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

Farewell 2016

With only four working days left of the year, I am already thinking ahead towards spending quality time with my loved ones for Christmas and New Year. I won’t go into too much detail, but it will pretty much involve plenty of sleep ins and a lack of time keeping for approximately two weeks! For Christmas, Chris and I are heading over to Perth and to the south of Western Australia for a much needed break. I have already started to dress more relaxed, but know come New Years Eve I’ll be ready to put on my party shoes to see in 2017 up in Port Douglas! 

Today’s post is special to me for two reasons. Firstly, I get to creatively work with Chris on our first joint post here on Style Structure, and secondly we are both wearing British Brand Marks & Spencer that I have grown up with since a young age. They had a strong presence in my household growing up, with most of my family being long term customers for as long as I can remember. 

Tailoring is always mastered at M&S. I was always invested in their well fitted jackets and A line skirts whilst having a stint at teaching English in Spain upon graduation. I fondly remember buying new work wear before leaving, and feeling so grown up with all my tailored pieces! I have gone back to my roots for today’s post, but jazzed it up for a more polished NYE look. Style muse, Alexa Chung has actually designed a capsule collection for the brand, so couldn’t pass up this satin blouse in a gorgeous golden hue. I am mixing up textures pairing back with velvet but kept the metallics strong with my choice of heel. As New Years is a lot warmer than the UK, Chris has opted for breathable linen and chinos. Super versatile he will wear these rolled up casually for more relaxed affairs. The look is polished with a chocolate pair of brogues and a matching belt.

I’m not usually one to care for New Years Eve, or celebrate in a lavish fashion. But this year has been a busy and life changing one so Chris and I plan to celebrate in style. 2016 was the year I applied for my permanent residency to stay in Australia and it’s the year I have finally started to feel settled and stable with a job I love, partner I couldn’t be without and a feeling of content. 2016 was the year I travelled to 8 countries and experienced cultures I never imagined possible. I have probably spent the most hours in transit since March compared to the last few years of my life! But what's life without experiences to look back on! Here’s to another great year. Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

Shop my style:

The Elland Shirt: Marks & Spencer or more options here

Velvet Embroidered Mini Skirt: Indigo Collection at Marks & Spencer or more options here

Military Button Jacket: Marks & Spencer or more options here

Stiletto Back Zip Court Shoes: Marks & Spencer or more options here

Chris Wears:

Linen Blend Shirt: Marks & Spencer or more options here

Tailored Fit Chinos: Marks & Spencer or more options here

Leather Pointed Brogue Shoes: Marks & Spencer or more options here

Leather Buckle Belt: Marks & Spencer or more options here

Photo credit to yours truly

*Collaboration supported by Marks & Spencer & Shopping Links

Bohemian Texture Mix

Fashion Week is done and dusted for another year…..In Australia that is! Had such a blast meeting new faces and creative like minded people. That’s what makes Fashion Week worth it. It was also a great opportunity to capture some street style shots of some of the bloggers and influencers that have amazing style and presence. This weekend I chilled out and took the time to relax and sift through some of the outfit shots I photographed before Fashion Week. As you know, weekends are my time to be at one with relaxed bohemian style. And this velvet kimono can definitely help me channel those vibes. I love the detailing and fringing. The gold notes add a bit of luxe and revival to a 70’s fabric. It only needed a white tank underneath. Easy breezy.

This leather skirt is one of the softest I own. High waisted: check, comfortable fit: check and metal detailing: check. Small, yet important things! I also decided to style this look with my Dior sunglasses to compliment the high end feel to the kimono. And of course, a trusty pair of Senso boots to add a bit of edge to any look. 

The weather has taken a change for the worst in Sydney today. High winds and rain non stop. So not sure when I can brave bare legs again! I guess this post will be the last tan legged one in a while. Cue the fake tan please lol!

Hope you are all staying dry, or if you are coming into spring right now I am very jealous of any cherry blossom that’s currently falling around your feet. Have a good week!

Shop the look:

Kimono: Zara (similar here)

Tank Top: Zara (similar here)

Skirt: Zara (similar here)

Boots: Senso (similar here)

Bag: Zara (similar here)

Rings: Equip Accessories

Sunglasses: Christian Dior (similar here)

Photo Credit to Andrea Hetherington from Leather and lattes blog