SILK AND MONEY

KARL WHO?

2012-01-31T15:42:00.000-08:00

It's been a phenomenon built up relentlessly by the army of fashion followers around the globe, but not that it's finally here and causing a domino effect of hype, I thought it'd only be fitting to throw my two cents in regarding Karl's collection.

Curated by Chanel's creative director, Karl Lagerfeld, and possibly one of the most iconic men to have graced fashion and design, the collection was prompted by a lust for luxury that is otherwise inhibited by wealth. One article I read bluntly rendered the line one for "the great unwashed". What I'm trying to not-so-eloquently say, is that Karl's collection is one for us paupers; yearning for a sense of luxury, quality and exclusivity when expressing personal style, but who are also trying to scrape through student loans and university degrees unscathed by financial hinderances.

Do I think the collection has lived up to all the conjured dreams of women around the world? Yes, yes and yes.

Each piece visually embodies Karl Lagerfeld himself; minimalistic structure and monochromatic colour schemes dashed with a hint of metallic. Perhaps the stand out element of the collection is the masculine femininity (can such a term be coined?) with which the line is crafted. Collars, blazers and tailored pants teamed with models sporting Lagerfeld's statement trends: sleek hair, sunglasses and leather gloves.

First we had Versace x H&M and now Karl Lagerfeld x Net-A-Porter. Can luxury transcend the runway onto the high street without becoming an abismal trainwreck? I guess us great unwashed can only live in hope.

Images/Video credited to Fashionologie and Net-A-Porter TV

IRIS VAN HERPEN HAUTE COUTURE S/S 2012

2012-01-24T23:42:00.000-08:00

Allow me a moment to pause, catch my breath and recollect on the sheer wonderment that graced the catwalk during the Iris Van Herpen S/S 2012. As far as style stands, I am binded to the idea of effortless simplicity, mustered from chic, staple pieces. However once in a while, designers remind us that fashion is not merely the art of crafting and expressing one's sense of style. It's an art form. It comes from the inner musings of a designer's ability to translate dreams, imaginings and depictions of the ethereal into reality.

Combining industrial materials such as recycled plastic and hand-carved wood with innovative takes on the female silhouette, Van Herpen has created a paradoxical collection which in my own interpretation can be pinned as digital yet dreamlike. Ever-daring and whimsical, Van Herpen's show at the Mercedez-Benz fashion week in Berlin is awe inspiring. From structured ivory to molten metal lustres, the 3D inspired collection is bold in its choice of palette and structure. I'll leave you to froth...

(All images credited to Dazed Digital)

LOVE LOCKS

2011-12-29T09:00:00.000-08:00

Hair is the irremovable accessory to the way in which a person expresses themselves. I honestly believe that no matter what a woman is wearing, if her hair is devoid of love and pride, she carries herself somewhat less eloquently than a woman who looks after her tresses. After a few hideous haircuts and disastrous experiments with colour (black to blonde equals a garish orange), I have finally come to grips with the fact that as much as I love the idea of cropped locks and platinum blonde pixie cuts, my personality is complimented by long layers and silky chocolate tones. I've always been terrible at styling my hair because I'm an uncoordinated, fumbling mess and always end up with my hair caught in the hair dryer or burning myself on curling tongs. However lately, I've been experimenting with styling techniques whilst blow drying my hair and I've been picked up an idiot proof curling iron from my local salon that has made such a difference in my day-to-day life.

I'm incredibly inspired by hair; the tangible feeling of infinite confidence when someone walks out of a salon with a gorgeous head of hair speaks for itself. As for style, I am a die hard fan of bold locks - overstated, blow dried barrel curls, backcombed beehives and rollers. Take the time out to take care of your hair and you'll instantly feel better about yourself. Remain on trend but know what suits you - the currency of style transcends merely one key fashion statement. Personally, I'm inspired by The Olsen Twins and socialite Olivia Palmero...

Images:

Vogue Germany

Blogger

A Lover's Anthology

SEASONS GREETINGS

2011-12-26T19:45:00.000-08:00

I'm writing this post from the confines of my bedroom, tucked snugly in my bed, with the air con and Regina Spektor blasting, enjoying some festive overcast weather and slipping into a turkey-induced food coma. Slightly sad that Christmas is over and done with for another year, yet overjoyed with the goodies that I unwrapped from under my tree.

