Houndstooth Pattern

Houndstooth Pattern

Why You Need Houndstooth in Your Closet

I have always loved the houndstooth pattern, I find the pattern to be timeless, and the wonderful thing about houndstooth is how adaptable it is.  You can use it to create a very runway-inspired look or wear it more traditionally; either way, it is quite chic.  Houndstooth is a classic menswear print that Chanel had made famous for women in the 60’s.  The pattern has been around for over decades in its classic black and white shades but now is making a comeback in a variety of colours as well.  

If you are brave and bold enough, try wearing houndstooth from head to toe.  The simplest and easiest ways, of course, is to wear a houndstooth printed dress.  You can also get in on the suiting trend and rock a houndstooth suit or, if you want something more flexible and something that offers you more freedom and options, you can simply wear whatever you feel like wearing and top it off with a houndstooth coat.

The Houndstooth pattern makes for great work-wear.  The simplest way to wear this trend is to wear a houndstooth printed jacket over your formals to work.  Also, a houndstooth blazer can easily go from day to night.

The check now comes in a multitude of fabrications and colours, seen on tweed texture pants and slinky silk shirts, there’s something both modern and classic about it.  Pick one piece and keep the rest of the outfit clean and neutral—houndstooth is bold enough to be the sole focal point or a houndstooth accessory, like a handbag or scarf, to keep you from being overwhelmed.  Trust me, you’ll get addicted.

Now, for the really bold and adventurous fashionistas out there, here’s something more challenging: wear houndstooth with other prints. The print on print trend is still in full force so why not add the houndstooth print to your arsenal of printed patterns to mix and match?

SHOP MY PICKS

1.  ALEXANDER WANG Printed Top with Peplum

2.  BOUTIQUE MOSCHINO Houndstooth Blazer

3.  RED VALENTINO Virgin Wool Dress

4.  FALIERO SARTI Printed Scarf with Virgin Wool, Cashmere and Silk

Hand By Hand Aprileo Houndstooth Poncho Wrap

Miusol Women's Formal Houndstooth-Print Dress

STREET STYLE INSPIRATION

Aimee Song in a classic houndstooth matching skirt suit set.

Balmain Pre-Fall 2017 collection

Sofie valkiers

Akris Resort 2017 Fashion Show.

Ellery Pre-Fall 2017 Fashion Show

Philosophy Di Lorenzo Serafini Autumn:Winter 2017 Ready-to-Wear

Wanda Nylon Fall 2017 Ready-to-Wear Fashion Show

 

Thank you so much for reading my post on the Houndstooth pattern!
Till' next time xo






WHAT DO YOU THINK?

OODLES OF OUTERWEAR

OODLES OF OUTERWEAR

Back in Melbourne after my vacation to Noosa and I am feeling the cold. From days on the beach soaking up the sun to jumping puddles and constant coffee runs to stay warm, there could not be more of a contrast. Either way I am to inspire both men and women with experimenting with their own personal style. To inspire you to engage with the world outside your front door and step out of your comfort zone. Clothes can either maketh the man or woman but in truth the clothes should not wear you. You should wear them, and they should make you feel amazing and be an extension of your personality. A great item to showcase your personality and style is the coat and that is what this post is all about.

Hat: @asos_man

Sunglasses: @lespecs
Coat: @vanheusenau
Shirt: @dangerfieldclothing
Scarf: vintage find
Pants: @topman
Gloves: @dentsgloves
Shoes: @jacklondon_official

Whether you're running around town attending gallery shows or catching up with friends over a nice brunch, make sure you're warm and cozy this winter. A wardrobe necessity for me is a good winter coat (or 3 or 4) Wherever you are this winter, you want to ensure that the coat you choose is both functional and stylish. Personally I favour long coats as I like to feel warm and secure. Bomber jackets and denim are great but not practical for cold winters in Melbourne or Hobart where you need a coat that can battle the elements. 

