Trapeze

As a child, I remember that there was this recurring Tourism Queensland advertisement that engaged the audience with the promise that no matter the day or the rest of the country's forecast, Brisbane would be "warm and sunny". When I moved here to attend UQ, my memory proved hazy and I was in no way prepared for just how excruciating both the heat and humidity can be. We're now midway through my fifth summer here and with the heat refusing to wane, clothing feels both unbearable and a waste of time. The preferred options of never getting dressed/staying in the shower all day far underplay the reality of wiping my brow and mopping my upper lip's sweat mo' for the thousandth time while all this dripping renders my shine-free make-up and 24hr antiperspirant useless. When I finally get to considering an outfit, a dress is the only garment close to street-appropriate that I can muster the energy to wear. If it's the sort of soul-destroying temperature that makes action of any kind unthinkable and unbearable, then I'm after a frock that manifests as both a sarong and industrial pedestal fan, yet won't require technical expenditure nor engineering. That's where the wearing of a swing dress comes in. The novelty value of through-flow ventilation garnered by strategic draping, even with an A-line swing, allows for fresh air to your nether-regions without sacrificing style or comfort. As well as bringing glamour back, a gathered neck leaves maximum tummy space for you to down yet another snow-cone, slurpee or daiquiri from a hammock or rooftop -- and forget about wearing swimmers as clothes forever. 

Brunch Date: Gem Dress by Gorman. A mid-weight linen dress that pairs well with black, tan or colourful accessories and a bright, shiny lipstick to make you appear made up without tearing you away from that double-shot soy frappé.

Dinner Drinks: Brightside Swing Dress by Zimmermann. A strappy silk number that will ensure you feel weightless in the afternoon heat. Allow the multi-coloured kaleidoscopic print to do the talking and let metallic hints define your eyes and tone of sandal.

Rooftop Dance Party: Cami Swing Dress with Sequins by ASOS. A sparkly slip that ensures maximum impact and limited styling. Prime thoroughly and team with BB Cream and a powder foundation, for a weightless, healthy glow.

Coastal Reception: Kauai Dress by Va Et Vien. Head to the beach to catch the breeze and celebrate the cool change. This cotton tulle helps you escape the heat and get edgy with a neckline of vintage rhinestones. Don a pop-coloured heel to balance the bridal aspect or embrace a Gatsby feel with a jaunty jewelled headpiece.

Colour Wheel

I adore reading about other people's lives, getting a little peek in through photographs, or handbags, or playlists, or maybe even grocery lists and tea selections. Personality quirks are the sort of characteristics that can define you to other people, all told in someone's own personal language. For some reason my curiosity to know this other side of people, the person that they know themselves to be. For the longest time, I would ask my parents and brothers questions around the dinner table. Questions about their spirit animals, the places they wanted to visit, the magic power they wished they had, the habits that they couldn't break. I really wanted to know those facts that were close to them and defined their true selves.

Somehow as I've gotten older I make lists of these things. Just as those likes, dislikes, and dreams were fascinating, I'll keep coming back to them because they're a record of whichever penchant was closest to me at the time I was holding the pen or typing away. Those pocket moments that capture my imagination so much that I mentally snapshot and scrapbook them. For timely posterity, know that right now, my umbrella of likes and dislikes fall comfortably as a solid rainbow of hues Suddenly, I'm trying to saturate each part of my life in a glorious sun shower of these shades with inspiration fading and stretching bright and dark. Strangely, this spectrum of colour has been rejuvenating and everything feels more straightforward yet fully alive. It's even more meaningful as I've been trying to reintroduce simplicity to my daily life, and all these colour moments are for me an evolutionary way to be creatively fulfilled. Somehow colour is futuristic to me and with the sun-drenched months ahead, I'm sure that things will be everything except dull. And happily, working with colour requires discipline as well as free fall, which are two things I'm always trying to find a balance between in my life.

This current inventory of my colour wheel shows that: my lip colour is a vibrant splash of red or fuschia, accessories are indigo or pastels, any food must use the greenest of spring herbs, cinema and music are original '60s or replicas, décor is Orient inspired (paper cranes are unpictured). Oh, and to convey just how kaleidoscopic things have become, I'm longing to get the new collection of Sharpies I saw in store recently. I'm sure I'll still be colouring my world next time we speak.

