badlands

effortless

2012-03-02T11:42:00.000+11:00

I just started my Bachelor of Fine Arts this week and am having the best time looking through course options and picking all my future electives. I remembered reading in The Gentlewoman about Gaia Repossi and her BFA majors, archaeology and anthropology and wishing I could do something like that. It's exciting to be able to study other subject areas and take up some very specific electives after three years of set timetables studying fashion business and graphic design.

While I was in Paris I came across the Repossi store in Place Vendôme and stood transfixed admiring those Berbère Rings in the window. Rohan wasn't familiar with Repossi and I had to tell him how she not only designs amazing jewellery and gives a great interview but also has the most incredible wardrobe. I think these photos from The Coveteur say it all.

All photos from The Coveteur

acne

2012-03-01T10:33:00.001+11:00

Interior mood no. 4

The new Acne Paris store in Le Marais was on my must visit list for shops. Located conveniently around the corner from Merci, the converted garage space has a industrial feel; exposed concrete, metal sheeting and dropped beam lights which are complemented by Acne's modern-scandanavian aesthetic.

The overall neutral colour scheme is accented with bright yellow perspex and soft pink marble (that staircase!) and upon entering the highly conceptual store you are greeted by recent Acne collaborator, Daniel Silver's, marble sculpture.
I visited a few Acne stores in my travels and this one was a clear favourite, even the flowers were colour relevant. Definitely worth a visit if you're ever in Paris.

Acne Studios
3 Rue de Froissart, Le Marais 3rd

All photos by me

côte d'azur - le reve

2012-02-27T11:04:00.003+11:00

"It could be argued that it has become a cliché. But that would be to dismiss the luxuriance of what is still, even now, a heaven on earth. There are few places which have continued for more than a century and a half to captivate painters and writers, to attract billionaires and the simply curious, and to appeal equally to the French and to foreigners - dubbed 'estrangers' by the novelist Colette. Visitors have always been drawn by the light, the ideal climate and the beauty of the headlands and bays, but it was at the end of the 19th century that the history of the Côte d'Azur truly began, 1886 to be exact, when Stephen Liégeard discovered Hyéres and then travelled along the entire coast to Nice. His was book was entitled Côte d'Azur 1886 - the title taking its lead from the Côte d'Or, as his native Burgundy and its vineyards were known. It retraces his journey, but most of all records his sense of wonder at this 'heaven on earth'."

-Coralie Tilot, Côte d'Azur The Dream published by Lido

Dreamy photos of Brigitte Bardot in countryside France from my new book Côte d'Azur The Dream. Speaking of dreams, my first ever Celine purchase, what more could a girl ask for? Also a few little goodies that made their way back from Paris including an Isabel Marant feather choker, Lanvin cards and a Byredo candle and the most delicate ring from Catbird in NY (thanks Hannah!). Why do holidays ever have to end?

1, 2 & 4. Photos of my Celine tri-pochette and the SS12 lookbook by me, 3. Collage by me staring a resort 12 look from Celine and a watercolour swatch by me, other images, source unknown, 5 & 6. Côte d'Azur The Dream photographed by me and watercolour illustration, 7-10. Photographs by me.

blue

2012-02-22T22:37:00.005+11:00

Interior mood no.3

Photos from our trip!

1.Goose at Artis Zoo in Amsterdam; 2.Lightwell of Casa Batllo in Barcelona; 3.The Billards Room in the Petit Trianon; 4.Butterfly at Artis Zoo; 5.Games Room at the Petit Trianon; 6.Statuettes in the Louvre.

I once had a pet goose who had eyes like the one up top. His name was Abba.

24 hours

2012-02-21T16:06:00.002+11:00

"One of my wildest obsessions has been the fact that we see ancient sculptures without their original multi-coloured appearance. Our idea of classic artworks is inevitably linked to the whiteness of the marble. It's as if Calvin Klein had washed out all the colour from the history of Roman and Greek sculpture. On the contrary, the Pantheon was painted, those sculptures we admire at the Louvre had colours and gold leaf and faceted stones. So I thought: let's bring some colour back!"

-Francesco Vezzoli

I couldn't believe our luck when Hannah told us about the 24 Hours Prada Museum. We would be in Paris on that day, had no plans and were only a few metro stops away from the Palais d’Iéna.

The museum which opened for 24 hours only on Tuesday 24th January was kicked off with an invite-only dinner the night before and then an exclusive after party which all took place in the central metal cage formed by grills of neon lights. The next morning the museum was open from 7am - 12pm and then again from 2 - 4pm to the public. The closing event was from 6.30 - 8.30pm by which time the musuem closed forever.

It was a pretty sensational experience to see such a grand installation, Rohan and I stayed for quite a while enjoying the complimentary mini breakfast, coffee and juice while admiring the artwork. The three sections, titled historic, contemporary and forgotten showcased the artist Francesco Vezzoli's 'tribute to the eternal allure of femininity'. "They are my icons turned into sculptures and placed onto marble pedestals" he explained, the inspiration coming from sculptures on display at the Louvre, propoganda material, a cubed room filled with neon lights at The Berlin Biennale 2010 and the Salon des Refusés at Versailles.

All photos taken by Rohan and I.

favourites

2012-02-20T16:10:00.000+11:00

Lagarconne Spring 12 ensembles.

when in paris, just say...

2012-02-17T16:50:00.005+11:00

And we're back! Rohan and I had such an amazing time in Europe, we were overwhelmed by the beauty and history of the cities and inspired by so many of the museums and galleries we visited.

And in some pretty exciting news, we're engaged! Rohan proposed during lunch at Jules Verne, one of the most amazing dining experiences of my life. I was so surprised when we were presented with our desserts complete with a candle and happy anniversary written around the plate. The ring is by one of my favourite jewellery designers, Satomi Kawakita. I have been wanting a ring of hers for so long and this little gem is so beautiful I can't take my eyes off it! One of my best friends Hannah also happens to be in New York and did a studio visit with Satomi who is every bit as lovely as her designs.

In the spirit of saying yes I also picked up the Dior 'oui' ring I have been wanting forever (remember this illustration?) and a few lovely pieces from COS. I will be paying for my yeses for months to come but for right now I couldn't be happier.

1. Watercolour by me, 2. My Satomi Kawakita engagment ring and Dior oui ring, 3. Snowball flowers in our living room, 4. Dessert at Jules Verne, 5. The view from the table at Jules Verne overlooking the Trocadéro, 6. COS lace bra, 7. Images from Russh magazine Feb/March 12 via TFS with watercolour hearts by me, 8. My Satomi Kawakita engagment ring and Dior oui ring.

au revoir

2012-01-17T13:50:00.001+11:00

And we're off!

The blog is going to be a little quiet for the next month as Rohan and I head over to Europe. Thankyou to all our wonderful readers, your kindness and support has been really overwhelming and we're so grateful. I look forward to coming back and sharing our holiday with you!

These are a few images I'm loving at the moment. Carine Roitfeld's Irreverent is filled with French style inspiration, thankyou so much Brenda for this lovely christmas gift! Wes Anderson and Sofia Coppola, two of my favourite directors. Have a look the latest Wes Anderson film trailer, Moonrise Kingdom and for those of you whole live in Melbourne 'Sofia Coppola On Film' at ACMI will be amazing.

I'm looking forward to bundling up and wearing coats/sweaters/layers. I also can't wait to check out the Celine store and I'm hoping to find the prefect little black dress and black pumps on my travels. Burgundy lipstick and taupe nailpolish are winter favourites and my obsession with COS continues.

Lastly my Petite Grand x Mychameleon anklet is the perfect addition to a simple outfit. Today I'm wearing it with a white Topshop shirt, my favourite Acne jeans and Zara heels.

1. Irreverent by Carine Roitfeld photographed by me, 2. Sofia Coppola and Wes Anderson from here, 3. Sofia Coppola scans from TFS, 4. Phoebe Philo by David Sims from TFS, 5. Favourites from COS, 6. Collage images from COS A/W magazine and Flickr, Chanel Particuliere nail varnish, YSL Rouge Volupte in Forbidden Burgundy, 7. Wearing my favourite Acne jeans, Zara heels and Petite Grand x Mychameleon anklet photographed by Rohan.

simplicity

2012-01-13T16:52:00.002+11:00

Two of my favourite people.

Hannah Rose Yee's lovely things photographed by Jessie Bush.

p.s. Really think I need one of those Benah Limits cuffs

last night

2012-01-13T10:45:00.000+11:00

"All happy families are alike; every unhappy family is unhappy in its own way."

