Khaki

Photos by Max Rowan

This is what I wore for my last day in Melbourne, which feels like many moons ago.

After somehow managing to go through everything in my suitcase (despite serious over packing), I opted for a few of my Melbourne shopping purchases.

After a jeans hiatus, which has been celebrated by all things trouser related (exhibit A), I was drawn back in by this pair of ACNE perfection. My quest for the 'perfect pair' of jeans is not unique by any means, so I'm sure some of you can understand the euphoria experienced upon trying on this second skin pair, featuring just the right ratio of high waisted to skinny leg. The fact that I scored my best fitting jeans to date on sale did not hurt either.

It was inevitable that I would venture into Topshop whilst in Melbourne and one of the first pieces that caught my eye was this comfy khaki knit. I love how you can dress this knit up with neutral collared shirts or keep it casual on its own. How would you wear khaki?

Jumper: Topshop (similar here)

Jeans: ACNE

Sneaker wedges: See by Chloe

Bag: See by Chloe

Sunglasses: Dragon Alliance

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Bang Bang!

(Images via farfetch.com, Shopbop and Sephora. Collage by Dark Blue Stripes)

3.1 Phillip Lim Bang Patchwork Cross Body Bag

3.1 Phillip Lim break-up 31 minute cosmetic bag

Marc Jacobs Daisy Pop Art Edition

I find that the little things in life are often the most inspiring. Those of you following my Instagram account may have noticed a morning dose of inspiration in the form of my favourite Lichtenstein mug.

My love for pop art infused fashion as a means of expressing one's personality and cultural influences is no secret, as shown through my previous purchases and pinning habits.

With designers such as 3.1 Phillip Lim and Marc Jacobs on board to convey this pop art trend through what we wear, carry and smell, it is clear that this art movement continues to hold significance in modern culture.

Here are a few of my favourite pop art inspired pieces of late. I adore how Philip Lim combined comic strip graphic patchwork with PVC to create a functional cosmetic case that would effortlessly double as a statement clutch. That cross body bag would be the perfect burst of energy paired with my latest ACNE purchase and a staple chic blouse.

Also loving the fact that my favourite scent has a uber cool pop art limited edition option. I cannot believe I did not know about this sooner! 

Are you a fan of the pop art fashion trend? How would you style these pieces?

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Dark Blue Stripes x Riders by Lee Giveaway (CLOSED)

Photos by Max Rowan

This weekend was the perfect combination of sun and relaxation. I spent a great couple of days perusing some blue metallic eye candy, soaking up some gorgeous Winter sun, and watching Marley, a documentary about Bob Marley's extraordinary life.

Lazy Sundays call for staple pieces such as black skinny jeans and colourful yet comfortable footwear.

What are your go to weekend pieces?

Shirt: PinClove

Jeans: Riders by Lee

Brogues: ASOS (similar here)

Bag: See by Chloe

Rings: Karen Walker

Sunglasses: Ray-ban

Giveaway time!

 

Riders by Lee have collaborated with Dark Blue Stripes to give TWO LUCKY READERS two pairs of jeans each.

That's right, two pairs each! The lucky winners can select one of the following options:

-  Two pairs of womens jeans

- One pair of womens jeans and one pair of mens jeans

To enter the giveaway simply:

1. Follow Riders by Lee on Facebook

2. Follow Dark Blue Stripes on Bloglovin' and like this post (all you need is an email address to sign up!)

3. Leave a comment on this blog post with your name and email address.

For extra entries:

Follow Dark Blue Stripes on Facebook and/or Twitter (please leave separate comments for each additional entry)

This giveaway is open internationally.

The giveaway closes on July 8th at 7pm. The winner will be announced on this blog,

Facebook and Twitter.

Good luck!

THE GIVEAWAY HAS NOW CLOSED. CONGRATULATIONS VALLON EVANS AND MAYBEL HUANG!

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Bluebird

(Images via Net-a-porter, Shopbop and Asos, collage by Dark Blue Stripes)

ACNE Amber glitter-finish PVC wallet

Maison Martin Margiela arm cuff set

O.P.I. 'Into the night' nail polish

Marni metallic leather pumps

This is the product of spending my Saturday evening lusting over pretty blue pieces of eye candy to combat the flu. My inner magpie appears to have taken over, resulting in a dream list of blue metallics.

Unfortunately for my shoe collection aspirations (fortunately for my bank account!) those amazing Marni pumps are no longer available in my size. However that amazing looking O.P.I. shade looks like a more sensible alternative to keep my blue metallic cravings at bay.

Are you a fan of the blue trend?

I hope you are all having a lovely weekend! 

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One

Photos by Max Rowan

Here is another Melbourne outfit post taken in between raindrops. Jumpers are my second skin during the cooler months and this adorable baby blue number is no exception. Pair this dreamy cable-knit with another staple denim shirt and prepster pleats and you have my go-to Winter uniform.

