Smitten With Style

Christmas gift list countdown!!!! Day 13 - only 12 sleeps till Christmas

2011-12-13T08:41:00.005+11:00

Basil Bangs & Missoni limited edition umbrella, $1,450

OK - assuming we ever see summer in Sydney, then what better way to look super chic (and be able to find your spot much more easily) on the beach than with the new range of Basil Bangs beach umbrellas. With retro inspired designs and prints, and design elements like tassels and scalloped edges that are girlier than your Great Aunt Dora's lace doily, the Basil Bangs range is one of those lust-to-have luxuries. They've even collaborated with Missoni to come up with a stunning design that will set you back a hefty $1,450 but have no fear their standard range is around the $400 mark instead. Not too bad when you consider there's an optional extra to purchase a base which means you can take your umbrella from beach to backyard in a jiffy.

PS. Only 12 sleeps till Christmas - yikes!!!

Christmas Countdown Wish List

2011-12-12T10:09:00.001+11:00

Sydney Picnic Co.

The Sydney Picnic Co. make the best darn picnics I've known. The beauty is not just in the gourmet food that kicks run of mill picnic sandwiches behinds, but in the presentation. From the moment you receive your gift voucher to the hand made menu cards, you know you're in for a treat. Choose from off the shelf gift vouchers or customise a gift for that special someone/s this Christmas.

Christmas Wish List Count Down

2011-12-09T06:00:00.000+11:00

Necklace from Etsy, US $38

Go a little vintage this Christmas and get Mum (or get the kids to gift this to you) this adorable mama and baby bird silver necklace with two charms. Add charms to spell your name or the kid's initials and wear it with pride.

What's on your Christmas Wish List today??

2011-12-08T10:00:00.000+11:00

Blue Skies umbrella, US$37.99 from Modcloth

Will this dreary Sydney rain ever go away?? Say goodbye to boring black umbrellas and put the fun back in to summer with this umbrella. Add this on your wish list and look stylish in the wet, even if your hair doesn't!!!

The Gift Wish List Continues...

2011-12-07T09:03:00.000+11:00

Travel wallet from Kikki K, $79.95

Travellers take note - keep your travel documents from passports to boarding passes and foreign currency (which you'll need to buy new shoes with) in this statement red leather travel wallet. This will certainly get you in the travel mode ready for the holidays!!!

Christmas Wish List

2011-12-06T07:00:00.000+11:00

Joseph Joseph Nest 8 set from Robin's Kitchen $99

This Joseph Joseph Nest range is the ultimate cool collection of practical, space-saving kitchenware, comprising of mixing bowls, measuring spoons, a sieve and a strainer. The fun colours all stack and nest inside each other, saving space while looking uber cool. What a neat idea!

Christmas Wish List Count Down Continues....

2011-12-05T08:30:00.000+11:00

Mink Pink High Roller Sequin dress $89

Put this chic little dress on your wish list and Santa may bring it to you in time for NYE! This dull gold sequinned dress from Mink Pink is terrific as it doesn't need much jazzing up or accessorising. It packs some punch with little effort. From testing this the size runs a little big and the sequins do have a habit of falling off everything (but with little detriment to the dress).

Christmas Countdown Wish List Continues

2011-12-04T08:00:00.000+11:00

Diptyque winter candle set from Mecca Cosmetica, $130

Oh how I love to pretend I'm spending Christmas with St Nick with white winter snow, mulled wine and a wood fire around me... alas not to be this year as I escape instead for an international family reunion on a hot hot hot Asian island instead!! However I can bring winter wonderland with me with this gorgeous smelling Diptyque travel candle set in three winter fragrances of pine, wood fire and pomander. Love.

Christmas Countdown Wish List

2011-12-03T08:00:00.000+11:00

T2 Apple Chilly Set $45.00

I'm a tea fanatic. I don't do coffee (just as well as I have enough other vices going on!!) but I love a good cuppa, and this T2 Chilly Tea set is the perfect answer for summer! Choose from apple or tangy orange and load up with lots of fresh fruit and ice. Perfect.

Charlie's Angels Plum Dress

2011-12-02T09:47:00.001+11:00

Charlie's Angels Style!

Charlie's Angels Photo courtesy ABC

The revamped version of Charlie’s Angels means 70’s fashion iscoming back (with a slight modern makeover) as well. Check out these looks on Rachael Taylor and Annie Ilonzeh, playing Abbyand Kate respectively.

Our favorite looks are the killer ivory jacket and plumwrap dress. So we found and recreated these amazing looks for you!

Plum dress - Polyvore

Forthose keeping score at home, yes we found the original dress being worn byAnnie! Plus, it’s currently stillavailable on ShopBop.com! If you lovethe dress but shy away from the price tag, we also found a few similar piecesthat will help you get the look. Don’tforget the leather sash to compliment the sleeves of this dress.

