry collections present consummate examples of style from some of Australia’s beloved and established designers. These are grown up clothes for the modern woman, offering casual chic through to elegant evening wear. On the other hand, for all the bright young things out there looking for a fresh, funkier fashion alternative, my money is on Konstantina Mittas.

Designer and Label Profile: Leona Edmiston of 'Frocks'

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 23 Apr 2008 08:45:00 +0000

Well in the interest of continuing the theme I started with last time – who better to profile than the indomitable designer and head of fashion label 'Frocks'; Australia's own original frock girl - Leona Edmiston.

Leona Edmiston started her career as a fashion designer in the 80s, and with her former business partner, designer Peter Morrissey, established the feted Morrissey Edmiston label. Gaining popularity with both local and international celebrities this partnership established the success and renown of both the designers and the clothes became a wardrobe staple for the fashion conscious until the partnership ended in 1997.
When the Morrissey Edmiston partnership ended Edmiston forged her own path. Since the launch of her solo label in 2001 the Edmiston brand has grown to include the ‘Little Leona’ range, ‘for little ladies’, the ‘PINS’ hosiery range, the ‘Leona’ line of clothing and a signature fragrance!

The penultimate Leona Edmiston line is the ‘Frocks’ label, that since its launch has quickly taken its rightful place as a popular choice for the elegant woman. The attraction and beauty of the 'Frocks' collection stems from the underlying ethos of Edmiston's collection. The heart and soul of this fashion range is the simplicity of a great dress as a symbol of feminine elegance and glamour.
The ‘Frocks’ label creates beautiful and unique dresses, using interesting prints and colours, that when worn endow the woman with a chicness and sophistication. Whilst we may be spoilt for choice with so many high street stores these days, there will never be a substitute for quality! What is so appealing about a ‘Frocks’ frock is the use of high quality jersey, silk and cool cottons to produce uniquely stylish and unrepentantly feminine apparel.

Not one to rest on her laurels, the Autumn-Winter 2008 range is yet another example of how Edmiston captures this ultra feminine and sophisticated feel in her clothing line. Imbued with bold prints, rich colours and ‘whimsical details’ these are clothes for serious fashion lovers – not overtly avant garde, but rather elegant dresses made with quality fabrics and cuts that can be worn by real women!
Further to this, the autumn-winter collection marks an increase in the range of sizes available, with the designer showing her commitment to creating fabulous clothes for real ladies – whether a size 6 or a size 24.

Leona Edmiston is an exemplary designer – showing innovation both in design and in business ideas – attributes that are truly characteristic of where Australia and the Australian fashion industry is heading today.

*I just want to include a big thank you to Prue at Leona Edmiston for taking time out of her busy schedule to help with the photo for this post!

Frocks

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sun, 20 Apr 2008 09:55:00 +0000

We Aussie girls love a good frock (dress if you aren't up on our lingo). If you don't believe me then a quick look at the turnout of ladies in frocks at the annual Melbourne Cup should be enough to confirm this for you! So without further ado – let us take a look at some of the great moments of the frock in Australia.

Jean Shrimpton and 'that dress'
Firstly, I should point out that Jean Shrimpton is not an Aussie – but this was on our turf and we like to take credit for anything if it happens here! Now I know that in recent times the catch cry has changed to 'Liz Hurley and that dress', in recognition of the stir caused when Liz arrived wearing the infamous flaming red Versace safety pin dress. But we should always give credit where credit is due – and the original dress scandal and instigator of a fashion movement all of its own – was a relatively demure dress that young Jean Shrimpton (aka the Shrimp) wore to the Melbourne Cup in 1965.
So what was so special about this dress? Well this dress had the distinction of not covering her knees! So what is the big deal? Well the big deal was that when this young model turned up at the races in this knee skimming outfit minus stockings and gloves, it caused an uproar! The subsequent broadcast of the pictures around the world led to the mini’s popularity being propelled into the stratosphere! The sixties came to be remembered as the age of the mini, with this style destined forevermore to be an icon of that era. Hard to imagine now when every western women between the age of 15 and 50 can in all likelihood remember wearing a mini at one time or another, but there you have it.

Paper or plastic? (Frock that is!)
In 1994 Australian frocks had reached another high point in fashion, when Australian Lizzie Gardiner won an Oscar for Best Costume Design. This young designer showed her flair for design with fantastic sequined and bedazzling frocks being the cornerstone of her sensational designs in ‘Priscilla: Queen of the Desert’; and she went on to create something of a sensation with her own unique dress at the award ceremony. Lizzie turned up in an extraordinary and unforgettable dress that was created entirely of Gold Amex Cards. This unique and witty style is a hallmark of Australian fashion and innovation, and this dress could simply not be excluded from any list of iconic Australian frocks!

‘Priscilla’
Now this is actually all about men in frocks – but in the interests of cataloguing great frock moments I can't leave this one out. The film for which the aforementioned Lizzie won her Oscar is filled with fantastic and elaborate frocks. However, whilst there are countless great frocks in this flick – the greatest frock moment of them all is the iconic scene where one of the lead actors is sat in a giant high heel atop a bus in the outback, with the enormous train of a dress flowing out behind! Nothing says Australia more than the outback and there is perhaps no finer frock moment than this scene of extraordinary and unexpected glamour set against the magnificence of our desert landscape.

So there you have it – a brief look at some of the great Australian style moments for the beloved frock. Who knew something as simple as a dress could mean so much!