Open back stripes

Photos by Max Rowan

I love when everyday 'basics' have details that transform them into fantastic stand out pieces. This is exactly the case with the Staple The Label striped open back piece of perfection that I received from Beginning Boutique. I decided to style this great spin on nautical stripes with my go to 'happy skirt' and bow platform sandals that make me feel super tall. Nothing quite like a splash of yellow to brighten even the dullest of moods.

Top: Staple The Label via Beginning Boutique

Skirt: ASOS

Platform Sandals: ASOS

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Rebel without a cause

Model: Emma Norris @ Chic Model Management

Photography and Creative Direction: Kaycie Smith

Hair and Makeup: Desiree Wise @ Network Agency

Styling: Georgie Hilton

I love the grungy styling and setting for the MarketHQ February Lookbook 'Rebel Without A Cause'. My favourite pieces from the lookbook would have to be the Loverbird 'Crush On You' Dress and the Cameo 'Nomad' maxi skirt. It is no secret that I am a big fan of Loverbird for their amazing, affordably priced pieces as seen here and here.

What is your favourite piece from the lookbook? 

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Black textures

Photos by Max Rowan

It was only after looking in the mirror that I realised my completely unintentional all black ensemble. Due to apparent temporary colour blindness on Australia Day I seemed to believe that my lovely black polka dot maxi skirt was indeed a dark navy blue. Colour blindness aside I could not be happier with this monochromatic look. I particularly like the mixing of black textures. The combination of chiffon, jersey, lace and leather really does add layers to this monochromatic look.

To my fellow Australian readers out there I hope you had a lovely Australia Day. I had a great day going to the movies and having lunch with family where I got to eat the cutest, most delicious cupcakes ever. To see the sugary brilliance make sure to visit my Instagram (@darkbluestripes).

Top: Urban Outfitters

Skirt: American Apparel

Boots: ASOS

Belt: ASOS

Bag: American Apparel

Lipstick: MAC 'Ruby Woo'

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Roped in

Photos by Max Rowan

It is no secret that Gorman knows how to do a good print and this cute t-shirt is no exception. When I came across this piece of rope print perfection a couple of weeks ago I knew it had to be in my wardrobe. The fact that the t-shirt was on sale was an added bonus! 

This great alternative to nautical stripes was styled with my favourite black skirt and neutral accessories to achieve a preppy sailor look. If it weren't raining here in Sydney over the next few days this would be exactly the kind of outfit I would be wearing this Australia Day. 

To all my fellow Aussies out there I hope you have a lovely Australia Day!

T-shirt: Gorman

Skirt: American Apparel

Bag (worn without strap): ASOS

Boots: ASOS

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Practically black

Photos by Max Rowan

Considering that it is currently Summer here in Australia it is interesting to find that I have been subconsciously drawn to monochromatic pieces of late. This amazing striped skirt from Beginning Boutique is a perfect example of the 'effortless chic' effect that black and white combos achieve. Another amazing feature of this shade combo is the day to night versatility of black and white pieces when combined with the right shoes and accessories. 


I decided to style this striped staple piece with my second skin chelsea boots, wayfarers and monochrome clutch for a casual movie date in the city. While I love wearing colour, particularly during the warmer months it is always a good feeling to go back to great black and white pieces that achieve a calming state of equilibrium.

Top: Topshop

Skirt: Paper Heart via Beginning Boutique

Boots: ASOS

Bag (worn as clutch): Forever New 

Sunglasses: Ray-ban 

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Pinclove pop-up store

The lovely designer Hyejin.

Yesterday I had the pleasure of visiting the Pinclove pop-up store to have a look at the range and meet the designer behind the brand, Hyejin. I was very impressed with the use of colours and prints in a variety of well cut pieces. The blouses were particularly special with one piece catching my eye due to its pleated front detailing and adorable bow tie. All in all the perfect blouse that needed to be in my wardrobe and at only thirty dollars was an absolute steal. 

For those of you Sydney bound over the next five or so months make sure to check out the Pinclove pop-up store located at lumière, Lower Ground floor, 501 George Street Sydney. For the duration of the pop-store Pinclove is kindly offering all in store pieces at no more than forty dollars. 

If you cannot make the pop-up store don't worry as there is thirty percent off all items in the Pinclove online store with free shipping Australia wide until the 27th January 2012.  

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