TRAINING WHEELS

TRAINING WHEELS

What I adore about the wonderful world of fashion is there are no rules anymore. With summer clearly over in Melbourne, I like to dwell in the past and resurrect one of the looks I enjoyed from last Summer. Of course I am talking about the Suit-Trainer ensemble. One of my favourite and easiest looks too style. This is by no means a Jerry Seinfield denim and trainers story!

Thanks to the big fashion houses leading the way with remaking the trainer and branding them to within an inch of their life via bright colours, signature monograms, embellishments, there has never been a better time to dress down a suit and still remain stylish.
I am not one to confirm to a uniform at work but still want to achieve chic, clean and classy looks that are required when working within the sector I do. 

Whatever your budget maybe, you can achieve this look. You will find similar no name shoes at some of the biggest variety stores across the country for next to nicks! Of course your trusty kicks that you wear to the gym or from your recent marathon will not help you achieve pulling off this modern look. 

As always you know I am a dress for purpose person. It is always important to consider the occasion you’ll be sporting this look for, or any look for that matter. I like to wear this look to work or out for dinner with friends. It's chic and simple to achieve and is super comfortable.
For my friends out there who love to wear lots of black (there are many of you ) using statement trainers in a bright colour against a monochromatic ensemble works particularly well. Furthermore for a casual look  chinos and an untucked shirt with trainers is a perfect casual look. Other options are  

You do not need to stick to a white trainer! Embrace a print or strong colour, and remember if they are white, look after them. No one enjoys a white shoe that is not clean!
Personally I like to stick to a slim fit suit and pair with trainers that pop or in contrasting colours. 

The biggest question I am asked is should I wear socks with a suit or go sockless? Honestly, I hate socks being shown unless it is completely intentional and they are a focus point for your ensemble. The second question then is "Don't your shoes stink?".
It is like people have never heard of sockettes!

What do you think of this style?

Suit: BrigginsShirt: Bell & BarnettShoes: Adidas

WHEN YOU FALL IN LOVE

WHEN YOU FALL IN LOVE

Who else can relate to this? That feeling of warmth and excitement as your heart starts to beat a little bit faster. An item that is an extension of your personality or something you know that you will wear to death! This treasured piece can awaken a lust and desire that you thought not possible, and then your fingertips grab it immediately and its like meeting an old friend. You fall in love with it and simply must have it? 

Shirt: @moschino

Shorts: @bauhausclothing

Jacket: @boohooMANofficial

Shoes: @roberto_cavalli

Sunglasses: @kmartaus

Falling in love can also cause heartbreak. I read an article recently about "Compulsive Spending Disorder" where it stated " Sufferers may feel compelled to splash out on things they do not need, want or use because they enjoy the recognition or importance that being a big shopper brings, or to bolster low self-esteem". After initially laughing at this article with a friend, I did seriously contemplate if I had a shopping addiction. The truth is, I do not shop to boost low self esteem. I do not shop for anyone else. I rarely shop with people. I have no need to be seen in the latest season. In fact when and what I purchase, is because I have fallen in love and I have it for many many years. I cannot help that I easily fall in love with beautiful colours and fabrics, embellished accessories, well constructed bags or unusual shoes. 

I could restrict my "love affairs" by resisting entering a store, not opening a shopping app on my phone or reading the delightful love letters of sales from mailing lists I have joined. Temptation is everywhere, including the window displays on Collins Street, Melbourne. 

 

Sunglasses: @oxfordshop

Coat: @boohooMANofficial

Shirt: @oxfordshop

Jeans: @cottonon

Shoes: @doucals

Who doesn't like new things? A new shirt is just like a new hair cut. A new pair of shoes can make you feel like you can take on the world, and don't get me started with a new suit. WORLD DOMINATION. 

Suit/Shirt/Accessories:@briggins_clothiers

Shoes: @doucals

Falling in love ultimately leads to heart break. Your favourite shoes can no longer be saved by taking them to the repair man, your favourite bag has had an accident with a stain. Unfortunately some love affairs are not meant to last a lifetime. Others are. I still have items from 10 years ago that I still wear and every time I wear them it ignites the passion I felt initially. The cruelest heartbreak is the "haunting and longing". Nothing haunts me like the things I did not buy. 

Blazer: @oxfordshop

Shirt: @helmutlang

Pants: @boohooMANofficial

Shoes: @boohooMANofficial

Bag: @doucals

Sunglasses: @kmartaus

In this day an age of mass produced "disposable" fashion, quality, cut, style and design are the key points of difference that instantly run through my head when I fall in love. If it is a sample, it makes it even more desirable. If it is a one off...........all bets are off. If it is an item I cannot find in stores in Australia, immediately I will fall a little bit more in love. Yes the industry may be designed that way, but so is my heart. 


Ultimately, you can never control your heart. If you fall in love with a giant sequined panda sweatshirt, so be it. Truth is if you love it and wear it with love and passion, everyone around you will love it and the energy you are producing. When love finds you, I say "grab it with both hands and never let go" unless I am on the other end of that item. Then watch out!