-Leo Tolstoy, Anna Karenina

There are few authors who understood family as well as Tolstoy. He could build characters flawlessly, their strengths and weaknesses laid bare. It's this opening quote from Anna Karenina that was my first introduction to his writing, a book flooded with love, desire, marriage, infidelity and tragedy.

When I first watched the trailer for Last Night I couldn't wait to see it. Much like Anna Karenina it's an honest portrayal of marriage and temptation. Combined with a great cast and New York setting it had all the makings of a soon-to-be-favourite

It ended up being a straight to DVD release in Australia and one of the most underrated movies that made my list for 2010.

I particularly fell for Keira Knightly's character in the film, a freelance writer living in one of those amazing Manhattan loft apartments with an easy wardrobe of sophisticated separates. The Ann Roth- designed costumes left me searching for a little black dress, delicate jewellery and of course, the perfect trench coat.

1-4. Photographs from the set of Last Night by Brigitte Lacombe, 5. Film still from Last Night.

girl next door

2012-01-06T18:15:00.000+11:00

Last November I had the pleasure of meeting one of my favourite photographers, Vanessa Jackman. I have admired Vanessa's street style images for a long time and I couldn't really believe it when she emailed me and asked if I would like to be photographed for Grazia IT.

I usually prefer to be behind the lens but I couldn't pass up the opportunity to work with Vanessa and Grazia. All the photos were shot on film on what turned out to be an unusually hot and windy day for November. I have so much respect for analogue photography and it's so exciting to see how the images turned out.

This shoot also marks the first look at the fashion label Uniform I have been working on for the last year with my friend Maria. We're planning the photo shoot for February but in the meantime I'm enjoying having a few of the samples live at my place. I have been wearing the leather basics everywhere (skirt, shorts and pinafore) paired back with the raglan silk blouse and the bell sleeve mini-dress with keyhole slits at the back and front. Can't wait to share more of Uniform when I get back from holidays!

Thanks so much Vanessa for taking the time to photograph me, Hannah and Rohan for hanging behind the scenes and making me smile/laugh, and Maria for making Uniform a reality!

self-referential

2012-01-05T14:15:00.001+11:00

This is awesome and hilarious. Also T & I also both have a bit of a crush on Ashley Smith. She's pretty hot. Look, even her friend's checking her out.

via thevine.com.au

eye to eye

2012-01-02T17:49:00.000+11:00

"If a day goes by without my doing something related to photography, it's as though I've neglected something essential to my existence, as though I had forgotten to wake up"

- Robert Mapplethorpe

I would loved to have seen the Robert Mapplethorpe exhibition in Paris curated by Sofia Coppola. Sadly it finishes tomorrow, Jan 3rd, 2 weeks shy of our holiday. But I'm looking forward to seeing a few other galleries and museums and visiting Versailles. When Marie Antoinette came out a few years ago it became an instant dream to see the Château and I still can't believe I'm really going...

Also it's time to ask for some recommendations. If anyone has been to Paris, Barcelona, Amsterdam or Bruges we would love to hear suggestions of places we should visit. Thanks!

All photos by Robert Mapplethorpe

endless summer

2011-12-30T12:09:00.003+11:00

Looks like summer is finally here...

I'm eyeing off Etoile Isabel Marant pre SS12 on La Garconne, stomping around in my favourite Chloe wedges (five years laters and I still love these guys!) and lastly wearing a new addition to my jewellery collection, the BRVTVS Claudia bracelet I have been wanting forever. Even though we said no presents this year, Rohan still managed to surprise me!

1. Backstage at IM SS12 from here, 2. Backstage at IM SS12 from here, 3. Etoile pre SS12 images from
La Garconne, 4 & 5. Photos by me

geometric meets organic

2011-12-29T17:20:00.002+11:00

Interior mood no.2

"Hidden in a wooded valley at the foot of the Verdugo Mountains, the redwood, concrete & glass residence opens to the oak forest that influenced the form and orientation of the design."

This is a quote from the estate agent of the famous Schaffer Residence which appeared in Tom Ford's film A Single Man. This is pretty much exactly where I want to live right now. It would be all about mixing Negronis from my own mini bar, wearing the Dress Up choker dress, and reclining in a beautiful timber and exposed brick living room. To complete the setting; fresh flowers, scented candles and a new coffee table favourite, The Travel Almanac.

The house was built in 1949 by architect John Lautner whose style is a perfect mix of geometric and organic. His work concentrated mostly on the integration of the home with its surroundings and the relationship between people, space and nature.

1. Cabin image from here, 2. The Travel Almanac issue 1 & 2, 3. Silk choker dress by Dress Up, 4. Curio Noir candle, 5. Gus*Modern Ossington coffee table, 6. Acacia mini bar from CB2, 7. Images of the Schaffer residence from here, 8. Film still from A Single Man, 9. Cover and internal image from Martius, book of Palms.

oui, oui

2011-12-21T18:32:00.000+11:00

My last gift guide for the year just went up on The Vine. This one is dedicated to all things French!

While I was googling images I came across this blog dedicated to all things Carven. I have had lots of fun finding old campaign images and in-store photos. 4 weeks to go!

1. Carven SS10 campaign, 2. illustrations by me for The Vine, 3 & 4. Carven AW11 campaign. Images from Carven.

an american girl in paris

2011-12-19T18:24:00.001+11:00

"Paris is such a different experience. The mood is more intense. I always dress up more when I'm in Paris."

- Lindsey Wixson for Style.com print

Just got a copy of style.com's first print issue. I love the photos of Lindsey in her hometown of Wichita, Kansas and then in New York and Paris. Not too long ago Rohan and I watched An American Werewolf in Paris, I feel like I'm seeing the Eiffel Tower everywhere!

A lot of my favourite labels are French and I'm currently making a list of all the boutiques I'd like to visit in January. I discovered the shirt label of my dreams, Thomsen, earlier in the year. I've been wearing my print voile shirt everywhere as it's been a bit of a cool summer here so far and I can't wait to pick up some more shirts at their flagship store.

Two other favourites are Isabel Marant and Carven. MNZ store have a great selection of both labels and I just love their styling and photography. I can only imagine how cute the Carven shop must be!

Speaking of things I love, I've also got a top 10 guest post over at the Benah blog. Thanks for having me Brenda!

1 & 2. Style.com Print magazine photographed by me, 3. Collage using Carven images from MNZ, 4 & 5. Carven SS11 lookbook photographed by me, 6. Isabel Marant sweater from MNZ and photo of my Isabel Marant Yuli scarf and Thomsen shirt hanging in my room, 7. Me in my Thomsen shirt, photographed by Rohan.

the art of giving: part four

2011-12-15T18:51:00.004+11:00

Part one: Luxury, Part two: Jewellery, Part three: Culture

Part four: Fragrance

The Three Wise Men had something right. They travelled far and wide across the Orient and the sandy desert to deliver the gifts of Gold, Frankincense and Myrrh to the infant Jesus in a Manger. Gold we’ve covered – studded with black diamonds or winking cheekily from a suede clutch – but the gift of fragrance and perfume is one that keeps on giving.

With a curved glass body and a sleek black lid, Byredo fragrances are a thing of beauty themselves, but it’s their scents – clean, clear and fresh as a daisy – that are the real draw-card. Pop Gypsy Water or Blanche into the stockings of a wild-eyed wanderer or an Acne addict. Balenciaga’s eponymous first perfume clarifies its lush, swollen green with the sweet simplicity of Violets. It’s a forest at dawn, a secret garden at dusk, and ideal for ones who love skinny jeans and Dicker boots and paint their lips red, baby, red.

A candle is the best gift for someone who is hard to buy for – who could resist the little extravagance of burning something from Diptyque or Malin+Goetz or Curio Noir for a few minutes every day? We love Otto, with its pink-hued scent of grapefruit, geranium and rose, and Figuier, white as a northern Christmas, and Vetyver Bouquet, a wood-thatched church the day after a wedding.

Help someone start their very own Top Shelf by gifting a few Aesop products. That refreshing ‘zing’ of the Geranium Leaf products abounds from the Celestial gift kit, and the A.P.C fine fabric care collaboration is a must-have to hand-wash all of those Araks lingerie sets and silk shirts. And a bunch of flowers, peonies or orchids or whatever is fresh at Poho, in brown paper and tied up with a grosgrain ribbon. Hand them over and watch a smile magically appear on the receiver’s face. It’s the little things that make the most impact.

