Stripped Bare

New Year Resolutions

2011-01-01T10:04:00.001+10:00

Among the list this year it includes ....

NEW YEAR, NEW FEET. That right folks, I have decided to make this year the Year of the Foot. Forget dragon, dog or rooster. This year it's the tootsies that have top billing. My previously neglected, pained but prettily adorned feet. For so long I have ignored the pain, my inability to walk more than a block and a half and the blisters. Until finally my feet finally put a stop to the abuse. I was hobbling like a little old lady for the first half hour of the morning and gingerly for the rest of the day until bedtime, when I would wake up with the most horrific cramps in the arches of my feet. Only for it to all start over the next day. It went on until June when I finally went and saw a podiatrist who diagnosed Plantar Facsitis, which had progressed until there were little tears along the whole length of my ligaments. The final diagnosis was that they expect my recovery to take up to a year - two years if I don't follow my stretching, icing and orthotics etc etc.

I was noticing that it was a rare moment when I saw pair of flats in the style blogs until I stumbled across Kyla at Blue Collar Catwalk and read her flat philosophy with newly opened eyes. So I took a leaf out of Kyla's blog .....

And pulled out all my collection:

I pulled any that pinch, pull, rub, are too high, too flat, and just plain old don't fit.

I was left with:

and I still hate to say it - I kept a couple that although I can't wear at the moment, I just love them too much to let go of (I'm looking you my lovely stiletto oxfords ...)

So, I stand resolute for 2011 not to purchase any ill-fitting or high heeled shoes - be it pump, stiletto or wedge. I will treasure the feet that carry me every moment of every day, and wrap them only in shoes that my FEET love.

I am so invigorated with my resolution, that I'm now hanging out for Kendi from Kendi Everyday to kick off the next 30 for 30!

Goodbye 2010

2010-12-31T18:36:00.000+10:00

Anthropologie Southward Stop Dress

Raindrops keep falling on my head ...

2010-12-30T21:51:00.001+10:00

and falling, and falling and falling. Seriously, just a day without rain would feel like a godsend at this stage. I have had a total of 5 (FIVE!) days of full sunshine since October 22nd - the day we also moved house and discovered that our new house is smack bang in the middle of a flood zone ... can't you feel my happiness all the way across the webwaves???

This is an old outfit from a week ago, but better late than never (or so I hear ...)

Anthropologie - Curated Tee

Anthropologie - Homestead Skirt

Anthro Flats

Confessions of a Concealaholic

2010-12-30T21:31:00.000+10:00

One Hour and Forty Five Minutes. See that slightly scary smile I have going on? Its the smile you get from the crazy lady down the road who your pretty sure could go postal at any moment, while doing the gardening in her bathrobe - all she needs is something to set her off. You know the one I'm talking about, right?

I say it again: One Hour and Forty Five Minutes.

*** Complete fashion deviation for a little while - If you're here for the OOTD (which is totally cool by the way, no hard feelings) feel free to skip on down to the normal looking photo's. You know the ones, the one's without the crazy postal lady smile ***

I turned my bedside clock away from me at 4:58am, tears were about to begin (along with the new day) and I hadn't been to sleep yet. Yes people, I'm talking sleep. One Hour and Forty Five Minutes. Then I had to get my shit together and look like I can do this Mummy thing, without tears or tantrums (me that is, not the two year old!)

Now I can hear the question, what on earth were you doing all night? Well, to fully understand how I came to be sitting up in the dining room, under a mountain of scrapbooking stuff and photographs at 3:30am while having yet another coffee (seriously, I should have just hooked up an IV line, it would have saved an awful lot of time!) we have to go back a week, to my daughters school.