Chanel Mat Lumiere Foundation

Chanel Mat Lumiere Powder

YSL 'Arty' Ring in Green

Chanel Nail Polish in 'Peridot'

MAC Blush in 'Pinch O' Peach'

Flowerbomb by Viktor & Rolf

Enjoy the rest of this festive season, stay chic and sassy and all the best for 2012!

x

DEAR SANTA

2011-12-13T23:58:00.000-08:00

I'm a self-confessed sucker for tradition so it's only fitting that I revel in the magic of Christmas. The lustre of this festive season lies in the spirit of sharing and so it's with wistful reverence that I present to you a grandeur of gifts fit to transcend the notion of communicating messages to our loved ones that otherwise seem soppy without the incessant nudge of holiday cheer. Escaping the bedlam of the retail rush, online stores such as Molten Store, Nasty Gal, Frockshop.com, ASOS and Beginning Boutique have it all at the click of a button.

Diary: MOLTEN STORE

LAS Longhorn Skull Ring: MOLTEN STORE

Steve Madden Shazzam Platforms: Nasty Gal

Karen Walker Mini Skull studs: Beginning Boutique

Chanel nail polish: online or in store

Wishing you all the best this festive season! 11 days to go!

THE TEN COMMANDMENTS

2011-12-06T20:42:00.001-08:00

Firstly, I'd like to apologise for being missing in action these past few weeks. It's safe to say I've been incredibly busy delving into seasonal festivities and preparing for Christmas and NYE. After a few days and nights spent at the beach with my friends downing Southern Comforts and ginger ale, I'm feeling refreshed and inspired to present some carefully crafted gift ideas during this season of sharing.

Before then, I just thought I'd share with you The 10 Commandments of Fashion PR, which I found on one of my most religious (forgive the pun) reads, the dkny pr girl blog

Season's greetings!

GPV GOES FLUORO

2011-11-15T20:50:00.001-08:00

Fluorescent fashion brings on a wave of nausea for me, as heinous flashbacks of my fourteen-year-old self haunt me. Those were the days when my besties and I would collectively customise trashy, oversized singlets from Supre, (the Australian equivalent of Tammy, or one of those shops you'd never be caught dead walking into after the age of thirteen), to create matching outfits for a school disco.

However, fluoro is a trend that's caught my eye over the past couple of seasons, creeping back into fashion's good books with subtlety as its secret weapon. Gary Pepper Vintage is an e-boutique that snaps up style ruthlessly in an instant, so it's no surprise that their blog follows suit and makes me froth over seasonal trends during my coffee break.

Their latest spread pays homage to the most coveted blast from my wardrobe's past, but hallelujah, there are no leg warmers or sweat bands in lieu with fluoro's revival. Featuring the the most stunning citrus coloured tailored suit with a a structured lime green jacket slung over the shoulders, Gary Pepper Vintage has made realise that mistakes do deserve to inherit a second chance, because this is fucking (whatever, colourful language is all too appropriate here) phenomenal.

PURITY

2011-11-03T22:25:00.000-07:00

Angelic, immaculate and uh - daring? White palettes have become somewhat of a paradoxical statement floating graciously down the runway of almost every designer this season.

I say this because it's easy to inject oneself with the vivacity of colour, or slink into the chic of a strictly black mantra.

And yet, what about white? Where does it fit into the scale of chromatic camouflage? There's always that innocent sense of purity when opting for white. Think whimsical brides and Sunday schools.

Givenchy S/S 2012

Chloé S/S 2012

Chanel S/S 2012

Designers have really transformed the essence of neutrality in fashion this past few seasons. It's all about exquisite structure, minimalism and contrast. Plum coloured lips and smokey eyes against the crisp, clean glow of a white blouse.

Perfection.

Summer loving

2011-10-21T04:16:00.000-07:00

Winter has kindly fucked off for another year and after months of living in stockings and layers, I almost went into cardiac arrest at the sight of hairy caveman legs and fluorescent white body.

Not to fear though, I have swapped blankets and tv for sitting in the sun and reading and soy lattes with berry smoothies in preparation for summer.

With a new job in line, I'm hoping to make my summer 2011 wish list come to life, something which revolves around staple basics, mixing and matching; light fabrics that won't bring on a heinous bout of back sweat (oh yes, an unsightly occurrence frequent amongst Brisbanites.

My savings account might take a beating, but hey, it's never really considered my feelings anyway, so why should I?

I'm finally getting my hands on the YSL 'Arty' ring, which my mother has made blatantly obvious is my Christmas present for this year. I do love surprises but shit, I'm not complaining.