Clockwise from top, Byredo Gypsy Water and Blanche, $145 (US) 100ml from Byredo Parfums, Aesop Special Relativity Kit, $95 from Aesop, Orchids, prices upon request from Poho, Malin+Goetz Otto candle, $78 from Mecca Cosmetica, Curio Noir Vetyver Bouquet candle, $105 from My Chameleon, Diptyque Figuier candle, $99 from Mecca Cosmetica, A.P.C x Aesop Fine Fabric Care, $37 from Aesop, Balenciaga Eau de Parfum,
$134 from Strawberry Net.

words by Hannah and collage by me

the art of giving: part one

2011-12-14T12:51:00.003+11:00

Hannah and I have collaborated on a holiday gift guide, this is part one; luxury, with the next one to follow on Hannah's blog...

Apparently, luxury, like all things good, is going out of fashion, but we just don’t agree. For everything there is a season, and luxury’s season is surely – surely – Christmas. Eating too much pudding, drinking too much mulled wine, laughing too hard at a bad cracker joke, these things are all luxuries and extravagances in their own ways. But luxury in its more material forms should – and must – find its way to the foot of the bed on the 25th.

Araks lingerie for Francophiles who will revel in their silky slip-of-a-thing bras and knickers, all cast in the colours of a Vermeer painting, or the Turkish delight sunsets of the Australian countryside. A Sofia Coppola for Louis Vuitton clutch for the girl who has everything she needs but nothing she wants. The Isabel Marant Atea Jacket, who will charm someone with simple tastes through its broody French Navy wool and its discreet, covered buttons.

A Benah cuff in basic black, a poised full stop for every wacky outfit with its brushed gold hardware and utilitarian design. A chic 3.1 Phillip Lim satchel – a glorious mixture of glossy patent and smooth pony-hair – just because it’s pretty, and you like it. In fact, why not give – or receive – all of these together and make the perfect Christmas day outfit out of things which, only yesterday, had been shrouded in candy-cane-covered paper? Things that yesterday you could only dream of owning? Surely that is luxury, no?

But, actually, real luxury is dinner for two, with starters, mains and dessert to share, a few drinks, a few more, and not worrying one single iota about getting the right deal, or a good price, or a student special. We’d love it if, this Christmas, someone splashed out and bought us a beautiful, luxurious dinner at Sydney’s Restaurant of the Year, Sepia, and an overnight stay at The Park Hyatt. Real luxury is a beautiful meal, and time to enjoy it.

Clockwise from top, Araks Lara Bra-let, $168 (US) and Lyona Knickers, $98 (US) in Pomegranate, from Araks, Dinner at Sepia, $150 pp for a Degustation Menu and overnight stay at the Park Hyatt, prices upon request, Isabel Marant Atea Jacket, €360 (EUR) from Mytheresa, Benah Black Kodi Cuff, $120 from Benah, Sofia Coppola for Louis Vuitton Clutch, prices upon request from Louis Vuitton, 3.1 Phillip Lim Abichi Satchel,
$1050 (US) from La Garconne.

words by Hannah and collage by me

personal style

2011-12-13T13:39:00.003+11:00

This marks the second of my personal style posts, something which I have been meaning to get around to for a while. I love getting glimpses into peoples closets and I though it was about time I started doing it myself!

I thought I would start with what is probably my number one footwear staple, ankle boots. These are a few of my favourite pairs that I wear all year round.

1. Chloe - I found these on ebay a few years ago and I'm so glad I got them. The heel is a little high which makes them not so comfortable for wearing all day, but they're great for going out.

2. Dries Van Noten - I bought these two years ago (on sale from Belinda!) and haven't stopped wearing them since. I love the contrast elastic, particularly with a tan coat in winter.

3. Rag and Bone - I wanted a really functional pair of all black boots and these have been perfect. They are amazingly comfortable and still look great after lots of wear.

4. Isabel Marant - I've had my Dicker boots for a few years now and for suede they have held up so well. I was lucky enough to get them on sale and despite not usually wearing a lot of khaki they go with almost everything.

Also I have a little style profile in the January 12 issue of Shop Til You Drop magazine. I'm usually a little camera shy when it comes to the blog but it here it is....

industriale

2011-12-12T18:06:00.001+11:00

Dress Up AW12

When Hannah and I got a glimpse of this collection in the Under the Wing showroom I knew it was love. Dress Up is one of those labels I can count on every season to produce timeless and luxurious basics. I can see the corduroy shirt fitting perfectly into my wardrobe, paired with jeans and under my favourite Isabel Marant coat. I usually don't wear much colour in winter either, so the the cherry red sweater and tapered pants are on my wishlist for sure.

summer loving

2011-12-06T22:12:00.000+11:00

"I opened my eyes: the sky was white, shimmering with heat. I made no reply, because I did not want to speak to him, nor to anyone. I was nailed to the sand by all the forces of summer."

Fracoise Sagan, Bonjour Tristesse

A round of of some favourites from Resort 12 and Spring Summer 12.

Can't stop thinking about Yves Saint Laurent shoes, beach days, Phillip Lim everything, Givenchy sparkle eyes, Celine tri-pochette in blush pink (thanks Hannah for the tip!), road trips across America and dreamy photographs by Cass Bird.

Listening to the Drive soundtrack and having the time of my life. Happy December !

1. Backstage at Phillip Lim SS12 via capture the castle, type and Celine tri-pochette Illustration by me, 2. Bambi photographed by Cass Bird, Backstage at Phillip Lim SS12 via capture the castle, 3. Givenchy SS12 from google images search, photograph by Cass Bird, 5. Yves Saint Laurent shoe illustrated by me, photograph by Cass Bird, 6. Freja Photograph by Cass Bird,Yves Saint Laurent heels from google images search, 7. Phillip Lim clutch, handwriting and watercolour wash by me, photo backstage at Phillip Lim SS12 via capture the castle, Illustration and handwriting by me, Freja photograph by Cass Bird, Givnechy SS12 backstage from google images search.

born to be

2011-12-06T22:05:00.000+11:00

Russh December / January 11.12
Bambi Northwood Blyth by Stephen Ward, styling by Christine Thornton.

Images from The Vine

blush

2011-12-02T17:45:00.002+11:00

A little while ago, Hannah wrote a lovely review of Amy Kaehne's AW12 'Just Kids' collection. I finally got around to taking a few photos of the lookbook I designed and have fallen for the soft blush tones and bright salmon pink alongside usual winter favourites white, beige and black.

The best part is that this colour palette will also be perfect for summer, it sort of reminds me of the dreamy pastels in Robert Altman's 3 Women (1977). Set in California it's one of the most beautiful and haunting seventies films.

1. Cicely Telman in Vogue Paris August 2007 by Max Farago, watercolour pattern by me, 2, 3, 4 & 6. Amy Kaehne AW12 lookbook designed and photographed by me, 5. Collage by me with images from l'officel Russia June issue, Style Me Romy and Emmas design blog. 7. Film still and poster from Robert Altman's 3 Women.

infra

2011-12-01T12:25:00.004+11:00

I've been seeing these around the web recently, assuming they were just photoshopped vintage photos. They're actually part of photographer Richard Mosse's Infra series, of Eastern Congo warzones taken using Kodak Aerochrome infrared film. Aerochrome was used by the military to discover camouflaged buildings, as while healthy vegetation turns out in pinks or reds, the camouflage turns out darker purples or blues. Anyway, it's beautiful.

Photos by Richard Mosse via Gizmodo

les jours d'été // mychameleon

2011-11-28T14:22:00.001+11:00

A little while ago Giselle from one of my favourite online stores, MyChameleon, approached me to design an illustration for a limited edition tote bag. I absolutely love the labels MyChameleon stocks including local favourites Petite Grand, Dress Up and Gary Bigeni. I have been wearing my Gary Dewi dress everywhere, I love the bright red for daytime with a pair of ivory sandals or dressed up at night with my favourite Zara pumps and double anklets.

Giselle has amazing taste (have you seen her top 10 over at So Much to Tell You?) and I had so much fun sketching out a few ideas themed around summer. One of the main inspirations for the tote bag and MyChameleon's SS12 poster are these very beautiful images of girls and flowers by Polish photographer Lukasz Wierzbowski.

MyChameleon will be giving away my tote and their collection poster as part of Vogue's online shopping night (happening this Wednesday), you can head over here for more information.

1 & 3. MyChameleon Les Jours d'été (Summer Days) tote bag designed by me, 2, 4, 6 & 8. Photographs from Lukasz Wierzbowski's Flickr, 5. My Gary Bigeni Dewi dress, 7. MyChameleon SS12 keepsake poster.

interior mood

2011-11-23T17:17:00.001+11:00

This is a new section of the blog I'm starting, it's basically a monthly mood board of interior inspirations. The theme for the first post is spot colour, it's all monochrome with pops of bright yellow and the introduction or a few ikat style patterns to break up the black and white. I hope you like it!

