Fashion Flocks

meow

2010-04-17T20:13:00.000-07:00

Still without a camera...

I am Jack's broken mind

2010-03-27T17:08:00.001-07:00

I can never stick to one thing for more than a month at a time.

They're sanitized

2010-02-01T02:30:00.000-08:00

What, don't you guys climb on furniture and snap headless photos when you have friends over?

Schools back tomorrow after 2 months of British TV, the tennis, sleeping in, parties, reading, shopping ETC ETC ETC Surprisingly I'm quite excited, after all the faster this year starts the faster it ends, and then I will be done with classrooms forever!

I don't care about clever I don't care about funny

2010-01-31T05:14:00.001-08:00

I just got back from a week long holiday in melbourne with a few friends. I went to the Big Day Out on tuesday (lily allen and girl talk were amazing) and unfortunately my camera got trampled and crushed to death in the mosh pit at Muse (but I did get to crowd surf out). Hopefully I'll be able to buy a new one in the next week or so, but school goes back on tuesday so I may not have time. Luckily I was able to salvage the memory card so I can upload the photos when I get around to borrowing my mum's camera.

I did heeeeeeeeeeaps of shopping in melbourne (I've finally discovered where the good charity stores are!). It was interesting to learn what I buy based on the weather- melbourne is notorious for it's four-season-in-a-day, and when it was overcast and chilly I bought cardigans and velvet, but when it was hot and sticky I was back to floaty patterned dresses. I can't wait for summer to end, I miss layering and I managed to get second degree sunburns on my back. I swear the sun hates me!

Here's a photo one of my friends snapped of me:

(yeah about the face.....I have no idea)

Oh and I almost forgot, I got my nose pierced! Stupidly I went to a less than reputable place, but it only cost $18, it seems to be healing fine and I absolutely LOVE it!

Beautiful touch, too soft

2010-01-26T10:00:00.002-08:00

Some possible DIY's-

Chains sewn on to hoody-

Fashion Toast

I LOVE this, Chanel paper bag-

Jak & Jil?

Back grid top-

Sea of Shoes

Blazer with lace sleeves-

Bleach Black

Denim jacket with leather sleeves-

Alexander Wang

Rope Dress-

Not entirely sure, maybe topshop unique?

I made my own version of this Alexander wang jumper a few months ago, I'll have to do a post on it soon.

walk all over you

2010-01-24T23:30:00.000-08:00

Alexander Wank via The Selby

DROOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOL!!!

Fault

2010-01-20T03:09:00.000-08:00

^Extremely happy the Australian Open has started for another year.

Look!!! Shoes!!! AND a bag!!! I think I'm getting the hang of deciding on these two items with more than 5 seconds to go before I have to walk out the door.

I've been a fan of glomesh for a couple of years now, so I had to snap this bag up as soon as I saw it at an op shop for 2 bucks, even though it has a bit of obvious wear and tear. I just love the snake-skin sensation when I run my hand over it, not to mention the old-hollywood glamour.

... Except I didn't think that leather boots were entirely practical for 30+ degree C weather..... So I swapped for my favourite flowery granny shoes. (And yes I like to sniff feathers- what of it?)

I got these for $3 from a charity store close to my home. They have everything you could possibly want in an "ugly" shoe- 1cm thick foam sole, curtain-y floral fabric and a fake leather sling-back. Oh and a rope tie. Amazing. Although I don't think all my friends agree...

On the bus to town today:

Little kid with rat tail- *looks at me* "whisper, whisper, whisper (to mum)" *looks at me with disdainful expression*

Little kid with rat tail's mother- YA CAN'T NOT LIKE SOMEONE COS OF THEIR CLOTHES!

Me- *Death stare the little kid with rat tail*

At this point I wish I'd started mumbling incoherently to myself while slowly rocking back and forward, just to appear even more inviting to this young child.

Oh well he was wearing a 50 cent cap. It's to be expected.

A very saintly Liam Gallager in the background. Oasis may have disbanded, but to me they will always be number one.

Pure shores

2010-01-19T03:51:00.000-08:00

Today I downloaded Picasa, a photo editing program, so hopefully from now on the photos on my blog will slightly less crap. I've been playing around with it all day, it's so fun and easy to use and manages to repair some of the hopelessness in the pictures my camera takes. Speaking of which, my friend is selling me her (practically brand new) camera for a dirt cheap price, so in a few weeks I should be able to start taking better pictures. Although then I won't have an excuse for why I manage to look terrible in photos (I stopped being photogenic at around 5, unfortunately).

I've almost recovered from the whole wisdom teeth ordeal (numbness-pain-painkillers-sleepy-giant face-no food equaled a very grumpy elly) but I still have a bruise on the side of my face that looks like I've been decorating myself with yellow highlighter. Thought it would be best to cover it up. Also I really should start wearing shoes in my outfit pictures, but I don't normally throw them on until I'm madly running out the door, forever late.

The denim thingy is an old pair of jeans I cut up to create a rather large belt. I've always been a massive belt person (my towel rack is dedicated to their storage) so im fairly proud I managed to put three on today.

I've been reading Penguin Classics all holidays (10 bucks!), and the one covering my face is The Beach by Alex Garland, which I've just finished. I really enjoyed it-although the spectacularly gory scene towards the end was very unexpected-but I felt as though there could have been at least another two hundred pages to it. Surprisingly I didn't find the movie version to be a total let down, like most page to screen adaptations are. The added romance certainly added a stronger touch of (slightly unecessary) hollywood to it, however.

It feels gooooooooooooooooood to be back on my feet :)

Puffed up and bruised

2010-01-12T18:59:00.001-08:00

I got my wisdom teeth out yesterday, which means I am confined to my couch for the next week due to my hilarious bruised chipmunk face.