Every week at school, one child is given Back Pack Bear. A teddy bear that comes home with thechild for one week, and gets to accompany his new family for the week. All the while the good little mummies and daddies are taking photo's and documenting every moment in 'BackPack's ScrapBook'. Well after nine months of patient waiting, Grace finally brought the (by this stage, rather smelly!) Bear home. And so began a week of fun activities, all designed around keeping BackPack Bear entertained. Apparently he doesn't like to do the same thing twice. Or share a meal. Or eat pretend food. Along comes Sunday night, BackPack's Bear had his farewell party and Grace and I settled to create her pages of the fabulous week that BackPack Bear had. Two hours later, I still couldn't get the printer to print a single photo. Grace went off to bed in floods of tears, so upset that she wouldn't be able to present her week to the class, and I walked out of her room feeling pretty darn low. Fastforward a couple of hours and I'm getting ready for bed, packing up the printer etc and thinking about how wrong it was, that after so much effort and planning of the week that Grace wasn't going to be able to show off how much work she had done this week. And being the grownup that I am, a little tantrum made everything so much better. As I hit the side of the printer, it magically came to life and started printing.

Now onto OOTD ...

This is straight-up mummy-wear. Blouse, Jeans, Comfy Shoes.

And Concealer. Alot of it. Pretty much shovelled on. Spack Filler? Oh yes please!

Oh and how could I forget the bright necklace - to distract you from the big bad bags and manical smile. Did it work? Well, did it?

Off to find my bathrobe, I'm feeling a spot of gardening coming on ....

heart, Jodie xxx

Rain clouds in the sky.

2010-10-29T23:18:00.000+10:00

The days are being drenched in crazy, unexpected storms. And then followed by hot summery days. All within an hour of each other.

So what do you dress for - the dark and crazy skies, or the breezy blue skies?

Cumulonimbus (?) Tee (Anthro)

Homestead Denim Skirt (Anthro)

Skinny Green Belt

African Wooden Wedges (Mathers)

Something Old, Something New, Something Borrowed, Something New.

2010-08-28T07:00:00.003+10:00

Congratulations go out to Cindi and Chris today. It has been something special to watch the love and care that has gone into this wedding, and I for one, can't wait to see all the happy faces on their special day.

So raise your glasses.

To Cindi and Chris

Something Old: Nine West Heels

Something New: Primula Dress, Anthropologie

Something Borrowed: Necklace, from my daughter

Something Blue: Eyeliner, Eyeshadow and Necklace!

I was thrilled to participate in All things Aimee's Blog Bachelorette Party for Cindi.

Plus I had to add in a little Anthro for Cindi :)

Confessional

2010-08-27T12:17:00.000+10:00

I have a confession to make. Over the past nine months or so, I have been devouring blogs every morning with my coffee, to the point where I actually set my alarm to 5:30am so that I can spend the time, peacefully child-free and indulging in pure unadualtered lust and envy of some blogs of a certain nature.

Anthropologie. Kim at Anthroholic was my first find, followed swiftly (I believe it took maybe 5 mins) by Maria at Infinite Whimsy. Then came morning staples such as Effortless Anthropologie, Love at First Shop, Have a Cute Day, You, Me & Anthropolgie as they each took a place in my morning ritual. Recently I have also fallen for Musings by Jacquelyn , Princessof Taylor, Simply Cindi and Square Peg for Anthro (among others). So with my newfound Anthro devotion, came the knowledge that it was not going to happen for me. To start with, they didn't ship to Australia. Then came the international update, Australia had made the cut! But, as luck would have it, the site didn't allow most of the popular items, and none from the sales. So, like the masochist I am, I continued the not-so-discreet affair, and I found love in dress after dress, skirt after skirt, and cardi after cardi. All of which, were not coming home to me.

Then I discovered viaddress.com. The lovely people there gave me a US address for shipping, and would hold onto my purchases and consolidate them when I requested and ship over to the land Down Under. So I started shopping the restricted US Anthro site. And wow did the the price-tags hurt, even before I start calculating the exchange rate with a dull ache in my heart, and thats not taking into account the international shipping rates. But then, I discovered thanks to a guest post on Roxy's blog, how to circumnavigate Anthro's international shipping policies. And then I discovered the internet sale times. My heart started to flutter. Finally, Kim started Anthroholic Shopper. Thats right. A shopping service directed at me. My heart took flight and soared. My husbands' nosedived.