Spot colour type by Rohan

1. From top left corner: painting by me, sign from the Anteroom hotel in Kyoto, textile swatches from Elle Decoration UK Sept 11, watercolour background by me.

2. Missoni Home cushion and throw from net-a-porter.

3. Watercolour background and ink pattern illustration by me, Hammam soap dishes from West Elm, paint swatches from Elle Decoration UK Sept 11, Malin + Goetz dark rum candle from tobi.

stonefox

2011-11-21T20:06:00.005+11:00

"Trip waited for the applause to peak before he spoke again. The he said, "First I'm going to come over and watch the tube at your house. This Sunday. Then I'm going to ask you out." Again he waited for her to speak, but the only sign she'd heard came from her hand which, turning palm up, suggested he could do what he liked. Trip stood up to go, but before doing so leaned over the back of his vacated seat as the words he'd been keeping down for weeks came pouring out.

"you're a stone fox," he said, and took off."

-The Virgin Suicides, Jeffrey Eugenides

When I heard that the publishers of an old favourite, SummerWinter were back with a new magazine, Stonefox, I immediately thought of that quote from The Virgin Suicides.

I have read the book and watched the film countless times and am always transported back to the days of writing film quotes in my diary and fawning over the picture of Trip Fontaine I had stuck inside my highschool locker. There's just something about this story, a portrait of American suburban life told from the perspective of infatuated teenage boys, that is both deeply poignant and beautiful.

All images, Stonefox magazine.

Pencil and watercolour illustrations by me and quotes from The Virgin Suicides.

le mepris

2011-11-20T20:35:00.001+11:00

Godard's Le Mepris (Contempt) is always a favourite holiday watch.

I love Brigitte Bardot's stripey tops and headscarves and the stunning Casa Malaparte on Capri island, Italy. The house was created in 1937 by architect Adalberto Libera. I can't wait to visit it someday...

Film stills of Le Mepris (Contempt) by Jean-Luc Godard, 1963 from google images.

white heat

2011-11-11T16:50:00.002+11:00

Summer is coming.

The new issue of Self Service magazine, despite being F/W 12 has given me some summertime inspiration. Codie Young on holiday in the Ukraine, Malgosia Bela in Hollywood captured in black and white and Gertrud Hegelund at the Catalina Beach Club, Atlantic Beach, New York.

I have one week left of my design course, so beach time is just around the corner. This morning I took a study break in favour of a little collage and painting, I have hardly had any time to draw for the past few weeks. I'm also looking forward to picking up the new Murakami book, 1q84, and having afternoon reading breaks in the park.

Next on my book list in Poolside with Slim Aarons, I just love the sixties and seventies imagery. I also want to find the perfect black summer dress, like this one snapped by Vanessa Jackman. The understated accessories make this just perfect, I have been wanting these little alphabet and knuckle rings from Catbird for a few months since I saw them on Honestly wtf. They're on my Christmas list along with a few BRVTVS pieces, fingers crossed!

1 & 11. Collage by my me using watercolour and images from Russh magazine, 2. Do Son fragrance by Diptyque, a gift from one of my lovely friends which is perfect for summer, 3. Codie Young in Self Service issue FW12, 4. Images from Poolside with Slim Aarons from here, 5. My favourite floral print Lover bikini, 6. Isabel Marant's essentials in Self Service, 7. APC fig and Jasmine candles, perfect for this weather, 8. Photos from Vanessa Jackman, 9 & 10. Malgosia Bela in Self Service, 12. Gertrud Hegelund in Self Service. Photographs by me.

p.s. From now on I'll add all the blog images to my tumblr to make it easier to reblog. Thanks!

under the wing

2011-11-03T22:25:00.003+11:00

Today I spent a lovely afternoon with Hannah getting fresh juice at Gnome in Surry Hills and visiting the Under the Wing showroom. It was amazing to see such a strong collection of local (and NZ) labels and the studio itself was beautiful, think white walls and timber floors and racks and racks of beautiful clothes.

1. Dress Up

I've spoken about how much I love Stephanie's designs before and the winter collection definitely didn't disappoint. Her classic high-waisted, tapered trousers are back in my favourite colour for winter (burgundy for ever) and I immediately fell for the simple turtle neck top.

2 & 3. Lonely Hearts

Oh how lovely this burgundy parka is. I forgot to take a photo but it has this cute Navajo print lining inside and I love the shearling detail around the collar.

4. The lovely Georgia who took us around the showroom. I have been wanting that BRVTVS Claudia bracelet for so long and I had to take a photo as soon as I spotted it. The watch is amazing too, right?

5 & 6. Carly Hunter

Hannah got this shearling vest in the natural colourway last year and I was so happy to see it make a comeback in black (I might have to get this!) It also came in a beautiful coat. The basic singlet came in a white and black silk or black velvet. I love the cut of this, it reminds me of an Alexander Wang tank I bought from the first T collection, high neck and low cut sides, very Hedi Slimane.

7 & 8. Deadly Ponies

I love these wallet trios, how cute is the little baby one?

9. Secret Squirrel

I loved the simplicity of this collection. Favourites were the tapered trousers and matching blazers with silk shirts and lovely knitwear. They did this great silk tee in a few different colours which I think would be a go-to layering piece in winter.

It looks like my winter wishlist is well on its way...

a little look at our place

2011-11-01T22:54:00.002+11:00

Recently we had to take some photos of our apartment and I thought it would be nice to share them with you. I love getting a glimpse at peoples creative spaces. My favourite places for inspiration are Where They Create, work.place, Design* Sponge and Vogue Portugal's Room Service.

1 & 2. Our bookshelves in the living room. We may have way too many books. Across the top is my Lanvin wedding doll, Deyrolle butterflies (all gifts from Rohan) and two of Rohan's illustrations in perspex frames. Below is our Russh magazine archive, every issue from #1!

3 & 4. Our Living room is pretty simple. We have an Ikea fold out table for when extra guests pop over and Philippe Starck ghost chairs. I always love to have fresh flowers in the house, at the time cherry blossoms were in season so we had a big bunch. Our little orchid lives between the bookcase and the windowsill.

5. New bed! I have been waiting to get a new frame for ages, it has big storage draws underneath which are really handy. I also love using little apothecary bottles as vases.

6 & 7. Some of my favourite books at the moment. I keep all my makeup and CDs in these draws.

8, 9 & 10. My little vanity table. I think was actually a little school table, I found in the foyer of my old apartment building. The chair is vintage from Surry Hills markets. On top of the desk the boxed set of Rohan's portfolio booklets, my jewellery box (A sunglasses box from The Row) and my favourite Benah cuffs. I have a clothing rack set up next to this where I keep my go-to items. At the the moment it's a T by Alexander Wang white t-shirt dress, Benah pistachio lola clutch and Isabel Marant striped linen scarf.

11 & 12. Our little office. (I'm (Rohan) in here most days for most of the day, except when I'm out getting coffee. It's really lovely in the morning at about 9:30am in spring; the sun shines in through the trees outside and lights everything up.)

13. Some of my favourite coffee table books and an A.P.C fig candle. I can't stop flicking through Home: Where They Create by Paul Barbera, Influence by Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen and Cowboy Kate and Other Stories by Sam Haskins.

14 & 15. Our little kitchen window where the parsley and basil sometimes live. Yoshitomo Nara is one of our favourite artists. The print was an anniversary gift I got for Rohan, it has it's own little spot in our corridor which you see as soon as you open the front door.

16 & 17. Our all black bathroom. Aesop is probably my favourite skin care brand, their handwash is absolutely amazing. We were given these Missoni towels at the Missoni for Havaianas launch party a few months ago, we don't have a lot of colour in our place so these help brighten things up.

line II

2011-11-01T09:07:00.000+11:00

Dion Lee Line II, high summer 2011/2012. Perfect.

Images via Harper's Bazaar.

some things

2011-10-30T22:04:00.001+11:00

Some things at the moment. New projects for TAFE using lots of watercolour, Vanessa Jackman's photos backstage at the Margaret Howell show, Magdalena Frackowiak ready for fall in Paris Vogue, our new bedroom (finally!) and the top of one of Rohan's little houses.