This coat is called "The Grant" from @oxfordshop Naturally I bought it 
Coat: @oxfordshop
Suit & shirt: @briggins_clothiers
Tie: @bows_n_ties
Shoes & bag: @ted_baker
Socks: @paulsmithdesign
Sunglasses: @gucci

Being a savvy individual I adore coats that are easily "Go-To" or "Do-It-All". Simply throw it on and run out the door and look effortlessly chic, coats that are able to be paired with many of your wardrobe items. Great coats will be fitted with some sort of stylish feature from buttons, fur trims, pipping, deep pockets and luxurious fabrics.

Sunglasses: @gucci
Scarf: @frenchconnection_au
Coat: @bossinimenswear 
Pants: @connor_clothing
Gloves: @dentsgloves
Shoes: @ash

Obviously this is one wardrobe item that does need to be fit for purpose and deliver in protecting your from the elements. You will find a large portion of winter coats will come with a hood. The aim of a winter coat FYI is to keep your body warmth in and block the elements from getting in. I look for deep pockets (user-friendly), high collars, and a point of difference in the details such as buttons. 

Coat: @boohooMANofficial
Shirt: @jamesharper_
Pants: @manuelritzofficial
Waistcoat: @connor_clothing
Shoes & bag : @ted_baker
Sunglasses: no name

Keep in mind when shopping for a coat what the material actually is. You will find these days most coats are not fully made of wool, or partial inferior fabrics and insulation are used. In saying that you do not need to spend hundreds of dollars (so many great bargains around town) to get a great coat. There is a large variety of online retailers that produce quality winter coats for fraction of the price and the quality is quite good. 

Coat: @boohooMANofficial
Pants: @edderedidelduca
Shoes: @adidas
Scarf: @karllagerfeld
Bag: @ted_baker
Sunglasses: @lespecs
Gloves: @dentsgloves

The great thing about fashion and style (both two very different things) is there is no right or wrong these days. From clashing prints, to changing your body shape with the use of different fits and styles. Invest in a great coat and it will last years. I do not understand why people invest in something that does not fit their personal style and will be thrown out after the current season. Prime example is Burberry trench coats. They stand the test of time as they are classic and the quality is amazing. 

Cape coat: @jacklondon_official
Sweater: @oxfordshop
Shirt: @oxfordshop
Pants: @boohooMANofficial
Shoes: no idea
Hat: @connor_clothing

Family and friends always ask my advice with how to choose the right fit for a coat. Here are some handy tips:

1) If you cannot lift your arms parallel to the floor the coat is too tight

2) Swing a punch (seriously). If you cannot the coat is too tight across the back

3) Throw your keys or phone in the pockets, if it feels to restricted it is not for you

4) You need room for layers, such as suits, scarves and sweaters or thermals

Sunglasses: @gucci
Coat: @boohooMANofficial
Shirt: @oxfordshop
Pants: @topman
Shoes: @targetaus
Scarf: @frenchconnection_au

Make sure you're ready for the winter season with a great coat or two. My advice is to purchase a black and a camel. Always in fashion and remarkably go with everything. Shop smart and pick a great coat. 

Night Life @ Ripponlea - A 1920s & 30s Fashion Exhibition

Night Life @ Ripponlea - A 1920s & 30s Fashion Exhibition

Thursday 11th May
A morning tea at Ripponlea followed with a chance to explore the exhibition and gardens on a Thursday morning in mid-ish May. Ripponlea has been on the list to explore for years! Though by the time we get around to making a tour booking it's winter and there's an exhibition on. And so only the kitchens downstairs are open.

An exhibition featuring Victorian (as in the state, not era) fashion over 20 years from the early 1920s to the Moderne style of the 30s. "A time where stars, sophistication and city lights influenced the fashion worn by the well-dressed." Nowadays it's about wonder how short you can wear it without being arrested for incident exposure XD Also going out in your underclothes like tights as pants and slips as dresses... look away.

Entering the exhibition you could play dress up and borrow a dress to wear around the mansion, there's adult and kid's sizes. Nothing in my size (12-14) though, when it comes to one size fits all the reference is to sz8-10. *sigh* Also I'm vertically challenged for the women's sizing.