White jacket - Polyvore

Whilethe exact jacket Rachel is wearing has eluded us, we did find some noteworthyalternatives. The key feature we looked for was that oversized collar and wrapdetail. To complete this look pair withwhite wide leg trousers, caged neutral heels, and gold filigree earrings.

2011-12-02T09:32:00.001+11:00

Christmas Wish List Count Down - Only 22 days till Christmas!

For that fussy person that you never know what to buy for, a wooden crate filled with plump, juicy cherries, lychees and mangoes always goes down a treat. Snowgoose deliver amazing seasonal fruit that no one can say no to. Beautifully presented, and they won't hurt the waist line!

Snowgoose fruit basket

2011-12-01T08:02:00.001+11:00

The Christmas Wish List Count Down Is On!

It's the first day of December so it's time to start dropping some serious hints to Santa! Every day this December we'll be bringing you our gift suggestions!

This is the one time of year I like to treat myself and avoid asking for the "boring but practical" gifts. So no requests for a new blender or Bunnings gift voucher for me, and put this on my list instead!

Tilkah Sweet Melody bag in tan, other colours available, $229

This gorgeous Tilkah satchel bag is tiny but packs a punch. Smaller, shoulder and / or cross body hand bags are the way to go this season, and this Tilkah bag is tiny enough to keep you looking on-trend but big enough to shove wallet, keys, several items of makeup, iPhone, small notebook, tissues, pen and mints. Believe me - I've been road testing it for a week now. My only gripe is the not so user friendly clasp but for this cute little thing I'll forgive and put it on my wish list!

Thanks Santa!!

2011-11-29T13:49:00.001+11:00

From our US Style Street Styler - bringing the latest in REAL style from Portland, USA!!!

Sunnygolden accents turn around a dreary day on the streets of Portland. Lisa Warninger caught this shot of Katie inthe fashionable Pearl District of NW Portland. We just love the way she used accessories to amp up a very casualoutfit. It could even be considered alittle disheveled. But golden vintageinspired Jeffrey Campbell heels are the first clue that she knows what she isdoing. The shade carries into a satcheland a loosely styled scarf.

Feelingdaring? Steal a touch of Katie’s stylewith these golden Jeffrey Campbell platform booties.

Booties from Nordstrom

- Posted by our US Street Styler Jennifer (Portland, Oregon USA)

2011-11-08T10:37:00.000+11:00

From our US Style Street Styler - deconstructing the latest celebrity style!!

Sophisticated Christina Ricci

Photo credit Glamour UK

The girl’s on ABC’s new show Pan Amhave been taking 60’s style by storm. Christina Ricci is no exception. Pink pencil skirt and painted stripe top looked so chic in the barscene, I admittedly missed some of the script.

Here’s she seen on the set courtesy of Glamour UK. Black, white, and pink are a simple paletteso it’s in the details to make it standout. Slight peplum top both defines the waist and makes her torso look longerdespite the stripes. Even thoughChristina is petite, this knee length skirt works with streamlined heels. Her 5’1” frame looks much taller in thissophisticated silhouette.

We must give a little more attention to the striped top. Painted stripes following the curve of theneckline are so fresh! Then the touch ofbows at the waistline highlights the sweet side of 60’s glamour. Simple drop earrings accessorize along withthe signature gloves of the era.

We will definitely be looking for designer versions of the dresses seen on Pan Am this season.

- Post by Jenn - US Street Styler (Portland USA)

Cape It Off

2011-11-06T11:16:00.001+11:00

www.polyvore.com

Our US style spies are telling us that cape styled jackets and ponchos are making areturn, which means this trend will soon make its way over to our shores, so we're taking a look at how this look rocks on the other wise of the globe.... This exaggerated trend caneasily go the wrong way, so look for more sophisticated spins on an old style.

Forget little red riding hood, these caped trench coats are all grown up. In classic colors such as tan andblack, the cape trench has an air of sophistication without losing its playfulside. Styles look fantastic overskirts with textured tights peeking out. Amp up the look with red heels!

Feeling daring? Play with volumeand color. Tied waistlines helpkeep the proportion of these bolder styles in check. Keep the rest of your look neutral and let the jacket getall the attention.

We love rocking this look on cool mornings and breezy afternoons.

2011-11-01T18:42:00.000+11:00

From our US Style Street Styler - bringing the latest in REAL style from Portland, USA!!!

Awash in blue, this Portlander has a definitestyle. Mixing and matching plaidsfor starters is not easy. But thislovely lady had no fear in pulling it off. The blazer is a dark tonal plaid, while the scarf is a bitbolder but in the same hue. Cuffing the sleeves keeps it casual as do the slouchy boots. We love the double cuff bracelets overher shirt. It continues the color theme without being obvious. Happy to see a sunny day in the fallsmonths here in Portland, she’s rocking her sunglasses!