Well, today people, is the day. My first consolidated shipment has arrived. My heart was racing, I was actually squealing when Hubs asked, "Do you have anything from Fedex coming?" (Silly man, what do you think I have been tracking obsessively for the past four days as I watched it transit the globe)

I. Have. No. Words.

Just a great big grin on my face. No doubt you will see a few Anthro pieces pop on up here very soon.

But until then I leave you with ....

The shoes that started the obsession. Picture-Perfect Clogs.

They are clogs.

They are soft, soft.

They are the perfect neutral taupe.

They have flowers.

They are mine.

Q's, Q's and more Queue's

2010-08-17T21:19:00.001+10:00

Top - Target Tee

Skirt - Jacqui E

Belt - (drum roll please .....) Anthropologie! Snakebite in Grey

Shoes - Anapelle

Jewellery - Key Necklace by Tiffany

It was a very casual day, involving spending ALOT of time in government queues ... firstly time in DMV changing my registration, then off to Births, Deaths and Marriages to get another copy of my marriage certificate - apparently the one I was given at my wedding isn't actually proof of my marriage - I needed the one that they provided for a fee of $50! Pffft ... Got to love the hoops they make you jump through. On a positive note, I am now hitting all new gaming high-scores on my iphone :)

Five years of strength worn down with one disarming smile

2010-08-15T09:27:00.000+10:00

This dress, which when it fit me perfectly, was hardly ever worn. Now that its a little too big, I'm wearing it as my default 'need to get dressed, but feel like jeans' look. Combined with my flats and my tiffany key, I'm set to go on a very special shopping trip with my daughter, along with a few errands around town.

Do you remember your first pet?

Mine was a chow-chow - a beautiful fluffy dog with a blue tongue named Kieko. Man, I loved that dog.

My poor mum though, had no choice in the matter - after saying no to my many plea's of pet ownership, my dad took it upon himself to right the injustice and brought a little 'suprise' home for us!

Didn't take long though to win over Mum's heart <3

Somehow, I seem to find myself in the same position as my poor harried mother ... constantly saying no to another mouth in the house. Until Grace finally used this line on me ... "Mummy, I have lots of love in my heart and I really want to share it with a special friend ... please can I have a gold fish?"

So here we are, leaving to go purchase our first pet - I give you, the ruffle girls ;)

The 'doll on a stick' is from the ekka (State Fair) that we went to earlier in the week. I have started a post about the Ekka trip but somehow haven't gotten around to posting it. I will have to do that this afternoon (I'll add it to my to-do list. Right after I drop my camera off for a service, but before any housecleaning is done. Priorities right?)

Jacqui-E: Fitting Room Review

2010-07-31T12:47:00.002+10:00

Jo Jo Knit Dresss in Bark/Sleet ($119.95)
Top part of this dress was a lovely stretchy t-shirt jersey, with a fully lined cotton skirt that fell just below the knee. The waistband was also cotton with very little stretch, providing the dress with a little bit of structure. I went into this store speifically to purchase this dress with a credit that I had. Unfortunately the waist just hit wrongly for me, and the cap sleeves nailed the last one in for me - this dress was a not coming home.

Animal Ra-Ra Skirt ($89.95)

Unknown (and hideous!) top ($89.95)
I have no idea why I picked this top to try with the skirt, but it was purely just to try the skirt. This top is 100% designed for small chests. But on me? I have no words to say. Actually, yes I do. Hideous.

Now onto more pleasant times, the Animal Raa-Raa Skirt. I took a size too big, as it was the only one they had, and I would have to say that this is TTS. The ruffles are slightly pleated in appearance, and fall in such a complimentary way. I have no idea what is happening to the skirt shot online by Jacqui E - very blurry! I loved this skirt so much, I had the SA arrange a hold in another store. Love!

