3 WAYS, 3 DAYS

3 WAYS, 3 DAYS

A blazer is a great fill-in for any occasion and every man has at least one in his wardrobe. They are perfect for situations in which a suit is too formal and you want to have a little sprinkling of your personality and individuality.

You all know how much I adore colours and fortunately this James Harper blazer has arrived just in time for Spring/Summer with its vibrant colour. The blazer is the perfect transitional wardrobe piece moving seasons from Winter to Spring. It is time to hang up those winter coats, wave goodbye to winter and don a blazer in a bright colour. This colour is sure to catch more than a few eyes on the streets, and it’s flattering shape works with just about anything I can throw at it.

 I am super excited about this colourful blazer, and it’s refreshing style that within 3 days, I wore it 3 different ways! It is perfect for summer with its slim lapel, double vents and the spot print lining is super fun when unbuttoned. Men like to purchase pieces that ensure versatility and value for money and this blazer works just as well outside the office as it does inside.

Day 1 – Blazer and Jeans

This great blazer and a humble pair of jeans created a great combination. The cut of the bright coloured blazer paired with the casual style of jeans created a sharp and chic yet relaxed vibe. Obviously the simplest of my 3 days, 3 ways, this look is totally easy for any man to achieve. By pairing the blazer with a plain shirt you will make the look more casual (remember to unbutton your top button) and your trusty white canvas kicks will make this a failsafe style that you can repeatedly rely on. If you don’t feel like being neither casual or dressy but quite neutral , opt for a polo shirt. It is another failsafe item that every gent has in their wardrobe. The great thing about this look is it is so versatile and can take you from afternoon meetings to drinks and spontaneous dancing with friends. Throw on this blazer during the day and it will keep you looking sharp through to when happy hour starts and beyond.

Day 2- Blazer Short Combo

On day 2 the sun begun to poke out of the clouds and I paired the blazer with a pair of shorts, also by James Harper, a white tee and some simple white canvas shoes, perfect look for sunnie afternoons.I opted to have the koi fish embroidery added to the jacket to customise it and make it a little special. The embroidery pattern is custom made (lovely touch) and hand stitched to the blazer. Embroidery has popped up everywhere thanks to the big fashion houses embracing embellishments and embroidery. I adore it’s unique eclectic vibe and it is wonderful to see menswear is getting in on the trend. Obviously you do not need to opt for the embroidery and the great thing is if you do, you can always remove it so you will have the blazer for seasons to come.

Day 3- Blazer for work

By day 3 I was totally mad for this blazer! The great thing about a statement blazer is you really do not need to buy a whole new wardrobe to match it. Dress to impress at the office by combining the blazer with pieces in your existing corporate wardrobe. You will be surprised how this great colour matches what you gents would already have in your wardrobe, such as navy’s and grey. The trick is to make a statement without being too over-the-top and keeping your ensemble work-friendly. When in doubt start with a light or dark base and work from there to create outfit harmony. To create a polished look for work I combined the blazer with a plain shirt with minimal details and pair of suit pants, topping it off with a pocket square. The pocket square helps break up the solidity of the blazer. If you do not know how to wear a pocket square, please revert to WHAT’S IN YOUR POCKET.

Stand out in the crowd by styling the blazer with a pair of shorts, a navy shirt and some white kicks. Totally on-point for afternoons out with friends. You could always combine them with some brown suede shoes that would convert this to a classic look for a more formal occasion, such as the polo, or nine-to-five.

My friends at James Harper have kindly offered you 10% off at their online store by using the code GFASH10.

Whether you need a blazer for work or just a fancy occasion, I hope I have inspired you to think outside the grey, navy or black box.

How to wear a White Blazer

How to wear a White Blazer

(UPDATED CONTENT)

HOW TO WEAR A WHITE BLAZER

I love a crisp white blazer.  It is Spring's answer to Fall's essential leather jacket. With white being a strong trend this season, the white blazer is ready for its spotlight!  White is a very elegant and timeless colour but neutral so it goes with everything.

Wear a White Blazer with gem tones, neutrals, and animal or other prints. Or Use a White Blazer to create a backdrop to showcase texture like prints, leather, rouching, and pleating.  Whether it’s for a day, work, or evening, a White Blazer can pull an outfit together. Here are my styling tips:

Play with layering and wear a tunic and skinny jeans, or colour block with a rich toned blouse and skirt. 

Pair a white blazer with a whimsical Spring dress for an effortlessly pulled-together outfit or the blazer-and-shorts look works perfectly on both petite and tall girls. The Structure of the blazer really balances the feminism, softness, and casual vibe of floral pieces. 