Get Her Look:
We think a little vintage shopping would help youscore a jacket and scarf that could recreate this look. If you like the idea, but not as intoplaid, go for slouchy style like this jacket we found on Modcloth.com.

Adding a bright Ikat scarf pushes the look into aspringy vibe.

Jacket from Modcloth

Scarf from Modcloth

- Post by Jenn - US Street Styler (Portland)

Mod 70's Secretary

2011-10-26T18:26:00.001+11:00

Combining multiple trends in one look is not oftenrecommended or easy to pull off. But this sleeveless blouse facilitates it so easily! We’ve got color-blocking and a tie-neckin one piece. Tuck this vibrantblouse into wide leg trousers and streamline with a tonal skinny belt. Platform booties are an easy choicewith wavy leather trim. Finish thelook with a bold silver cuff and modified briefcase styled handbag. We like that this bag has aprofessional spin while featuring toned down hues from the outfit.

These pieces work together for an updated 70’s secretarycomplete with tie-neck blouse, wide leg trousers, and platform heels. Plus we threw in a littlecolor-blocking just in case you’re not quite over the trend!!

Mod 70's Secretary by smittenwithstyle featuring a flap bag

Tie neck blouse
$24 - warehouse.co.uk

Theyskens' theory pleated pants
$395 - barneys.com

Black booties
$80 - heels.com

Ivanka Trump flap bag
$150 - macys.com

Tory Burch cuff bangle
$145 - nordstrom.com

Leather belt
$20 - anthropologie.com

2011-10-25T22:34:00.002+11:00

From our US Style Street Styler - deconstructing the latest celebrity style!!

www.InStyle.com

www.piperlime.com

Isla Fisher looks fantastic in this whispy D&Gfloral dress. She was spotted thissummer at the Veuve Clicquot Polo Classic and added to InStyle’s look of the day. The dress is flattering on her slim frame. It really creates a defined waistline and attractivecleavage. Light layers of thisfull skirt end perfectly just above the knee.

Isla kept the look minimal and really let the watercolor floral print takecenter stage. She is sans jewelryand her hair is left soft and wavy. We like the addition of a simple mustard yellow clutch. It really goes with the print withoutbeing matchy.

Our only negative would be the shoe. It just looks a little chunky for this soft feminine look. You can’t quite see it from this angle,but it has a platform and a wedge. A style like the shoe pictured above from Connie by Schutz is lighter while still providing a sturdyheel.

- Post by Jenn - US Street Styler (Pennsylvania)

2011-10-25T22:15:00.000+11:00

Smitten With REAL Style!

Caught on the streets of Melbourne outside the GPO! Tess is a uni student and works in fashion part time. We love Tess's easy laid back style - supplemented by splashes of new season trends. Tess's whole outfit cost under $300 with bargain buys from Zara during holidays to Asia and in Melbourne, plus accessories from sales at Dinosaur Designs, Tony Bianco shoes, and boutique accessories designer Cross from Chapel Street.

New Season Update - Sportsgirl

2009-02-17T20:04:00.008+11:00

Now we all know that in the current environment, luxury and overtly expensive fashion is no longer in fashion. As such you'll see the "austere glam" or "new modest" trend dominate this season's fashions - which means lots of greys and pared back looks.

Amazingly, Sportsgirl (which fits our "new modest" budget) has nailed this look with a couple of their jackets:

This grey marle cotton zipped jacket takes a leaf out of both the austere glam shades of grey, and well as the other trend this season - military. It's $119.95 and as Paris would say, hot.

Another terrific little jacket - this asphalt (read = charcoal) coloured satin bomber jacket is a great fashion find this winter. If you are a little less Gen Y, then this is a good option to the grey marle option above, $149.95 but you will wear it LOTS with jeans or pants or even a cute little skirt.

This we just had to include because it is too cute! A cream canvas shopper tote with a zip around the side and the words "nouveau riche". Obviously. At $29.95 it is priced to fit in with our nouveau recession budget too!

This goes with that.... New season update

2009-02-07T15:55:00.003+11:00

OK, let's talk about Sussan's new season collection. That's right, I just wrote Sussan. You're sitting there going "but my mum shops there".... or at least that's where she did shop until this season...

This season has real elements of BoHo (which can be iffy, so proceed with caution), but there are some individual items that are worth a good look.

It's a rich dark palate this season, lots of detailing and about 6 steps more moden and on-trend for Sussan. They even have a cream faux fur gilet!! (Except it's a bit yeti-like, it's called "mongolian vest" if that gives you any idea... best stick to our picks below...)

