Do You Speak Fashion?

Richard de Chazal Fashion Show - Review & Photos

2007-10-08T14:01:00.000+10:00

Gold Coast Fashion Week had one other thing amid allegations of paedophilia – fashion.

Designer Richard de Chazal’s spectacular couture collection transformed jeans ‘n’ t-shirt-wearing models into high society ladies.

Normally a two-hour parade delay would be enough for any fashionista to stiletto it (in non-fashion speak, this means to leave).

But from the moment two, (shirtless) male models emerged to throw around some hay (the logic behind this remains a mystery, but it reduced the VIP audience to cheers), it was clear this was a show not to be missed.

A veteran in extravagance, de Chazal’s show was a celebration of the La Belle Époque period of 1895-1914.

“I’m really keen on the design ethics of the late nineteenth century,” he said.

“Generally it is kind of a Parisian movement, which was sort of spearheaded by the Beautiful Era.”

The Gold Coast Arts Centre appears a poor substitute for the streets of Paris, but the designer’s elegant signature style made it easy to forget Surfers Paradise was in such near proximity.

With no catwalk in sight, models paraded around the Western-themed setting to the beautiful voice of opera singer Jacqueline Mabardi, who had taken centre stage.

“I thought this might be a bit more interesting and work better than a catwalk,” de Chazal said of the layout.

“Quite often when you see [John] Galliano or [Jean Paul] Gaultier or Alexander McQueen, they have in the past done some really amazing shows, which are kind of set up in little fantasies where the models are in a kind of surreal existence.”

But word of warning, if you’re anti-frill, then this isn’t the show for you.

Layers of frills cascaded down creamy-white skirts and were mixed with the trademark styles of the nineteenth century: cinched in waists and corsets.

On top of this, models sported black top hats, chic veils and black leather gloves.

As for the fashionably late start, there were no backstage tantrums, nor were there any ‘technical difficulties’ as told.

“It wasn’t my fault,” insists the designer.

“Well first of all, there is no organisation, we were supposed to have models here at two o’clock, nobody bothered to show until six o’clock,” he said.

The show was an effortless piece, so it is hard to believe that only hours earlier, models had been learning when to come on, where to pose and what exactly to do with those giant black feathers some were holding.

Richard de Chazal VIP Show - GC Fashion Week

2007-09-16T07:25:00.000+10:00

More photos to come...

One of the uber hunky male models.

Models pre-show.

Fashion designer Richard de Chazal gives directions to models during rehearsal.

The backdrop for the show

backstage at the couture show.

Jennifer Hawkins in Harper's Bazaar

2007-09-02T11:23:00.000+10:00

Former Miss Universe Jennifer Hawkins, will appear in the October issue of Australian fashion mag Harper's Bazaar. Hawkins will be on the cover and will also feature in an eight-page spread.

And in case you're wondering why Hawkins is dressed like a cat - no, cat costumes haven't become fashionable all of a sudden, and no, she isn't auditioning to be the next Pussycat Doll either.

According to news.com.au, the magazine's editor, Alison Veness-McGourty, said: "She may have turned down the role in Pink Panther, but we thought it would be fun to see Jennifer Hawkins star as the pink one.

"So we set about transforming her into something of a pussy cat."

Amazing photo. I can't wait to see the rest of the shots. I reckon she would make a savvy Bond girl in this outfit. Love the hair.

Charitable Fashion

2007-08-25T18:35:00.000+10:00

Just out of curiosity, would you buy a fashion item simply because the profits were going to charity? I came across this hideous little number on my web travels... (and it's a Stella McCartney!)

"Limited edition tank top designed by Stella McCartney for the 2007 Glastonbury Music festival. The proceeds will go to OXFAM, an organisation against poverty in the world."

I'm sure my two-year-old nephew could do better finger painting than the print on this tee.

Brisbane Fashion Festival Starts Tonight!!

2007-08-25T15:21:00.000+10:00

I probably didn't need two exclamation marks in the heading there... I'm just trying to psych people up.

According to the schedule there is some fancy invite only shindig on at Government House. I'm not going 'cause my life motto is never to mix fashion with politics. (Okay, okay, I'm not invited, geez.)

Depending on my degree of laziness/growing mountain of uni work, I will try and post on Brisbane Fashion Festival.

** Also, I did an interview with the Event Coordinator for Gold Coast Fashion Week - so I will be posting that up soon.

*** Further goss: I'm getting a media pass to Gold Coast Fashion Week (meaning I get in free, can go backstage and cause trouble, and chat up male models). Sweet. So I'll be reporting on that in a few weeks time and I should get some cool photos.

Emporium Mag

2007-07-13T13:47:00.000+10:00

Has Myer’s emporium magazine been selling (at all)? I have no idea – but if the fact that they were giving away free copies with purchases last weekend is anything to go by, then it’s um, not. It must seem like I live at Myer since I am always going on about it. Just for the record, I don’t.

Launched earlier this year, emporium is supposed to be a quarterly thing, but who knows what the good people at Myer and News Magazines are planning to do. For a 15-minute read it’s alright, but not worth the $5,95 that they've been flogging it for.

Needless to say it’s disappointing.

I especially love how the cover says “Australia’s favourite designers”, which basically translates into “Australia’s favourite designers that are stocked at Myer”.

Midyear Sales - Woo Hoo!

2007-07-10T17:36:00.000+10:00

Yep, it’s that time of the season again when fashion retailers realise they can’t sell any of their stock at the original price (mostly because it was priced way too high to begin with), so they generously mark it down for the people who could never afford to buy it in the first place. In other words, it is the only time I shop. Yay for markdown time! Sweet.

Consumer 1 Retailer 0

So with the sales season upon us, now is a good time to stock up on the essentials (eg. Myer was having 30 per cent off hosiery the other day, so I snagged a few things – get the whole ‘snag’ joke thing I did – ‘cause typically you snag stockings… yeah, ok, it’s over, I’m moving on).

I also bought a dress from Veronika Maine (which I worked out had been reduced by 70 per cent!). Crazy, huh? The original price was total b/s; sometimes I wonder how designers think people will actually pay that kind of price to begin with.

While the midyear sales have yet to measure up to their chaotic sister sales – aka the Boxing Day sales - they’re still worthwhile… especially since it’s uni break and there’s nothing to do.

P.S. Nine West is having 50 per cent off for two weeks only – such a shame their current stock isn’t anything that one would want to buy. But still – it’s half price, people.

Designers To Share Cooper Name

2007-07-04T13:37:00.000+10:00

New Zealand fashion designers Tamsin Cooper and Trelise Cooper (not related, but share the same surname) have settled their legal dispute over the Cooper name.

The designers reached an amicable decision over the trademark debacle. Trouble first loomed when Trelise attempted to block Tamsin registering the Cooper name, on the grounds that it could cause brand confusion.

But it’s all sorted out and the two designers now believe their public legal battle has given people a distinction between the two labels.

How convenient. All a publicity stunt? Yeah, I doubt it, but it’s always start to fun rumours, right? Well, it was in high school.

Kate Moss Not Provocative Enough

2007-07-04T11:31:00.000+10:00

This is probably a shit week for Miss Moss – first her dodgy BF Pete Doherty allegedly cheats on her, and now lingerie label Agent Provocateur has dropped her from the face of their campaigns. Unlucky.

Moss’ $1.2 million deal with the racy bra + undies label means there is a vacancy for a newcomer – and apparently a new fresh-faced, younger model has already been chosen. But whom?

SMG + satin = I don't know?

2007-07-03T11:03:00.000+10:00

Here's super-cutie Sarah Michelle Gellar opening a Harrods Summer Sale. I still don't know what to make of the outfit - the top-half works, but as for the satin shorts... there's some weird stuff going on there. To be fair though, satin shorts are a difficult item to pull off for anyone.