Lily Ruffle Top in Eggplant ($79.95)

Brooke Ruffle Skirt ($89.95)

The newfound adoration of Jacqui-E continued with these little numbers.

Both found a new home - my wardrobe!

The Lily Ruffle top came in two colours, both the purple and a pale ivory. Both are gorgeous, and I may have to return to bring an ivory home. Completely sheer, the top is designed to have a Cami underneath. A collarless open neckline gives way to some understated ruffles, and the gentle flutter sleeves top it off. The skirt is also lovely - straight skirt topped off with a flat lying ruffle on the front and a elastic waistband makes it very versatile - adjusting on high or low waists.

Milly Animal Chiffon Hem Cardigan ($59.95 was ~~$89.95~~)
I actually had been contemplating buying this at full price a couple of months ago, but couldn't really justify yet another cardi for $90 - but at the sale price I snapped it up. The colour appears different in the photos, but it is closer to grey than lavender, with a lovely soft black as the print contrast. Finished off with a sheer black chiffon ruffle on the hem, it perfectly covers my 'bump zone' when wearing jeans or pants. TTS and I highly recommend at sale price.

Disc Black Glass Bead Necklace ($29.95)
Long silver chain that can be looped for double strand effect or worn long.
Black Glass flat discs are randomly grouped together at different intervals.
Really, really pretty. Really, really overpriced. Really, really loved it.
~~But I'll save my pennies, because it really isn't worth the price tag.~~

(edit: I went back the next day and bought this - yeah, yeah, I know. Let's not tell hubs what I paid for such a simple necklace hey? It will be our little secret ...)

OOTD: Different Day, Different Pose

2010-07-29T13:35:00.000+10:00

I know, I know - I've developed a little bit of a habit of stiking the same pose. Usually it's one (or two if feeling particularly cheerful) on the hips and a great big cheesy smile, followed by the cross the legs and look down at my shoes. Same pose, everytime does not make an exciting blog post. So I shook it up a little, and the results are posted. Yep, funnily enough it looks the same to me aswell. Except with dead zombie arms.

Anywho, I never know how to wear this top. It has giant flutter sleeves and no shape through the waist, so between my boobs and hips I gain 5 kgs :) On the plus side, the pattern, colours and cute crocheted (is that a word?) hem, is what is keeping it in the cupboard. Just.

I tried popping this cropped cardigan over it, trying to define the waist, I think the top itself just hits at the wrong length. While I love the comfort factor of this whole outfit (and could use this on a fat day) I don't think it made a huge impression on me.

I am sure you are thinking, "where have I seen those shoes before?" Well let me help.

On me. Everyday for the last three months.

As I said in my last OOTD post: Hardest. Working. Shoes. Ever.

Top - Colorado

Jeans - Portmans

Cropped Cardigan - Jacqui-E

Shoes - Annapelle at David Jones

Earrings - Roses from Sportsgirl (yep, total cheap shamless knockoff from Mimco)

Headband - from under my bed :)

OOTD - Shopping with Mum & Jacqui-E Fitting Room Reviews to come ....

2010-07-27T22:15:00.000+10:00

These are both terrible iphone shots for OOTD - but I loved scooting around town today with my mum in this dress and cardi. The unflappable Annapelle flats were out AGAIN today, but why not? They are probably the hardest working shoes in my cupboard :)

I lost a bit of weight recently so this dress is now probably a size too large for me, but the stretch in the bust and the fogiveness and softness in the skirt just makes this an 'all day dress', that was calling my name this morning. (Secretly I may, or may not, be stalking this exact dress a couple of sizes smaller ...) I also threw on a little cropped cardi just for a little more warmth and coverage - it was cold today! No jewellery but the basics and I was ready in five minutes flat.

Dress - Jacqui-E (similar found here)

Cardigan - Jacqui-E (similar found here)

Shoes - Annapelle from David Jones

Activity - Fitting Room Reviews at (where else?) Jacqui-E

Now that's a giveaway!