Worth checking out:

The harem style pants - these are a beautiful, almost tailored version
Gorgeous black tuxedo style jacket (satin lapels, stunning!)
Accessories collection - a bohemian look at a nice price

New Season Update - Basque at Myer

2009-02-05T16:35:00.002+11:00

Wow. I'm loving the clothing at Basque in Myer. It's a pity they don't have a website and that Myer doesn't have online shopping yet, so I can't show you any pictures, but we are loving:

The crochet lace black dress with short sleeves, $179. There is something kind of cute and 60's vintage with this. It's adorable. Also available as a skirt.
The short swing cocktail party dresses with rosettes around the neckline, in black and mauve (Yes I know, it sounds hideous like that, but it's cute and if you are tall and willowy, this is one you can pull off. Definitely flirty.)
The black dress with satin sleeves and v-neck. A classic, simple dress, flattering shape for most bodies.
The black faux fur evening gilet - so on trend, so very now.

The joy of Basque is that you can collect Myer One points while buying it, return it if you had a "fad" moment and changed your mind, and it's SO reasonbly priced.

And the above list is just the beginning! I have to run now but will be back to report on more Basque goodies in the next couple of days!

Poll Results!

2009-02-05T16:32:00.002+11:00

Our last poll asked if you were a Brad Pitt or Daniel Craig kind of gal... and most of you said... (drum roll.....) BRAD PITT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Thanks for participating! Make sure you participate in our next poll - the other big rivalry in the female world - flats vs heels!

The Best Heel (So far!)

2009-02-05T16:08:00.003+11:00

Ladies, fun times and happy days are here because Witchery have finally put the black ruffled suede heel I mentioned in my last post, online. So here is a picture of the Victoria shoe - now run to your Witchery store and pick up a pair as it's a STUNNING shoe. Elegant and chic.

Victoria Heel $189.95, www.witchery.com.au

New Season Update - Witchery

2009-01-26T07:36:00.003+11:00

It's been a couple of seasons since I've said this (accessories aside) but I am LOVING Witchery's new season range...

OK, so what am I swooning about??

Space long line cardigan (click to view on Witchery's website)
This is a fabulous almost Missoni-like cardigan. Love the texture, love the colours, will love it so much over a cotton tank, skinny jeans or as a light-weight jacket over a sleek dress and boots. $149.95
Mesh Double Layer tank
Before you say "oh how boring, it's just a tank", remember that almost every woman I know is lacking the essential basics that help pull your wardrobe together. This is one of those basics, and in the mesh there is something just a little more interesting about this tank (and a bit Calvin Klein in its simplicity, but at a tiny $49.95 in comparison).
Crystal cluster necklace
The picture does this necklace NO justice. It is a lovely little piece of jewellery heaven to wear with a plain dress. It's not too much and not too little. As Goldilocks once said, "it is just right..." (and we would argue much more stylish than a bowl of porridge...). The matching ring is very fine too.

And that's just the start! We've also spied a gorgeous black heel with structured ruffle on the front, and a quilted little hand bag in black. All fabulous, all not too "trendy" to that you have to throw them out next season and start again, and you want them all now! (or at least, I do!)

Welcome to 2009!

2009-01-18T08:34:00.002+11:00

Hello all, we are back from holidays, ready for another year of blogging to keep you informed of the best sales out there...!

The sales are HUGE this year and if you haven't checked them out you'll have another week to do so until Australia Day. New stock is already start to creep into the stores, and we can't wait to see what the new season will bring.

Meanwhile, some of our lust-haves this week:

General Pants:
Agent 99 5-strand pearl necklace - long, indulgent and only $34.95. Will look fantastic with a little black outfit, and dramatic shoes.

Urban "Weekend Gypsy" satin print bag - cute & fun, this is an adorable shopper / beach bag and on sale for just $30.

Jacqui E & Sussans:
You may not love their clothing but their accessories racks are tops. Some fantastic finds here for work and play.

Sportsgirl:
You have to pick carefully here, but a real "trend" buy is their military inspired (a big trend this winter) black leather jacket with brass buttons. $299.95 (there's also a vest version), you do need to be under 35 to pull this look off.

They do also have a terrific range of large cocktail rings starting from just $10.

Ojay:
What's not to love? Take 30% off EVERYTHING including sale items.

We love a recession!

2008-11-29T17:28:00.003+11:00

What? How can I say that, I hear some of you wonder??
Well, a recession (or talk of one anyway) means that shops are in SALE overdrive.

Sportsgirl:
Take 20% off already reduced items.

This includes some terrific thongs in all sorts of colours, ranging from sea green, orange, tan, gold, silver and black, starting from a low $29.95 (and then take 20% off that!).

Also wade through the tweens to head straight to the silk scarf section. A wide range in a variety of prints and colours (and most of them are very tasteful - tie one around your bag and watch it billow in the wind as you walk around town in your new thongs) from $9.95 (again, take 20% off that). A range of bags and jewellery are also on sale. ...in the clothing we are less excited, but stock up in accessories and then head over to....