Lighten Up

2007-07-03T10:09:00.000+10:00

Looks like the hair shade of choice for some is on the lighter side of things.

Adriana Lima with her new 'do' and with black hair for the bebe ads.

I can’t believe how different Petra Nemcova looks as a blonde.

Cavalli Likes Drug Users

2007-07-02T14:32:00.000+10:00

I heard back a few weeks ago that dirty duo Kate Moss and Pete Doherty—aka ‘Moherty’ I think they’ve been officially dubbed—were fronting Roberto Cavalli ad campaigns. Why? I do not know. How? I cannot tell you. Wait, yes I can – the photo shoot was done in trendy Ibiza.

Modelling must be the only industry where drug addicts get employed. Perhaps a coke addiction and rehab is a prerequisite? Good for them.

And Cavalli’s thoughts on Moherty: "Kate Moss and Pete Doherty perfectly embody everything that's contemporary and they're poetic, creative and wild." Riiigghht. Poetic, creative ane wild? Yeah, I’ll give ‘em that. Contemporary? No way. So what you’re saying Cavvy, is that people have to act like these two to be considered ‘in the now’? We’re all screwed.

These images of Kate have been photoshopped for magazine perfection (would we expect any less?).

Bargain Buy – Impulse Deodorant

2007-07-02T12:26:00.001+10:00

I went grocery shopping for the first time in about a decade the other day and came across trusty Impulse deodorants. Now I thought Impulse have been off their game a bit for a while (or for a few years), but their new City Collection – NY Sass, Paris Chic and London Vibe are neat.

I bought Paris Chic (which is the only one the supermarket had), so I’m kind of eager to test the other two. Paris Chic is basically a decent-enough-smelling perfume in a can for a cheap price. I posted the ad above but it's been shown on TV about 5,494,032 times. If anyone is a fan of 'Top Model' you might remember one of the contestants (can't remember her name, but she was the annoying one - true, they were all annoying) did an ad for Impulse NY Sass.

Why do websites use flash? It’s positively the most frustrating thing. Despite this, the Impulse Paris Chic Australia website is cool...ish. I wanted to get a pic of it but the non-nerd in me doesn’t know how to do it. Blah. Anyhoo, on the website there’s this groovy ‘8 Chic Places to go in Paris’ map. If you’re bored, it provides some fun for about 80 seconds.

Also, I found this recall notice on the Impulse UK site:

Important safety notice - UK & Ireland Product Recall - Impulse Body Spray 75ml Cans

Quality checks have revealed that a small number of Impulse Body Spray 75ml cans (all fragrances) may have a manufacturing fault. The fault may mean that some cans are unable to stop spraying, which can potentially lead to a safety risk.

LOL. How does a can not stop spraying? But it sounds lethal. A person would probably choke from too much of the smell.

Kate Winslet for Lancome

2007-06-29T10:40:00.001+10:00

This ad has such a refreshing feel to it... The pale skin and the windswept hair capture it perfect. I really like this fragrance, although I don' t feel like I'm Lancome 's key demographic. 'Tresor' has this old ladies smell to it . It's very strong. A great perfume for grandmas.

Spice Girls. Sydney. Jan 17

2007-06-29T09:26:00.000+10:00

Enough said.

Mr. T on 80s Fashion

2007-06-28T14:24:00.001+10:00

Classic. If you love cool music and bad fashion, then this one's for you. I'm glad fashion has progressed.

Spice Girls Coming to Australia? Please Say Yes!

2007-06-28T12:19:00.000+10:00

The news of a Spice Girls reunion sorta rocked my world (I know, I have to get a life). So if the rumours that the girls are coming Down Under for a tour are true... I might lose it. They've only been here once - in 1998, so it is a much-awaited return.

Sure most people remember them as some 90s girl group who brought out that annoying Wannabe song and 'zig-a-zig ah' line. But come on, they are so much more than that. A decade ago it was all girl-power and stuff, now it's I dunno slut-power with the Pussycat Dolls. Puh-lease. I would much rather have SG's as my role model than PCD any day.

I love this photo.

Liz Claiborne Dies at 78

2007-06-28T11:59:00.000+10:00

Fashion designer Liz Clairborne died on Tuesday at the New York Presbyterian Hospital. She had suffered from cancer for a number of years.

This photo and statement appears on the Clairborne website:

In losing Liz Claiborne, we have not only lost the founder of our company, but an inspirational woman who revolutionized the fashion industry 30 years ago.

Her commitment to style and design is ever present in our thinking and the way we work. We will remember Liz for her vision, her entrepreneurial spirit and her enduring compassion and generosity.

According to the website, by 1985, Liz Claiborne Inc. was the first company founded by a woman to be listed in the Fortune 500. Awesome.

She was very stylish.

Which fashion labels are you loyal to?

2007-04-11T10:54:00.000+10:00

I’m curious as to where most people buy their clothes from.

Personally, I’m going through a phase where I only shop from three labels: Cue, Veronika Maine and Country Road. (And I would say I buy half of my clothes from ebay now.) I don’t even bother looking at other stores because I know it’s all crap.

Of course I shop on a student budget but if I wasn’t shit-poor I might look elsewhere. I’m really not into surf/street wear so that excludes half the fashion labels right there.

It’s really embarrassing when I go into Veronika Maine now (because I’m always there) and I can tell which stock is new and not. You know you’ve got a fashion addiction when you can recall the stock better than the staff can.

The Country Road Duffle Bag – An Aussie Classic?

2007-04-11T10:49:00.000+10:00

My BFF made the comment last week that lately the CR Duffle Bag is everywhere and most importantly “is still in style”. My friend made a great comment that they do virtually no promotion for the duffle bags and they still sell like hotcakes (mmm… hotcakes). How come?

Now I don’t major in marketing, but from what I remember from my Intro to Marketing course last year, these bags could sell themselves. I’m assuming they would cost little to produce as well:
1. They only come in a few colours (black, navy, red/pink), so the materials cost would be substantially lower than other items to produce.
2. They are probably made in Cambodia, which always helps to save a few dollars.
3. The bag never changes – it’s basically the same one they churned out a decade ago.
4. Advertising costs appear to be nil, which is always good.

They definitely seem more common for your average uni student and I would say that I see them every time I go to class.

Being the Country Road fan that I am, I see that they have reintroduced the pink colour back for the duffle. Nice.

And FYI: If you like their stuff then do yourself a favour and become a CR Card Member (it’s free, click here for their website – and no, I’m not employed by Country Road).

Also, has anyone noticed that they employ the most beautiful men to work at their stores? I totally have. It kinda makes you wanna shop there all the time.

This Hair Is Beyond Wrong

2007-03-30T13:29:00.000+10:00

Even if this "hairstyle" (dare I call it that) was first-thing-in-the-morning hair, it would still be tragic. It kinda resembles a wig actually. I'm noting this fashion faux pas as yet another incident of 'Money Doesn't Buy You Style'. I could probably do my thesis on this topic.

I think I have this same beanie

2007-03-28T10:32:00.000+10:00

Although mine is Country Road and David Beck's is probably Gucci (and made from some exotic wool). What exotic wool is, I do not know - but it's out there alright.

And the Award for Miss Slutty goes to...

2007-03-28T10:22:00.000+10:00

Drum roll please.

Xtina!

In true Christina Aguilera style, she left the house in this little number. But the question remains, how does one leave said house like this in the first place? I swear celebrities need round-the-clock minders to monitor every single thing they wear, do, and say.