I put this outfit together a few days ago after watching Sid & Nancy. To be honest I wasn't terribly blown away by the movie, I though the script was poorly written, and I'm sorry but Nancy's voice almost drove me to tears it was so whyyynnnnnneeeeey! What I did love about the movie, however, was the clothes! I've always had a rather large soft, squishy spot for punk, so I adored the leapord print mini's, ripped fishnets, leather everything, messy/shaved/died hair, stilettos and combat boots, piercings, dark red lips and ripped jackets.

I didn't want the outfit to be too costumey, as I've never really been a fan of being a part of a sub culture, but I think I kinda failed.

Tried it on with some jackets, because I thought this would work better in winter; firstly my mums old leather biker jacket, and then my dads old black denim jacket.

For fashion at school last session, we had to print three fabrics based around a sub culture (I chose punk), and this is my favourite:

I think this year I want to get further away from the hippy clothes I wore a lot of last year (although I'll never give up my florals!) and dress a little more punk. Although after seeing the fantastic clothes in Sherlock Holmes I'd also like to dress a little more masculine, although my generous hips may make that a bit tricky.

First time for everything

2010-01-08T01:26:00.000-08:00

Today I put into action one of my main goals for the year ahead, which is to tone up and get fit. I went to a place I thought I had confined to only my most horrific of nightmares........... The gym! Considering that last time I visited one (at least two years ago) I managed to fall off a stationary bike and ended up with a bruise the size of my hand on my calf, I though this was quite brave of me. Anyway I ended up having a great time, I think I finally get what all the middle-aged-women magazines mean when they go on about endorphins, even though I left dripping with sweat, red as a tomato and incredibly stinky (my dad insisted on covering the car seat with a towel and discreetly wound down his window). Anyway the reason as to why this has some sort of relevance to my fashion blog, is that my gym membership has created a big problem. GYM CLOTHES! I did a post on this about a year ago, but I am still clueless when it comes to how to make running shorts, singlets and sneakers look at all stylish. Maybe I should dress like this:

so my clothes can take the attention away from my poor running/cycling/rowing/anything physical skills. Ok maybe not. Anyone got any suggestions?

Before I braved the gym I headed out to coffee (well, strawberry milkshake) with my friend, and ended up having to lug bags of groceries the never ending (10 min) walk home, while wearing this:

But tragedy struck just before I walked out the door:

My *fake* pearls broke!!!!!! Hopefully I can re-thread them, this is definitely one of my favourite necklaces.

Seen it in my past, back at home

2010-01-05T23:18:00.000-08:00

I don't think I am terribly happy with this blog at the moment. It seems I'm not quite able to get the thoughts in my head typd down onto the page without them going through a filter that makes them completely stiff and boring. I've been going back and reading previous posts and my writing feels so jilted, and I really want to try and change that. Ever since I first learnt to write at 5 years old, I've loved the written word, and I think this blog is the perfect place to improve both what I wear and how I write. I only have one year left of school and I know that when I finish, whatever I do it will definitely be focused around writing, hopefully fashion journalism. I also realise the quality of my photos are completely crap, but this blog is meant to be about fashion, not photography as I don't have a very great interest in the latter as a skill. I mean I love other peoples' photos, but it's not a skill I have a greater interest in developing. I live in a tiny fourth floor apartment with no pretty garden to shoot in, my camera is years old and a bit shit, and I have no tripod. To be honest I don't have the money to change any of those things, and I'm far too shy to get someone else to take my picture.

So now instead of whingeing I'm going to put in action what I'm always telling myself to do, talk about the future not the past. I really want 2010 to be a fresh start. Although in 2009 I did swap to a school I absolutely adore showing upto every morning, and I made a whole lot of brand new friends who I know I'll be in contact with for life, there were also a lot of lows. So, once again, 2010: a fresh start. I want this blog to have pictures of my outfits, pictures of inspiration that describe more fluently what is consuming my mind at that moment, and more posts on fashion and the arts (mostly music, I'm not even going to pretend I know anything about visual art). I am extremely happy with the way my style has developed this year, I've let go of a lot of shyness when it comes to outfits I wear, and I take a lot more risks and worry a lot less about what others think. By no means at all do I think my style is “perfect” or anything of the sort, so this year I want to be able to develop it more, become more fearless and remove myself even further away from trends. I'd like to document all of that on this blog. This blog is about moving forwards and documenting the changes, and if anyone else happens to enjoy it, even better.

Ok enough of the rant, here's an outfit:

I bought this green velvet top second hand with the intentions of using the fabric to create something new, but now I think I might just leave it the way it is. I bought this black skirt last week, and I have a feeling this is the first of many slightly-too-short-to-wear-as-dress tops it will be worn under.

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!

You are a shining star

2009-12-19T03:15:00.000-08:00

I'm leaving to go stay with my sister in the blue mountains tomorrow and won't be back until after boxing day, so merry christmas everyone! (or should i say seasons greetings, I'm not even religious myself).

I think everyone should go out (or online) and buy themselves a present from the kate moss for topshop christmas collection, I know I certainly feel as though I deserve it after this long year. I am so desperate for this dress, and kate looks like the ultimate sexy-sultry-bardot in those fishnets and bouffant hair (yes I'm not afraid to admit I have a ginormous girl-crush on her, but who doesn't?).

xxxx thankyou for reading

pursuit of happiness

2009-12-18T01:52:00.000-08:00

Grumpy punks, bright lights, bare skin, shakespeare and playing pretend. My style has been such a hodge podge of ideas lately which is mirrored in my current inspirations...

I know that she knows that we know

2009-12-16T04:06:00.000-08:00

I had an incredibly productive day today.....

Baked my friend a cake for her birthday tomorrow
Booked my flights for melbourne in january
Booked my test to get my learners licence
Bought a new skirt, top and slip
Rang my sister to plan my week with her next week
Joined a gym
Went for a run
Read part of The Picture of Dorian Gray
Watched Dr Phil (well maybe that one wasn't terribly productive)

I'm normally such an unorganised person, it feels great to have got so much done in one day! Now all I've got to do is christmas shopping, pack for my sister's, christmas cards, say bye to friends....AHHHH THE LIST GOES ON!