The Walter Mio ruched bandeau swimsuit by Norma Kamali. The price tag makes me want to curl up in a ball and cry a little bit, but whatever, I can live off of stale bread and cheese for a year, it's worth it.

I'm really impressed with Black Milk. It's a label that's churning out sweet little numbers that aren't mass manufactured in a range of fabrics that are heaven. This is the burned velvet maxi and it will be my accomplice for coffee dates and window shopping all summer long.

What's on your summer wish list?

ALEXA CHUNG

2011-10-06T03:48:00.000-07:00

Hnnnnnnnnnng, Alexa Chung. The mere name makes me weak at the knees and giddy like a love drunk school girl. She is perhaps one of the most impeccably moulded women in the world, in all of her long-limbed, dewy-eyed, porcelain magnificence. If she wore a bin bag to do her grocery shopping in, no doubt she'd be snapped up by Vogue as street style's elite.

I love her - but I also hate her! How dare she make me giggle with her sarcastic wit and gentle charm and drool over her mile long legs draped in the most exquisite garments from the globe's most coveted designers.

What's most enthralling about her sense of style is its eclecticism. She pulls so many different looks and owns them as a part of another richly intriguing facet of herself.

You could be turning the page of Harper's Bazaar to see her doused in Chanel with a price tag that would make you faint and yet, you can also imagine turning a corner in Camden town to see her ducking into a vintage hideaway. She makes herself relatable to the street and the elite and so encompasses every fibre of fashion as a concept and as a lifestyle.

For the love of God woman, can I just be you?

ADVANCED STYLE

2011-09-19T03:41:00.000-07:00

After my too much coffee and dwelling on amaaaaaazing beach times over the weekend, my wonderful friend JoJo posted a video link on my facebook page and instantly propelled my spirits into infinite happiness.

Advanced Style is a blog that captures the essence of style and age and reveals that some of the most well-dressed women we see on the street are also the oldest.

I don't know about you, but I often perpetuate the idea that with age invites succumbing to the inevitability of a drab and lifeless wardrobe, as one lusts over the colour of their youth. There is an inescapable fear of growing old and losing touch with the little pieces of ourselves that made us feel somewhat electric.

I watched one of the many short excerpt's that Ari Seth Cohen, the curator of Advanced Style, has put together to inspire both young and mature women to hold onto the vivacious sense of life that we can create through our own style consciousness.

So inspired by the fearlessness with which these women approach age. It's a testament to the way people's attitudes towards life are reflected in the way they dress themselves.

I'm going to keep my eyes peeled on the streets of Brisbane to see how many mature women are living by the mantra that style and grace defy the limits of age.

Thin it to win it

2011-08-13T05:25:00.000-07:00

Up until a few months ago, I was blissfully unaware about the concept of "thinspiration". I had a haunting inclination that friends who had suffered from eating disorders in the past had access to corners of the internet where they interacted with others suffering from anorexia or bulimia. In reality though, I've been oblivious to the horrifying world of pro-anorexia websites and blogs that aim to engrain in young women and even men for that matter, a mentality that thin is in and eating is cheating.

I'm infuriated. It's heartbreaking, it's despicable and it's terrifying. How can those recovering from eating disorders do so when the temptation to relapse into self-depravation of food is a mere mouse-click away? How aware are our governments that these websites are infiltrating pro-anorexia propaganda throughout cyberspace?

There needs to be legislation passed to ensure the removal and banning of thinspo sites, all across the globe.

I typed the phrase "thinspiration" into google and in 0.14 seconds, 1,590,000 results appeared before me.

"Real thinspiration - fat girls guide"
"Pro-thinspiration - pro ana tips to lose weight the right way"
"Thinspo: let me be empty and weightless and maybe i'll find some peace tonight"

These are 3 links out of millions available to readers anywhere around the world when they hit search.

(The text, images and quotes posted on these online publications are shocking, however I don't feel it necessary to post them here and further the scale of pro-ana influence).

I scrolled through a number of these websites and I honestly felt sick to my stomach. The faces behind these thinspo blogs are leading young women in particular down a path of death. These girls are literally dying to be thin. Although the mental health of the administrators running these websites may be hindered by eating disorders such as anorexia, their influence on young women around the world is going to be detrimental and should not be excused.

Countries such as France and the USA are now seeing to pass legislation that will ban the horror of pro-anorexia websites, something which has been supported endlessly by Italian Vogue. In an age where the media is often blamed for bombarding us with a falsehood of physical perfection, which to an extent it does, perhaps we forget that there is a whole other world, the interweb, where any human being, in any place, in any state of mind, is free to impose their view on anyone who is there to listen.