Enormous Panties Not Just For Bridget Jones

2007-01-27T16:15:00.000+10:00

Ahh… the control tops, the granny undies, possibly the best invention ever, or whatever you want to call them. And guess who’s wearing them? None other than Katie Holmes.

My fave spinster and role model Bridget Jones would be so proud. Are they sexy? Probably not. But everyone knows they work wonders.

Considering the Mrs Tom Cruise is looking fab after her baby, maybe the enormous panties were donned out of fear of doin’ a Britney – who decided to go starkers ‘down there’ a few times.

Holmes appears to be significantly more style-conscious these days.

Designer Water

2007-01-18T19:26:00.001+10:00

Six months ago toting around a banana in Australia was huge news. Now bananas weren’t decorated in Swarovski crystals or anything, but basically you were “someone” if you could afford one.

Companies are now cashing in on our obsession with water of all things. The growing trend to be a health nut means sugar-filled soft drinks are out and the natural resource (aka water) is in. Apparently people like being ripped off by paying $5 for a stylish looking bottle.

The surge in water has also opened up the market for bottled water for our pets. Yep, PetRefresh now has a line specifically designed in mind for the furry kind.

Consumers (myself included) are such suckers for image. Madonna is apparently a big fan of Voss Artesian Water, while Penta boasts Cameron Diaz as a fan of theirs. Glaceau Vitaminwater has linked Kelly Clarkson with their kiwi-strawberry flavour and 50 Cent has inspired Formula 50 – “Roll with 50 (per)cent of many of your daily requirements.”

And then of course there is little Lindsay and her vodka “water” bottles.

Since we’re in a drought and all, there has been a lot of talk about having to drink sewerage water. Now there’s a flavour I’d rather miss.

Mobile Phone For Prada

2007-01-18T19:25:00.000+10:00

Fashion labels must be the absolute best at marketing and branding their products. Prada have decided that producing luxurious sweaters is not enough, and that a mobile phone is in the works.

The mobile will be developed along with LG Electronics, already a leader in mobile communications. Apparently, “the result is a unique, sophisticated and elegant phone, with an advanced touch interface which eliminates the conventional keypad.”

No word of how much it will cost, but expected launch is early this year (for UK, France, Italy, and Germany). But will this phone really be different to the other thousand models of phones we already have saturating the market?

If I had one of these phones, every time it rang, I would be like “Ooh, that’s my Prada ringing.” Of course people would probably look at me like I was one of those spoilt brats from MTV show “My Super Sweet 16”. Please tell me I’m not the only one who is irritated from those types of girls? They are utterly embarrassing... Not that I would ever watch that show or anything. *Grabs remote and changes channel*

Naomi Campbell Really Does Beat People

2007-01-17T16:47:00.001+10:00

British supermodel slash superbitch Naomi Campbell has pleaded guilty to third-degree assault for doing “a Russell” and throwing a phone. Campbell threw the mobile at her housekeeper Ana Scolavino last March and as such will spend five days doing community service.

This is nice deal for Campbell considering she could have faced a seven-year jail term on the original charge of second-degree assault.

Campbell was ordered to attend a two-day anger management course as well. Will two days really help? Who throws a phone anyway? She must've been mighty pissed off.

OK, I Forgive Pink (sorta)

2007-01-17T16:46:00.001+10:00

If you read any of my earlier posts on Pink, you would know I was fired up over her comments about boycotting the Australian wool industry. Well, she’s now retracted part of her comments, admitting that she failed to do enough research on the issue.

Pink, who appeared in a video for PETA on animal cruelty, in which she described sheep mulesing as “sadistic”, now admits that she was misinformed.

"My message was, in my mind, boycott animal cruelty - not an entire industry, not Australia, obviously, because it's my favourite country.

"Then going back, I was speaking without thinking and I actually did say ban Australia, which is bulls***. It's not something that I can agree with,” she said.

I suppose this is a fairly decent apology. I will inturn also withdraw my own comments that I would boycott Pink’s music and never download it again.

PETA’s boycott on Australian wool saw some American and British retailers on side. However, leading clothing retailer Bennetton realised it was a load of crap and refused to lend their support to the campaign.

Golden Globes Fashion - Hits & Misses (regular updates)

2007-01-16T09:29:00.001+10:00

Haven’t seen much of Heidi Klum of late. What’s with the gloves? Fab choker. I wonder if it's from her jewellery line.

Salma Hayek and her ‘puppies’ are out in force.

Maggie Gyllenhaal. Is this what motherhood does to women? Maggie used to have an off-beat style, but I didn’t realise tragic was part of the equation. Wtf is this? It’s totally all wrong.

Uh, ok, does Zach Braff wear make-up?

Ahh… McDreamy.

I can see why these two generate so much interest – just look at them. Gorgeous. Jolie has the skinniest arms for a mother.

Abigail Breslin. This girl is such a cutie. I’m hoping she doesn’t end up like how all the other child stars do.

Tina Fey in a dress? Who, what, when, where, why and how? Amazing. If this photo hadn't said "Tina Fey" under it, I would be utterly clueless as to who this is. She's so funny.

You can always count on Sienna Miller for style. This is such an unsual dress - beautiful though. It's early days yet but so far white is proving a popular choice.

Aaron Eckhart lookin' mighty spunky.

Rosanna and Patricia Arquette. Do I need to even comment on these two dresses? Nuff said already.

Hayden Panettiere chose well. You can’t really see the detail in the dress from the pics, but on TV this dress looked amazing.

Ali Larter. I hope she packed tape in that purse. Just in case.

Jennifer Love Hewitt. Way too monochromatic – brown from head to toe. Nice bodice, the rest looks more frump than anything else.

She looks pretty in this pic.

Babies Are Fashion Accessories

2007-01-16T09:05:00.000+10:00

This is the funniest picture. It sums up celebrity adoption perfectly. I came across this picture on Hollywoodrag.com, which was created by Artist 14 and featured in Cracked magazine’s Jan/Feb issue.

Gucci tried to bring the babee back a few years ago, but the trend to adopt an orphan child seems to have caught on better. Do Louis Vuitton sell baby carriers already? If not, I’m thinking there’s a big market for them.

I was thinking the illustration would have been even cooler if there was a stamp on the baby's forehead "We Do Not Accept Returns" or something.

MK Loves Her Bag

2007-01-16T09:04:00.001+10:00

Mary-Kate Olsen must really dig this bag. It's unusual to see famous people (especially females) wearing stuff more than once - they seem to dispose of clothes as soon as they've been photographed in them.

Meanwhile this is one of the worst outfits I have seen in a long time.

Coming Soon… New York Fashion Week

2007-01-13T14:54:00.001+10:00

Look out for NY Fashion Week starting on Feb 2. I’ll be posting on which labels crashed and burned and which ones made me cut up my credit card out of fear of spending too much.

Also, red-carpet season is near, giving all of us a chance to see what celebs spend their millions of dollars on - is it good stylists or bad taste?

Meet Fulla… Arab Barbie

2007-01-13T13:20:00.000+10:00

Fulla was created by a United Arab Emirates toy company and is designed to be a “global doll”, not necessarily a “Muslim doll”.

Fulla of course looks nothing like the blonde-haired, big-breasted Barbie (that Westerners know and love). She does not own a bikini, instead opts for an abaya – a long, black robe – fully covering her body. Barbie’s golden tanned skin is replaced with Fulla’s caramel skin, chocolate eyes, jet-black hair and there is certainly no DD’s (the booby kind not the batteries).

Barbie doesn’t seem to make the cut in this multi-cultural world we live in. African-American, Hispanic, Asian and Native American dolls have all been introduced of late in order to meet the demands of different religions, races and cultures.