A Day by the Lake

2009-12-15T00:58:00.000-08:00

One of my best friends left for a two month holiday to the states on the weekend, so we had a farewell picnic by the lake on friday. It was one of those rare, lovely summer days where it's sunny and warm but not sweltering hot, and minus the ten minutes where we were attacked by a hungry group of magpies, it was a very enjoyable goodbye to a friend. Highlights would have to be taking stalker pictures of runners (tip- pretend to be taking a photo of a friend, but really zoom in over their shoulder), irritating other picnicers by singing obnoxiously loud to ipod speakers and eating the choccy cake I iced to look like the american flag (including an accurate amount of white dots for stars).

Yummy!

Leave us alone stupid birds...

My friend chasing swans in the grossest murky water ( 2 dead bodies were found there over the last week)

This was a guys T-shirt with a gross logo that I cut off and then sewed on the lace. I turned it around (for a bit of modesty), but I'm annoyed it's not quite long enough to wear as a dress.

I don't mind my incredibly white skin when it means I get to wear gorgeous sunhats.

I wish

2009-12-13T00:57:00.000-08:00

When I saw this post on the amazing blog The Stylish Wanderer, I instantly fell in love with the chorduroy high-waisted trousers. A million fantasies of how I would live in these for the whole of winter next year ran through my mind, before I noted the brand: H&M. Unfortunately I can't buy them in Australia OR online.

Australia has gone mental with the opening of a topman/topshop in Sydney (hopefully H&M will follow suit), and if I could I would love to drive there immediately and buy these:

:
or this dress, which would be perfect for the awkward in-between weather which we seem to experience for months:

and I'm pretty sure these shoes speak for themselves:

The only problem is, it's all so incredibly EXPENSIVE!!! I've become so accustomed to spending no more than $10 per an item of clothing, that 50 pounds for a dress (which is almost tripled when converted to AUD) seems completely ludicrous to me.

Oh well hopefully one day I'll no longer be a dirt poor student.

slap in the face

2009-12-09T02:41:00.001-08:00

Does anyone else get that feeling after a week of holidays where you do nothing but sit on the couch watching horrendous made for TV movies, that you kinda-sorta-wish you were back at school? I really have to escape to the coast BEFORE I GO CRAAAAZZZYYYYY!

Well that is a semi-lie, as I have managed to leave my house a few times, but only to hang out at friends and visit all shops in walking distance of my apartment (which really isn't very many). Today I went to a salvos and picked up $30 worth of goods. The annoying thing is, it's all either black, velvet, long, heavy or all of the above. I am much more of an autumn/winter person than summer, and because most of the blogs/magazines I read are all heading into winter, I can't help but buy ridiculously impractical clothing. Ahhh well, at least I'll be set for next year.

When I get dressed in the morning, I often will change a bunch of the items before I walk out of the door, and today this felt a little too bleak considering the sunny skies.

Oh god aren't I photogenic?

angelique

2009-12-08T04:05:00.000-08:00

After seeing this I'm desperate for a long tulle skirt. The long blonde hair and skirt make her look angelic, but in a badass-in-the-back-row way due to the combats and blazer. The fact that she gets to cuddle Jethro Cave really doesn't help my jealousy.

trash is treasure

2009-12-05T02:29:00.000-08:00

I wore this outfit out to dinner last night with a friend:

(my extremely unphotogenic face really does not appreciate the flash)

I picked this dress up from an op shop in sydney a few months ago, I'm not quite sure if it's meant to be a nighty or a dress, but I don't really mind as I like it so much.

I would definitely call myself a creature of comfort, and I find theres always certain outfits or items of jewellery I always turn to. This necklace is probably the most worn item in my wardrobe. My mum gave me the locket about five years ago, and since then many different items have been added and subsequently lost, from coke caps to rings. This is what is currently adorning the chain (sorry about the poor quality pictures, my camera really isn't very good):

A locket containing a picture of my mum and dad

A dog tag for "Jamin" that I found in a park near where I live

A cat tag for "Frederik" that I found at my school

And a little key chain with some numbers, but I can't for the life of me remember where I found it.

I really should get the clasp fixed.

starry night

2009-12-04T03:07:00.000-08:00

I normally detest chain-store rip offs of designer clothing, as it ends up looking tacky, cheap and entirely unoriginal. These people seem to think that because they change the design 10% from the original, they have created a trendy, high-fashion item that they can then slap a ridiculously high price on considering the poor quality fabrics and workmanship. Despite this, for my fashion project at school last session I decided to knit a pair of those Rodarte tights (you know the ones I'm talking about). I decided that as I am not making a profit off the tights, and we were being marked on construction not design, it was perfectly fine to make them, and I am so happy as I am head-over-heels in love with them! Such a shame it's summer down under :( Here I've styled the tights in four different ways, to give myself ideas on how and where to wear them.

First up is a spring, monet-inspired outfit:

I have a soft spot for floral dresses (in case you hadn't noticed), and like most of the ones in my wardrobe, this one began it's life as a floor length, size 32482348 granny dress. I love the soft blues of the dress and tights together.

Secondly, a more formal take on the tights:

With this outfit I like how the tights become the main focus (sorry about the hemline, must've rode up a bit between clicking the camera button and frantically tottering over to the wall).

Next I've tried to dress the tights up to look more punky

This is my favourite of the lot, probably because I am obsessed with everything punk (I LOVE YOU VIVIENNE). If I was wearing this outfit out I would accessorise it a bit more, probably with a cuff, silver bangle and some silver chains.

Finally:

This outfit is pretty different from what I normally wear, as I don't really colour-block like this, but I do like the idea of wearing the two knitted pieces together.