Of course eating disorders pre-date the birth of the internet and whether thinspiration exists or not, it's an illness that is going to plague young women especially until the end of time. However, if the scale of influence of reduced and the risk of relapse lessened, the push of pro-ana poison is one less evil which will cease to exist at the touch of a key.

Franca Sozzani: editor of Vogue Italia supporting ban on thinspo

I Heard They Eat Cigarettes

2011-07-27T00:29:00.000-07:00

I was ridiculously stoked and keen-as-beans to work with Melbourne label I Heard They Eat Cigarettes recently, as the fierce and fresh street label take on Asia to join their army of lace'n'leather ridden style junkies. I Heard They Eat Cigarettes is sex, lust and vivacity stitched into garments that are laid-back and cool; street style that isn't superfluous but always has a certain presence about it.

Founder and designer Chris Brooks, was telling me about how influence is transported from certain eras, reviving the best bits of retro street style - fuck yeah . The label's bloodline was born in the 70s skate & surf scene in California as well as British punk circa Sex Pistols - Hnnnng! Perhaps that's the most badass thing about I Heard They Eat Cigarettes, that it's born out of influence from an era of pervasive influence through art, music, film, and culture beyond comprehension. Substance: it's a fucking powerful trait to have been blessed with, don't you think?

Frothing over those black lace ankle boots until a magic money tree grows in my garden. What's your favourite piece?

Teenage trainwrecks & 90s throwbacks

2011-07-19T15:42:00.000-07:00

Fashion revival is a concept that you can never truly appreciate until you've lived in the era that is being reinvigorated through style icons of the day. Sure, I can gaze wistfully at pictures of Grace Kelly and Audrey Hepburn and lust after the life of a 1950s film star, but nostalgia is a magical feeling and it's creeping through my bones lately with the tragic teen revivalism of the 90s. Blogs like PANACHE and mollysoda's make me want to rollerblade back to a time filled with glitter, hair mascara and inflatable bubble backpacks. Think Gwen Stefani circa No Doubt's Tragic Kingdom and Angelina Jolie in Girl, Interrupted and you're there. Just when fashion starts taking itself a little too seriously comes a trend that lives by not giving a shit - hell yeah.

Images: Panache-halloweentown/mollysoda/Vivienne Westwood

Coveting crystals

2011-06-17T19:39:00.000-07:00

Many of you may follow the wonderful and talented Madeleine Jones at wekilledCOUTURE and saw her posts about the beautiful titanium aura crystal that she crafted into a ring during her silversmithing course. The crystal itself is absolutely amazing; spanning over three fingers, it catches light and changes colour, looking like solidified petrol in sunlight.

This is perhaps one of the most amazing pieces of jewellery that I've ever come across and in a few weeks, it will be sitting pretty as the trophy piece amongst my collectables. I'll definitely be wearing it out and about - it's too stunning not to want to show off to the world. Eeeeep!

Images: Madeleine Jones at wekilledCOUTURE.com

Dazed is the right word

2011-06-10T03:57:00.000-07:00

So the latest cover of Dazed & Confused just got released featuring Beyoncé dressed head to well, thigh, in Givenchy, dripping ice-cream down that oh-so expensive sleeve of hers. Yeah, I'm drooling.

Lustin'

2011-06-08T21:03:00.000-07:00

Unfortunately for my sanity, a morning ritual for me consists of the following: wake up, make tea, check emails, check blackberry, browse fashion online, lust over fashion online, curse my student salary for not being able to afford the clothes I have formed an unhealthy obsession over.

After hours and hours of begging, pleading and writing for a plethora of idyllic internships, I am waiting with bated breath until someone decides to pluck me from the pack of hopefuls and offers me my dream job AND a salary that exceeds my dismal pizza-girl-pay at present.

Anyway, enough rambling, I think it's about time I pieced together some of my most coveted items of clothing, all of which are entirely out of my reach. Sigh.

TIBI Pleat-front silk shorts, $200 Net-a-porter

Tailored silk shorts in peppermint? These need to become a permanent fixture on my pins. Perhaps by Spring I can save up and get my paws on these, I can just imagine wearing them now donned with a sheer cream blouse and my suede wedges.