For those who think floral is too girly, and want to try something sexy. You can pair a white blazer with animal prints! The pure and clean white blazer makes the wild and sexy print dress so stylish. Keep the colour palette neutral, like black and white, then add a bold coloured bag to brighten up the whole look.

Instead of the usual LBD, try out a blazer and jumpsuit for your next party. The black-and-white contrast demands attention.

A white blazer looks amazing paired with pastels and pair with tough accessories for a cunning ladylike look.

A blazer can instantly add polish to a pair of jeans. Create a casual, yet sharp look with a white blazer, flared jeans, a flowy silk top, and pointy-toe pumps. Perfect for a casual work environment or your next lunch date.

Wear white on white. This is one of my favourite pairings. It looks sweet, elegant yet modern and chic.  Too scared to rock all white? Totally don’t blame you by the way – I am like a stain magnet. Go for all black topped with a white blazer instead.
SHOP MY PICKS

Maison Margiela Crepe Blazer

Paule Ka Belted Blazer

UINSTONE Women's Shawl Blazer

HyBrid & Company Double Notch Lapel White Blazer

Here are some ideas of how to wear a White Blazer:

  

I hope these white blazer style tips have given you some inspiration! Till' next time xo

WHAT DO YOU THINK?

Women Fashion Tips For Body Types - 10 Rules.

Women Fashion Tips For Body Types - 10 Rules.

Being fashionable can be a struggle at times. What to wear? What accessories go with which style of clothing? The questions go on and on. For women looking for fashion tips, the following 10 fashion tips every woman should know offer insights into fashion-forward thinking.

When searching for fashionable wardrobe items, research available clothing options before making a purchase. Also, find out which fashion styles work best with each particular body type, how much is too much to spend on an outfit, and places to find and buy fashionable wardrobe items, such as at local clothing stores or online marketplaces like eBay.

Every shopper would like to know how to make the best decisions when it comes to fashion. The following section contains 10 tips every woman should know before buying new wardrobe items.

Top 10 Fashion Tips for Women

The following detailed 10 fashion tips offer women some guidance on fashion-forward thinking.

1. Focus on Strengths

Shoppers need to know the ABCs of fashion: Accentuate, Balance, and Camouflage. Shoppers should also look for styles that accentuate their body's strengths and downplay their weaknesses. For example, shoppers who have an hourglass figure should wear clothing that accentuates those attributes, including scooped or V neck outfits, vertical striped outfits, or dresses and one-piece outfits that cinch at the waist. For tall women, for instance, avoid stripes, which make a wearer look even taller. To create volume, add colors and patterns to pants or skirt. This accentuates a triangle shape.

Women's body types include:

Tall and slender. Considered the most desirable body type.

Endomorph

Apple-shaped. Women with this body type carry a lot of their weight in the upper body area.

Mesomorph

Athletic build. Women with this body type have broad shoulder, wider hips, and smaller waists.

2. Quality Versus Quantity

Always buy fashion pieces with quality in mind. A few really good pieces will do a shopper better than numerous items that might not have as much of an impact. Another strategy: Buy a few pieces that shoppers look fabulous in and then augment those classics with more trendy items over time.

Quality does not always mean high cost. Buying well-made brands that fit into the shopper's look and plays to their strengths can ensure each purchase is justified.

3. Create a "Personal" Look

Look for clothing designs, certain cuts, and styles that look the best and offer superior comfort. Buy more than one if something is found that works. For example, if a shopper finds a pair of jeans that accentuate her glamorous attributes, she should consider buying multiple pairs in more than one color.

The best way to make a powerful and lasting impression through fashion includes developing a fashion style that others won't forget.

4. Try New Things

While sticking to what works best, shoppers should also try new fashions out. This doesn't mean abandoning what has worked for shoppers. One way to experiment with new fashions and still save money is to buy pre-worn clothing that remains in great condition.

5. Simplicity Is Best

Staying simple is usually the best way to go. This goes for both makeup and wardrobe items. When in doubt, keep the accessories to a minimum and use timeless, classic fashion styles, such as a black dress with red pumps. When wearing makeup, shoppers should use only enough to highlight the best features of their face: cheekbones, lips, or eyes, for example.

6. Don't Break the Bank

Shoppers don't have to buy the most expensive items to be fashionable. Less expensive items can work just as well, especially if they play toward a shopper's strengths. So, instead of buying an expensive Versace dress, shoppers could instead buy a less expensive Banana Republic dress.

Used items of fashion are also an option, especially lightly used clothing. This way shoppers can get the items they want in almost-perfect condition at a much lower price point compared to new items.