Black is in! Though it's anything but plain with all those details!

Downstairs is all about the 20s Night Life, our favourite time of the day! For all the wonderful things happen at night, trips to the theatre, parties (assuming we were invited). Isn't everything just lovely?! It's often made locally or sent over from England too, nothing here was made with the intention of being worn a few times to end up in the trash after a couple wears, nor was anything made in bulk. It was the relatively good old days. When things were made with love and to last. 



Upstairs featured in the 1930s. There was a most definitely shift in style from 20s beading, sequins and jazz (for evening wear only) to the more embroidery and lace trends with waists of the 30s.

My favorite pieces? A camilla and marc-esque cape and the dark beaded dresses. 

After the exhibition we went for a stroll around the gardens, and climbing stone steps which may have been a mistake in city shoes. It's always a good idea to wear boots when going exploring!

You could hire these row boats for events I believe.

The trek back to the front gates, boots are a very good idea as the drive way isn't paved.

There's tea rooms at the gate house! Though as we just had morning tea, and are on our way to afternoon tea we'll have to return later on! The exhibition runs till the end of July, and we shall return to share a house tour with you all!

Have you been to Ripponlea? Which era is your favourite?

NICK APPEARANCES.....Macy's South Coast Plaza INC "Popsicle" Summer Fashion Event: RECAP!

NICK APPEARANCES.....Macy's South Coast Plaza INC "Popsicle" Summer Fashion Event: RECAP!

Popsicle Nick: Nick Verreos--Macy's INC International Concepts Popsicle® Summer Fashion Event, Macy's South Coast Plaza Costa Mesa California

This past weekend, I hosted an I.N.C. International Concepts and Popsicle® Summer Fashion Event at Macy's South Coast Plaza in Costa Mesa, Orange County CA. For the last 7+ years, I have had the pleasure of MC'ing and hosting many, many Macy's events through out the continental U.S. and even Puerto Rico, and these are always some of the most fun events to do since it involves several things I love: Fashion, meeting people, discussing fashion and most of all, having lots of fun! And this weekend's event was no different.

Macy's South Coast Plaza, Costa Mesa California

The fashion presentation showcased the latest Popsicle® -inspired (Yes--THAT Popsicle!) designs for Summer 2017 from I.N.C. International Concepts, a brand exclusive to Macy's.

Popsicle Style: Nick Verreos with models at the Macy's South Coast Plaza INC and Popsicle® Summer Fashion Event, Costa Mesa California

The fashion show featured lots of models in colorful, super fun designs--perfect for a Summer bar-b-q, a cruise, holiday/vacation...or a perfect Sunday brunch! We also had a DJ, Popsicle® beverages, a "Balloon Artist", faux tattoos, a Macy's/INC/Popsicle Photo Booth Step & Repeat, and much more! Here is my Photo RECAP of the afternoon with lots of fun pics...

Look Mom, My Name Is On A Big Sign!--Nick Verreos arrives at Macy's South Coast Plaza--Macy's INC and Popsicle® Summer Fashion Event, Costa Mesa California

After arriving, I changed into my fabulous I.N.C. International Concepts ensemble (I can say "ensemble" when referring to menswear!), this OH-SO-NICK "Slim Fit Silver Foil" jacket, crisp white dress shirt with small collar and super skinny black pants. The event's stylist Shifteh Shahbazian (LOVE HER!) had picked this out for me and OH MY GAWWWWD was it PERFECT...