ZIMMERMANN Conversation Leather Skirt, $525

Reduced from $750, I honestly don't think forking out for this beauty would be too extravagant. Black leather gives that timeless, statement-stamping edge to any outfit, yet this silhouette is so soft and feminine. This would definitely be a piece that would take pride of place in my wardrobe for years and years to come.

LOVER Classical Cape, $627

As I'm planning my overseas adventure to New York, Paris & London at the end of this year, delving deep into the heart of their winter, this would be the perfect investment to help me brave the wind, rain, sleet and snow, (whilst avoiding looking like a sack of potatoes under copious layers). I love that where there might be some sun you can show off this beautiful cashmere wonder simply draped over shoulders and under rainclouds can bury yourself in all of its toasty glory.

Having said that, local designer Alice Nightingale has a to-die-for camel wool cape that I might just snap up soon for my overseas trip. At only $120, I could literally kiss her feet for catering to my impoverished, student needs.

So, the next couple of months are going to entail a great deal of restriction with regard to nights out on the town, impulsive online purchases and taxi fares, in order for me to claim one of my desired wardrobe fantasies.

Which would you pick: the tailored silk peppermint shorts or the bold-as-hell leather Zimmerman skirt?

Julia deVille

2011-06-06T20:52:00.000-07:00

Combining the currency of style in edgy, modern pieces with the eerie-yet-fascinating macabre of taxidermy, Julia deVille is perhaps one of my favourite Australian jewellery makers.

Born and bred in New Zealand, deVille harbours a lust for afterlife in her collections, taking the bones and feathers of animals; the hair from human heads, to create intricately crafted pieces of jewellery that are breathtaking.

I revel in anything that draws inspiration from the 15th-19th century and deVille's use of taxidermy to revive pieces of Memento Mori is outstanding. Her work deviates from morbidity into symbols of nature, human existence, Elizabethan and Victorian culture and a fascination with the transition of life into death.

Only one stockist in Brisbane holds some of Julia deVille's jewellery and I think I'll have to take myself there one day this week, as I think each piece will only be more incredible in the flesh, (no pun intended).

Images: Australian Edge and Au Courant

Note: All animals used by Julia deVille were deceased through natural causes not for the sacrifice of art.

Mockingbird Fair

2011-06-01T07:17:00.000-07:00

Okay, so for a teeny-weeny project I was working on over the past couple of days for a very special name, I was asked to write a little something about Mockingbird Fair vintage. Let me tell you, it's not often that you're asked to write about something and dumbstruck with filled thumb-twiddling, word-tweaking and tediousness at mustering the passion to really believe in what you're saying. Let me tell you, I definitely did not feel such agony when writing about Mockingbird Fair. In fact, after spending an unhealthy amount of time drooling over the to-die-for vintage pieces on their online store, I think it's safe to say I am now a believer in love at first site. I have never seen such bangin' vintage clothes with such satisfying price tags. Heck, even a lowly pizza girl dreaming of a fashionable budget can afford these beauties.

Mockingbird Fair have everything from floral, ladylike print dresses, to sassy tailored shorts that any other high-street chain store would exploit for an extortionate price. Not all of the pieces are vintage, but they are rather exclusive and appear to be made exquisitely.

None of these pieces even come close to swooping over the $50 mark and for a fashion-hungry-yet-painfully-poor student, I think it's safe to say I've just found a new religion in Mockingbird Fair.

I am studying, studying, studying for Uni finals so I shall be posting less, so wish me luck and send a bit of love my way via a comment!

Good things come to those who tweet

2011-05-24T02:06:00.000-07:00

After a dismal weekend of a sluggish hangover from drinking a $5 bottle of rosé with my gorgeous friends and the drone of work, work work, I awoke Monday morning to something very exciting indeed.

Everyone who knows me seem to roll their eyes in jest at the frequent manner with which I check my Blackberry. It's routine, it's religious and when I wake up, it's the first thing I do as part of my post-coffee-don't-even-dare-try-and-talk-to-me-yet ritual that is woven into my being.

Well, you can imagine the squeal and the scarlet blush that flitted across my cheeks when I awoke Monday morning to find a tweet from a lovely lady at Peppermint Magazine in Brisbane...

@silkandmoney hi jessie, we found an old email from you at Peppy today. (Yeah we're working weekends). Like your style - email me! x tess

I gave the creative folk at Peppermint an email right away and I got a reply saying that the love my writing style and are potentially, possibily, hopefully, Oh-God-pretty-please-with-a-cherry-on-top looking to hire me as an intern!