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Images

1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 

Dreamweaver

I just bought this stunner, but it's done nothing to sate my craving for all frocks hailing to the '60s, white cotton lace alias. With beauteous sleeves, in-built ventilation courtesy of the moth-wing weave, and just the right amount of bohemia, this obsession only seems to gain momentum. For now, while I wait for my goodies to arrive, I'll continue my intensive window shopping spree. Already I am imagining that fabric being the only thing I can bear on my skin during the heat of Brisbane's long summer days.

Ps, if vintage isn't as appealing to you, the Whistles pieces on Asos are rather glorious, on sale, and definitely a worthwhile investment. 

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One, Two, Three

(clockwise from left)  

Monochromatic

I graduate in a little under two weeks and I've been so hazy on what I'm actually going to wear. In terms of occasion, I'm most excited that I'll be celebrating with some of the people I hold dearest. Outside of what I've achieved in study, I feel as though it will be my most adult epoch to date. As both the ceremony and dinner afterwards will be shared with just my partner and parents, it's very important to me that I feel comfortable yet sophisticated and very joyful. For once, I've steered away from my traditional, fitted style and am instead looking at finding the impact in my outfit in terms of fabric and the silhouette created. While I am always the first person to aim to dress for my shape at all times (hello, cinched waist), choosing quality, timeless pieces will help create a chic finish. As it's a night-time ceremony, and winter here, I'm thinking that dramatic outerwear can create a contrasting monochromatic scheme. Despite the cold of my (former) riverside campus, I'm going ahead with my 'party on the feet' theme. I've had my fuschia suede heels waiting for some time, and they'll be quite the eye catcher as I cross the stage to receive my Bachelors. Singular black and white has never been so fun.

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Images and shop:

Asos Silk Dress,

Net-A-Porter Shirt Dress, 

Asos Parker

Net-A-Porter Belted Blazer

Sixties

It's been an uneventful couple of weeks. In between a lot of cooking, and not a lot of creating, I've been relishing the moments that truly make me happy and bring direction. This Fuck Yeah 60's Fashion tumblr was such a incomparable discovery earlier this week. After many hours spent on there, if it's the closest that I ever get to a time machine then I will be somewhat sated in that department. Without question or competition, the 1960s has been my favourite decade for as long as I can remember. Fostering a sense of the period with adjectives such as swinging, psychedelic and groovy, doesn't remotely get close to the multitude of characteristics, moments, and moods that encapsulated such a short time span. It's impossible to be so succinct. What's more, it's hard to believe that ten years could result in significant and swift change in every dimension of the world. It seems that every time I return to research everything '60s the surface has barely been scratched. This infinite density, is more than an enduring resource of inspiration (and favouritism) for me. The lack of boundaries somehow cause it to eclipse my daily obsessions of music and fashion, and it has simply become part of how I think about myself, and who I am. Every facet explored reveals yet another nugget of information that inevitably becomes another goldmine treasure trove in itself.  While it is reliable for anything sartorial and visual, it is the more obtuse categories that continue to revitalise and reinvigorate my imagination. When I apply this to my everyday life, it's obvious how my love has grown even more intensely in the last couple of years. From the pastels dominating our bathroom, to the winged cat eye I'm constantly striving to perfect, to the amount of Bob Dylan we've been playing, and then to the long discussions about creativity since the radical way that politics and society escalated in this time, I know this love affair isn't going to fade. I could go on, but until next time, these are just some of the images that I've been cataloguing in my digital scrapbook of jpg files. At the moment, I'm particularly enamoured with films made in the '60s, and contemporary cinematic and television incarnations.*  


Ps, That tumblr definitely accommodates the nostalgic appetite -- for a little while at least.
*Oh, Mad Men. Only two episodes left.