I'd still like to experiment layering these tights with other opaque/patterned/coloured tights, but I might save that for next winter.

you're not as brave as you were at the start

2009-12-01T19:03:00.000-08:00

Today I've had one of those typical, relaxing summer day of staying at home on my couch catching up on some dr phil and Oprah. Not to mention indulging in vast amounts of homemade blueberry muffins. So here is an outfit I wore sometime last week:

I added the purple flower while running out the door to match the shoes (blame my kinda-obsesssive-compulsive-but-not-really-ness)

A couple of months ago I trailed practically every clothing store in my town in search of a pair of floral leggings, with no results. So when I discovered these on a mannequin in a melbourne store window I practically sprinted inside, let out a squeal of delight after locating them on a rack, and then slunk off to the changeroom after noticing the strange looks directed my way by the cool indie, 20 something shop assistant.

The students at my school are pretty relaxed when it comes to clothing, as everyone pretty much just wears what they want. Although floral leggings are everywhere in Europe and the States, us Australians are a little slower to catch on to trends. So when I wore these to school I was delighted with the numerous compliments, but also taken aback by the strange looks, and in some cases, rude comments. If it were up to me everyone would wear things like this to school:

But unfortunately I don't have a spare tens of thousands of dollars lyeing around for Dior, McQueen and Rodarte :( Hopefully one day....

She'll go for ya little brother

2009-11-30T22:37:00.000-08:00

I am officially on 2 months of summer holiday as of last friday. But I reckon after the two most stressful weeks of assessment I definitely deserve it. It's weird to think that after twelve years of school, this time next year I will have finished, and hopefully be on a plane heading overseas. For the past few days I've been making endless promises with myself to do better at school next year, but fingers crossed they come true this time.

I'm going through a big oversized shirt phase at the moment, and my friend bought me this top yesterday from a garage sale as she knows I adore anything spotty. I wore it with my mums old belt and silk camisole, Ally shorts, socks from Myer and........

MY COMBAT BOOTS! I found these in an amazing vintage store called lost and found on a recent trip to melbourne for only $50, and they are easily my favourite item of footwear. With heavy steel caps and heels wearing them for half a day gives my leg a crazy workout, making it easy for me to justify a mars bar or two.

Today I went op-shopping with the friend that gave me the shirt for materials to make some pieces together.

This sparkly purple jacket was definitely the find of the day, and although it's not really my style, the thought of chopping it up does sadden me slightly.

These pictures really don't do the vibrancy of the purple and it's sparkliness (invented word?) justice. I also picked up a few things for myself, I've always found it impossible to exit an op shop with an empty bag.

odd angles

2009-10-17T02:41:00.000-07:00

My long lost twin/mother?

Born Slippy

2009-10-14T05:01:00.000-07:00

It's been far too long

Going in for the kill

2009-08-18T03:47:00.000-07:00

Life has been craaazy lately, so the blog has been slightly neglected. I've been spending time with friends from overseas, who left on the weekend.

Here is me and my friend in the middle of a game of slaps, which is pretty much where you stand on each others feet and try slap eachother. It's much more fun than it sounds.

(I'm obviously winning)

The weather has warmed up considerably in the past few weeks, so I thought I'd celebrate with my favourite print: florals!

.....and by customizing some shoes I never wear:

$3 for an almost new pair of shoes, not bad.

Be Mine?

2009-07-25T02:45:00.001-07:00

Russh march/april 2009

I love Russh

I love his dad

I love boys in girls clothing

I love Jethro Cave

Do you believe that there's treasures in the ocean

2009-07-23T03:52:00.000-07:00

I love rainy days....

I've always been drawn to the colour blue, and I think this has to be my favourite shade. When I thrifted this dress it was floor length and HIDEOUS, although I think I may have cut it a bit short.

These boots from zu are great for stomping in puddles, and my felt hat kept my head nice and toasty all day.

xx

Seventeen Candles

2009-07-22T00:27:00.000-07:00

1 lighter + A pitch black bathroom = some slightly emo, blurry pictures-obnoxious teenager

Om nom nom...

PRESENTS!

Left to Right

A Crucible of Creative Fashion Talent by Barbara Permezel: Mum found this in a second hand book store, it documents the Australian Gown of the year from 1953-1993. Each year has a gorgeous sketch of the winning gown and a page discussing the dress and the competition that year.
Let yourself sew: This is a magazine from the early 70s on teenage DIY fashion given to my mum by my granma. She found it at my grandparents place last weekend, and knew Id love it.

Australian Memories in black and white, Fashion: The title pretty much says it all, gorgeous black and white pictures of vintage fashion and their relevance to Australia. The pics from the 60s are insane!

Vogue Fashion: Starts with a description of Vogue throughout the decades, and then goes onto an encyclopedia of fashion labels. The descriptions aren't anything special, as they are so short, but the pictures are amazing.

I'm obsessed with tea! On average I drink about five cups a day, and we are slowly building a collection of gorgeous tea cups and saucers.

Breakfast at Tiffany's has been my favourite movie forever (although I did adore the little mermaid as a child... *cough* did *cough*), so I was ecstatic when I was given this gorgeous box adorned with art nouveau images from the broadway musical.

But best of all.......................

My dressmaker's dummies!!!!! I have wanted one for about two years now, but as they retail for $250+, I didn't think I would ever get one, let alone two! A few weeks ago mum was looking through the classifieds when she found one for less than a hundred dollars. Surprisingly she managed to keep it a secret! Anyway, last weekend she got a call from my grandparents saying they were at a friends garage sale and had spotted one for $20, who could resist that?

Finally some veeery dodgy outfit shots:

Thanks for the sweet birthay wishes!
xx

Edge of seventeen

2009-07-20T01:54:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow is my seventeenth birthday, so this is the last few hours I will spend as a sixteen year-old. I never get terribly excited over birthdays, as I find it horribly awkward opening presents in front of others, and I hate the fake happy reactions that are necessary when receiving an undesired present. I know that makes me sounds like a spoilt little brat, but I've never been one for loads of attention.