2010-07-23T19:54:00.000+10:00

Wow, wow, wowsy, wow - now that's a giveaway! The incredible Roxy over at Effortless Anthropologie is holding a generous giveaway - $250 Anthro Card! Now, quick quick, go follow and enter!!!!

Dressing Down (OOTD)

2010-07-23T09:28:00.000+10:00

Had a lovely night out with Hubs, drinks then off to a movie.

Those with kids would realise that a great babysitter is worth her weight in gold - and I think we may have found our gold statue! It was a great night with an ok movie - Knight and Day. Unfortunatley Tom's couch-jumping and crazy talk may have killed my enjoyment of his movies, if you could suspend any thought of realism - this movie was fun, with Cameron Diaz delivering some hysterical one-liners. I love this dress and originally purchased it to wear to my son's baptism with a pair or sky high stiletto's. However, I haven't worn it since then, always feeling like it was a little too dressy for everyday wear. This is my attempt to start making my wardrone work for it's living ;) While it is definately a summer-weight dress, I winterised (is that even a word?!?) it using thick 120denier stockings and woollen cardigan. Hopefully the flats have dressed it down making the outfit on a whole much more user friendly.

Dress - Leona Edmiston

Stockings - Levante (seriously the BEST stockings I have come across)

Cardigan - The Works

Shoes - Annapelle

Hairband - Water Lily Alice Band by Mimco (no longer available)

Grey on Grey, Knit on Knit

2010-07-21T17:55:00.000+10:00

Off to classes today, then home early to look after my daughter who has had several days off school sick. I have been a bit blah lately - a mixture of no sleep and feeling like a cold may be creeping on my way - so this cardigan always comes out whenever I feel like being snugly and comfy :) In my eyes, this dress has a geometric pattern of both blue and light grey, however my husband disagrees. Anyhow, trying to keep to the grey theme, I added a pair of cable knit stockings in the same colour (which wound up taking forever to put on ad I become progressively more obsessed with the straightness of the cable lines) All in all, warm and comfortable all day long!

Dress: Country Road

Cardi: Ruffled Waves by Jaqui-E

Stockings: David Jones

Boots: Joanne Mercer

Fitting Room Reviews

2010-07-19T23:02:00.000+10:00

After loving the fitting room reviews of so many bloggers, I thought I might as well start putting my own Australian ones up here. I already take fitting room photo's along with the a picture of the tag, so that I can dither in private as to whether I really do like or dislike the outfit. Plus I use the photo's to make a shopping mall 'wishlist' complete with clothing photograph and the numbers and sale amount :) Without further ado, here are some recent trips:

Witchery Fitting Room Review

When I saw the Ruffled Drape Skirt ($99.95) on the hanger, I wasn't really expecting much, but boy was I wrong! It is a beautiful shell colour that would blend in with most wardrobe colour schemes and I found that this skirt runs TTS (this is a size AUS14). Online it does come in both the shell and black, but I could only find the shell instore and unfortunately is dry-clean only but you might if careful, get away with a gently handwash.the layers are unusual because they actually loop down and back up to a central flat back panel, while sitting over a fairly straight skirt which is exposed on the hip area. So while it may appear to have pockets, this is actually the straight skirt underneath. Would also work well on a windy day - no problems here! love, love, love - the shell is top of my spring must-haves, (and even considering getting the black online!)

The Printed Silk Cap Sleeve Shirt on the other hand, was a total let down. I tried the flesh print (also comes in midnight) which was a gorgeous nude with a darker flesh tone subtle pebble print - the material is a pure silk that is just lovely to touch. But it completely washed me out and when not tucked into the skirt it hit me awkwardly dead on my hips. If I had a tan and another 6 inches of height - I'd be adding this in a heart beat, but won't be coming home with me :(

Jacqui-E Fitting Room Review

Another suprising find, the Barbara Shirt Dress is such a figure flattering dress for us curvy gals :) I couldn't pop the online catalogue photo on here, but it can be seen on the link above. Made in a cotton/elastane blend, it is both stretchy and structured, and sits fairly high waisted - between an empire and a natural waist - with a wellmade belt covered in the same fabric. An inverted pleat falls from the waist (which has a flattening (and flattering!) illusion on the lower tummy area. Length wise is dead on the knee's and skirt is fully lined. Up top, three button and a cap sleeve finish the dress off. I really loved this dress, but the style wasn't for me at the moment - it had a much more of a work/corporate-casual feel to it. But might be wishlisted come sale time!