Ojay
They are having 25% off EVERYTHING excluding sale items. We love their range of very versatile (and a necessary basic) cami singlets in the blush and nude - a staple in every girl's wardrobe, at just $19 on sale. And that's just the start of it. At 25% off full priced items it's a recessionista's nirvana.

Hurry, both sales are on at the discretion of the retailers, so they could end at any time.

Wittner Shoe SALE - On Tomorrow!

2008-11-26T20:49:00.002+11:00

Wittner's 40% off shoe sale begins tomorrow....! Hooray! Run in your heels to your nearest shop (I'll see you there!).

And for those who can't get there, their sale extends to their website www.wittner.com.au

Kookai 20% Off Sale On Now

2008-11-13T20:46:00.001+11:00

Sale Alert!

Kookai is having 20% off everything storewide (though they have reserved the right to exclude some items from the sale), for 4 days only starting today (Thursday 13 November). Kookai fans, head down now!!!

Beach Bling

2008-11-07T08:14:00.002+11:00

Looking for a bit of beach bling this summer? Head down to Portmans who have the most delightful straw beach bag.... Sound a bit boring??

Anything but! This bag has gold handles, and tiny flecks of gold shimmer through the straw. Subtle, and tasteful (let's face it, it could have all gone terribly tacky the minute I typed "gold handles"!). And all for just a teeny $29.95.

It's a "We Love" buy.

Glomesh Magic

2008-10-29T19:10:00.003+11:00

Dig out your (or your mum’s) bags from the years gone by, as the glomesh bag is BACK. It has been back for a while now, in the form of little clutches for formal wear.

Cute and light, they’ve been a great throwback to the 70’s. But now they’re REALLY back.

Witchery has the most divine shoulder bag in glomesh. Although technical silver, it has a soft muted warm gold hue, offset by a pewter woven strap. It is terrific for summer nights, hanging delicately off your shoulder, in a practical size.

No longer confined just to night time, glomesh magic is back baby!

Witchery glomesh shoulder bag, $89.95

Zaruff

2008-10-29T19:02:00.003+11:00

On recent trips to Pitt Street Mall with clients, I’ve spied the lovely handiwork of Zaruff, a jewellery stall located just outside the entrance to Centrepoint on Pitt St Mall.

A range of largely silver and glass jewellery, Zaruff has some very wearable pieces ideal for work or play. Their necklaces and bracelets are particularly good, and very well priced. Their place at Centrepoint isn’t permanent, but you can shop online www.zaruff.com

Feeling the Credit Crunch?

2008-10-10T16:41:00.002+11:00

Who isn't?? The economy seems to be going downhill and rapidly, but your style doesn't need to. There is nothing worse than a drab dwindling economy.

So, what to do? Shop! But shop smartly.

Shop Smart Tip No 1: Buy Glasson's SATC belt for $24.95 (see previous blog)
Shop Smart Tip No 2: Buy dark floral sheer collarless shirt top, on sale from Sheike for $39.95

Wear top over jeans for a casual weekend look, or with trousers or tucked in to your favourite pencil (or straight cut for anyone with an apple or pear / triangle body shape) skirt for work. Then whip out your new magic Glassons belt, and belt it over the top and skirt for Friday drinks.

Voila! The top that keeps on giving no matter what the occasion, and the belt that will change your life (or at least your outfit!)...

This Week's Must Have!

2008-10-10T16:39:00.001+11:00

I swear this is "THE" find of the year. For all you SATC fans out there, I have found the studded, waisted belt that Carrie Bradshaw wore in many of her outfits in the SATC Movie. It was on multiple dresses and teamed often with her Dior Extreme heels.

Well, for all of just $24.95 (yes, you get change from a twenty and a five dollar note) Glassons will sell you "the" belt. True, it isn't really vintage and the studs aren't brass and it isn't real leather, but who cares? Every time you put it in and pair it with your Wittner version of the Dior Extreme heels (check out previous blogs on Wittner...) you too will and can feel like a million dollars (and for far far less...).

Buy now, do not delay!

Spring Is In The Air...

2008-09-28T08:51:00.002+10:00

After a slight hiatus to attend to some personal issues (namely I got engaged and thus became very distracted over the last 3 weeks with dress selections!!), I am back in full form! Spring (or maybe it's summer given the 30 degree days we've been having in Sydney...):

Abercrombie and Fitch lovers, the chain "Frat House" (located in Pitt St near the mall, and also in Paddington) is carrying a range of Abercrombie and Fitch tee's and shorts and skirts etc. It's a limited, but succint range, best left to those under 30 to wear.
Nine West has just released its accessory range. A very small range, they've started with mainlt bangles and cuffs. For such a small range, it is showing loads of promise. The few pieces available are fun and different.
The day Myer and David Jones finish their renovations cannot come too soon. I've had to take clients through to ever-changing floors of limited fashion choices and size, and shocking change rooms littered with plasterboard and dust. Bring on the new stores and soon!!
La Voca fans take note: the chain has officially closed down and the stores that have been retained have returned as Noni B stores. The Centrepoint store is stocking a wide range of the Liz Jordan label, which evokes a little bit more of the La Voca qualities, but it's just not quite the same...
Ojay - check out their new season arrivals - there's an adorable jiffy style ballet flat in black and beige, both with a little hardware and rubber soles, and a gorgeous new pewter coloured cocktail, sleeveless dress with a v-cut out in the neck and a smattering of Marni-esque beadwork around the neck. Simple, stunning, just in time for party season!