I am however looking forward to a new birthday year. As it falls around the middle of the year, I find it useful to make some resolutions to last me until 2010. Here's a few:

1. Worry less about other people's opinions, and do/say/wear what I want.
2. Spend less time on the computer and in front of the TV, and more time reading, sewing and schoolwork (it has just hit me that I only have 18 months left).
3. Eat healthy and excercise, rather than diet and feel down.
4. Spend less time stressing and more time daydreaming!
I started the day wearing this:

But I changed the top in the afternoon to this:

(HAHA POSE HAHA)

yay yay clashing prints yay

Does anyone else change outfits throughout the day? and I don't just mean for an event at night etc, but sometimes I'll get bored of something, or be desperate to try two different looks with the same item of clothing that I can't wait a few days or weeks to try it out.

Goodbye sixteen! You've been good to me, but lets hope it only gets better.

Ripped to shreds

2009-07-16T22:32:00.000-07:00

Sometimes it's nice to pare down the layers...

I thought my purple kitchen cabinets went nicely with the skirt.

A few of my friends were horrified with my see through cardy, but I don't think there's anything wrong with showing some skin, it's not like this is an overtly sexual outfit. That being said, I don't think I would wear this outfit to school, although my college is extremely relaxed when it comes to clothes (no uniform whatsoever!), I don't think they would appreciate a visible bra.

When I found this skirt at a local thrift store, it was about a size 20 and floor length, but I fell in love with the material. I know that purple is supposed to be the least wearable colour, but for some reason I am always draw to it. I often buy second hand clothes from the plus size section, as there is much more room for error when it comes to altering, and it's always nice having left over material!

P.S. I'm going away for a few days for my baby cousin's christening, but I'm working on a big Vivienne Westwood post. She is hands down my favourite designer, and the reason why I fell in love with fashion.

I like to pretend it's not winter. Even though I love winter...

2009-07-16T03:44:00.000-07:00

This singlet/dress is from Alice Springs (where I was born) in the Northern Territory. This outfit was MUCH too cold to wear outside, so I added some cream tights under the leggings and socks and grey jacket.

Also wearing DIY leggings, socks from Myer and bangle???

So what if I like to muck around on our torn and battered couch?

These pictures really don't do justice to the colours, they are much more vibrant in real life. We left Alice Springs when I was only a few months old, and I haven't been back since. I can't wait to go and visit it one day and see all the places that my parents talk about. They tell me it's like being in a different country, the culture and landscape is so different. I'd love to go if only for clothing like this!

A mildly new hair style and some new favourite clothes

2009-07-15T02:15:00.000-07:00

I'm the type of person that gets bored quite easily, so I need to change my hair every few months. I'm not quite brave enough to chop it all off, although I'd love a pixie crop. I really like Alice Dellal's hair style, but as I have very fine hair and quite a small head, I think shaving one side would be a big mistake. Instead I've done a very low side part, flipped the hair over and pinned the other side right back.

I'm also trying to grow my fringe out, as I really don't want the boring, side fringe style.

I showed off my new hairstyle last night:

My mum's friend gave me this dress about 6 years ago to wear at her new years eve cocktail party. It has sat in a drawer since, but now I'm wondering why have I not been wearing this more?!?!?! I love the 80's bodycon, and gorgeous pink flower print. Mum gave me these cool geometric tights when she decided they were too young for her.

I found this coat in a charity store last monday, and it is definately one of my best second hand buys to date. It's 75% wool, a perfect size ten, made in Turkey and .....wait for it...... only 12 bucks!!!!!

I think this outfit would have looked better with a black blazer, but I'm yet to find the "perfect" one.

and wash it away down the kitchen sink

2009-07-12T03:03:00.001-07:00

I bought this dress from the Glebe markets in Sydney a few months ago. I hemmed it (about a metre) and took it in, and I'm ecstatic with the result. There is something so refreshing about wearing pretty summery dresses in the dead of winter, I get so tired of seeing everyone wearing nothing but black layerd over black layered over black (maybe with a touch of grey).

I love market shopping for so many different reasons. The up-beat atmosphere, the range of people; from tiny babys in prams to uni students and eccentric old women, the vast quantities of food from all across the globe... But most of all I love the clothes! Never knowing what amazing (dirt cheap) second hand finds will be on offer, and knowing that none of my freinds will have the same item. It's always fun to have a chat to the store owner and find out why they are selling the contents of their wardrobe, or where they have collected their vintage collections from. My favourite buys would have to be the dresses (absolutely no way I can pick a favourite from these) and an almost-good-as-new studded Charlie Brown bag that definately needs to be featured on this blog in the near future.

There is only one market near where I live, but it mostly just sells expensive crafts. Whenever I tak a trip to Sydney I make sure to visit all my favourites; Glebe, Rozelle, Bondi, Surry Hills and Kirribilli. Melbourne also has some great markets, but I'm not as familiar with them.

A few nights ago my mum and I were going through a suitcase of her old clothes that she had stored in my room, when we came across this leather jacket. She wore it while riding on my dads motorbike in the 80s, but said it was always too big for her. I tried it on for a laugh, and was so surprised when it fit me like a glove. Mum said it was always much too big for her, but I am a lot broader in the shoulder sthan her so it is just right. I have been on the lookout for a leather jacket for a while now, but the ones sold in chain stores are much too fashion-y, and I haven't been abe to find a well fitted one in an op shop. Who knew that the perfect jacket has been right under my nose for the past year!

The youth is starting to change

2009-07-12T03:03:00.000-07:00

Shoes keeping me awake at night:

At first glance I thought these Rodarte thigh highs were leggings. Then I realised they were the most amazing long boots I have ever seen. The Mulleavy sisters really can do no wrong.

Found this image in one of my many inspiration folders, so I have no idea where it's from. Can't you imagine a little pixie skipping through the woods in these? I would looooove to own them, definately the most interesting and creative boots I have ever seen.