Jacket Love: Nick Verreos hosts the Macy's South Coast Plaza INC Popsicle® Summer Fashion Event--Costa Mesa, California

MC Fun: Nick Verreos hosting the Macy's South Coast Plaza INC Popsicle® Summer Fashion Event--Costa Mesa California

Model Fun: Nick Verreos with models Ivana Korab and Amber Lindauer wearing INC International Concepts Popsicle® -inspired looks--Macy's South Coast Plaza INC Popsicle® Summer Fashion Event, Costa Mesa California



Photo Booth Fun:

(L to R) David Paul, Nick Verreos and Brenda Fuentes--Macy's South Coast Plaza INC Popsicle®                                          Summer Fashion Event, Costa Mesa California

Popsicle Guest: Nick Verreos with guest at the Macy's South Coast Plaza INC Popsicle® Summer                                                    Fashion Event, Costa Mesa California

Model Posin': Nick Verreos and models in INC International Concepts Popsicle® -inspired looks at the Macy's South Coast Plaza INC Popsicle® Summer Fashion Event, Costa Mesa                                                                                     California

Popsicle Secrets: Nick Verreos and model Ivana Korab sharing "Popsicle" secrets--Macy's South                    Coast Plaza INC Popsicle® Summer Fashion Event, Costa Mesa California

That's a Popsicle Fashion Summer Wrap!: Nick Verreos at the Macy's South Coast Plaza                                             INC Popsicle® Summer Fashion Event, Costa Mesa California

ROYAL COUTURE.....Pippa Middleton Wedding: Wedding Gown, Best Dressed & "Uh Oh" Guests!

ROYAL COUTURE.....Pippa Middleton Wedding: Wedding Gown, Best Dressed & "Uh Oh" Guests!

 Wedding Gorgeous: Pippa Middleton and James Matthews smile after their wedding--St. Marks Church Englefield England

Pippa Middleton--the sister of Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge, married hedge fund manager and former professional racing driver, James Matthews on Saturday at a glorious wedding fitting a royal--or "Royal Adjacent". Pippa might not really be a royal but because of her very close approximation to one, I am placing her--and her wedding--in this Royal Couture blog. So let's discuss the wedding and more importantly, the Wedding Couture beginning with Pippa's wedding dress and then some of the guests...



The Dress:

Pippa Gown: Pippa Middleton chose a "Princess"/A-line shaped ballgown style for her wedding day. The handmade gown of lace and pearls was designed by British designer Giles Deacon. The dress was done in a manner that would not show any seams--by overlapping the lace--by hand--meticulously over the many seams that are in a gown of this silhouette. The dress featured a full ballgown skirt shape and UBER fitted drop-waist torso/bustier. It also had a high neckline, drop shoulder sleeve detail and heart-shaped semi-open back.

 British designer Giles Deacon

Giles Deacon Couture Fall/Winter 2016, modeled by model Anna Cleveland, daughter of famed 70's Supermodel Pat Cleveland 

Giles is said to have put on hold all his fashion business for the last few months to concentrate on Pippa's one-of-a-kind gown. His most recent "Couture" collection was for Fall/Winter 2016 and it showed glorious, billowing handmade gowns with exquisite applique detail. Pippa's wedding dress would probably cost in the realm of $75,000-$100,000, at least that would be the going price for an actual Haute Couture gown from the likes of Elie Saab, Zuhair Murad, Chanel or Dior. No news if she possibly got a "discount" for all the press he would receive.



The Veil:

The veil--of tulle and pearls--was done by famed milliner Stephen Jones.

Sister Fixing: Pippa's sister, Catherine the Duchess of Cambridge, was seen fixing Pippa's tulle-and-pearl veil as she was about to enter the church ceremony, just making sure that it was perfect

Shape Similar: Pippa's lace and pearl wedding gown was similar in shape to the iconic Alexander McQueen by Sarah Burton wedding dress worn by her sister Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge

Sealed with a Kiss: Pippa Middleton and James Matthews as they emerge from their church wedding ceremony with their "Flower girls and boys", including William and Kate's children Prince George (second from right) and Princess Charlotte--St. Marks Church, Englefield England

Page Boys and Girls:

Stylish George: Prince George (center), giving a "look" to the photographers--and looking very much like his father when William was his age. Prince George looked super cute in a white Peter Pan collared shirt with mini pintucks and emerald green silk shantung knickers.