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Images via

1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 
11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17
3 is an original screenshot via

Lucky Dip

While these shoes certainly made my heart beat fast with how gorgeously wearable and quirky they are, the Little Tuna Etsy shop they came from is equally special. I've found that the eternal conundrum of a unique piece versus quality core essentials is largely solved with a spot of vintage shopping. Though it can take a long time to pan through a shop, whether online or in store, I adore sifting through beautiful items from decades ago. The added bonus is revisiting trends from long ago. This season I am enjoying the mix of soft pastel palettes, earthy colours and textures, plus metallics, and direct references to the '50s, '60s, and all-things animal. From the selection here, my current favourites would be the '60s white leather clutch or magazine-friendly purse and the terrier brooch that reminds me of my preferred Monopoly pawn. I should also mention how that pink snakeskin belt, with its suggestion of flames and the ice-cream colour, reminds me of the chaotic muscle musings of Prada's SS12 collection.           

I thought I'd introduce a mini feature that curates pieces from stores whose aesthetic I am loving. The notion of a 'Lucky Dip' reflects the appeal of all the stock -- no matter what you procure, you're sure to be satisfied. I look forward to hearing whether or not you enjoy it.

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All images via 

Definitely worth checking out! 

Word Association: Rosabaya

It's been a little while since I did my first Word Association post and while it's taken a number of months, I'm especially enamoured with this collection. Rosabaya is the soft meeting ground between the matte, functional neutrals and the multi-coloured metallic spectrum. The way it allows a mixture of über feminine and fun classic pieces that enhance natural beauty in every way is consistent as well as open-ended. It's something that will never go out of fashion, and establishes a base for style regardless of time or occasion. What's particularly interesting for me is how well I can see these pieces merging with other styles in an unpredictable yet fitting venture, regardless of an individual's penchant for this cut, that fit, or those sensations. In this set, I sought out items that tap into this timeless appeal and speak directly to the great epochs of fashion. Plus, word association wouldn't be the same without some staple pieces that are a part of every day life.

Left to right, top to bottom..
Miu Miu sunglasses, with playful, but not necessarily ergonomic appeal.
Asos ear cuff, seductive and sexy to combat the boredom of a drop earring.
Taste Turkish delight, rose in every form is irresistible.
Tiffany Rubedo cuff, defines sleek and chic to glam up any outfit without going Wonder Woman.
Diane Kruger rose-inspired make-up, highlights beauty in an easy way with just a few products.
Forever 21 rose gold nail polish, flirts prettily on the shelf and softly shimmers on nails.
Topshop Disco Body Con frock, modernises art deco just in time for a wintry escapade à la Gatsby.
1960s Gold Lamé turban, finishes any outfit that might seem a bit straight forward.
Garnier Miracle Skin Perfecter cream, creates a natural base and glow that is unbeatable.
Lancôme Hypnôse Senses, liquid blush tones hint at the pink pepper blooms as patchouli blossoms. 
Antique Rose Gold Solitaire ring, lends a natural beauty with a woodsy, branch-faceted band.
1950s Cat Eye Glasses, gives making eyes a sassy dimension with metals.
Peony bouquet, provides pure and luscious scent and voluptuous indulgence.
1980s Two-Tone XO flats, introduce love and shine to every day footwear with a comfortable heel.
Red Velvet Mod Velvet turban, is a cosy option for blustery mornings, evenings, and in-between.*
Topshop Treasure Metallic Nails, amp up copper and rose tones that make each digit a pearly coin.

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Sources and images

1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 

9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16

*Red Velvet Turban not available anymore: tutorial DIY here and similar here
Post title from Nespresso's Rosabaya, the main inspiration for this post lies in the colour    

Heart Full Of Glitter

After reading The Zahir, by Paulo Coelho, I've been consumed by thoughts of what life would be like without love. Strangely enough I'm reminded of this every time I think of buying clothes or shoes. I'm so torn about buying and acquiring things. Lately, money is so scarce that anything I have is spent on finding a way to be with the people I love. We're planning on moving to Melbourne in the next couple of years, and in between that, travel, and other plans, I'm conscious of that outlay and what's really necessary. And by necessary, it's what I can be certain will be part of who I am for a long time and that I'll cherish forever. So when I gathered these things it was about how they make me feel and what I see in them. In this case it's that these are things that are making my heart full and glittery. They remind me of how incredible life is, and what else it beholds. They really do have heartfelt meaning even if they're material.

 

The 1966 mod era details of Mad Men Season Five have been perfectly sought and constructed. The premiere was absorbing and captivating, and we can't wait 'til Monday night!