Imagine that! I feel as though I am jinxing it by writing this post, but even the prospect is just amazing in itself. I am so sure that this is what I want to do with my future - and that's such a wonderful feeling! I hope they hire me, I will forever revel in euphoric bliss that my dreams are coming true so early in my career as a journalist.

If you haven't read Peppermint Magazine, you must. They're an eco-friendly fashion magazine based in Brisbane and if there's anything I love more than creative folk livening up this ghost town of a city, it's recycled fashion.

After my encounter with the lovely lass at Peppermint, I had a knock at the door and a jolly old postman stood with my box of Topshop goodies in hand. After two weeks of nail-biting anticipation, the beautiful, black leather heels I had been coveting were finally in my hot little hands nestled under a bed of tissue paper. I tried them on and they are a perfect fit. Cinderella, you shall go to the ball!

Here they are, sittin' pretty:

I can't wait to head out on Thursday night to don them with my faux-fur vintage jacket, that I have come to love so dearly during these chilly winter months...

Fingers crossed that all goes well with Peppermint, in the mean time I shall keep my nose buried in textbooks as I study for finals in a few weeks. Wish me luck!

Camera conundrums

2011-05-19T06:26:00.000-07:00

Lately I have found myself fiddling around with beautiful cameras as a result of Uni shenanigans. Time spent roaming around campus pretending to be a photojournalist has actually sparked a little bit of intrigue in me - I definitely want to be a writer, but wouldn't it be wonderful if I could portray the world through both?

To be terribly honest, I know little to nothing about cameras, however my best friend Lily has a Canon 550D that she might sell to me and who knows, from there I can seek out getting some lessons to sharpen my skills and if I love what I'm learning, I may be able to buy an even better camera! Hurrah!

Everything is so exciting at the moment, I can feel a tangible change coming. I am also so, incredibly close to gaining a journalism internship. Eep! Hoping for the best!

Lovecats

2011-04-22T04:17:00.000-07:00

I've been a terribly lazy blogger as of late, however that is because University exams have a rather intense stranglehold on all of my spare time. I'm incredibly glad to be off for mid-semester break; I have a little bit of time to reflect on the past few months, so much change in such minimal time.

Aside from turning eighteen (which by the way, is absolutely fucking wonderful), the most exciting thing that has happened to me over the past few weeks is this little guy:

His name is Edgar and he is the most precious ragdoll kitten in the world. I have become a full-fledged, crazy cat lady and I bear no shame; he is perfect!

Instead of going out again tonight, I decided to stay home with Edgar, who is currently nuzzling me, brew a big pot of tea and listen to a little of Deerhunter, a little bit of Emancipator. Life is slowing down for the moment and I'm content to simply enjoy it.

2011-03-30T00:01:00.000-07:00

Okay, okay, okay, so this is the second post I've made in a day that contains a selfie, but I guess my life is changing a lot with the seasons and it's reflected in the way I'm styling my clothing.

Lipstick is my absolute favourite cosmetic in the world; I think it makes any woman look a little more elegant than before (given she uses the right shade for her skin tone and doesn't look as though she's applied it whilst riding a rollercoaster!)

It's very rare that I leave the house without lipstick on and though I usually don a classic red lip, lately I've been reverting back to my obsession last year with deep purples. I usually hate MAC as a make-up brand, as their products are way too heavy for day-to-day wear on the skin, but their lipsticks are magnificent, I swear by them.

This shade is called Cyber and I managed to track it down in the City after being slapped across the face with the dreaded words, "I'm sorry! We've sold out", almost everywhere else. I love wearing a solid, purple lip colour against feminine accessories such as this beautifully delicate floral headpiece that my sister managed to hunt down. With anything else mildly eccentric in Brisbane, it's also rather amusing collecting all the bewildered stares you receive when you're out and about.

I'm hoping to get my hands on these beauties when I have a bit of spare cash to spend on my ridiculous obsession:

'Black Knight' cremesheen lipstick by MAC

Anna Sui's pastel purple lip colour

YSL "Provocative Pink"

What's your favourite brand/colour of lipstick or cosmetic?

Ink Lovin'

2011-03-09T19:45:00.000-08:00

I am deeply fond of the idea of self-expression through various means of body art, which for the past few years has rendered me lustfully awaiting the day I am able to get my first tattoo. I have eclectically conjured up images of the perfect design that will remain forever inked into my skin, yet no ideal seems as wistfully desirable as the work of French street-artist, Fafi; I use the word wistfully as I came to this conclusion at the age of fourteen and have been painfully waiting to have one of her quirky, vivacious, cartoon girls inked onto my wrist in full, vibrant colour ever since.