Bring out your inner Maximus!

2008-09-02T07:04:00.001+10:00

What else will Wittner think of next?? I spied a gladiator WEDGE in store on the weekend, in black at $149. It only goes up to your ankles and will make you look tall with the wedge, and perfectly on-trend this summer. Bless them.

Back with full fashion force!

2008-08-29T07:25:00.002+10:00

After a good two weeks away, Smitten With Style's blog is back and Wendy has survived with no broken bones from her ski trip (and with several brand new ski outfits in tow - they seemed too cute to leave behind...). Here's what we've discovered on the fashion front since our return:

Mimco Shoes
Mimco launched their own range of shoes a couple of weeks ago, with another shipment due later in September. I was pleasantly surprised - from a range of bright ballet flats through to some designer inspired heels, the range is small but concise. Priced between the high $100's through to around the $499.
Nine West
Didn't we say a few weeks ago that the gladiator sandal will be BIG BIG BIG this Spring/Summer? Well, they're everywhere in Nine West so there's no escaping it. In a range of 3 bright candy pop colours, and a toned down silvery gold, they are priced at $139 and are cute and fun.
Mr Rose (who make a range of shirts with differing chest sizes - "Bud" A/B Cup, "Blossom" B/C Cup and "Bloom" C/D Cup") have launched their new Spring Summer range. It is a delightful range, each piece so delicate and different. Save up for your favourite. www.mrrose.com.au
Myer's new Spring / Summer collection launched this week. Jennifer Hawkins headlined in her own range of swim wear and we'll be bringing you the best buys from Myer over the next few days. DJ's launched earlier this month, so with both big department stores' range launched, Spring/Summer is officially here! (at least in fashion terms)

Off to the Snow!

2008-08-10T15:23:00.002+10:00

Wendy is currently taking her annual holiday playing on the ski slopes of Queenstown, New Zealand. In truth she is trying desperately to make baggy, bright coloured ski clothing look like Chanel (because who can really afford the real Chanel ski outfits?!).

She'll be back in about a week. So hang tight till then when she will give you her rundown of winter snow fashion... both the good and the bad!!

Back From Zara!

2008-08-03T18:12:00.003+10:00

Well I'm back from Malaysia, and Zara. Disappointingly there wasn't a lot to excite me this season but not to fear - I found other things to keep me busy! We've discovered a terrific chain of stores called "Charles & Keith" (see image of bag, from their latest Summer collection).

They are a terrific shop with lots of cheap as chips shoes and bags, all inspired by designer originals. I purchased a pair of shoes and a bag for A$70. (and that was only because they didn't have my size in the other shoes I tried). We went to the branch in Kuala Lumpur's newest shopping centre, the Pavillion (opposite Star Hill shopping centre, where we spent a few minutes doing little kow-tow's in front of Lanvin, after which we toddled to Dior to eye off my A$17,000 Dior Cristal watch (it's a loonnnng time coming).

The local version of Myer, "Parkson" department store in Pavillion shopping centre also had a sale on their range of "Club Monaco" accessories. This was a well laid out range of costume jewellery by colour, and once you take into account the currency conversion, a very affordable and fun range. We've seen similarly designed (and similar quality) necklaces and bracelets in Surry Hill's Crown Street for about twice the price.

Our final recommendation - "Eclipse" - they have a range of stunning and well priced floor length evening dresses, cocktail dresses and tops. All in a range of easy to care for and iron fabrics. They're all just a little bit unique and it's nice to buy a dress that no one else has! Branches are in KLCC (the Petronas twin towers building), Pavillion and a select range is carried within Parkson department store as well.

Off to Zara!

2008-07-24T07:51:00.001+10:00

Wendy has gone for a quick break to Asia to visit Zara (and maybe catch up with friends and family in between). She will be back on Monday with an update on the latest finds from Asia.

Accessories & Accessories

2008-07-24T07:42:00.002+10:00

I have had a few people who have seen me present, ask where I get my accessories from. The answer is I'm like a homing beacon for accessories. Everywhere I am I have a little blinker on trying to spot a good piece. The trick is to always have your eye open and look for something that looks like it's worth more than what you paid - weight and a nice finish (not the shiny tacky stuff) is crucial.