In the Middle East, Fulla outsells Barbie and seems to take the opposite approach of Barbie. Fulla “respects her parents” and asks “girls to take pride in themselves and not dress for boys and be the sex symbols that other dolls tend to be.” That is according to Fulla’s creators NewBoy.

Even if a child has a Fulla doll and realises that women shouldn’t be sex symbols, said child can still turn on MTV and see women like The Pussycat Dolls whoring themselves around. Dolls are only one object that children are exposed to. I don’t think there is anything wrong with Barbie, despite her unrealistic proportions. Unless parents decide to take away the TV, DVD’s, Internet, magazines and countless other media communications, children will always be influenced to some degree by what they see. But then again, it’s just a doll.

Useless Fashion Tip #1: Big Bags Cause Bigger Problems

2007-01-13T13:11:00.001+10:00

Apart from their expense, large, over-sized carry bags are not what they seem. Ok, sure they are trendy, but like high heels, they are bad for your health. And bank balance.

The bigger the bag, the more shoulder problems it creates. We used to get reminded about this in high school. Whenever I’m at uni and carrying loads of books I can really tell it’s a problem.

After years of carrying school bags on a particularly shoulder, people often find that that side kind of slopes lower than the other. Definitely not a cool look.

So my tip of the day is letting you know that it is advised that a bag should not weigh more than ten per cent of your body weight. Honestly, who has the time to figure that out? Do I look like a numbers girl?

Health hazard?

Models Get Picked On

2007-01-13T11:57:00.001+10:00

There has been so much comment on models lately and their lack of body weight and “lifestyle” choices.

The Council of Fashion Designers of America has now weighed in on the debate about models and has released a new health initiative to combat anorexia, bulimia and chain-smoking.

These are suggested guidelines only and not enforceable:

# Keep models under 16 off the runway and don't allow models under 18 to work at fittings or photo shoots past midnight.

# Educate those in the industry to identify the early warning signs of eating disorders.

# Require models identified as having an eating disorder to receive professional help and only allow those models to continue with approval from that professional.

# Develop workshops on the causes and effects of eating disorders, and raise awareness of the effects of smoking and tobacco-related disease.

# During fashion shows, provide healthy meals and snacks, while prohibiting smoking and alcohol.

Do you really think the last one is going to be achieved? Smoking and models seem to go together.

There is no mention of a BMI guideline. A BMI under 18.5 is considered underweight.

''The CFDA Health Initiative is about awareness and education, not policing. Therefore, the committee is not recommending that models get a doctor's physical examination to assess their health or body-mass index to be permitted to work,'' the CFDA said in a statement. ''Eating disorders are emotional disorders that have psychological, behavioral, social and physical manifestations, of which body weight is only one.''

You have to feel sorry for the models that are genetically thin. At some point people have to realise that some people are naturally thin, curvy, and large. Does it really matter? I don’t assume that all ‘big’ people suffer from obesity. If that’s their body type, then so be it.

Michael Vollbracht, the creative director at Bill Blass, said ''thin is always in, it's how you show clothes… But then those size 0 styles are plucked by stylists for Hollywood actresses who then feel fat and then diet when they can't fit into the tiny garments, and there are so many girls and women who then look up to the stars. It's a perpetual cycle”. The guy makes a valid point. So it is settled then – celebrities are to blame. I knew it. Isn't it great that you can blame everything on famous people?

Fashion = Skin Cancer?

2007-01-13T11:52:00.001+10:00

The Cancer Council has fears that fashion is a contributing factor to teenagers ignoring warnings about skin cancer.

David Wild from the Cancer Council believes the idea that suntans are made out to be “cool, hip and healthy” is a big problem and thinks fashion is partly to blame for this. Schools will soon be given educational resources about skin cancer in the hope it will deter youngsters from burning themselves to a crisp.

Apparently teens are the worst offenders and are simply not getting the “slip, slop, slap” message. I would have thought that young people would have realised that nobody has real tans anymore; just fake ones.

I can understand how one would make the assumption that it’s fashion’s fault. But in reality, I think that fashion/beauty writers advocate for fake tans instead of the real thing. The amount of fake tanning ads I see in both print and on television is amazing. How could you not get the message?

Does anyone else agree that tanned skin looks so gross on really old people – like all those years sunning themselves has turned their skin to leather?

Myer's $4m Splurge on Hawko

2007-01-13T11:47:00.000+10:00

That gorgeous former Miss Universe gal Jennifer Hawkins just received the best birthday present ever – a lucrative $4 million, four-year deal with Myer. Hawkins secured the deal on December 22 – her 23rd birthday, which also includes share options giving her a direct equity stake.

Hawkins appeal and selling power was the decisive factor in landing the contract. Myer chief executive Bernie Brooks said "when Jennifer wears a dress to say a racing carnival, we would have no difficulty selling 1000 of those dresses over the ensuing weeks.”

Even so, this is a huge amount of money to be spending on a model. Apparently Hawkins' contract is the most lucrative deal ever for an Australian-based model. Way to go Hawko.

Men Will Have to Learn to Accept Being Ugly... Queer Eye No More

2007-01-13T11:45:00.000+10:00

OMG. The Fab Five will soon be over. After winning our hearts with snappy remarks and oodles of style and flair, not to mention making the opposite sex appear more attractive, the current series of "Queer Eye" will be its last.

Does this mean men are up shit creek? In the fashion stakes that is.

I think straight men have two options: they either fend for themselves in the grooming and style departments and hope not to fuck up – that is trying to avoid mixing plaids with stripes; or they do nothing and keep on wearing yesterday’s smelly/gross/possibly soiled (eew) undies, jeans, socks and shirt. Please let it not be the latter.

In announcing the show’s end, Frances Berwick, Bravo's VP of programming and production said, “we proudly watched as viewers embraced the series that really helped open the closet doors on gays and their presence on television and in popular culture."

P.S. Carson you are hiliarious and I’m sure your legion of fans will miss you.

Peter Alexander Do Great Sales

2007-01-12T14:46:00.000+10:00

I’ve never bought anything at Peter Alexander – I always assumed they were a tad over priced. Plus, there are only two stores in Brisbane anyway (at shopping centres I never go to). But I picked up some cool cosmetic cases there the other day. I’m so chuffed with my purchases I might go back and get more.

The Indooroopilly store is so adorable. I love the pink front door. (Although I love anything pink, so this really isn’t a surprise.)

Huge Towelling Cos Case

'Penelope Goes to Paris' Spot Cos Case

See www.peteralexander.com.au for more cute stuff.

Latest Apple Products

2007-01-08T17:37:00.003+10:00

Isn’t it great that liking technology doesn’t mean you’re a total geek? I’m way into gadgets, which is weird for a girl who is also really into fashion. Nerds have come a long way. They have awesome street cred now.

Synonymous with technology is style, and with that comes fashion. I suppose this is because technology itself gets a design overhaul every few years. Just think back to the first mobile phones in what, early ‘90s? They were massive. It was as if people were walking around and speaking into a brick. So all the gadgets these days are way stylish and it’s an image thing really. And isn’t image one reason as to what fashion is all about?

This week Apple’s iPhone has already caused a bit of a stir. In a nutshell the iPhone will be an iPod mobile phone, which can also be used as a camera, as well as listening to your favourite tunes. I wonder if Nokia and all the other major phone companies will be shitting themselves?

But it ain’t cheap folks. Priced at $US499 for the 4GB model and $US599 for the 8GB, the phones will be available in the United States from June. This probably means that Australians will unfortunately have to wait a long time for this nifty piece of equipment to arrive.

In other Apple news, Apple TV will be available in February at a cost of $US299 for the 40GB machine.