Lastly, I grabbed the Jerri Utility Skirt ($129.00) in stone along with a top that isn't listed online but I think that it may be the asymetrical bib top ($59.95). The fit of the skirt may run a little large, if you are in-between, I would definately size down. The hem hit my kneecaps and was a stretchy and soft cotton/elastane blend which I have a feeling would wear really well throughout the day. But, nothing about the skirt really jumped out at me. I will have to revisit this one during saletime.

Also, have to say, I had a wonderful SA who was so helpful, even pulling out stock that hadn't been put out yet. Plenty more reviews to come. Along with a few OOTD that I am behind on, and are starting to pile up on my camera/iphone.

Lady Liberty, how do I love thee ...

2010-07-05T20:55:00.000+10:00

This one goes out to all my american friends -

Happy 4th of July!

In honour of your special day, I themed my outfit all around you (lets face it - who doesn't love dress ups?) Yep, I have it all - red, white and blue.

Oh and did I mention corn? For whatever reason, when I think of the good ole US, I think of southern plantations, Lady Liberty, fireworks and corn - and not necessarily in that order :p

We had corn on the cob by the boatload - smothered in butter and garlic salt YUM!

I actually had a different top on to start with, but the day was starting to really warm up - you know those days - I just couldn't decide, I spent ten minutes dithering, but in the end I headed out sans top.

But after seeing the photo's, I'll have to do the first version again some time. I love how it completely changed the dress into a skirt.

Here is both the before and after :)

Top - Giordano
Cardigan - Jacqui E
Dress - Laura Ashley
Belt - Jacqui E
Shoes - Steven Madden

Bracelet - Diva Necklace wrapped

Working Girl Style

2010-07-04T17:33:00.000+10:00

I had a day of educational experience (ie who wants a free assistant for the next eleven hours?), to finalise the end of my prac time for a school module. So off I trotted nice and early with all the other worker bee's ...

and boy, do I have detail shots today :)

how awesome is this belt?!?! (thanks mum!)

I heart these shoes - they give amazing height :) Which is never a bad thing when you're 5ft nothing :)

Oddly enough they are super comfortable to walk in.

Top - Witchery

Skirt - Belted Floral Full Skirt by Jacqui-E

Belt - Leather Peonie Belt by Queenspark

Shoes - Steve Madden

Earrings - Tulip Romance by Mimco

Gloves - Swirling Roses by Tea4Two for Myer

oops ... nearly forgot, I have an outtake before I took my gloves off but after my jacket - even the gloves followed the floral theme today :)

tea

"Sorry guys, she may be my wife but I still can't keep her quiet ..."

2010-07-04T16:30:00.001+10:00

This was my loving husbands comment to the group of guys behind us at a local rugby game.

My husband is a bona-fide irishman - so what else were we to do when the national Irish Rugby Team, came to our home town, then watch the game in the irish supporters stand. One little problem though .. I am an out and proud aussie - and playing on our home soil.

I may have stood out a little in the estimated 19,000 irish supporters (out of a game total of 27,000) with my bright gold wallabies scarf in the sea of green, and if I didn't at the beginning - I sure as hell did when I enthusiastically cheered my boys on home to DECIMATE the irish 34 - 8! By the way, I may not look overly patriotic without the team kit-out but I don't do the whole football jersey thing. Ever.