Glammadonna
One favourite is Glammadonna in MLC Centre - they don't open Sundays but otherwise pay them a little visit. Stock constantly changes but they do a staple range of beautiful necklaces with semi precious stones and glass, which lie flat on your decolletage, at around the $90 mark. Trust me they add and lift to any boring work outfit and to a plain shirt and jeans.

Bijoux Terver
This crazy little shop is in the MET Centre in the city, as you walk towards Wynyard Station through the little underground arcade. They claim "nothing over $20". I walked in and waded through a whole lot of tacky gold and silver chain necklace and earring sets, and some bad "pashminas" (i think they were handkerchiefs posing as pashminas... i'm not sure, I didn't touch them...) and found: 1. a cuff watch in black (and also a red version) with diamond surrounds, very reminiscent of the Dior Christal watch, and 2. a range of really really fabulous and chunky bracelets and necklaces. All for just $20. Pretty impressive after all and worth a trawl at lunchtime if you work that way. They also have a shop in Sydney Airport.

Insider Style Tip!!

2008-07-15T20:02:00.002+10:00

Do you love how your clear plastic shoe boxes stack neatly in your wardrobe and make organising your shoes much neater? But do you hate how you can’t see what shoes are in which box? Check out www.benjibox.com.au . They have clear shoe boxes that PULL OUT like a drawer, so they are stackable and you can find the shoes you want! Love it.

Spied At The Shops...

2008-07-15T20:00:00.001+10:00

Wrap Dresses: If you’re looking for wrap dresses (everyone loves a good wrap dress), look out for the two printed versions offered by Sportscraft (grey on cream print) and Table Eight (Black on ivory print). Both can be found in DJ’s and are delightful. Each priced at $199.95 but Sportscraft currently have 20% off full priced merchandise in DJ’s.

We Love: The new knit military style cropped, long sleeved jacket in black with silver buttons, from French Connection. $149.00, in stores now. HOT with high waisted pants / skirt and your Dior Extreme inspired shoes from Wittner if you are under 50, and HOT left undone over a tailored dress for those over 50. So now that you know it suits every lady in your household, it should be easier to justify buying it!!!

Another One Bites The Dust...

2008-07-11T21:22:00.000+10:00

Sad news for our devoted La Voca fans…. I received word last week that the entire chain will be closing down soon. Difficult retail conditions have been cited as the reason. This is a pity as those of you that I’ve introduced to La Voca stores, will know that this was a value-for-money range that catered for a much more realistic body shape (bigger in the bust, with a bit of belly and hips).

There is a real gap in the market for such clothing, with most stores catering for a slim-ish size 14 / 16, or else catering for a real plus-size in the size 18+ category. There really isn’t much for a lady in her late 30’s – 50’s, who is hovering in the size 12 – 16 mark. We love Veronika Maine but it is more geared for corporate wear than weekend wear. If anyone has any ideas or suggestions, feel free to post a comment!

Meanwhile, run to your local La Voca store for a closing down bargain ….

Of Slaves and Salvation and Other Such Shoes...

2008-07-07T12:16:00.003+10:00

Last season at Wittner shoes was a bit ho-hum, but their new season collection is slowly trickling in and if what I saw over the weekend is a sample of what’s to come, then start saving your pocket money because it is FANTASTIC. Wittner is one of the few chain stores that produce quality, designer-inspired shoes, at a great price. Our picks of the season:

Salvation $149 and Slave $119 – gladiator sandals will be BIG this summer, and Wittner’s take on these sandals is bang on the money. Well made, expensive looking, on-trend and will give your summer outfits an edgy, “come and get me” feel. Salvation is the version that rises mid calf, and Slave to the ankle. Both are flat sandals, so choose the mid-calf version only if you have long legs, or else you’ll run the risk of looking a bit cut off. Both come in black and patent black. No prizes for guessing what this stylist chose… (always always patent…shiny is good!). No time to wait for the sales for these shoes - when we were in store 3 separate customers were all scrambling to try them on.

Vixen $169 – these are a fantastic take on Dior's "Extreme" shoes (black finished with tiny bronze studs), as worn religiously by Carrie in SATC movie - need we say more?? HOT (and you won't have to sell your house to afford it).

Veronique $169 – inspired by Dior’s latest range shoes (as worn religiously by Carrie in SATC movie). Available in pewter and black. Fantastic, dangerous and daringly sexy.

Dana $89 – this is a cute , patent quilted shoulder bag with fun Pucci inspired lining. Available in cream/black and all black, both are a charming take on the Chanel quilted bags at a fantastic price. Small bags dangling across your shoulder and resting at about hip height is the next new wave for bags, so nab yourself this bag and be ahead of the pack! (Warning: these bags are small-ish, so you will need to adopt a zen-like philosophy and clear your handbag of clutter to use this. Alternatively use the VIP Hangbag Inserts as reported in our blog last month).