With little over a month until my eighteenth birthday, I have to gather my pennies and decide on a design - a tediously, heart-wrenching task when all of Fafi's creations are so wonderfully crafted with individual aesthetic. I have spent hour upon hour trawling through Fafi's archives and here are the lovely ladies which I may forever wear on my sleeve:

All images are Copyright to Fafi

(I've fallen in love with this piece; a more recent design of Fafi's based on Stanley Kubrick's A Clockwork Orange)

So here I find myself in quite a conundrum of indecisiveness. I know that I will be eternally content with one of these kooky characters inked on my wrist for the rest of my days, but the million dollar question remains: which shall I choose?

365 Days of Clutter

2011-01-23T02:11:00.000-08:00

Moleskine 12 Months Daily Planner

Technology: our friend and our foe. As much as I love the fact that I am able to compact the details of my day-to-day life into my Blackberry, it's completely void of the tactility you experience when putting pen to paper.

My journal and diary planner have become as much of a staple necessity inside my handbag as my purse, Blackberry, keys and red lipstick. I'm an incredibly disorganised girl by nature, and having a diary planner creates an element of structure to my life whilst still remaining personal. Choosing a diary to accompany me to Uni, work and coffee dates this year saw me agonising over a variety of styles and brands - who knew diaries could be the cause of personal anguish?

Classic, compact and chic, Moleskine always provide for the simple and androgynous. This is the diary I have opted for to serve me throughout survival during my first year of Uni. I have a creative mind and so when it comes to finding an outlet for organising my chaotic thoughts and so on, I relish simplicity - and that is everything this diary encompasses. $32.95

Swedish stationary company kikki.K always know how to make me yearn after their cutesy designs and delicate materials. This TWOTHOUSANDANDELEVEN paperback diary is perfect for those who are positively useless at remembering the important stuff. Though you may feel silly pasting in your next dentist appointment with the sheet of stickers provided at the back of the diary, there's a childlike element of creative freedom to this diary, something that makes jotting down points of significance less tedious for those expressional characters out there. $29.95

Ah, Frankie: you truly are a God amongst magazines. Though I haven't actually got my paws onto an actual copy of this beautifully crafted creation, Frankie's Daily Journal 2011 appears both feminine and a little bit eccentric, in true legacy of its sponsor. Frankie is a magazine that makes itself personable to women of all ages, interests and occupations, a quality that can be translated into this nifty daily journal. $24.95

Remember, a diary is something personal, so when you're selecting one to spend every day with you in your handbag or under your pillow for the rest of this year, choose the style that seems most personable.

Vintage shopping in Brisbane: The Good, The Bad and the Ridiculously Overpriced

2011-01-19T06:14:00.000-08:00

I'm an individual that has always beheld an innate sense of attraction to anything that is able to effectively tell a story, purely through the simplicity of its aesthetic. It's for that reason that I am a self-confessed preacher of the pre-loved: an op-shopaholic.

Over the past few years, Vintage shopping has surfaced as a major trend in the global fashion community, attracting a diverse and dynamic collection of young women who swear by this phenomenon. Fashion snobs dig the opportunity to cull out rare designer pieces and turn them into modern-day head turners; Creative souls seize the opportunity to don outfits that simple ooze eccentricity; and for the girls who are counting their pennies, op-shopping is an affordable way to remain at the heel of Seasonable fashion frenzies.

There are some rare gems in the market of Vintage shopping, tucked neatly away in various pockets of Brisbane. So many shop owners have a profound passion for pre-loved items and it truly comes across in their selection of Vintage clothing, bags, shoes and accessories. On the other hand, don't be fooled by those sneaky folk who put a commercial price tag on a secondhand find. There are so many worthwhile Vintage stores and Op-shops in our city, hiding in all kinds of weird and wonderful places:

Retro Metro: 34 Latrobe Terrace, Paddington

Sitting snugly in the centre of Brisbane's capital of Vintage shopping, Paddington's Retro Metro is one of my favourite pre-loved clothing nooks. There is nothing more enticing than a cool vibe and friendly atmosphere, and that is exactly what Retro Metro seems to embody. Their collection of Vintage clothing is incredibly diverse, high-quality and well managed - not to mention it's ironically fashion forward. Retro Metro holds everything from dresses, skirts, high-waisted shorts, hats, shoes, bags and belts; it's a one-stop Vintage shop with a knack for satisfying the demands of our fashion fixated youth. Retro Metro attaches a dignified range of price tags to its plethora of pre-loved goodies, so I've still got change in my coin purse for a cup of coffee and a slice of carrot cake at the end of it all!