Glamour's Fashion Poll Results

2007-01-08T17:37:00.001+10:00

Glamour Magazine Best Dressed List:

1. Kylie Minogue
2. Victoria Beckham
3. Nicole Richie
4. Kate Moss
5. Sienna Miller

In a surprise twist, Kylie beat out Kate Moss this year by sporting a new look after recently recovering from breast cancer. Moss slipped down to fourth place, while her skanky boyfriend Pete Doherty came in at worst dressed male. David Beckham picked up the award for best dressed male (as expected).

Celebrities Mischa Barton, Rachel Bilson, Jennifer Aniston, Kate Hudson, and singer Gwen Stefani made up the rest of the top 10.

It must have been the gold hot pants that did it.

Wilma Valderrama Goes From Fez to Fashion

2007-01-05T12:39:00.000+10:00

Wilmer Valderrama has announced he will launch a “latino-inspired” fashion label later this year. Cue laughter. The former "That 70s Show" actor has plans on a men’s clothing range, to be called Calavena.

I just can’t work out why celebs are so determined to move from the big screen to fashion design. Celebrity marketing has gone too far.

Valderrama was so loveable as Fez on That 70s Show.

Suit Up In Alannah Hill

2007-01-01T22:02:00.002+10:00

I never thought Alannah Hill would ever change her market, so the news that she’s adding corporate wear to her portfolio comes as a surprise.

Known for her uber-ladylike designs in a palette of pastels and pretty much the owner of the girly chic trend, Hill has been faced with competition from new designers offering their take on her style.

Newcomers such as Alice McCall, Kate Sylvester, Arabella Ramsay and Caravana forced Hill to look at her options.

The never shy designer says her new line is “workwear for the sexy and wayward secretary”. I’m picturing one of those blonde fembots as seen in Austin Powers – all over-the-top, blonde hair in tight outfits.

"I like to think of them as a naughty secretary look; conservative but with a little split, or a peek-a-boo bit of lace or a special twist like a bow at the back and little puffed sleeves . . . little Alannah-type touches," Hill says.

The garments will sell from $389 to $429 for jackets, $249 for pants and $269 for a skirt.

Marie Antoinette

2007-01-01T22:02:00.001+10:00

Sofia Coppola's film Marie Antoinette might be getting a bit of a panning from film critics, but fashion lovers are well, loving it. Watch out for the film’s costumes to become the next big influence for fashion designers.

US Vogue editor Anna Wintour has already given the film her stamp of approval to transition from film to fashion. "It's an extraordinary accomplishment," she says in the magazine. "I think Marie Antoinette will have a considerable impact on fashion for years to come".

It is rare for a film to make a contribution to style, but every now and then an extraordinary film has the power to do just that.

Jamie Huckbody, fashion and features director of Harper's Bazaar is spot on when he comments, "We're all craving a little excessive flourish to add to our brushed, functional aluminium kitchens. It's the surprise of the decadent."

Already we have seen obvious romantic and femininity influences on the Louis Vuitton catwalk for spring/summer 2007. Also, their recent ad campaigns featuring Scarlett Johansson are a great example of what we’re in store for fashion this year.

Word on the street is that pastels are making their big comeback in 2007. Can’t wait. Other predictions include porcelain skin, heavy bush/rouge and powder for make-up.

I always enjoy Coppola’s work – she’s a very creative and talented chick. Before directing she worked as a stylist and fashion photographer, as well as designing costumes.

I only want to see this film because of the costumes, not that interested in the script itself.

The Graduate Store

2007-01-01T22:01:00.002+10:00

This is a really cool idea.

Six fashion graduates from TAFE’s Fashion Design Studio have banded together and will run their own shop – The Graduate Store. The shop is due to open next month in Sydney’s Strand Arcade.

The studio is considered one of the top design schools in the country, while past graduates include Alex Perry, Lisa Ho, Michelle Jank, Akira Isogawa, Nikki Zimmerman and Wayne Cooper.

The store is funded partly by the six graduates, fashion-industry sponsors and the TAFE institute.

Students will have a year in which to sell their clothes and build a solid client base. The idea is by this stage they will be able to venture out on their own and a new graduate takes their place.

The concept is an interesting one that’s for sure. Hope it works.

Sienna Miller Fashion Line

2007-01-01T22:01:00.001+10:00

It has been a big week for celebrity designers. They seem to be popping up left, right and centre. Sienna Miller can now be added to a very long list of celebrities turning their talents to design.

Miller, along with her fashion designer sister, Savannah, will launch a line Twenty8Twelve by s. miller. In case you’re wondering about the label name it’s from Sienna’s birthdate, who turned 25 on December 28.

Carlos Ortega – the owner of that groovy little label Pepe Jeans will be backing the project. Sienna has also appeared in Pepe Jeans ads before.

Savannah has been making a name for herself as well. She studied at the prestigious London’s Central Saint Martins and has worked with design genius Alexander McQueen. Lucky girl. Am I right to assume that it is Savannah who is the creative one behind the label, while Sienna is the face of the label?

In an interview with Vogue, Sienna said she was inspired by everything from Patti Smith, poetry of the Beat generation and the dark London of Dickens. Hopefully you will be reading this and like me, have no idea what these things are. Miller told Vogue “we wanted to create that London world that feels inaccessible.”

Apparently love poems will be tucked into jean pockets, which is kinda creepy… you go in to buy a pair of jeans, you come out with debt on your credit card and a brooding, sodding poem. (Ha – I just said “sodding”. I’m so English right now).

The line will include denim, dresses, outerwear, knitwear and tailored jackets. Just for clarification is “outerwear” anything you wear outside the house? Because that’s pretty broad. I mean I occasionally go out dressed like a lumberjack* to the local Blockbuster, does this mean this sort of attire will be included in the line? I hope so. I’ll totally buy it then.

I do actually like Sienna Miller - she has great style and a cool name. Unfortunate taste in men though.

* Historically I think lumberjacks are typically male and wear suspenders, plaid flannel shirts, boots and accessorise with a chainsaw. Neat. It’s not really my style, but every now and then it’s cool for something different.

M by Madonna

2007-01-01T22:00:00.000+10:00

Madonna will launch her clothing line – M by Madonna - in March, with the range being a part of the H&M label. According to H&M, the “line will reflect Madonna’s timeless, unique and always glamorous style.”

In a statement Madonna said “I've made no secret of my love of fashion over the years. Working with Margareta and H&M was an exciting and new creative challenge for me. I'm really happy with the results and look forward to wearing 'M by Madonna' along with the rest of the world.”

Madonna is quite the genius in reinventing herself and her style, so it comes as no surprise that after all these years in the industry she has turned to fashion. As we all know, fashion labels are very “in” for the celeb crowd.

New Year Fashion Resolutions

2007-01-01T18:12:00.000+10:00

It’s that time of the year again when we write down all the things we want to achieve in the new year, regardless of the fact that we won’t keep any of them. At the start of the year I always have plans to revamp the wardrobe – kind of an ‘out with the old, in with the new’ mantra.

My Fashion Resolutions for this year:

Sell unwanted stuff on ebay.
Start buying matching underwear (despite its expense). Replace classic Bonds undies with something a little classier.
Buy suit. Not sure when I’ll wear it, but I figure everyone should have at least a basic black one in their wardrobe. I’ve always considered a suit to be a fashion staple.
Don’t buy any more jeans, unless they are super cheap and a damn fabulous fit.
Don’t buy something just because it is on sale. Wise words.
Buy first pair of boots for coming winter. I know this one will never happen – I’ve been telling myself to buy boots for about 3 years now.
Sew something for best friend in order to keep her being my best friend. Bribes are the best.