1. Chanel timeline by me, 2-5. Margaret Howell photographs from Vanessa Jackman, 6. Photo of our bedroom, 7. Some cover concepts for a booklet, 8-9. Paris Vogue via The Fashion Spot, 10. Rohan's little wooden house photographed by him.

take me there

2011-10-27T21:58:00.001+11:00

"There's something cinematic about traveling, a sense of old-world nostalgia that still exists alongside the arrival of modern transportation. Flying into a city at sunset for example or stepping off a jet onto the tarmac, wind in hair. We never fail to find ourselves breathless overseas whether from the thin air atop a mountain or simply from seeing the city's lights by night."

Words that make me wish I was elsewhere, from the Incu mini-mag issue 2.

Image from the Benah blog.

cinema scope

2011-10-25T20:15:00.002+11:00

Mid-way through spring is always my favourite time to go through my closet, sort out my new season wardrobe and look to some of my favourite style icons for inspiration.

For me, there is nothing better than watching a good film and discovering a new character with the closet of your dreams. Recently it was Keira Knightley in Last Night who had all the classic pieces I'm looking for. Think a great trench, simple sweaters and the perfect black dress.
There are far too many others to mention but I have included some of my favourites which I always find myself revisiting. On my shopping list for Paris are classic A.P.C button down shirts, a tan trench and a black coat, simple tees and sweaters in various colours, Araks lingerie, COS basics and a Celine bi-colour pochette!
Pictured are a few of my summer staples; buttoned up shirts and Phillip Lim drawstring waist shorts. What are yours?

Watercolours and handwriting by me, photo of my favourite shirts (Acne denim, Therese Rawsthorne nude cotton, Topshop white silk and Acne navy silk), photo of my favourite shorts (all 3.1 Phillip Lim), all other images are from my inspiration folder - sources unknown.

winner takes all

2011-10-23T23:32:00.001+11:00

Congratulations to the winner of our Frankie competition, learoxyoursox!

You will be receiving your Frankie goodies and a little card I painted for you in the mail soon.

Thankyou to everyone who entered!

what do you see out the window?

2011-10-22T22:40:00.002+11:00

"People disappear every day."

The Passenger

Watching Antonioni's The Passenger and getting excited for the few days we will be spending in Barcelona come February. I love the Gaudi architecture and the rich history, also I am yet to try my first Paella. There is a great recipe in the Monocle newspaper but I think I can hold out for a few more months!

1-3. Screen caps from The Passenger (1975), 4. Photo by Rohan

midnight in paris

2011-10-21T10:04:00.002+11:00

Woody Allen's film Midnight in Paris. Rohan and I saw it last night and it's now on my favourites list next to Manhattan and Annie Hall.

French actresses Marion Cotillard and Lea Seydoux were perfectly cast and equally as beautiful. I wish I could speak French...

Images from midnight in paris.

future time

2011-10-19T15:28:00.002+11:00

i'd like to do these as huge paintings on wood. for now they're just in illustrator. how good are rocks? big granite rocks sticking out of the ground. love 'em.

she's got it

2011-10-14T17:39:00.001+11:00

Stevie Dance follows the lovely Lindsey Wixson on a road trip from Nashville to Memphis with photographer Will Davidson. Looks like I'm buying Oyster Magazine now...

Photos from Oyster # 95

quickdraw

2011-10-11T21:34:00.000+11:00

black pencil trees from today

dress up

2011-10-11T11:38:00.002+11:00

This the is first piece I ever bought from Melbourne-based label, Dress Up. I fell for the soft drape and sheerness of the silk, the shoulder cut-outs and the cropped length. This was the first time I was introduced to Stephanie Downey's label and I remember coming across this interview. Not only was the rest of the collection just as lovely but the inspiration was Italian director Dario Argento's 70s and 80s horror films. Suspiria definitely makes it onto my list of cult movie favourites!

Not getting the vermillion (inspired by fake blood) colourway of my blouse and the matching pants is one of my biggest regrets, I would still love to wear them now.

Fast-forward two years and Stephanie's new collection Grandiflorum has me swooning all over again. The latest post on her new blog looks at the botanical books which were the inspiration behind the collection. I have always had an interest in botanical illustration myself, the bright, saturated colours and the incredible detail that goes into pencil sketches.

I have been drawing more flowers and shapes again, for another new project. Having fresh flowers in the house to draw off is always a treat, at the moment is lilies and orchids. Pure bliss.

1, 3 & 9. Dress up SS09/10 lookbook, 2. Lilies in my bedroom, 4 & 7. Screen caps from Argento's film Suspiria, 5. Botanical books from the Dress Up blog, 6. My Dress Up blouse, 8. Illustrations on my study wall.

i'm not there

2011-10-09T11:33:00.001+11:00

Can you tell me a bit more about the starting point and inspiration for your new collection?

I had the idea of a Paris of the late '40s, when the city has to rebuild itself. So, I had in mind a woman, kind of strong, infused with this fresh feeling. It's just about the feeling, because freshness is not an age, it's a mentality. She would travel paris from La Sorbonne to Notre Dame, with books. I had in mind a cool, clever, elegant woman, who wouldn't spend like four hours in the bathroom to prepare herself. She would just take a fur coat with brogue shoes.

Guillaume Henry of Carven interviewed by Lula F/W 11.12

Scans by me.

lucky dip

2011-10-05T22:21:00.002+11:00

The lovely folks at Frankie Magazine have sent us a beautifully wrapped 2012 calendar and diary to give away. All you need to do is post a comment below with your email address, and we'll put all the names in a hat, give it a bit of a shake and draw the winner out on the 19th of October.

p.s. This one is for Australian residents only - sorry!

UPDATE: We have a winner! And they'll be contacted shortly.

1. Photo by Rohan, 2-3. Photos from Frankie

fat greens

2011-10-05T13:30:00.000+11:00

how good are fresh herbs? pretty good. mr parsley got pulled out the window by a passing bird the other day, so he's feeling a little worse for wear, but ms basil is looking tasty.

pale ryder part 2

2011-09-30T16:27:00.002+10:00

Last night was the launch of Benah's Pale Ryder film directed by Ben Briand and featuring Isabella from The Preachers (their band gave an amazing performance!) and actor Sam Smith. The film looks at destiny and fate, the inspiration behind the current collection. This is only a teaser trailer but the full version will be up on Benah soon.

Hannah's Celine tri-pochette made an appearance with her Benah cuff and sandals and I took my pistachio Lola clutch out for a spin. The film was beautiful, as were the framed stills up for sale on the gallery wall and I got to catch up with a few friends I haven't seen in ages.

Today has been pretty great too; working from home, burning the A.P.C fig candle and reading the new issue of The Gentlewoman. How amazing is that Isabel Marant navajo sweater!?

1. Benah film trailer, 2-5. Photos by me, 6. Photo by Rohan (thankyou!)

one day my log will have something to say about this

2011-09-29T00:10:00.000+10:00

I think I might have mentioned how much I love Special Agent Dale Cooper before. When I heard Therese Rawsthorne had based her current collection on Twin Peaks and was opening a pop-up shop I couldn't be more excited. Therese has been a favourite of mine for a few years now and there is so much I want from this collection.

Hannah and I fawned over the cropped trench with leather sleeves and the basic shirts and denim at the store opening tonight, complete with an episode projected on the wall.

"I'm going to let you in on a little secret. Every day, once a day, give yourself a present. Don't plan it. Don't wait for it. Just let it happen. It could be a new shirt at the men's store, a catnap in your office chair, or two cups of good, hot black coffee." - Dale Cooper

Therese Rawsthorne pop-up store, 401 Crown St, Surry Hills

Photos of the store taken by me, screen caps from Twin Peaks, lookbook images from Therese Rawsthorne.

botanica

2011-09-21T12:23:00.001+10:00

A few weeks ago the lovely team at Secret Squirrel asked me to participate in their blogger styling competition. I have been a fan of their label for a while so it was amazing to receive a pair of their new Alocasia shorts in the mail and work them into my current wardrobe. The weather was still a little cool so I paired it with my favourite Isabel Marant jacket and then kept it simple with a Topshop shirt, Zara pumps and my Benah Kodi bag.

You can head over to Secret Squirrel's facebook page to vote for your favourite look. Voters also have a chance to win a shopping voucher from their online store!

I have also been sketching a few of my favourite looks from their SS12 collection Botanica, photos to come soon.

Thanks again Bri & Andrew!

3.1 phillip lim spring 2012

2011-09-18T22:42:00.001+10:00

Ok I love this, I really, really love this. Phillip Lim always manages to be one of my favourites from NYFW and this season is certainly no exception. I'm in to denim in a big way at the moment, oversized shirts and vests worn over simple white dresses and minimalist accessories.