Knit Top - Witchery

Jeans - Portmans

Boots - Joanne Mercer

Earrings - Sportsgirl

Jacket - Ben Sherman

Scarf - Wallabies Supporter Store

P.S - I have no idea why I look so awkward in these photo's :)

Malt and Truffle with a splash of Cranberry

2010-06-08T18:59:00.002+10:00

Top - Target

Jeans - Portmans

Cardigan - Jacqui-E Luella Layer Wrap

Shoes - Keds

Necklace - Mimco Messenger Bird Charm

This morning started out SO cold, that I slept in and so it became a nightmare to get everyone out the door on time. After racing to school (and magically getting a carpark!) I even managed to grab a takeaway coffee and make it up 7 flights of stairs (there was a HUGE lineup for the only elevator) to my class .... to be met by a shut door.

Now I have to tell you, I was a little peeved, I nearly killed myself (stopping for coffee excluded) to get there on time - and then nothing, nada, zip. After milling around for 15mins, and pretending that I wasn't a lone person waiting in an empty floor, I went back down the stairs (can you believe my luck - the one elevator had died while I was hanging around outside my class) and over to student services only to be told that class had been cancelled, yet again. Long story short, due to someone's data entry mistake, I killed myself to turn around and drive on home.

But it's amazing how sometimes you can have a fantastic day, when everything goes wrong. Once I was home, I took my little (nearly) 2 year-old boy P outside to have a run around in the bright blue skies, and I sat down, brought my study books outside and DH brought me a freshly brewed coffee .... honestly, one of the best ways to while away the morning whilst in the middle of exam block :)

I'm back ... better and shorter than ever!

2010-06-03T23:35:00.002+10:00

After a very long absence from blogging (only posting though, I've still spent my early-morning coffee time religiously flicking through everyone's blogs and feeds, practically inhaling my fashion fix for the day), I've decided to start actively posting again. I stopped blogging for a while, realising that while I enjoyed the idea of daily outfit blogging, actually doing it was a whole different ballgame. After all, I was having trouble with my own perception and image of myself, let alone trying to define and throw it out into the blogosphere :) Now fiinally, I'm starting to find my own style - one that is starting to feel a bit like me. And while it may not be to everyone's taste, and downright conservative to some, I now enjoy (and sometimes even dream about!) the daily ritual of ... getting dressed.

Anyway onto the outfit photo's from today that DH took at 10:30pm tonight, which means my face may have eaten my makeup and I'm starting to wilt just a little ....

Top - Tokito

Skirt - Laura Ashley

Obi Belt - gifted from the Eumundi Markets

Shoes - Nine West

Headband - Sportsgirl

Earrings - Sportsgirl

And for eagle-eyes (I'm talking to you, mum!) this is a skirt that has been on here previously.

I've seen the blogs and watched the runways and I am aware that new length is all about the calf, but I'm swimming against the tide and I hemmed the skirt a good eight inches or so ....

See the difference - I have normal legs people! Nope, I'm not a dumpling and the midget legs that I was sporting on the left photo have magically lengthened.

Oh, and by the way, the title is referring to my skirt ... not my legs :)

Lock me up ... and throwaway the keys!

2010-02-13T10:39:00.000+10:00

I had a fantastic day today - and one which I know MANY MANY people wouldn't enjoy. I spent the day in our Supreme Court attending a murder trial, I wont mention the particulars - but I will say it is notorious enough to have huge media exposure.

The press and papparazzi had packed out the entrance, and were madly taking pictures of everyone who entered the building - obviously insuring themselves against missing anyone important! Still, little bit of fun to have the paps papping you for no good reason :)

And before you ask, it was for school :p

Top and Skirt - both Colorado

Shoes - Nine West

Edited to add: after seeing the photo's - I feel the need to let you know these were taken after a 12 hour day of court and children! Lack of makeup - thanks to the heat and my face eating it :) and wrinkles were not there when I left this morning!

Do you remember the days of the old schoolyard ...

2010-02-11T10:40:00.002+10:00

It was a week of firsts in this house. First week of school for my eldest daughter G, she was so excited and proud to be wearing her uniform and going off to 'big kids school'. First week of proper part-time daycare for my youngest son P(definatley not excited nor proud) ... and first week of school for me!

