The Blouse You Can’t Ignore This Summer

Warm tones and peek a boo blouses - sounds like summer is on it’s way. I think it’s safe to say that the coldest of winter is over. Us lucky ones in Sydney have been teased with 26 degree days in August and our Instagram feeds are begging us to consider spending an Aussie winter in Europe. Yes, I was tempted to pack my bags for eight weeks to say the least. 

The tie front blouse is the new button up, but for the more daring. I think the only way to rock this is with denim or wide legged pants. It’s definitely the perfect style for the smaller of cup sized ladies amongst us (wishing I could join that club already) but until then, I will settle for a lace bralette and delicate gold jewellery. 

Once my six pack gets here, I’ll brave this style with low slung denim shorts. Wish me luck!

Shop my look:

Meia Deep V Blouse: By The Way via Revolve (sold out but similar here)

Karolina High Rise Skinny Jean: GRLFRND via Revolve

Kyra Mules: Senso via Farfetch

Square 90s Sunglasses: ASOS

Spiral Hoop Earrings: Reliqua via The Iconic

Fine Lace Bralette Black: The Iconic

Photo credit to Jo from Jo Hombsch blog

Euro Summer Feels

Is it winter you ask??

Even though we are in the height of winter in Australia, it definitely doesn’t feel like it when treated to 26 degree days. Time to get your pins out ladies, and what better way to flash some skin than with a cute mini skirt. I recently discovered the brand ‘By The Way’ which is easy on the eye and bank account. I am already prepared and excited for an Aussie summer, but before then I am bookmarking my favourite pieces for a trip to Europe next month. I haven't seen my family back home for nearly three years so can't wait! 

Today’s look is a very Euro summer inspired. Parlez-vous français? Me neither, but you get the gist. Motif tees and printed minis will probably dominate my summer closet (and of course denim) but until then I've opted for a trusty blazer to keep my look in check. I couldn’t resist the straw addition which was a good find on my recent trip to NYC. I can feel this style bag being a key piece for next season, so I have linked some of my favourite at the bottom of this post.

It may sound optimistic to suggest that winter is well and truly over, but I’d like to remain with that notion. I’ve put a stop to investing in winter clothes for the sake of closet space and my bank account. Summer style is definitely on my mind, and Revolve are helping me ease into the coming season nicely. It’s great to stay ahead of the trends shopping Northern Hemisphere.

It’s always difficult shopping online, especially from overseas because you always want to buy a few options to try on at home, but then stuck with a return postage bill which is all 5 of your morning coffees for the week. 

Not cool. 

No need to worry about return shipping costs anymore! Revolve offers free 3 day Express shipping and free returns. Your caffeine fix will not be taken off you I promise!

Shop my look:

Jaime Skater Skirt: By The Way via Revolve

Parfemme Tee: Parfemme, similar here and here

Cream blazer: similar here and here

Leather Mid Heel Loafer: Gucci

Basket Bag: similar here and here

Photo credit to Jo from Jo Hombsch blog

New York Golden Hour

When you have the opportunity to shoot something a little special in New York, it’s time to pull out all the stops and channel a more romantic vulnerable side. Today’s article is slightly different to what I would usually post, but wanted to get creative overlooking the Manhattan skyline and do something a little more dressy and editorial before heading out for cocktails in the city. Maybe I have been watching Breakfast at Tiffany’s a little too much! 

Velvet is new to my closet, and held out for this dress purely for the emerald green tones that ooze class. The wrap style is perfect to cinch in that waist, and the low neckline is a little sexy. With a dress this length, I think it’s important to show a bit of skin. I couldn’t resist adding a statement gold necklace to take this look back to the 60’s. As we are heading into winter here in Aus, the thickness of the dress is ideal for a cold night out. I was actually surprised how much fabric this dress has. 

So how can you add velvet into your wardrobe? I would definitely recommend only having a few pieces, so here are my picks:

The Statement Dress

Perfect for those winter nights out. Try wrap styles that are going to reveal some skin.

The Velvet Belt

Perfect to dress up your go to denim and white tee look whilst adding texture.

The Velvet Shoe

Easy to incorporate into your closet. Stick to muted tones so that they see you through to next season instead of being a one off fashion piece.

This editorial was photographed by myself at design hotel, The Boro in collaboration with Isabelle Quinn. Hair refresh by the lovely team at Aveda salon Inch Hairdresser.

Shop the edit:

Winona Wrap Long Dress: Isabelle Quinn

Xyrus I shoes: Senso

Chain Necklace: Zara or similar here and here

Basket Bag: Zara or similar here and here

Suit Up In Linen

Tailoring - My weakness. It’s time to embrace autumn in Sydney, even though it’s still as warm as a British summer it has to be one of my favourite times of year. The mornings are colder, the sun is less harsh and it’s nice to have the opportunity to style an outfit without worrying about the heat. Linen occupies quite a bit of space in my wardrobe, and still opting for this fabric moving into autumn. I can’t remember the last time I wore a suit, and after rocking this cream one only last week makes me want to invest in more.

Next on the agenda will be finding a pant suit. I’ve also come to the conclusion that if I am to buy an investment piece this season it won’t be a handbag. It’ll be a blazer, and yes I have my eye on a few. It has to be the most versatile wardrobe staple, and it’s just the right warmth for Sydney. Perfect moving into winter worn layered and a necessity for spring mornings. 

It’s been a while since wearing my white Gucci’s - Hello old friend. Honestly, my problem is if shoes are kept in a box I forget about them! Does anyone else have this problem?! They are the perfect height for the cut on these shorts. I couldn’t imagine wearing this suit with heels, but loafers work. I even think sneakers would give this look an edgy spin and might even brave them when I finally find my dream cigarette pants and matching jacket.

Shop the look:

Tailored Silk Linen Blazer: Yasmin Raquel via Basics Department

Long Silk Linen Blend Short: Yasmin Raquel via Basics Department

Leather Mid Heel Loafer: Gucci or alternative here

Flare Sleeve Jumper: here, here and here

Baby Audrey: Celine via Farfetch

Photo credit to yours truly.

Slips and Statements

Season to season, the black slip dress has remained a versatile piece within my closet, and I’m sure yours too. Details change - whether it be the neckline, the straps or the length. Overall, it remains a strong option worn alone or styled layered. I actually love the update on todays Third Form dress. The tie details on the spaghetti straps add something a little more than just a simple LBD. Styling can be mixed up depending on the occasion, worn high on the neckline to look more polished or a little more loose for those easy braless beach days.

Now onto the slogan tee - I.JUST.CAN’T.GET.ENOUGH. My collection is rapidly growing and a little less serious than some of my wardrobe staples. I am finally introducing this seasons biggest colour red somewhere other than my make up bag. The pop of colour on the tee pairs back nicely with a strong lip. I've opted for a statement earrings because let's be honest... there's some amazing pairs around right now. My jewellery box is begging for more space. Something about this ensemble takes me back in time - and I’ve come to the decision it’s the sunnies, clogs and red lip that contribute to this!

Shop the look:

Mini Tie Dress: Third Form Via The Iconic or similar here, here and here

(Similar) Feminist T-Shirt: Tee and Cake or similar here, here and here
Kyra Shoes: Senso, or similar here and here
Formalities Coat: Third Form or similar here and here
Statement Earrings: similar here and here
Faye Suede Bag: Chloe via Farfetch
Audrey Sunglasses: Celine and similar here

Photo credit to Jo from Jo Hombsch blog