I've been searching for a pair of floral doc's for a long, long time. Anyone know where I can get a pair? Anything featuring florals gets my tick of approval, especially when printed on arguably the most iconic punk item. I can imagine Vivienne Westwood stomping all over London in these in the 70's.

Another mystery image found on my computer. I recently learnt how to crochet, so I'm currently going through a mild obsession, shame it's the middle of winter.

I fell in love with Balenciaga when I saw the spring/summer 2007 runway show featuring the C3PO-esque robotic suits. Since then I have loved every single one of Nicolas Ghesquiere's collections, which have all been enhanced by the amazing shoes. He must be doing something right if he has created the "it" shoe for the majority of the past few seasons. The three shown above are all so creative and wonderfully ridiculous.

Easily my favourite shoe of the season. Words cannot describe how desperate I am to own these. The architecture, the patent leather, the chunky heel, the clean simple line.... Now all I need is $860.00.... any ideas???

.......and an outfit:

pom-pom's make life a whole lot funner

2009-07-09T21:23:00.000-07:00

This is my new favourite cardy, found at the Vinnies in Newtown. I've been on holidays for a week and after catching up on daytime telly and thrifting, I feel it's finally time to re-discover my social life. Oh and make a start on my Hamlet creative. Well firstly I have to read the play.
Wore this out for coffee with friends, and after three hours and only three drinks bought, with many friends coming and going, I think it's fair to say the owners officially hate us. This may be enhanced by the fact that this happens at least weekly.

Best ring ever. Well. best felt ring ever.

I wish I could be as cool as you:

2009-06-24T03:45:00.000-07:00

Kim Gordon

When I woke up on monday morning I bent my head at a funny angle and now my necks been buggered up since. I've spent the last 3 days lying on the couch in my pyjamas with a hot water bottle endlessly surfing the net and downloading music. As a result I've used up almost all my internet and created endless inspiration files. Much better than performing my well overdue shakespeare oral.

P.S- Has anyone heard the new sonic youth album? I'm waiting for my dad to buy it.

Cream of the crop

2009-06-16T01:19:00.000-07:00

(please excuse the awful pun)

I know it's quite trend-whorish, but I've recenty become obsessed with crop-tops. They take me back to my grade one days of crimped hair, the spice girls and platform shoes.

Topshop

Obesity and Speed

My love for Melissa Joan Hart in "Clarissa Explains it All" deserves a post (or 12) of it's own

American Apparel

Daisy Lowe

I think these pictures show how a crop top can be worn in so many different ways. Many people make the mistake of thinking crop tops can only be slutty, or childish.

I found this crop top at a little market stall in Newtown during a recent trip to sydney for $5.

Due to the FREEZING weather I wore a long sleeve top underneath (although I do love the sneaky flash of flesh when worn solo with high-waisted shorts or a skirt). Despite the darts in the front giving me 1940's style pointy boobs, it's a great fit and I got 100% positive comments from friends. There is some really cool criss-cross detailing at the back, but I forgot to take a photo of the rear.

Youth is like diamonds in the sun, and diamonds are forever

2009-06-15T03:37:00.000-07:00

I went shopping with friends yesterday, and coudn't find anythign I liked until we went to target. There I began lusting after the 2-8year old clothing; amongst the Hannah Montana and Dora the Explorer branded items I found a purple faux fur vest, floral leggings, and love heart adorned jumpers. Unfortunately I grew out of a kids size 8 about eight years ago :(

Today I took inspiration from my childhood wardrobe, where I would live in pretty dresses and hand knitted cardies:

When I walked out to the kitchen to get breakfast mum reminded me that this is the coldest Canberra june in twenty years or something, so I added a few more layers:

Florals are the best way to cheer me up on these grey winter days. My friends and I stopped by a playground while walking home and mucked around on the swings and slide for a good hour. Makes me regret all those pre-teen years I spent wishing I were older and “mature” (HA!).

(Ps: I just finished setting up my sewing room at my dads, so there lots of home-made/altered clothing to come!)

I'd like to be under the sea...

2009-06-11T00:56:00.000-07:00

My new reason to be alive:

Romance Was Born!

Anna Plunkett and Luke Sales: making me proud to be Australian. Together they are changing the direction of Australian fashion, taking risks and not being afraid to turn their wacky ideas into runway shows.

Romance Was Born was by far the highlight of last months Australian Fashion week, with their deep sea inspired collection providing a refreshing distraction from the current grey cloud that seems to be hanging over the country. Featuring items such as a knitted squid headpiece, crocheted beards, shell encrusted bum-bags and oyster patterned shorts, with an underwater cove of treasures as the backdrop, the collection represented what I believe fashion is all about; having fun! I won't go into a rant about the economic downturn, but I think it is important to remember that fashion can be used as a way to escape and bring joy to a society that is feeling very down in the dumps.

Enjoy!

Knitted squid heapiece- perfect for the freezing winter ahead

Crocheted Tutu!!!

Grandma fashion..... :)

Bringing back the fishtail

(note the mermaid Dolly Parton in the background)

There are no words to describe how I feel about the above...

The genius duo

old friends: the very best kind

2009-04-21T23:53:00.000-07:00

I love this time of year, when it's cool enough to wear tights and wool skirts, but still warm enough to not have to cover it all up with a jacket.

What I wore out thrifting with an old friend:

We visited about 5 stores in total, and all I bought was a skirt and mens shirt. I think I'm becoming too picky. This is probably a good thing, as I have drawers full of thrifted items that I have never worn, but think "maybe one day.....".

paris is burning

2009-04-18T00:16:00.000-07:00

Currently inspired by:

People who do, say, wear what they want when they want.

love love love mum

2009-04-07T02:53:00.000-07:00

Pretty sure the only reason for the existence of the 80s was for my mum to buy clothes to later pass on to me.

My parents lived in an aboriginal community in the northern territory for about 3 years in the 80s, and thats where my mum bought this skirt, hence the awesome pattern.