7. Take Note of Fashion Trends

Shoppers should keep their eyes on the latest fashion trends. That said, shoppers should only adopt those styles that match their body type and personality. If the latest fashions do not look good on a shopper and accentuate their strong points, it doesn't matter if those fashions are in style or not.

Read magazines such as Allure, ELLE, and Fashion Magazine to keep up on the latest styles. This allows shoppers to keep up with the latest fashion news and trends, especially in regard to upcoming seasonal options.

8. Accessories Make the Outfit

Shoes and other accessories can make or break an outfit. A perfect belt or piece of jewelry can really tie an outfit together and make a statement. Another important tip: Do not overdo the accessories. As stated above, shoppers should keep their outfits simple. This goes double for makeup, as too much looks gaudy and draws too much attention away from the entire ensemble.

Mix and match accessories between outfits. Also, neutral colors and blacks and browns are best to extend the use of accessories between outfits.

9. Tailor an Outfit

If shoppers can afford it, they should have their outfits properly tailored to fit their body. Wearing clothes that look custom made is a first step towards taking a standard look from plain to fashionable. Another way to assure a good fit: Go for a fitting.

10. Implement the Basics

The basic wardrobe items every woman should own include a black dress, a blazer, a pair of great-fitting denim jeans, a classic pump, a neutral handbag (black, brown, or both), a leather jacket, and a ballet flat. With just these few articles of clothing and accessories, shoppers can come up with a fashionable ensemble on the spur of the moment.

Neutral colors, blacks, and browns are best for establishing a basic fashion wardrobe. Throw in some whites, such as a blouse or pumps, and shoppers are set.

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. 

5 Affordable Online Stores You Probably Had No Idea Existed

5 Affordable Online Stores You Probably Had No Idea Existed

The only thing that makes me happier than a Friday is a good retail therapy! And as much as I love strolling around the first floor at Maison Ogilvy or browsing the carefully curated new arrivals at HoltRenfrew.com, my monthly budget simply doesn't allow me to indulge in high-fashion and luxury items every time. But as a fashion girl, I made it my mission to remain on top of my style-game at all costs… Or in this case, at practically no cost ;) 

Piqued your curiosity just yet ? Check out the five online boutiques I simply could have never done it without…

1) TOBI

featuring the I'm Yours Sweater Crop Top, $33 and East Side Printed Neck Scarf, $30

TOBI always carries the most exciting things online and I find their style to be very reminiscent of Nasty Gal's for often, a quarter of the price. Whether it's basics, intimates, swimwear, evening-wear, ROMPERS!.. TOBI has it all and even more. The 'Sale' feature is probably my favourite as it allows me to get all the pieces I missed out on at a fraction of the price. And every career girl knows that a good sale always makes the bank account happy. Sorta… ;)

tobi.com

2) MISSGUIDED

featuring the Velvet Choker Shift Dress, $49

Missguided is such a good party brand for twenty-something ladies like myself! Their overall aesthetic channels the perfect combination of femininity, sensuality and effortless style, offering a great variety of pieces fit for a queen. Warning! If, like myself, you have a soft spot for the cool fabrics and textures of the 90's (velvet, satin, crochet and mesh that is) you might end up spending most of your days scrolling down the new arrivals and back in stock options of the moment. Most. Of. Your. Days.

Psssst! There's also a 20% discount for students in the US… #unidays

missguidedus.com

3) GO JANE

featuring the Day Date Ruffled Chambray Romper, $29

With currently up to 70% sale off sitewide, Go Jane is one of my most affordable online fashion discovery of 2016. Every since my very first order with them (a gorgeous pair of denim chunky heels) I have been completely obsessed with their weekly arrivals and their footwear shop, curating over 900 pair of pumps, boots, sandals, sneakers, flats, catering to everybody's taste and budget.

gojane.com

4) LULU'S

featuring the Ring the Bell Dark Green Crop Top, $42

I like to think that I was quite early on discovering and integrating Lulu's best sellers into my wardrobe mostly because it caters so well to my ultra feminine style and aesthetic. For almost 10 years now, Lulu's has been my go-to web destination for all-things dresses and cute accessories. As for my favourite feature from their website: the 'Back in Stock' section where they bring back all of the styles that sold out too quickly, so you can never miss out on a great #outfitgoals ;)

lulus.com

5) PIXIE MARKET

featuring the Ribbon Open Back White Tee, $78

Pixie Market is my favourite online destination for statement tops and other original pieces. I've always loved a good stand-out outfit and Pixie's allows me to innovate and get extra creative with my fashion sense. They've got a wonderful collection of fun, fearless work-appropriate shirts and blouses that make it super easy to transition from the office to happy hour in a knack. Don't go unnoticed!

pixiemarket.com

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