I'm also a fan of the sleek, dark looks like the two-toned tee with tapered black pants or the black jacket worn over a navy shirt.

I did this little drawing a few weeks ago, it's the pieces I want from the next Phillip Lim resort collection. I already had my first taste of summer today, it was 28 degrees in sydney and I wore a white silk tee dress with my favourite pair of sandals. I'm defiantly feeling inspired by all the summer collections I have been seeing. What have been your favourites?

home: where they create

2011-09-17T18:32:00.005+10:00

Yesterday I picked up Paul Barbera's book Where They Create. I have had my name down on the wait list for a few weeks and it's so exciting to actually have it sitting on my coffee table. A few of my favourites are present; Acne Studios, Confetti System and Fantastic Man and most of all it has me really motivated to finish of my mini bedroom re-decorating project. Unfortunately it's been on hold for a while now, I can't wait for my two week break so I can finish it!

At the moment there are deep purple sweet peas in our living room which I was photographing for a project. One thing that has been inspiring me a lot lately is the organic beauty of flowers in contrast with strong, geometric shapes.

I also had a great time at the Benah sale with Hannah. I picked up this amazing sample tie-dye tote bag, it's now hanging on my door as a little reminder that next week will finally be beach weather!

1. Where They Create by Paul Barbera, 2. My Benah beach bag, 3. Acne Studios in Where They Create, 4. Flowers photographed by me, 5. Confetti System in Where They Create, 6. Flowers photographed by and watercolour shapes by me, 7. Fantastic Man in Where They Create.

t by alexander wang spring 2012

2011-09-14T07:16:00.000+10:00

Wow, this is an amazing follow up to the current T by Alexander Wang collection. I love the silk shirts he has been doing and the sheer, layering pieces. That and the all white palette with touches of grey, lime and peach.

Images via style.com

the benah sale

2011-09-12T11:38:00.008+10:00

This is the invitation I designed for Benah's studio sale (click to make it full-sized). If you're in Sydney this weekend come check it out, my wishlist is increasing daily...

cover

2011-09-06T22:27:00.008+10:00

I just came across this shoot from Danish magazine Cover. Despite the lovely warm weather we have been having in Sydney for the past few days, this has made me excited for winter all over again.

I love the oversized, black blazer worn with simple wrist cuffs, the slightly longer knee-grazing coat and the idea of a turtleneck layered underneath an amazing jacket.

I couldn't resist illustrating this look from Celine FW 11.12, a white turtleneck under a long, navy coat. This concept of sophisticated winter dressing has brought me yet again to Sofia Coppola's collection for Louis Vuitton. I love the idea of the black duffel bag with just about everything...

Illustration by me, Images from Cover magazine.

currently

2011-09-03T16:57:00.004+10:00

I have been wearing this burgundy Isabel Marant jacket non-stop for the past few weeks. It's perfect for this in-between weather with a white tee and jeans. Another favourite is my Isabel Marant square pendant necklace, I'm planning on wearing this with my summer staples, white silk shirts, denim shorts and sandals.

I'm looking at an old Lyell lookbook for spring inspiration, soft black silk dresses and shirts with the faintest hints of lace. Also this photoshoot from issue two of The Gentlewoman magazine. I hope I can find a pair of leather driving gloves in Europe.

1. COS F/W magazine, 2. Isabel Marant necklace 3. Illustration by me, 4. Isabel Marant jacket , 5. Lyell lookbook, 6. The Gentlewoman magazine. Photos 2-5 taken by me.

1,2,3,4

2011-08-31T00:04:00.000+10:00

first up, this 'song' really annoys me. but when it's on this video it's a bit like eating a mcdonalds hamburger with the pickles on - it's so wrong it's good. i love it. it's awesome. and the campaign looks amazing. i also like that wallpaper. what the hell is going on?

via thevine

omfg

2011-08-27T17:49:00.002+10:00

i would seriously become a hardcore whisky drinker purely to justify buying a set of these. it's the blade runner glass. it's amazing. i thought it was just a prop, but no, it exists, to buy. it even comes in black.

CIBI double old fashioned crystal tumblr from Arnolfo di Cambio

miss b returns

2011-08-27T17:17:00.001+10:00

lettering for the cover of the new Miss B lookbook.

classic

2011-08-21T17:34:00.001+10:00

I have been really focused on classics this week, simple black and white, tiny details, pieces you will wear and keep forever and designing to this aesthetic. I finally had a chance to read the new issue of Love magazine, the interview between Elle Fanning and Alexa Chung was pretty cute and I'm obsessed with the botanical engraved flourishes used with the type.

I also finished and printed my business cards and had the chance to wear a few of my favourite pieces out for my brother's birthday dinner. The Zara evening bag and heels have become an evening staple and I love my Phillip Lim laser-cut leather shorts for special occasions.

1. Zara bag, 2. Type from Love magazine, 3. Phillip Lim shorts, 4. Celine ads in Love magazine, 5. Zara heels, 6. Rohan's business cards, 7. My business cards. All photos by us.

acne studios

2011-08-14T21:55:00.000+10:00

Dreaming a little big here but how amazing would it be to work for the Acne Studio art department? I remember seeing an image of the studio fridge in an old issue of Acne paper. Their chef had kindly posted a note of what would be on their lunch menu for the day. That's right, while you're creating a brand identity for Byredo Parfums or putting together a new season lookbook, a chef is making you lunch!

These are a few of my favourite Acne related images at the moment; their amazing pink packaging, a photo I took of the Erotica issue back when I started the corner shop blog, the Acne team family portrait on their website, flashback to a 2005 lookbook and screen shots from the new Youth issue.

1. Photo by me, 2. Byredo Parfums by Moses Voigt, 3. Photo from afterDRK, 4. & 5. Acne home, 6. Photo from Acne studio in Graphic Design for Fashion book, 7. & 8. Acne lookbook 2005, 9. & 10. The Youth issue from Acne Paper.

saturdays

2011-08-06T12:42:00.001+10:00

It's been a beautiful week in Sydney, sunny and fine with 22-25 degree weather every day. Needless to say my work has been neglected a little in favour of spending time in the sun. This morning I went to the Kings Cross markets, this is always one of my favourite things to do when I have a saturday off.

I bought a beautiful bunch of fresh flowers, organic mango and peach juice and an amazing walnut and fig loaf from Brasserie Breads.

I have also started wearing my lightweight summer scarves, K Jaques sandals and bright nailpolish. So ready for spring!

1. Flowers by my window, 2. Drinking juice and sketching at my desk, 3. Isabel Marant and Benah scarves, 4. My K Jaques sandals, 5. Kit nailpolish. All photos by me using my new CanonS95.

muffin

2011-08-04T18:57:00.000+10:00

I came across this recipe site Gojee a week ago and I'm in love. You can search for recipes based on items you're craving or have in your pantry and exclude ingredients you dislike or are allergic too.

So far I've made the orecchiette with sausage, broccoli and caramelised garlic and mom's blueberry-coconut muffins. I have been enjoying a muffin every night this week with a mug of english breakfast tea. Simple pleasures...

p.s. I have also finally started a tumblr

petite

2011-07-31T13:49:00.003+10:00

Yesterday Hannah and I popped in to the corner shop's free tea salon. It was fun to sit around with a few people I haven't seen in a while, share some biscuits and drink a few cups of tea (Chinese chai!). I couldn't resist having a peep at the new Isabel marant jewellery either, there were some simple pendants, lot of feathers and some little tusks but what I loved most of all were the bracelets and necklaces adorned with the little puffball from last season. Rohan got me the pink beaded bracelet for Valentine's day this year and I thought it was such a nice match with the mottled blue/grey beaded one that I just couldn't resist!

I'm also in love with this double heart bracelet by Sydney label Petite Grand. I like the images of designer Tanja Kovacevic in her Elizabeth Bay home studio, she hand-makes all the delightfully simple and delicate pieces and I just love how she has arranged the jewellery with homewares.

This piece in particular reminds me a little of my Lyie Van Ryke heart bracelet. A friend got this for me in Paris for my 16th birthday and I haven't taken it off since. I have a soft spot for little silver hearts...

Also the latest page from my sketchbook, perfume wishlist!