Today marks the first birthday of Dark Blue Stripes. Having the opportunity to share my personal style and fashion perspective with each of you, my lovely followers has been an absolute pleasure. I am incredibly grateful and humbled by your support and look forward to ringing in many more blog birthdays to come!

It wouldn't be a birthday without presents! Make sure to head over to my blog birthday giveaways page to win fabulous gifts such as a Carly Paiker ring (ends in a couple of hours!) and Faddoul vest. Watch this space for another giveaway to go live on the blog soon!

Jumper: TEXTILE Elizabeth and James  

Shirt: Topshop

Skirt: Lover

Tights: Topshop

Brogues: Minelli (similar here)

Bag: Sportsgirl

Rings: Karen Walker 

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Wang steps

Photos by Max Rowan

After a week of relaxation and escaping the Sydney rain I am back home from Melbourne, feeling refreshed and excited for the future. 

 I opted for comfortable layers on my first day in Melbourne for a spot of shopping and food appreciation in intimate graffiti covered lane ways. One of my favourite things about Winter (besides hot chocolates of course) is the ability to layer different pieces to achieve interesting, multi-dimensional looks. The contrasting texture of the perfectly worn in denim shirt paired with my new soft knit jumper felt like a natural combination.

This uber comfortable knit is in fact the first Wang addition to my wardrobe. Whilst it is not a pair of Ruby suede oxfords or a super cool golf bag (Wang wish list is in overdrive), it is a cosy knitted step in the Wang direction.

Have you entered the Carly Paiker and Faddoul giveaways yet? 

Jumper: T by Alexander Wang

Trousers: Zara

Shirt: Zara (similar here) 

Boots: Tony Bianco

Bag: See by Chloe

Rings: Karen Walker 

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Dark Blue Stripes x Faddoul Giveaway (CLOSED)

Photos by Max Rowan

I took advantage of Melbourne's sunny weather yesterday for a stroll along the Yarra River. This lovely vest from Faddoul provided just the right amount of warmth when layered with my signature stripes and staple black pants. These amazing silver capped beauties were comfortable enough to be worn all day and are definitely my new go to heels.

Top: Topshop (similar here)

Vest: Faddoul

Pants: Scanlan & Theodore

Heels: Topshop (similar here)

Cuffs: Benah

Sunglasses: Karen Walker

Bag: See by Chloe 

Wait there is more! 

With only one week to go until Dark Blue Stripes turns one I think another giveaway is in order!

Faddoul has collaborated with Dark Blue Stripes to give one lucky reader an amazing combat vest. This lovely piece made from luxurious mohair, wool and silk is perfect for layering. 

To enter the giveaway simply:

1. Like Faddoul on Facebook/ Follow Faddoul on Twitter

2. Like Dark Blue Stripes on Facebook/ Follow Dark Blue Stripes on Twitter 

3. Leave a comment on this post with your name, email address and answer to the question: 

 "What would you style back with your FADDOUL Combat Vest?"

Please note this giveaway is open to Australian residents only. Don't worry international readers there will be some giveaway love coming your way soon! 

The giveaway closes on June 27th at 7pm. The winner will be announced via the Dark Blue Stripes Facebook and Twitter pages.  

Good luck! 

THIS GIVEAWAY HAS NOW CLOSED. CONGRATULATIONS TO SHARDAY! 

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MBFWA: New Generation Two

To mark the end of my MBFWA 2012 coverage I bring to you my favourite looks from the New Generation Two show.

I must admit preferring the New Generation One show as a whole, however the second New Generation show definitely had a few standout looks.

LF Markey celebrated classic shapes with a 'minimalist preppy' collection, featuring playful prints that brought my mind back to childhood days spent drawing in the sand. 

Little Gracie celebrated romance and femininity with a collection of dreamy pastels and floral prints. I adore the vintage feel to the pieces, particularly the dreamy blue dress with ruffles in the second shot.  

In terms of accessories the killer white prism bag and embroidered neon platforms from Ash To Gold were definitely my favourites. 

That concludes my fashion week coverage. Which collection and/or look was your favourite? I would love to hear your thoughts via this post, Facebook or Twitter. You can view my MBFWA 2012 album here. 

Also there is only one week to go to enter the Carly Paiker giveaway! 

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Where the streets have no name

Photos by Max Rowan 

As you are reading this I am currently in Melbourne for a week of food, fashion and culture with the boyfriend. 

I wore this ensemble yesterday for a relaxed pub lunch and errand running in my neighbourhood. This outfit is pretty standard weekend attire due to its comfortable yet versatile feel. Pieces such as these polka dot ankle grazers are both interesting and comfortable enough for everyday wear. 

I hope you all enjoy the rest of the weekend! 

Also don't forget to enter the Carly Paiker giveaway here! 

Top: Topshop

Trousers: Topshop 

Jacket: Wish

Boots: Tony Bianco

Sunglasses: Dragon Alliance

Bag: See by Chloe

Rings: Karen Walker 

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