I also think I should be socially responsible and include some fashion resolutions for teenagers. This includes:

Stop wearing tight hipster jeans when clearly visible “muffin top” protrudes over tight jeans.
I’ve never understood the appeal of wearing ugg boots with a denim mini skirt to the beach… Pamela Anderson has a lot of explaining to do.
Try to abstain from shopping at Supre. You’ll thank me later.
Keep sunglasses in proportion to one’s head size. i.e. the bug look is over. Let it go kids.

Boxing Day Sales

2006-12-31T15:46:00.001+10:00

I foolishly decided that this year I would go to the sales on the first day (Boxing Day) – horrible. I could hardly believe the lines at the cash register at Myer. As a nation, Australians are apparently die-hard, proud shoppers. I had assumed everybody would be watching the cricket – obviously this was not the case.

I have never been a fan of lingerie shopping, but Myer and DJ’s are having some super duper savings on at the moment. This is the best time to get all my lin-ger-ie shopping done (my brother actually thought this was how lingerie (lon-ger-ray) was pronounced). And no, he’s older.

Anyway, you can pick up glam labels like Pleasure State and Elle Macpherson, which depending on the store you visit, are now up to 50% off.

Also, Veronika Maine has some solid sales going. I snagged some skirts for under 50 bucks – that’s pretty rare, so I was a Happy Little Vegemite indeed.

The Future Mrs Packer

2006-12-30T15:08:00.001+10:00

Just this week it was announced that Australia's wealthiest man James Packer proposed to his on-again, off-again girlfriend Erica Baxter.

Packer’s first marriage to swimwear designer Jodhi Meares cost around $10 million, I wonder if he has plans to downsize this one? Unlikely. (Erica’s engagement ring alone is $200,000 plus).

Though the biggest buzz around town is which lucky fashion designer will be appointed in making her dress for the big day.

If Erica Baxter opts an Australian designer, I’m tipping the honours will go to Collette Dinnigan, or possibly Alex Perry. If not, maybe Vera Wang and Armani will be next in line. Nevertheless, the tabloids will have a field day with this wedding.

PETA Fashion Police - As If

2006-12-30T09:14:00.000+10:00

The other day I did a post on Pink and her unfortunate affiliation with PETA. Well, PETA are at it again. They must work through the holiday season or something. I wonder if they get double time?

This time they were out in force in Downtown Memphis, TN acting as the fashion police.

Dressed in slutty, I mean sexy police uniforms, on Wednesday, December 27, the group issued citations to people wearing real fur, leather and wool.

The PETA protesters also shared their message on placards that read “animal skins are a fashion felony”.

The faux officers (get it?) told ‘guilty’ people to ditch the good stuff, sorry, the real stuff and fake it or wait for it, wear pleather.

Lol. Pleather.

One man was ‘charged’ with “stolen skins” and “sheer torture” for wearing leather sneakers and a wool coat.

PETA protester Monika Meilleur told another person that they “have 24 hours to replace that [unspecified item] with a leather alternative.” His reply? He punched her in the face. No, that didn’t happen. There were too many witnesses around for him to do that. Cameras everywhere.

Seriously though, women already have fake tans, fake nails, fake hair (extensions), fake designer bags, now to add to this list we have to wear fake leather?

I don't know how PETA can honestly think they can be the fashion police. If it was up to them to control what people wore, we would all be walking around in organic potato sacks. Or calico maybe. Even then they would probably claim we were "hurting" the potatoes.

Best New Year's Dresses

2006-12-29T16:19:00.001+10:00

If I had the money to buy these dresses, I would like to wear them this New Year's Eve. So I've looked at about 100 dresses and here are my Top 5. So whether you're at dinner, sipping cocktails, or at home on the couch, it's the one night to glam it on up.

1. Anna Sui. Lace appliqué babydoll dress

Can Anna Sui do no wrong? This babydoll dress would be perfect if you’re planning on fine dining on the 31st. The Little House on the Prairie look is complete with lace short sleeves and bow detail.

2. Azzaro. Vicar strapless dress

The description accompanying this dress says: “Cream knee length ruched jersey strapless dress with a wide black ruched cummerbund at waist.” Oooh… say no more. I’m sold on this Azzaro dress.

3. Vera Wang. Pleat front dress.

I’ve fallen in love with this Vera Wang pleat satin halter dress. It has a ruched belt at the waist, as well as cute bow and I believe the colour is called “blush”.

4. Rachel Roy. Asymmetrical dress

I’m a huge fan of any kind of draping, pleating, ruching, and the like. So it’s at no surprise that I’m hooked on this one – a cream, asymmetrical, ruched cotton jersey knee length dress. Very Roman toga-ish.

5. Alexander McQueen. Feather hem dress

I know what you’re thinking… why would anyone want to look like a sage green Big Bird? And you’re right, not many people would. But I suppose New Year’s Eve is one of the few nights you can get away with stuff. Either that or save it for Halloween. (Although Australians don’t really “do” Halloween, so if you donned this silk chiffon ostrich feather trimmed dress on this night, people might think you really are crazy). Besides, most people will be so trashed on New Year’s they won’t know what you wore the following day, so it’s a perfect inclusion in the Top 5.

Paris in Sydney

2006-12-29T14:53:00.000+10:00

Considering Paris Hilton is in Australia at the moment, I feel I should report on it. Of course I use that word ‘report’ loosely – I mean, she’s just shopping and hanging at the beach, so it’s not exactly anything hard-hitting. Paris is in Australia for New Year's, so I'm sure we'll see much more of her in the coming days.

Paris and friend Kim Kardashian at Bondi Beach.

No journey Down Under would be complete without a shower show for the locals.

These sunnies look upside down from this angle.

Paris out shopping. I'm digging this hat she has on.

Hilary Duff Barbie Doll

2006-12-21T19:22:00.001+10:00

Hilary Duff is coming to a toy store near you - in the doll form. Barbie has snapped up Duff as the latest young thing to be made into a miniature figure.

Vice President of Barbie marketing, Jamie Wood said Duff and Barbie are “great role models” by showing there are no limits to what girls can do.

Duff already has an overflowing CV as singer, actress, fashion designer and now she can add doll to that list. The Red Carpet Glam Hilary Duff Doll is sure to be a big hit with tweens.

Duff has also designed clothes for Barbie, which must be the coolest job ever. I'd feel so privileged if I got to create and design my own Barbie. Is there a "Journalist Barbie" already?

Angelina Jolie In Vogue

2006-12-21T08:32:00.000+10:00

This really is a stunning cover photo and the desert backdrop suits her image... all that trekking she does to orphanages. The dress is beautiful - so simple, yet oh-so elegant. And you know what, the last time I strolled through the desert I wore the exact same thing! The Vogue article on Jolie is also a good read and is the first time she opens up about Brad, etc. Snaps to Vogue for getting it.

The 'pilot' photo of Angelina is my favourite.

Somebody, Please Slap Pink

2006-12-20T23:39:00.000+10:00

US singer Pink, aka Alecia Moore has joined that crazy PETA group and is urging people not to buy Australian wool. Oh please, give me a break.

In a video narrated by Pink, she said: "I am calling on consumers to check labels on sweaters before buying them, and if they're merino wool or made in Australia, to leave them on the racks." The video also includes scenes of sheep having their throats cut.

Celebrities should be careful about what they say. Or at least be aware that what they say could be detrimental to say, that country’s economy. Clearly celebs don't always have the full facts. Treasurer Peter Costello has now invited the singer to speak with local sheep farmers in an effort to change her mind.

Considering the Australian wool industry is big business for the Australian economy, I’m sure farmers will be pissed off after losing money first from the drought, then a cyclone, and now some animal rights group launching a gruesome campaign to stop the sale of wool.