Bayside Antique & Collectables Centre: 162 Bloomfield St. Cleveland

I first came to understand the concept of a "best kept secret" the moment that I discovered this little hidden piece of magic. Straying streets away from Cleveland's hub of alfresco coffee houses and questionable fashion boutiques, this antique shop is a rare goldmine for all Vintage shoppers. It's both incredibly well-crafted in its display of antiquities, yet completely void of any structure; it's layout is chaotic and that's part of its charm. What must have been a residential building in the past has become a treasure chest of Vintage gems. I bought a tan coloured, faux-fur jacket in perfect condition for $38 and in the past week managed to seek out an amazing French-tailored, navy blue cropped blazer with bow-detailing on the back for $7 - I know, I could barely believe it myself. In this instance, you're prompted to realise that as you draw nearer to the CBD, the cost of just about anything, including your Vintage antiquities, becomes extortionate. I never though I'd say this, but thank God for suburbia!

BOXVINTAGE Clothing: 29 Vulture St. West End

Photography: BOXVINTAGE

I love West End and if anything gives me an excuse to visit one of my favourite inner city pockets of Brisbane, it's to raid BOXVINTAGE. Though it may be a pretty obvious choice when it comes to shopping secondhand, this shop has marketing pre-loved clothing down to a fine art. BOXVINTAGE has successfully managed to pull the most amazing finds and sort them into definitive eras, style and sizes and create looks that would make mass manufacturers of fast fashion gulp in fear. Some of their clothing can be slightly overpriced, however they generally stock high quality garments and if I've learnt anything throughout the years of second-hand shopping, it's that quality costs money. BOXVINTAGE is fresh, fashionable and fiercely dedicated to providing Brisbane with well-crafted Vintage fashion at a steady cost.

There are so many hidden treasure troves when it comes to thrifting in Brisbane and whilst we're turning a blind eye to the harm that mass production causes our environment, there is a strangely exhilarating buzz when you're donning one-of-a kind pieces, selected by you, for you.

Grace Louise Photography

2011-01-12T07:59:00.000-08:00

Model: Irina Fuehrer

Model: Molly Smith

Model: (This is me, I am not a model; I am just a perpetually awkward girl!)

There is a disheartening sense of falsehood when it comes to our generation opting for career paths that yield the wonderment of creativity. There are too many young people who yearn for talent and success as photographers and graphic designers alike, yet lack the essential ingredient: passion. Grace Louise Photography is an individual initiative of my good friend and creative spirit, Grace Newnham, who has driven herself from humble beginnings to emerge as a young photographer with raw talent to succeed and an unfaltering sense of passion for her work.

Drawing inspiration from a vast array of sources, Grace is able to capture the delicateness of lace and frills, whilst conjuring an element of edge through pillows of cigarette smoke and sharp contrasts of colour; her portfolio is an impressive display of eclecticism.

As a young artist, Grace's prime motivation is to constantly learn, develop and grow as a photographer, an attribute that is really quite admirable. Indeed, it seems as though those that succeed in the creative industry are those that are able to meticulously strive for improvement, adapt to the inevitably of diversity within culture and essentially place their mind outside the realm of conventionality. If this is the case, Grace Louise Photography is definitely a forerunner for success within the Australian cultural sphere.

Click-through links to Grace Louise's Flickr are available via the images above and her work is also displayed for purchase on her website here.

Hello, this a generic welcome post

2010-12-02T16:06:00.000-08:00

SILK AND MONEY

When I was first introduced to the concept of blogging, I yielded the belief that such an idea would honour an army of pretentious douchebags infecting the internet with a series of self-indulgent maunderings. Indeed, I was correct. Over the years however, I have stumbled upon some truly amazing individuals that have used blogging as a way to unleash both their inspiration and their talent on the world - and I believe that this is a really great thing.

Journalist Mia Timpano and artist Mel Stringer are the personalities behind two of my favourite blogs that boast a combination of individuality, authenticity and inspiration; this is everything I wish for SILK AND MONEY to become.

SILK AND MONEY is a personal project of mine that aims to follow my progressive growth as a writer, whilst illuminating a myriad of creative talent in my local and global community.

I have great faith in this project, so stay tuned and wish me luck,

Jessie (Founder of SILK AND MONEY)