The '60s fascination continues with this unique ring. 

The sentiment is just so pure and I love the simple elegance. 

I want to wear my heart everyday, on my hands, and..

..on my sleeves. I have a jumper I want to DIY this on. 

I like how it's chic but completely wearable.
Particularly for our Easter trip.

My ocean spirit animal, the wonderful unicorn whale! 

Being reminded of nature is really important to me, 

and this print is beautifully drawn with a sweet edge
that has the perfect colour palette.
Oh, narwhal love!

Happy weekend, wherever you are and whatever the weather may be like.

Ps, a mouse just ran through our apartment, so random, 

but now I don't where it's gone. Eeep!

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Images via

1, 2, 3, 4, 5 

Liberty Capsule

Somehow, and also despite reading about (and noting in my calendar, very far in advance) the b store X Liberty SS12 collection, I managed to miss the launch date. But my absentmindedness shouldn't be seen as a reflection on the pieces, it's a wanderlust-inducing collection. As always, the hallmarks of Liberty - breathtaking quality and detail - are encapsulated, but their redefinition is unconventional yet wearable. This departure from the girliness of the Liberty style is a result of the hardened Western input of b store. The desolate landscapes of the collection's Lookbook capture this, with the cowboy farm seemingly transplanted to a Northern Africa-inspired place. The first stage of the story begins in the trio of leather-suede-fringe and the cotton fabric dimensions that correspond to the two brands respectively. Their union evolves as they move on to somewhere entirely different. This secondary, enduring vibe of travel is represented in the dominance of defined and resilient hardware, coloured plastics, and the varying prints that mix classic soft florals, dappled midnight blossoms, and Marrakechi paisley and dry cracked earth. These ultimately hint at a destination that's unfamiliar to both country and city - it's exotic and worth the adventure. Particularly when there's so much waiting in the unknown..      

   

Collection slideshow here.
Launch event here.


Ps, am I the only person with an enduring obsession with paisley? It's mad but I love it, particularly that satchel, ooh! And sorry for the herp derp..it's so ridiculous and hilarious.. 

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Images via

Jeweller

The whole of yesterday was spent sifting through slideshows and reports of new season collections for both S/S and A/W. For me it's been the elements as opposed to the trends appearing. I really like the idea of how inspiration transitions between art and the people, and then just within the individual. Right now I just want to drape myself in jewel-tones regardless of whether it's from the sea, another decade or the Orient. The source of this delves into how different types of textures, shapes and cuts can connect with the wearer. I really like the juxtaposed dichotomy formed by fit and flow. It's less about dressing to a certain ideal, and just wearing pieces that complement -- or even contrast in the process -- one another and create a personal story. Particularly with a surprise pattern or accessory. It's all so immeasurably enjoyable, and infinite. 

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Images via (L-R, T-B)

1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6

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My back is getting better, but my core strength continues to elude me.

I really should have kept on with yoga and pilates, but is it not the

most stressful thing ever waiting for it feel good and goddess-like?

Ugh.

Hence, endless hours on the inter-webs, lying on the mat I was bought 

for yoga. It's now so ironic that it was a gift. The pain!

Velvet & Leather

Of all fabrics, velvet and leather have only really drawn me in as accessories or shoes. Yet as I was sifting through my crazy tab farm*, I discovered that all I'm looking at on Etsy these days is a constant rotation of these soft and sturdy staples that I can imagine cherishing forever. It seems my penchant for all things dark and luxurious is a shared love, as today's Treasured homepage is all of these things. Plus, it introduced me to these incredible Paris Rooftops and Cat Art prints, which are now very bookmarked*.

In velvet, a lush cape for my wintry escapades, a '60s wiggle dress for the lady pirate, a cinched full skirt that falls perfectly, and a most lucky black cat with white whiskers.

In leather, a sexy tank with an exposed back slit, a quilted sitting chair with the ability to whisk one to France, these chic trousers that are perfectly tapered, and tailored high-waisted shorts to be teamed with heart-printed tights.  

*yet another vague attempt to be organised with my bookmarks and hopefully make this computer start working faster. Oh to make this computer work faster.