Anyway posting has been near impossible lately, as my computer picked up a virus that is proving to be impossible to get rid of. Grrrrr stupid technology.

Back from the grave

2009-03-27T17:59:00.000-07:00

I know it's been forever since I last posted, but life has been so hectic for the past six weeks. School just takes up so much time, and when I'm not working I'm catching up with friends. Also I've been trying to fit into a new school, so my clothes have been kind of boring for the past few weeks, but I've realised I'd rather have friends who like me just as I am, rather than try be someone I'm not. Anywayz, my blog and I are back, so outfit posts should be appearing shortly.

Recent Inspiration by:

words are flying out like endless rain into a paper cup

2009-02-15T01:15:00.001-08:00

Recently I've been finding myself being drawn more and more to the 60s. I’m one of those people that either commits to something entirely and becomes totally obsessed, or isn’t interested at all. So when I get inspired by a certain period of time, I don’t just wear the clothes, but I listen to the music, read the books, research the lifestyle etc. Over the past year I've been dressing in a kind of modern 1950s style, with cinched in waists and gathered skirts. I've often used this style to cover my body, but the more I get into fashion, the less self conscious I feel. Lately I've been feeling more comfortable in tighter skirts and shorter hemlines (in a Mary Quant-ish way rather than Paris Hilton).
These are the images I had in my head while thrifting yesterday:

…and this is what I bought:

(It's hard to tell but this skirt is black velvet)

Obviously I would dress these up a bit more when putting together an outfit, in these pictures I wanted the focus to be on the skirts. I know that hemlines are meant to be dropping at the moment (thanks recession), but I try not to follow current trends too obsessively.

From Fires to Floods

2009-02-10T01:38:00.000-08:00

I would like to start this post by saying that my heart is with all those who have been affected by the bushfires in Victoria. If anyone out there can spare anything (clothes, bedding, money), then please donate it, every little bit helps. Check out http://www.redcross.org.au/vic/services_emergencyservices_victorian-bushfires-appeal-2009.htm

Now on a brighter note, I was awarded this:

by the wonderful kelly from One Kid Left In Atlanta. The terms and conditions are...

1. Put the logo on your blog or post.
2. Nominate at least 10 blogs which you think are fabulous.
3. Be sure to link to your nominees within your post.
4. Let them know that they have received this award by commenting on their blog.
5. Share the love and link to this post and to the person from whom you received your award.

It's been kind of a long day, so I'll finish it off tomorrow.

I went to stay with my grandparents on the weekend, and my Grandma gave me her collection of vintage clutches.

This photo really doesn't do them justice. My favourites are the ones in the top right and bottom left hand corners.

xx

Any item of clothing featuring feathers gets my tick of approval

2009-02-09T02:25:00.001-08:00

Last night I was flicking through the november 08 issue of vanity fair, when I fell upon an advertisement for grey goose vodka. It wasn’t the vodka that interested me (16 yrs old remember), but a beautiful grey cocktail dress adorned with giant feathers. After checking the credits on the page, I discovered it was by Kristian Aadnevik. Ignorant as I am about many labels, I had never heard of him, but when I googled his work I was astounded by the originality and craftsmanship in his work. The spring/summer 09 collection of bandage dresses featuring flashes of bold colours are fabulous enough to rival that Christopeher Kane collection (you know the one I'm talking about).

Now all I need is to lose 5 kilos and and gain a few thousand bucks.

Now a completely unrelated topic, here's what I wore today:

Very basic, but I'm so in love with these DIY'ed leggings I wanted to draw full attention to them.

2009-02-06T03:34:00.000-08:00

Today's outfit:

I trimmed my fringe this morning. Whenever I get it done at the hairdressers I end up hating it, because they always cut it too blunt. I cut it in an upward motion, so it's a much softer line. It makes me feel like Jane Birkin circa the late 60s.

Come as you are

2009-02-04T01:54:00.000-08:00

We all know that the grunge (flannies, ripped jeans, dirty hair) has been making an enormous comeback lately, so I thought I'd try my own interpretation. I know it's a bit trend-whorish, but I don't care, I really love the layed back layering of this style.

I was going to wear this with shredded black leggings, but it was waaay too hot. It's a bit hard to tell, but the black and white check thing is another shirt, not a keffiyeh (s?) *shudder*.

P.s

(thought this was too good not to share)

Me and a friend are sitting outside at a cafe, when two policemen walk by.

friend: Do you think it just depends on the policeman whether or not they'd arrest you for tapping them on the ass?

me: shaking in silent laughter for about 4 minutes

New Beginnings

2009-02-02T03:46:00.000-08:00

Today was my first day of year 11 at a new school. I enjoyed it heaps more than I thought I would. It was practically a whole day of orientation, which was incredibly boring, but the people are friendly, and the teachers treat us with so much more respect than the teachers from my strict grammar school.

(Please excuse the crappy quality of the pic, but I had to quickly take this while my friend was in the bathroom -was definetly not in the mood for an awkward posing moment-, and I'm way too tired for photo editing.)

I decided to play it kinda safe outfitwise for my first day, as I was already nervous enough without having to be worried about my clothes. The school I'm at now has such a wide variety of students; from emos, hipsters, geeks, skanks (for want of a much better word), that I feel much more comfortable dressing interestingly from now on. At my old school we had a hideous uniform, which consisted of a green and white striped potato sack summer dress, and for winter; unfitted blouse (with pin-tucking), baggy green jumper, calf length bottle green tartan skirt, thick navy wool tights and hideous black lace-up shoes. I may or may not post a pic of it, just so everyone can share in my suffering.

Once again I'm sorry for the boring-ness of todays outfit, I'll try make up for it in the next few days.

My new favourite tights

2009-01-30T22:17:00.000-08:00

So the heatwave is easing up slightly, thank god.

After watching the first episode of skins series 3 last week (is anyone else into skins?), I had to have effy's grey fishnets. They don't look quite as good on me, but I love them anyways. I’ve also been on the lookout for a not to emo-ish, cuff for a while now, and I finally found this one at paddy's markets in sydney.