Royal Style:

Mommie Kate: Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge looked chic and wedding appropriate in a dusty rose/light salmon colored silk crepe dress from Alexander McQueen by Sarah Burton. Her dress was a lady-like tea-length and featured a v-neckline, gathered Bishop sleeves, fitted midriff and pleated front skirt details. Her daughter Princess Charlotte looked ADORABLE in her gathered flower girl dress, with fresh flower headdress and pink cummerbund.

I have to say that Catherine looked very "Wallis Simpson Duchess of Windsor"-like in this 30's-like dress.

Dapper Brothers: Prince William, Duke of Cambridge and his brother Prince Harry in their tailcoat/morning coat ensembles. 

Guests:

Princess Eugenie, daughter of Prince Andrew and Sarah, Duchess of York--(seen here with her boyfriend Jack Brooksbank) wore this navy blue A-line shaped knee-length dress from French designer Paule Ka. The cotton dress features a "split-shoulder" neckline and retails for $1,014 HERE. For Pippa's wedding she decided to "play it safe" as opposed to her head-turning look at Kate's wedding.

Vanilla Yellow Donna: British actress--and aspiring fashion designer--Donna Air (who is on-off girlfriend to Pippa's hottie bearded brother James for the last four years)--attended the wedding in this lemon yellow/cream coat-dress from UK designer Emilia Wickstead Spring/Summer 2017 collection. Lots of fashion-watchers criticized her for saying that she should not have worn WHITE (a No-No as a wedding guest) but I have to disagree with these wanna-be-fashion experts...this coat-dress is NOT white and in fact more of a "vanilla yellow"-like color. I liked it! It was demure, elegant and lady-like. I also loved the matching hat and those fabulous ankle strapped pumps. The magenta colored clutch added a respite from all the vanilla/lemon yellow. Did I mention that this WAS NOT WHITE. OK. Thank you.

Tartan: A couple of male guests opted for tartan pants as part of their tailcoat ensembles. And I say "Go On Boys!". Love the tartan, love the statement and even though, yes, I know as a guest of a wedding, it really isn't about you but...I love when (especially) male guests GIVE YOU FASHION!

Flower Prints and Hats: These two guests stood out for their Wedding Fab printed dresses, perfect for a Spring/Summer wedding. I love the canary yellow flower printed dress on the left as well as the blue one on the right. Both looks are great examples of chic Wedding Guest Style, especially for a May wedding. If I had to chose my favorite of the two, it would be the blue; the waist-tie shirt dress style was elegant, fun and I loved the feminine ruffle details.

Fab Dressed: These two guests get my Wedding Guest Best Dressed points--the left one, for that fab pheasant feather-topped hat and blue-and-white ensemble as well as those navy-and-white pumps. I also loved the guest on the right in the pink pleated silk dress with Bishop sleeves and delicately appliqued detail. The gold pumps were a super chic addition.

Uh No Part One: Two female wedding guests that were not on my Best Dressed List were these printed ladies. Now, there's a way to do printed dresses for a wedding (scroll above) and this is a way to not do it. The guest on the left wore this drab Autumn-like printed dress that not only, looked dowdy but also said "I'm not happy at this wedding". And then, somehow, in the middle of May, the guest on the right thought it was fine to bring out her gray fur chubby/mini coat. All I can say is #GURL ! But kids, these two weren't the only ones who went Wedding Koo Koo Couture...

Happy Hands At Home Dress and Lifesaver Fruit Dress Guest: Well, look what we have here--the guest on the left looks as if she took her old Laura Ashley 80's bed sheet or window drapes and felt fine in making a dress out of it. And then, in addition, decided an iridescent organza shawl would make a fine accessory. Speaking of accessories, what in the name of the FASHION GODS are those putrid brown shoes??? Let's move on to the guest on the right--I give this woman points for being "sassy" in this colorful striped ensemble. And the big hat screams "I'm a good friend of the Gays" and I will bet a couple of British pounds that she's a hoot at the open bar, but...this is just too 1992 for me. Especially those "Lifesaver Fruit Flavor"-like buttons.



Oh well, at least, I can still go back to this gorgeous dress:

Congratulations to the Happy Couple--Pippa Middleton and James Matthews!