Not cool Pink. I'm so never downloading Pink's music again.

See, this sheep looks so happy.

Worst Outfits Of The Week

2006-12-19T11:29:00.000+10:00

Yeah. I don't even know what to say about these at the moment. I am speechless. Why would anyone leave the house like this??

This dress that LL has on sans the thigh-high stockings and boots might be ok. On someone else that is.

And as for Britney. Horrible dress.

Kiddy Porn No Longer Cool

2006-12-18T18:44:00.001+10:00

Children, I mean young models under the age of 16 have been banned from the catwalks of Milan.

Under the Italian campaign, under-16s are “not yet ready for the world of professional fashion”. This means they will have to wait until they are Sweet Sixteen to try drugs and have orgies. We really do live in a world that cares.

The popularity of using pre-pubescent models that have yet to develop a waist, boobs, hips, or bum, is slowly fading.

This is probably the best thing the fashion industry has done in a long time. In Italy, eating disorders such as anorexia and bulimia affect around three million people. One of my favourite models Gemma Ward supported the campaign, describing it as “a great move.”

All I Want For Christmas...

2006-12-14T22:18:00.000+10:00

Apple iPod Video

Who can resist the simple, sleek lines of an iPod? Can’t wait until movies and television shows become available through the Australian iTunes store. I feel so deprived at the moment.

I’m curious about how Microsoft’s Zune compares with Apple’s beloved music player. Zune looks cool and I like its design (although it seems a bit chunky). I wonder if it’ll catch on. Not sure when it’s available in Australia.

Scarlett for Louis Vuitton

2006-12-13T13:29:00.000+10:00

The new Louis Vuitton campaigns featuring Scarlett Johansson are almost too cute for words. Almost.They have such a romantic vibe about them. It almost makes me want to fall in love. Or buy pretty lingerie. Or something fabulous like that. My heart is telling me to buy Louis Vuitton knickers, but my bank balance is saying no.

Boudoir chic. All the rage.

I’m looking at these photos and trying to pinpoint them to a specific period, but I can’t. The face reminds of old Hollywood glamour, with the short, tight curls. Unlike the Hollywood we know (but still love) today - your typical tacky, orange-coloured, peroxided, anorexic blondes. You know the type.

The body is reminiscent of old, old paintings (think 15th century), where women had – wait for it – curves. I think carbs were really in during that time.

Scarlett’s voluptuousness shall we say (which I mean in a positive way) is anything but the norm of today’s stereotypical approach to body image. And I love that someone who isn’t 5’11 and a size 0 can make it as a model for one of the most adored fashion labels.
Finally there is a woman who presents a different image. It’s funny though; I mean if you had a blonde, tanned porn star in the exact same pose as Scarlett, it would indeed still look tacky. It is amazing how fair skin always creates a completely different image. There is a sense of innocence of fair skin.

After all, you would never see a pasty white model in a men’s mag would you? It just doesn’t happen.

NRA Fashion Design Awards

2006-12-10T14:47:00.000+10:00

No, I’m not blogging on the National Rifle Association – but the other NRA’s – duh, the National Retail Association. Hmm, of course you say. So the Australian Fashion Design Awards were on last night – shafted to a Saturday night timeslot I might add. It all went down at the “GC” (Gold Coast) Convention Centre (which looked pretty snazzy) and was hosted by Richard Wilkins and Deborah Hutton.

The highlight was Darb Couture winning practically everything, including a new car. The low point was probably cutting to an ad break every five minutes. Tsk, Tsk, Channel Nine.

Celebrities on hand were designers Akira Isogawa, Collette Dinnigan, model Lara Bingle and television presenter Natalie Gruzlewski. We urr, really brought out the big guns.

Special mention to the Academy of Design: two of their students were included in the Student Category. Go team!

No pictures as of yet.

Roll Up, Roll Up

2006-12-06T08:42:00.000+10:00

This must have taken some time. Maybe it even had to set overnight. But I must admit, I am secretly loving it. It's very out of this world. And Gwen looks stunning in this picture. Perfect makeup.

Is Ebay Too Expensive Now?

2006-12-04T20:06:00.000+10:00

Has ebay gone from being a shopaholic’s fantasy to just another retail store? My BFF and I were discussing this question exactly a few weeks ago. Our conclusion was that greed was getting the better of people and sellers were starting to hike their prices up. I yearn for the days of 99c starting items. Ebay – the one place you would turn to when you were vulnerable and had a shopping craving at 2 a.m. - used to be a mecca for bargains. It’s so hard to see the things you love disappoint you. First Macca’s with their stupid health conscious Salads Plus menu, and now this. I say bring back the bargains. And the Super Size option.

Victoria's Secret Does Sexy (Again)

2006-11-20T21:22:00.000+10:00

I often wonder how the Victoria's Secret team plan to out-do the previous year's show. It must be a challenge to keep getting better and better. Of course there were a few obvious omissions from the line-up this time around - namely Tyra Banks and Heidi Klum, but Aussie Miranda Kerr managed to make it. I can't wait until the show is televised (not sure when this will be in Australia).

Is This the Dress of the Year?

2006-10-29T09:40:00.000+10:00

For an average-ish dress, this is proving particularly popular. After Christina Applegate and Rachel Griffiths wore it to the same event on the same night (the 13th Annual Premiere Women in Hollywood), Princess Mary has decided to give it a go as well at an event in Copenhagen. It's a nice dress and all, but nothing spectacular.

I Luv Xmas

2006-10-25T22:03:00.000+10:00

Because it's the one time of year when designer's bring out everything in red and green just so we can all look like little, adorable elves. How thoughtful... really they shouldn't have. I was browsing the Mollini website and came across these beauties for the Xmas season. They would be super for the Office Christmas Party. If anyone is interested - www.mollini.com.au

They should put some bells on these shoes - now that would be awesome!

Victoria Beckham on Cover of Australian Harper's Bazaar

2006-10-25T21:36:00.000+10:00

There's been a bit of hype around this issue and I've been eagerly awaiting to see it. But if the cover is anything to go by, it's a dud. There's something so peculiar about this picture - not digging it at the 'mo - maybe it will grow on me.

New Trend: Black Nail Polish?

2006-10-16T11:49:00.000+10:00

I must have missed the memo about black/dark nail polish, but apparently it's in again. Every "it" girl seems to doin it. And as we all know, if a celebrity does it, we want to do it too.

P.S. Don't be alarmed if my posts are becoming less frequent - I'm actually not dead in a gutter, simply studying for uni exams. Stay in school kids.

Elle Macpherson is Sooo "The Body"

2006-10-06T20:35:00.000+10:00

I'm not sure why the cool people at Victoria's Secret decided to steal Elle's nickname, "The Body" and call Heidi Klum that. Don't get me wrong, Heidi has a killer bod, but that title belongs to Elle - always has, always will be. Of the incident Macpherson said: "We trademarked the name years ago and I've had the title for about 30 years now... But if she wants it, you know, you can have it girl.''

You'd think if you were putting a product on the market you might consider doing say, a simple Google search to see if the proposed name is taken, right? A quick search would have prevented a lot of negative publicity for Victoria's Secret. I will forever associate Victoria's Secret as being nickname stealers, instead of selling sexy panties. What a vicious cycle it is.

Macpherson has just signed on with cosmetics company ModelCo to promote one of their products - some anti-ageing one. And since she is absolutely gorgeous, I'd say she is the perfect spokesperson for it. Here she is in Sydney promoting the stuff, and proving she's still totally got it.

Will Gucci Ever be the Same Without Tom Ford?

