The Accessories To Pack

This week has been dedicated to packing my four years in Australia into two suitcases! It wasn’t an easy task one bit. I thought I would have been able to do it in a couple of days but it has literally taken me over three weeks to decide what to cull and what to keep. Because lets be honest, no one wants the extra costs of kilos at the airport! There were a few things I definitely kept hold of, either because they are seasonal staples or for the reason they are timeless accessories. I’ll be doing a more in depth packing post upon my return to the UK, but until then I am sharing the accessories I have kept a tight hold of. 

One piece I didn’t part ways with was my Daniel Wellington watch. I think having a small yet curated collection of accessories can really elevate your wardrobe. For me, that includes a few timepieces that all differ in some way - i.e, a contrasting watch face and neutral straps in different fabrics to match the majority of my looks. It’s always great to have the option of a mesh strap (great for evening or tailored looks) and a leather strap (my go to for casual or denim looks). I'm a minimal jewellery kind of girl, so my watch is usually the stand out piece. You’ve only got to spot a coffee shot on my Instagram to see what I mean! I have styled with the Daniel Wellington cuff which comes in silver or rose gold. 

Handbags in monochromatic colours are a great option for styling. When packing everything into two suitcases the less handbags the better to save space, so I have definitely culled a lot of ‘fashion’ bags this week. I think keeping a tote, a cross body, and a shoulder bag is enough. Any bag that’s a trend piece that I can buy at a reasonable price point I will wait to purchase back in the UK. 

I have also kept hold of a handful of earrings - a few statement and small everyday styles all in gold. 

Daniel Wellington are offering a free strap when purchasing a watch offer and an additional 15% off with code ‘STYLESTRUCTURE’ until May 31st. For my Australian followers, the gift sets are a great option for Mother’s Day next month. I actually purchased one for my mums birthday last year and she loves it!

Photo credit to Jessie Khoo

Party Season Texture Mix

It’s not very often I dress up to the nines for a night out. When I was a student, I would more often than not choose an embellished dress styled to the max with accessories. Oh how things have changed! Fast forward to this year, silk is high up on my list for party season. It’s also a fabric that can be styled in multiple ways dependent on the party you are going to. I have opted to style with knitwear, mainly because I am a huge fan of contrasting. This thigh splitting skirt is versatile to be carried through to the colder months with a pair of killer ankle boots. You don’t always have to splurge on an outfit to be worn once. I always have that in the back of my mind when shopping for occasions.

The one shoulder: Chic and sexy for most seasons. There are a variety of silk, cotton and knitted available depending on your climate. It’s heating up here in Aus. Thankfully evenings by the water can be a bit windy, so the added warmth is actually welcomed. Last week was my first time on a private charter boat in Australia, and a chunky knit was appreciated whilst the sun was setting. This look would have been perfect.

To jazz up my look, I have opted for a geometric neck tie in warm caramel colour, layered with gold accessories. As mentioned in previous posts, it’s good to keep all warm tones together. I actually can’t remember the last time I wore silver.

Today’s look is from FWRD, and if you’re a sucker for luxe pieces like me it’s music to your ears that they currently have up to 25% off until midnight 15^th December. Just add 'GIFTFWRD' at checkout. Choose from brands like Saint Laurent, Chloe, Loewe and so many more…….Toodles for now, you can find me online shopping!

Fill your basket here

 Shop my look:

72 Skirt: LPA

25 Bodysuit: LPA

Medium Faye Bag: Chloe, or similar here and here

(Similar) Pendant Horseshoe Necklace: Lanvin

(Similar) Scarf: Lanvin or similar here 

Photo credit to Jo Hombsch

Why Good Quality Basics Are Key

Having spent two summers in Australia, I have learned that breathable and well made basics are the key (and staple) to a southern hemisphere wardrobe. It’s only been since moving here that I have started to appreciate natural fibres and here’s the reason why. 

Sydney is humid and stifling hot in the summer months, so less is more. When I say less, I actually mean minimal clothing options (for someone who loves layering this is actually tough) so it’s important to choose wisely. T-shirts and denim shorts replace knits and jeans but sometimes these very basic looks can feel somewhat boring and less styled. Don’t get me wrong I love an easy outfit selection day, but then there are the days I want to look a little more ‘dressed’ in basic pieces. Switching cotton for something a touch more silky and flowing. 

Two key items I have been purchasing when the fabric is right are camisoles and shirts. You’ve probably noticed me wearing these pieces on rotation now spring has sprung, and I can assure you these items will take me through to summer. Why? Because they are 100% silk and breathable. Style and fit are obviously important to me, but quality also rate highly. For me, it’s about building a long lasting wardrobe. Today I have styled pieces from the new Grana collection. Mom jeans are definitely my favourite style this season and wanted to show you how I’m transferring my basics from home to street. I have been selecting one size larger in most of my tops lately as I really like an oversized fit to look more relaxed. Paired back with high waisted denim, it also gives the illusion of looking slimmer.

As always, luxe accessories are my go to when wearing simple combinations. And my number one styling tip is to keep accessories the same tone. 

Shop my look:

Silk V-Neck Camisole: Grana

Silk Short Sleeve Shirt: Grana

Denim Slim Boyfriend Jeans: Grana

Denim Mom Jeans: Grana

Neck Tie: Third Form

Leather Belt With Interlocking G Buckle: Gucci

Faye Medium Leather and Suede Shoulder bag: Chloe

Grana are offering 10% off and free worldwide shipping until the end of November with code ‘SSxGRANA’

Photography and edit by myself.