1. My new IM bracelets, 2. My perfume Illustration, 3. A photo of my jewellery draw, 4. Tanja Kovacevic in her studio, 5. Petite Grand bracelet, 6 &7. Tanja Kovacevic's home studio. (Petitie Grand photos by Rachel Kara)

click

2011-07-30T14:50:00.001+10:00

I just finished a project I have been working on for the past few months, a website for the lovely Amy Kaehne. This was my first ever web project and it proved to be lots of fun!

what i think about when i think about paris

2011-07-26T15:39:00.002+10:00

My friend Hannah recently returned from a lovely summer holiday in France. I have been counting down until my holiday (6 months away!) and love hearing friends experiences whilst overseas. Hannah ate at some amazing looking places (you can have a look on her blog) and picked up a few little goodies (remember my obsession with delicate jewellery?).

I was lucky enough to have her bring me back this knitted cotton/linen sweater from COS. I am a regular visitor of their website even though it's impossible to get outside of Europe. You can imagine how happy I was to hear they still had this guy and that it was 50% off!

I have been making a little list of eateries I must visit in Paris. Rose Bakery is the top of the list, I have had their cookbook for six years now and I can't wait to try their famous carrot cake!! There are a few others I have bookmarked in my Time Out Paris guide but I have also been enjoying the travel photos on thank you, ok and miss little lime's Paris guide.

p.s. Thanks Han for the salted caramel chocolate - my own little piece of Paris!

1. Rose Bakery from thank you, ok, 2 & 3. Rose Bakery recipe book photographed by me, 4 & 5. Paris guide by miss little mime, 6 & 7. COS AW11/12 lookbook, 8. COS sweater, 9. French salted caramel chocolate both photographed by me.

mood

2011-07-19T17:50:00.002+10:00

"The Geometry of Pasta shows you how to develop an instinct for matching pasta and sauce. We explain how to team up pasta with sauce to maximise taste and texture and to turn you from an average into a great pasta cook."

1. The Geometry of Pasta and Luella's Guide to English Style. I received both of these of my birthday and they both became instant favourites.

2. Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte and Bonjour Tristesse by Francoise Sagan.

I wanted to read Jane Eyre before seeing the film and the book really grew on me, I think I am one of the lucky few who didn't have to read it for high school English. I haven't read any of Charlotte's work before (I think Emma will be next) but Emily Bronte's Wuthering Heights is one of my favourites. I can't say I love Mr. Rochester as much as Heathcliffe but given that Michael Fassbender is playing him in the new film, that may change.

I decided to revisit Bonjour Tristesse as a means of escapism from the cold, winter days. 17-year-old Cecile's summer spent in a villa on the French Riviera is both beautiful and tragic. I still can't believe this was published when the author, Francoise was only 18.

3. Drawing things I like.

4. Revisiting Influence by Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen. There are so many amazing interviews in this book and after a discussion with Hannah I re-read it for the third time. This spread is from the interview with interior designer David Collins. If I ever go to London I plan of visiting the Blue Bar he designed in The Berkley Hotel.

5. My bedroom ceiling.

6. Treasured moments spent burning my Penhaligon's lily & spice candle and drawing/reading.

All photographs and illustrations by me.

olo

2011-07-19T12:27:00.001+10:00

I found this lovely blog work.place while I was supposed to be doing homework. Run by Portland-based photographer Carlie Armstrong it looks at the workspaces of local creatives.

These images are from OLO, a fragrance line created by perfumer Heather Sielaff. I love the simplicity of the little vials and the fact they are hand-made with love in her home. I'm putting the violet/leather fragrance on my beauty wishlist. Sounds interesting, no?

please and thankyou

2011-07-13T11:26:00.002+10:00

I love fine jewellery so much at the moment, and cuffs and crystals and rose gold.

I read an article a while ago about an artist who drew all her purchases in an effort to cut spending. So whenever I feel tempted by something I draw it instead. This is a page in my moleskin that has grown over the past two months, I'm sure my little book will be filled up by the time we leave for Europe.

6 months to go!

ocean views

2011-07-08T17:41:00.000+10:00

tea for two

2011-07-06T16:10:00.001+10:00

a drawing i did of two rabbits drinking tea for the corner shop's tea party events. miss shades favours a lapsang souchong while jeans-and-top alternates between orange pekoe and sencha. smashing.

paris match

2011-07-06T16:05:00.002+10:00

i've never been a huge nike fan, or basketball sneaker fan (i was always more into adidas) but i really like these new stitchless hyperfuse air force 1's - i think it's the all-over solid colour. nice.

via BRND

space

2011-07-06T14:34:00.002+10:00

This is the little table in our living room where Rohan and I like to sit and work on new drawings. At the moment we have a lovely bunch of Hyacinths and a Penhaligon's lily & spice candle keeping us company, perfect for brightening up chilly winter days.

true glitter

2011-07-01T13:34:00.001+10:00

The previous Miu Miu campaign I could take or leave, but this is actually adorable.

Hailee Steinfeld by Bruce Weber for Miu Miu Fall 2011.

Images from fashiongonerogue

the everyday

2011-06-28T17:25:00.002+10:00

My current trio of rings consists of a Georg Gensen daisy, Karen Walker skull and Jordan Askill heart. I love simple, fine jewellery for everyday and have been lucky to receive these pieces as gifts, the first two for my 21st birthday and the heart ring from Rohan for our 3 year anniversary. I used to have this heart ring in yellow gold too, another gift from Rohan when Jordi first started designing them a few years back. Unfortunately it slipped off my finger a little while ago and I am still getting used to wearing just one :c.

Another perk of being on holidays is that I can finally maintain a nice manicure. I have been using Chanel particuliere all the time, my new winter colour. I also enjoy waking up every morning to Sam Haskins' Cowboy Kate and Other Stories which stands on display near the end of my bed.

Last but not least, my Isabel Marant coat has been another staple for the past two winters and it still manages to be perfect with everything. It's become quite cold and miserable in Sydney over the past two days so I won't be leaving the house without this and my Benah beanie.

What are your winter essentials?

states of matter

2011-06-28T11:46:00.001+10:00

I just came across these images from the Rodarte: States of Matter exhibition at MOCA in California.

I love the way the Mulleavy sisters have blurred the lines between sculpture, art and fashion and how the pieces are displayed suspended from the ceiling suggesting movement.

All photos from Rodarte

travel notes

2011-06-23T18:14:00.002+10:00

A booklet I made for a recent Tafe project. It was a fun to work on and one of the first pieces of work where I have combined my design, illustration and photography all at once.

I really enjoy going through our archive of holiday photos from Japan in 2009. Rohan and I have both used a few of these for various projects and one of our tree photos was blown up in the corner shop Paddington to cover a door.

Each image has its own story to it, the beautiful flowers were given to us by two girls who had just been a a wedding. They were desperately looking to share a taxi with someone and after realising the flowers may not last the rest of their night out, they kindly gave them to us.

Two of the images are of this amazing sulphur mountain in Owakudani national park in Hakone, Japan. It is referred to by the locals as 'Hell Valley' and was unlike anything we had ever seen before.

There is a little store further up the mountain which sells famous black boiled eggs (see photo below) which are said to extend your life by seven years.

It's been over two years since we were there and the hard times the country has faced this year have been incredibly sad. We are both still looking forward to going again and would love to see more of the countryside and stay in Kyoto. There are some amazing buildings in Tokoyo (The Prada store in Aoyama being my favourite) so I was delighted when I found these pictures of Hotel Anteroom which has recently opened in Kyoto.

1 - 5. Booklet & photographs by me, 6. Photograph by Rohan, 7 - 10. Anteroom hotel photos from upon a fold.

pink.

2011-06-20T17:32:00.001+10:00

"Dear Diary,

I've noticed that Ken hasn't talked to me ever since he got that new earring...

I wonder if he's mad at me?

Sincerely, Barbie"

-http://dearblankpleaseblank.com/ via I Love You magazine

These are a few things I like at the moment, coincidentally there is a lot of pink!

Rohan and I are both on holidays now - for me this has meant finally getting through my stack of new magazines, finishing Jane Eyre, doing some painting and re-watching all the X-Men movies after seeing X-Men: First Class at the cinema. It was awesome.

1. My Isabel Marant scarf and Acne denim shirt, 2 & 3. Graphic Design for fashion by Jay Hess and Simone Pasztorek, 4 & 5. I Love You magazine 'The Princess Issue' and my Isabel Marant bracelet, 6-8. Pretty pastels in the new issue of Lula magazine, 9 & 10. Stella McCartney pre-spring 2008 lookbook and one of my favourite pegs.