2006-09-28T20:39:00.000+10:00

I remember when I first heard Tom Ford was leaving Gucci and I deadset wanted to bawl my eyes out. So has/or will Gucci recover without their Saviour Ford? I don't think they have yet. One day maybe. But their standard seems to have slipped. I am a huge Gucci fan but the new Spring 07 Collection is a little on the scary side. I'm really not feeling it. Even if I could afford Gucci, I'm not so sure I'd want to buy anything. It's not so much the styles that I dislike, rather I think the purple and the black are clashing together too much. The collection seemed to get better towards the end and there was one piece in the range that I might actually kill for - a silver/white discotheque shift dress. So dreamy.

Another Celebrity Becomes a Fashion Designer

2006-09-28T20:29:00.000+10:00

Ahh, I've always really liked Many Moore so it pains me that she's sold out with a fashion label. I know she's been doing it for a few years now, but I don't think I've gotten over it. I can't really see the clothes very well in these pics of 'Mblem. by Mandy Moore', but Mandy has definitely had better fashion days. Normally I love what she wears, but that dress makes her look a little on the frumpy side. Lift your game girl, you're better than that! Have a look at http://www.mblem.net.

The Pig Races, Melbourne, Australia

2006-09-26T20:17:00.000+10:00

Okay, so this has absolutely nothing to do with fashion, but it is damn funny. I don't know about you, but there is just something hilarious seeing pigs diving into a pool. I had never heard of pig racing until today, so let us all pray that the unthinkable does not happen... that is, that PETA finds out and shuts them down. Besides, the pigs really do look like they're enjoying themselves. I feel like my parents have cheated me out of some good times by not taking me to the pig races.

Anorexia Out, Obesity In

2006-09-24T19:36:00.000+10:00

It really is a sign of the times, or maybe just equal opportunity? You know, finally giving fat chicks a chance. Whatever the reason, super skinny people have been ousted from fashion shows. Models now need to be over 18.5 on the BMI scale to model, otherwise a medical certificate is required to verify that they do not have an eating disorder. But will this trend really catch on? Georgio Armani has said "fashion looks good all types.." yet he continues to use tiny models. Maybe what he really meant was fashion looks good on all types, but looks better on skinny girls? That's the only reasonable conclusion I have as to why designers continue to use underdeveloped and undernourished girls.

Miranda Kerr for L.A.M.B

2006-09-24T12:43:00.000+10:00

Miranda Kerr is one of my favourite models, even more so since she's Australian. She's even in Wikipedia, so you know she's totally made it. Here she is looking very different in a blonde wig for the L.A.M.B collection, but still fabulous.

I didn't even recognise her at first with blonde hair.
I knew she'd be huge when I first saw her on the cover of Dolly when she won their modelling competition.

L.A.M.B Spring '07

2006-09-24T12:17:00.000+10:00

Anybody who knows me knows that I have "issues" when it comes to celebrities trying to be fashion designers, but... in saying that, I really liked Gwen Stefani's L.A.M.B collection. It did seem a very mis-matched collection though, half of the range was a bit 'white-trash' and the rest was slick and stylish. Here are my favourites:

I was recently invited to a Camaflouge-themed 21st party,
(shame, I know) but this would be an awesome dress to wear.

I love how Gwen always looks so pulled together,
she seems like one of the few celebs to actually give a shit.
Snaps to Gwen!

Mischa and MK Rock the Sequins

2006-09-19T21:39:00.000+10:00

Has the potato sack been reinvented? (With sequins of all things)? Once reserved for crappy calico, the potato sack is looking pretty trendy here. Uber cool girls Mischa Barton and Mary-Kate Olsen in suspiciously similar dresses. I prefer Mischa's gold number over MK's 'Assorted Licorice' mix.

Pretty Things You Wished You Owned

2006-09-19T19:13:00.000+10:00

Click pic to view bigger

Australian Idol Loses Reigan

2006-09-18T17:53:00.000+10:00

She really chose a poor song choice the other night. Why on earth do Idols continue to choose songs that no one has even heard of? Someone needs to inform them that Australian Idol delivers to a mass audience. Although I do hope we see more of her in the future. We love you (and your hair) Reigan!

Cocaine Kate: One Year On

2006-09-18T15:53:00.000+10:00

Can you believe it's been a whole year since Kate Moss was busted for doing drugs? Is her career dead? Nope, not even close. Even after her fall from grace, she is still one of everybody's fave supermodels. Like they say, there is no such thing as bad publicity. Moss has made an enormous comeback after what seemed to be the end of her modelling careeer. Sure the fashion industry ostracised her for a few months, but time heals everything, and now it seems she's on the cover of everything. So lets all take a moment to remember the one year anniversary of Kate Moss and her love for drugs. What were you doing when you found out? I for one, was shocked. I had no idea supermodels took drugs to stay slim/have fun/do crazy stuff, etc.

New Ipod Nano Ad Campaign

2006-09-18T15:20:00.000+10:00

Awesome ad campaign. Photoshop rocks. Ipods have become the new mobile phones - as soon as you buy one they bring out a new, cooler, cheaper model. I'll take a hot pink one please. They should make the Ipod video in different colours as well... Do I have to think of everything Apple? I was looking at the prices of the Nano v Ipod and I can't figure out why the Nano (8GB model) costs $380 for 2,000 songs, while the Ipod (30GB model) costs $380 for 7,500 songs. So what you're saying is that for the same price I can store an extra 5,500 songs and I can watch videos on it as well? Sweeeet.

Drea De Matteo Likes Leprechauns

2006-09-10T11:53:00.000+10:00

I've been meaning to post this for a few days now. Anybody out there thinking of dressing like a leprechaun may want to reconsider. These pictures really speak louder than words. FYI absolutely nobody looks good dressed in green head-to-toe. Not even Heidi Klum (who would make a potato sack look shit hot), could pull off a green dress, green stockings, with green ankle boots.

Separated at birth?

Melbourne Fashion Week, Australia

2006-09-07T17:00:00.000+10:00

I didn't go, but I have heard mixed reports about the event. Although two crazy kids that I used to go to design school with - Peggy and Ashley - debuted their label ShowOff. Here's a few pics from their Winter 07 collection. Totally am loving the poodle.

Australian Fashion Enterprise Awards

2006-09-07T16:27:00.000+10:00

Applications for the Australian Fashion Enterprise Awards (AFEA) close in a jiffy - 15 September 2006. Entry is open to fashion students, designers, sales consultants/managers and fashion lecturers in three different categories: (1) Business, (2) Design, (3) Education. So if you're interested in winning over $40,000 worth of prizes (and who isn't?), get your entry in stat. For further details and registration forms see the AFEA site.

It's Alive!

2006-09-06T17:19:00.000+10:00

It has been a long wait, but the Annointed One has finally made her public debut. Suri Cruise, the world's most overrated baby (make that one of - tied for first with Shiloh Jolie-Pitt) is pictured with doting parents on the cover of Vanity Fair. I am slightly disappointed though - after all the rumours I had psyched myself up for an alien child... but she's just so adorable. Aww... I love happy endings.

Beyonce Does MTV

2006-09-06T16:55:00.000+10:00

Beyonce looking her usual fabulous self on MTV TRL.

It’s okay – I speak fashion

2006-09-05T22:23:00.000+10:00

I speak fashion, you speak fashion, we all speak fashion!

Brisbane Fashion Week, Australia

2006-09-05T17:54:00.000+10:00

It was Brisbane's chance to shine last week in the fashion arena. Now raise your hand if you knew that it was on? *looks around*. Check out some of the coverage at MBBFW and The Courier-Mail.

2006-09-05T16:54:00.000+10:00

Remember kids... cookies are a sometimes food.