New Shop Alerts

2008-07-04T19:31:00.005+10:00

Ojay, Veronika Maine and Witchery have all opened up stores on the corner of George and Market Streets in Sydney, across the road from Myer. OK, so they've been there for a couple of months now, but not many people know they are there so they still count as a new shop alert!

Rumour has it the retail space underneath Myer (where most of these shops used to or still do have a presence) will be refurbished, and that the new space on George Street is currently being redeveloped to include a whole new shopping, food and office precinct.

We love these new shops because they are (as yet) unknown, and thus carry more sizes and stock, and all have beautiful big new change rooms (very important for stress free shopping!).

Also, right next door is a brand spanking new Priceline... perfect for picking up a bottle of Garnier Ambre Solaire DIY spray tan - our favourite ever home spray tan solution - so you can buy a new dress and wear it with a gorgeous tan.

Pointy Shoes Are Coming BACK

2008-07-04T19:18:00.003+10:00

But when did they go out of style, I hear you ask. They did on the runways and in Vogue, in favour of chunky round toed shoes or the last 2 - 3 years.... however don't distress if you've been wearing your pointy toed shoes this whole time - they never left the shops or commercial fashion, and the round toed shoes didn't always suit everyone.

If you do have a closet full of round toed, Dior inspired shoes though, don't fret. There's still a good couple of seasons left where you'll see them around and can still wear them before you might consider retiring them in favour of your trusty stilettos again.

Need To Swap Handbags Quickly????

2008-06-20T23:54:00.007+10:00

You will LOVE this new discovery - the VIP (Very Intelligent Pocket) system of handbag inserts. Ever wondered how fashionistas manage to change their handbags all the time? Do you attribute that to the fact that they have loads and loads of time to do so?

Not so - what we do have, is a cheeky trick - a handbag insert. This insert is a PVC insert that is lightweight, waterproof and washable. With multiple pockets sewn in, you simply place all your wordly posessions in the insert and then when you need to change handbags, just pull out the insert (contents and all) and swap bags. You'll change bags in seconds and never forget a thing. I think it's brilliant.

In fact I love them we can order them for you directly for $49 including postage to an Australian address (RRP in some stores has been as high as $58). Email us at Smitten if you'd like to place an order.

Cheaper versions have started to enter the market too (although they don't have quite the same feel or functionality as the VIP inserts, they are still a very viable alternative.

SALES SALES SALES PART II

2008-06-20T14:29:00.003+10:00

The sales continue (hooray for our credit cards!). It's been a slow-ish year for retailers, so some real bargains are to be had. Today's specials include:

MIDAS - Firstly, they have an amazing range of shoes on sale (my favourites, a low heeled, almost flat, patent croc print black boots, reduced from $578 to $295. So Chanel, and yet so not-Chanel priced).

Secondly, they have a good range of clutch bags on sale too (and if you are a regular at my seminars or newsletters, you'll know that clutch bags are all the rage at present - my favourite, the black clutch with tortoiseshell clasp and coloured stones stiched on the front, reduced from $149 to $75. Buy it and pretend it is Marni).

Thirdly, their QVB, Sydney flagship store is closing down this Sunday (22 June 2008). They do not know if it will be refurbished or closed permanently, so watch this space. In the meantime, get your Midas fix in the CBD, from their Glasshouse store on Pitt St Mall.

SALE SALE SALE

2008-06-15T17:31:00.000+10:00

Sale time has come early to Sydney, so your new mantra should be BUY BUY BUY. With the torrid wind and rain of the past few weeks, David Jones and Myer are swarmed with women, all with husbands/boyfriends in tow, clutching brochures outlining the latest electronics and sheet sets on sale.

So, consider this your fashion brochure of the best picks from this sale season (outside of DJ's and Myer):

SHEIKE: Look out for their jewellery - they make all their jewellery in Paris, they are very on-trend and so cheap that my fashionista high heels are wobbly. My fave's: the chocolate brown round wooden earrings and big cream tear drop earrings. Also look out for the Lantana gold trench coat with short, detailed sleeves. Reduced to $119.00 from $199.00, it is an inspired take of the Escada version.

VERONIKA MAINE: Not only do VM have a new home on George Street (right across from Myer), but I struggled (in a good way) to find anything full-price!! Hooray!! There's still a good range of sizes, even in the smaller sizes (my fashionista chocolate-filled buttocks hate you, but hope you still find a bargain!)

WITCHERY: Witchery have some wonderful pieces on sale - lots and lots of pretty, satin camisoles, perfect for dressing up jeans, or wearing under a work jacket / cardi. For those of you who dare, there is also a terrific black sequinned loose top, reduced to $99. It is perfect over skinny black pants, with a little clutch and patent heels. It is part flapper, part Vegas, but in all the right ways.