3.1 resort

2011-06-14T19:21:00.001+10:00

Phillip Lim Resort 2012. As always there are many things I want, I'm particularly interested in the leopard print pants and knitted shorts. I do love a drawstring waist...

part 1

2011-06-12T16:10:00.001+10:00

Of my black and white photo project - I enjoy arranging the objects and editing the finished image. The best part is that I'm finding ways to incorporate this new love into a few of my Tafe assignments.
I'm looking forward to my next holidays (2 weeks away!) I have a little pile of new magazines that I can't wait to read as well as Jane Eyre; I really want to finish it before the film is released.

the now

2011-06-05T23:06:00.001+10:00

Still being inspired by the current issue of Russh magazine, thinking about this Comme des Garcon bright orange wallet, making big mood boards in illustrator, listening to Adele, sleeping less to do more assignments, wishing I had more time to bake and adding pops of colour to winter ensembles.

Illustration by me

you're in a desert.

2011-06-01T15:08:00.000+10:00

Sean Young's Polaroids from the set of Blade Runner.

via slashfilm

growth is up 0.5 percent

2011-05-31T13:29:00.002+10:00

believe it or not, this is a column graph.

benchmark

2011-05-31T13:23:00.001+10:00

a wordmark i made last night for an object design exhibition poster submission. how have i only just discovered map to surface?

lightness

2011-05-29T21:56:00.002+10:00

"Though the sun is gone, I have a light."

- Kurt Cobain

I bought flowers this morning, the first for a long time! These beautiful violet sweet peas were photographed for a project and are now in my bedroom adding some much needed brightness to a cold and rainy day.

I love these all white Ellery looks photographed by Russh magazine, so simple and sophisticated. The poster on my wall is one of Ellery's fashion show invites from a few years ago. Although I didn't attend the show this year I have been lucky enough to flick through the limited edition gazette that was produced for the collection, you can have a little peek on their blog.

Ro and I have spent our Sunday working on various projects and listening to Nirvana. There is nothing like being indoors painting and drinking tea with the heater on while it's pouring outside.

1 & 3. Photos by me, 2 & 4. Russh magazine June/July 12 scanned by Alice Euphemia

pale ryder

2011-05-27T12:53:00.001+10:00

Two of my favourites, the Nico drawstring bag and Lola clutch from Benah's SS12 Pale Ryder collection. I love the names given to the various accessories and the natural, tan and pistachio palette (including the addition of a cute stripe!) that graces some of my favourite Benah classics and a few new additions like the ipad case.

1 & 3. Type by me, 2. Illustrations by me, 4. Photo from Benah facebook

mood

2011-05-25T18:31:00.001+10:00

At the moment I'm inspired by the English countryside, Black Beauty, Lauren Hutton's interview in Influence by Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen, Celine double cuffs, Lara Stone in all white for Calvin Klein SS11 and Byredo's description of their fragrance Blanche.

Above is an excerpt from Phoebe Philo's inspiration book for the Fall 11 Celine show, below is Francisco Costa's mood board featuring Lauren Hutton and Michael Eastman's horses. I think this is all the inspiration I need to start collaging again...

1. Image from Philophiles, 2. Image from TFS

golden hands

2011-05-23T18:11:00.001+10:00

A few photos of the lookbook I designed for Amy Kaehne's Spring Summer 11 collection. Amy's inspiration for summer were the Golden Hands 70's craft books. The thick, red volumes have the name down the spine in gold foil and resulted in a colour palette of soft yellow, beige, orange, burgundy and sage green.

I have also been living in my Amy Kaehne winter knitwear since the weather turned about two weeks ago. Two things I love about colder weather: knitted layers and hazelnut hot chocolate, too good!

obstacle 1

2011-05-20T14:02:00.002+10:00

Inspiration for a current project: landscapes and shapes.

Illustrations by me, photos by Rohan and I.

109C/286C

2011-05-15T22:51:00.001+10:00

More Celine! I am especially fond of the box bag in yellow, I don't think I even have anything yellow in my wardrobe but it might be time to invest - I love it paired with white navy.

On another note last week Rohan and I attended the Semi-Permanent creative conference held in Darling Harbour. It was my first time attending the event (Rohan went to the first one 9 years ago - jealous) and it was amazing to see some local and international creatives speak such as Corey Arnold (a fisherman/photographer) and Reg Mombassa (iconic Mambo artist). I already can't wait for next years.

Vivid Sydney is the next event I'm looking forward too, it's so beautiful to see the Sydney Opera House lit up with amazing light projections. Lights are on from May 27th, I'm thinking a hot chocolate at Guylian cafe, rugging up with a beanie/scarf combo and enjoying the show.

1. Celine box bag illustration by me, 2. Unknown, 3. Vogue Nippon March 2011, 4. Photo from Dalla, 5. U.S. Elle

premiere

2011-05-14T23:44:00.001+10:00

Another amazing experience from the past few weeks was attending Yeojin Bae's first ever Sydney Fashion Week show aptly titled Premiere. The collection was inspired by vintage lingerie in a colour palette of salmon pink, red, apricot, navy, black and mauve. My favourite look was the loose, unbuttoned silk shirts with contrasting bras underneath, especially when worn with the blazer and black sequinned shorts.

Illustration by me, showcoverage from Vogue

yb

2011-05-08T23:26:00.001+10:00

The Yeojin Bae RAFW programme I just did. I like things clean and simple!

inspiration

2011-05-07T23:21:00.002+10:00

I've had an incredibly fashion-filled week, my Rag and Bone boots made their debut and it's been amazing to attend a few shows at Sydney Fashion Week. Hannah and I had lunch on Thursday after attending the Yeojin Bae show (more on this later) and an amazing Sonoma (great chai and muesli) date discussing our favourite shows and all the assignments we have due next week.

I saw lots of beautiful bags this week but I still find myself drawn to the simplicity of Sofia's designs for Louis Vuitton. One of my friends owns the delightful black duffle-style handbag and it's just perfect. I can't remember where I found the above photo but I love Sofia's creative space complete with concept sketches and fabric swatches.

Also I have been reading the Self Service blog and falling in love with their daily obsessions. And in case you hadn't guessed I'm planning on re-decorating my bedroom. Photos to come soon!

1. Sofia Coppola for Louis Vuitton clutch illustrated by me, 2. Stella McCartney cuffs from the Self Service blog, 3-6. Source unknown, 7. Watercolour by me, 8. Photo from Emma's design blog

abbey lee #123

2011-05-06T12:52:00.000+10:00

Numéro #123 May 2011 : Abbey Lee Kershaw by Tom Munro

people

2011-05-04T18:58:00.002+10:00

My latest illustration project is now up in the windows of People Hairdressing on Crown St., Surry Hills. I had so much fun working on this, particularly playing with the concept of hair as a garment and exploring the contrast between bright geometric shapes and bows alongside the very linear, black hair.

stem the flow

2011-05-03T18:47:00.002+10:00

Last night Rohan and I along with our friends Debbie, Sandra and Jane attended Gail Sorronda's SS12 show 'stem the flow'. We started the night off with dinner at my favourite little Italian place in the rocks (gingham tablecloths and all!) and then wandered down to the OPT for the much anticipated show.

The opening featured cute pleated white shirts and smocked blouses with puff sleeves which then transitioned through to fitted body-con dresses in a lightweight jersey and a stunning long, black pleated skirt. I loved the flat shoes, especially with some of the dressier pieces and Debbie is excited to try out a DIY ribbon choker inspired by the show. The accessories were kept to a minimal this season, though I loved the wide-brimmed hats with cut-out tops and long, refined necklaces. Debbie and Jane represented in the audience with with the beaded cap, sequinned mask and pom pom headband.

Gail has been one of my favourite Australian designers for the past few years now. I think one of things I love most about the label is that it has a timeless aesthetic, the palette is always black and white and the collections never influenced by trends. This season the inspiration was "fluidity suspended in time" which came across in the accordion pleats and loose, flowing garments. In the background a video of ice dripping as it melts set the mood for the show. Perfection.

1. Debbie, Sandy, Jane and I before the show, 2. Debbie and Jane in their favourite Gail pieces, 3. The video playing at the start of the runway, 4. Backstage photo from The Vine, 5 -10. Runway images from Vogue.

little houses

2011-05-02T08:51:00.001+10:00

i did this drawing for a friend of a friend's birthday - her name's actually in there if you look closely...

the bare essentials part 3

2011-04-30T22:08:00.001+10:00

Back when I drew this these Rag and Bone boots were on my wishlist. One Shopbop sale later and I'm happy to say they are mine! My khaki Isabel Marant Dicker boots have seen me through the past two years, but I've spent the past few months trying to find their equivalent in black. I love the pebbled leather (a bit easier to care for than suede) and they are super comfy too. I haven't seen this label in Australia before, but I have to say I'm a new fan!