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All images via

Tinker Blood

I finally got around to watching Sounds of the Woods last night. It's strange to think that such a special mood can be created between artists, with fictional characters amidst the bounties that nature offers. The collaboration between Nadinoo (designer) and WishWishWish (blogger) is a powerful representation of what one might find off the beaten track. Art like this is a potent form of soul food. Since I was very small my mother has amounted our family's need to roam and experience the land around us as a birthright from our Grandmother and her lineage of nomadic people. The same magical qualities are elicited in the video, from the quiet soundtrack of trees, birds and music to the interaction between the handmade clothing and older man made objects. When I think about the gypsy I'd like to be it's like a meeting place between the beauty, mystery and culture here. I can never decide between water farer or forest dweller. While there's the mystique of being adrift, sailing onwards and outwards, wearing waxy woollens, there's also the draw of wild dancing beneath the trees, flowers at ones hands and making oils and teas from the spices and plants in your surrounds. Here it's like I've found the answer. In these woods there lies a meeting place -- that cathedral of boughs, and the pleasure of roaming from the riverbanks deeper in to find birch pools, shrouded by tree trunks. Oh to travel and wander, always and forever. There's more to delve into here and here.

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My favourite dress from the collection featured above, here. 

Cetacea

It seems like I'm being followed around by whales at the moment. The other night Sim and I read his favourite childhood book, Whales: Mighty Giants Of The Sea (there was pop-up cardboard bits and everything - my favourite was the Beluga) and marvelled over how big they are. Then last night I was stalking the Closet Visit blog, which is always beyond wonderful, and found the most recent interview with the lovely lady above. Though her wardrobe and make-up were beyond amazing, it was her whale pin that most thrilled me. I've wanted one for the longest time, but this reminded me that I hadn't fulfilled that longing just yet.

After hopping on Etsy - the one exception to my non-shopping quest - I found this sweet, smiling whale pin:

I think he could be very happy in our home. So adorable! If I could only bring this one home too, and maybe find a Narwhal brooch, I would be such a happy lady.

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First two images via

Third image via

Pixie's a Bird a day

My love for puffins goes way back to Enid Blyton's 'Adventure' series. Cute, quaint, and comical enough that I don't get fearful*, this Pixie's a Bird a day dress from Nadinoo's AW11 collection has me running to the bank with my change tin. While every collection by Nadia is full of dresses I unashamedly lust after, this gorgeous ornothology print is completely captivating. I love the English brand's use of Liberty prints and feminine shapes that have a glorious old-fashioned romance to them. Perhaps it's the sentiment that I could wear this to a ladies picnic just as easily as to a wild night of unabashed mischief - I don't doubt that Pixie is a free spirit that finds her way to anywhere she wants to go.

Ps check out their cute blog for behind-the-scenes peeks and style inspiration. I particularly loved this post on the styling for the AW11 collection - but not the part where it made me "need" more shoes!

Ooh, and Aussie girls! Nadinoo is also available from the Style Milk boutique, weee!

*after a chicken coop incident in '93, the majority of birds fill me with far too much fear.

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Images from the Nadinoo shop. Oh yes!!

Compare/Contrast

How breathtaking are these videos for the Vanessa Bruno Løv AW11/12 campaign? I first saw the shorter one version a few weeks ago on That's Chic so the second one was a great find. What a difference those two-and-a-half minutes make. My senses are ravished by the raw beauty and emotion conveyed, from the Nordic land through to the sharp, classic tailoring.

From here the initial elements are juxtaposed further by the additional urban environment, the classical music, with one of the most significant contrasts is the sense of the story. Usually I'll make this up for myself, and I'll stick with it even if I find out the actual explanation, but with this video I just get lost. I particularly love how this longer one both clarifies the collection, and mood, while adding to the mystery - especially with the interactions between Bosworth's persona(s) and the faceless man.  It also reminds me of Lykke Li's I Follow Rivers, crossed with a grown up version of Rodarte's A11 campaign with Elle Fanning, what with the modern feel and the integral use of landscape. 

Moreover, I feel incredibly inspired by how limitless the arts can be, particularly when you consider how this video (among others) marries so many differing, yet complementary elements. It's definitely a manifestation of Yann Martel's ethos:

"If we, citizens, do not support our artists, 

then we sacrifice our imagination on the altar of crude reality 

and we end up believing in nothing and having worthless dreams."