I swear it takes like three days to recover from an hour of hectic shopping at paddy's.
xx

Rattling Bones

2009-01-29T17:11:00.000-08:00

I know I’ve been MIA for about a week and a half, but everything is a bit crazy right now with my two months of holidays coming to an end on Monday. Also it’s been sooo unbearably hot here that I’ve pretty much just been bumming around in singlets *shame*.

I went to sydney yesterday on a shopping trip with a friend. I bought an insane amount of clothes, but my two favourite purchases would have to be:

1.
We stumbled across this little poster shop on George street, and I practically fainted when I found this. I've been looking for an oasis poster for the past 2-3 years, so I am so ecstatic that I finally have one.

I think these may possibly be the coolest, most fabulously epic earings that I have ever seen in my 16 years of existence. My crappy camera really doesn’t do them justice, but they have little diamonte eyes, and all the joints move so they wiggle around when I walk.

I'm starting at a new school on Monday, which I’m kind of terrified about, as I only know a handful of people that are going. Any advice on first days?

It's a boy!!!

2009-01-20T02:13:00.000-08:00

Today's outfit:

Kinda impractical seeing a I spent practically the whole day shopping with friends, and my top was just a giant scarf tied together with a belt, so I could barely move my arms above a 45 degree angle.

It was just mall shopping, and I was pretty disappointed. Who decided that all chain stores must be filled with frumpy boho this season?

On the weekend I visited my ONE WEEK old cousin, Oliver Noel.

Fashion vs Function

2009-01-19T03:32:00.000-08:00

I run for about an hour every morning, and I generally just wear shorts and old T-shirts. But today I was watching clueless, and after seeing cher’s take on sportswear, I’ve decided to try a little harder. The thing is, the clothes still need to be practical (ugh, I hate that word).

I think these pieces show a compromise between style and practicality (except for the last one :P)

Adidas by Stella McCartney

American Apparel

Topshop

American Apparel

Madonna (I don't know why

she keeps popping up)

Topsy-turvy

2009-01-15T02:12:00.000-08:00

I was looking at some pictures from the Documentary Grey Gardens this morning (I have to get hold of the full thing), and I’ve fallen in love with the style of Little Edie. I recently thrifted this skirt, but when I got home I realised it was a size too small.

So I decided to try it on upside down, like Edie. (try ignore the stoner face)

Singlet; miss shop myer, flower pin; gift from great aunt

Next I went a little bit luella spring 09, turning it into a strapless dress over a singlet,

Style.com

And then a kind of one shouldered wrap dress.

Mums old belt

Finally, a one shouldered top with another skirt on the bottom.

Dress (worn as skirt); thrifted

Which style do you think works best?

xx eleanor

Rock & Roll will never die

2009-01-13T02:59:00.000-08:00

Ok, so I’ve been neglecting the blog, but I've been at the coast sans internet, and its been SO FREEKIN HOT, and once the aussie tennis season starts I barely leave the beanbag in front of the TV (go federer). I’ve been meaning to do outfit posts, but to tell you the truth, I am intensely unphotogenic, so it’s been a bit difficult to build up the courage. Anyway it’s time to get over that so I’ll have some up by the end of the week. I went thrifting at a YMCA store today, but it was practically all five year old millers and valleygirl stuff, very disappointing, but I managed to pick up some cool material.

This photo of Marianne Faithfull and Anita Pallenberg has been inspiring me since I first saw it in Russh about a year ago. I hate how mainstream the 60s, 70s groupie look has become. I aspire to one day be able to look so effortlessly cool.

Queen of art

2009-01-05T02:26:00.000-08:00

I went to check out the giant green blob (don't ask) at customs house last week, and stumbled across Alexia Sinclair's "regal twelve" collection. I've always preferred fashion to conventional art, but every now and then I'll see a piece, or an artist that grabs my attention, and this was definitely one of those moments. Each Picture is compiled of a series of photographs, montaged together. They each depict a famous historical woman who has ruled her kingdom (above- Queen Elizabeth I), and incorporate dresses from that era (inspired by John Galliano & Alexander McQueen). The items in each picture also have historical meaning and symbolism (I can't be bothered to explain it all- google it).

Christina of Sweden

Marie Antoinette

P.S Going to the coast until saturday and no internet connection. Went thrifting today, will post results on sunday.

Black lace & leather

2009-01-03T01:51:00.000-08:00

Inspiration

Flickr

Despite the fake french accent and scary arms, I still love madonna, espec circa mid 1980s

Runway

Prada Fall '08 at Style.com

Miuccia never fails to amaze and inspire me.

Designer

Alexander McQueen at Net-a-porter

Chain Store

Topshop

Meg Matthews' bathroom

Just add pigtails

2009-01-02T02:06:00.000-08:00

Since the return of the playsuit I haven't been able to makeup my mind; cute retro or overworn hipster? I've finally decided on the former, but now the question is; what style?

So far I'm leaning towards this topshop piece, which is perfect for the Aussie summer. Also I'm kinda going through a bow obsession at the mo.

This playsuit by Chloe (although waaaay out of my price range) reminds me of the rainforest, although I don't think it would flatter my shape at all (massive hips).

Forever 21

I love this as an alternative to a cocktail or (ugh) tuxedo dress.

Forever 21

This make me want to don an R M Williams hat and chew a piece of straw, but I'd prefer it in red and white checks.

Once upon a time...

2009-01-01T03:30:00.000-08:00

This is a blog dedicated to all things fashion related. Fashions I love, fashions I wear, fashions I hate and fashions I make.

A few things you might like to know about me:
My name is Eleanor, I’m 16 and call Australia home. I've loved fashion since I saw the Vivienne Westwood retrospetive exhibition with my mum about five years ago.

I'm looking forward to the year ahead (after a rather disappointing 2008) and happy new year to everyone =).

<3>