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What do you think of it? Love it? Or something else entirely?

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Martel quote from Life of Pi introduction

Also, I love That's Chic - gorgeous and minimalist perfection

Jenny Packham

Oh, Jenny Packham! Did you say that there's a ball at the magical faraway tree? And, Anne of Green Gables will be there? Wear sparkles? Really, you brought some dresses you thought might be right? How perfect they look for champagne, gelati, rose tea, and strawberries!

There are only a handful of designers whose work I could happily wear forever and always: Chloe, Miu Miu, Lover, Liberty, Nadinoo, Willow (to name a few), and Jenny Packham.

The adventures I imagine having in her magical, fairy-woven garments is a grown up page from my childhood stories. Thankfully, these design take up from where the girl put down the books. She make the type of dresses that warrant fresh flowers in my hair, zero jewellery, sensational - yet surprisingly comfortable - shoes, dewy make-up, and a quietly playful spirit. They're the type of supernaturally lovely gowns that I've coveted for those once-in-a-blue-moon nights of long ago dreams..

In essence, the SS12 collection shown at NYFW takes the beauty of SS11 one step further - ideal for an extended trip down the rabbit hole. These frocks take you down the garden path with sparkly, sheer, yet understated numbers that are proper Turkish Delight - not the chocolate-covered Cadbury kind. The sexy sweetness lingers but it's handled with flair and class. The pieces above are perfect for both girly and girlish women - light and pretty for all types of frolicking. Exactly what this woman asks for.

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Images via Style.com

All I Need Is Love

..and another pair of Swedish Hasbeens. When I get excited about things I find it hard to contain. So I make collages (like yesterday), or buy lots and lots of fruit, or send text messages resembling short stories. In this case, I'm contemplating investing in another pair of Swedish Hasbeens. I've been searching for good, investment sandals for many a summer and I think they're it. They're the sort of shoes I imagine having forever, that I'll actually be able to pass onto my children, and yes, they just get comfier the more you wear them. 

Other things that make them a great choice are their durability (they're an heirloom for fun), variability (colours, heights, styles), functionality (suitable for work, play and most things in between), and finally, they're natural, which means they soften rather than break. Plus, they're cute but still very chic. 

Some of my favourite stylings: a Maccas run, a chic coffee step sitting, a bride (exceptional).

You can check the full range on their site.. 

ps - silver or black? or neutral and red too?!

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images via google!

Collage

Monday, Monday! How does one curb shopping cravings? Probably not building collages around dresses I desperately want to buy. Silly! 

So while I'm torturing myself, may I present a few things I know I could give a very good home to? Here we go...

What do you think? These outfits are spring and autumn friendly, or even suitable for late winter and Indian summer. The sort of pieces you can imagine having in your wardrobe forever and ever! 

*Our living room looks like this - most of the time.

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Outfit credits

One

Lateforschool dress, Emmadime: Knitted Bow Ear Warmer,

Swedish Hasbeens, Modcloth tights, MARYJOHN rings

 Two

VintageMarmalade dress, Hemlines cardigan, 

rings and tights as before, Swedish Hasbeens.

Pop, pop, pop.

 

I just can't get enough of these rich colours for Autumn, especially when they lift an ensemble in equally elegant and fun ways.

These tights are decadent, but in terms of the overall structure of the outfit, add a sexiness almost unachievable if the major focus had been a frock in the same shade (although, perhaps not this one).

The key is subtlety and it is an addition that I could argue is the sole domain of tights. They add a streamlined edge to any outfit and in terms of style, I feel most myself with a base of tights. Fitted solid black, frothy and textured lace in varying neutral shades (especially a white on nude), or multi-coloured floral for some topsy-turvy - smoothed, tucked and layered to perfection, the expression of chic quirkiness is a delicately-nuanced synthesis of balance that rewards with inevitable frolic and scamper.

Another tight-centric ensembles one might be enticed to swoon over..

Nicole's "Mismatch"-ed goodness (original outfit post).

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Title image via The Sartorialist - Original Post 

Afterthought: definitely read The Sartorialist too. This is a complete hyperlink, you have no choice.