After deliberating for so long, i decided to bite the bullet and enroll fulltime. It has been terrifying, awkward and thrilling. And on a fashion note, not very exciting. It is so hot here, and with the student look VERY casual (and oh, about 10 years younger than me!), I'm afraid I'm going for the 'I fit in' look, more than anything else :)

Shorts: Giordano

Top: Sportscraft

Shoes: Colorado

Breakfast with Tiffany's ...

2010-02-07T19:46:00.002+10:00

Nice and early on my birthday, I did an airport run to pick up my dad, and then we went off for a beautiful breakfast in the city without kids ... very nice way to start the day!

My lovely loving hubby managed to suprise me with an awesome birthday present - and the best bit? It came in the iconic blue and white box .....

Dress: Country Road

Shoes: Famous Footwear Wedges

Necklace: Tiffany key and chain (my birthday pressie from hubby!)

Purple Reign

2010-02-06T15:15:00.000+10:00

I have had the March edition of Marie Claire (Australian) for a week or so now and have gone back to this beautiful fashion shoot so many times now that I had to share it with the blogosphere :). Either that or wallpaper my bedroom with these gorgeous pic's, and I'm pretty sure that hubby dearest may have an issue with that idea ...

I dont know whether my attraction to every single photo is due to the love I have for small town country festivals (hey, I was festival princess too once upon a time!)or how excited I get when I see the first Jacaranda bloom of the season, the beautiful clothes and makeup or maybe it's just the inner peacock in me that squeals at all the purple (and think of possible purple/green combos!). Or maybe it's a combination of all of the above.

Either way, enjoy the reign of purple....

Steamy ...

2009-12-29T10:27:00.000+10:00

I adore the cute little pleat detail on the bell sleeves. This top is 100% silk and is just lovely to wear, nice and cool and sits just right. I'm thinking that I may have to invest in some more natural fibres for my wardrobe, they are so easy and comfortable to wear.

Today's weather is so unusual .. while its raining (for the 7th day in a row) when the sun comes peaks out it instantly becomes steamingly hot and humid, nothing like Queensland weather!

Top - Colorado (40% off!!!!!)

Jeans - Calvin Klein

Shoes - Nine West

Wedding in the Country & Boxing Day Sales!

2009-12-29T10:26:00.000+10:00

Talk about a dilemma - my very close friend was getting married on Boxing Day - the best shopping day of the year!!! But of course, my friend won out in the end. :) So nice and early Boxing Day, I was off to a wedding with two children in tow (DH had to work) - two rain soaked and scary hours later, we finally arrived and had a lovely time with the beautiful bride and her new husband. However, my lovely mum bravely battled the hoardes and went off to the sales with a little list ....

Dress - Jane Lamberton

Shoes - Colorado

Hat - Laura Ashley

Time to celebrate - Merry Christmas!

2009-12-29T09:52:00.000+10:00

Another super short (and belated) post. Merry Christmas everyone, I hope you all were as spoilt rotten as I was. While I havent posted over Christmas, I did manage to take the photos :)

I had been positively stalking (since October!) a covetable Mimco cloche hat waiting for it to go on sale and I was devastated when I noticed it had been sold - which I later discovered was to my lovely husband who snapped it up!!! I was so thrilled, I had to put it in my shot, even though technically it didnt make it out to lunch - not with all those sticky kids fingers everywhere :) But I did get very spoilt and you will notice a few new things showing up here over the next few weeks!

Starring .... my new MIMCO 'Speakeasy cloche' hat
Dress: Laura Ashley
Shoes: London Rebel (Famous Footwear)

Definitely on the mend

2009-12-20T19:07:00.003+10:00

Well I am definitely on the mend, I went on a shopping trip with my mum to go window shopping (and trying not to dig into our purses too much!!!) We had lots of fun ... so here's some changing room shots (I felt terribly naughty doing it - almost waiting for the shop assistants to burst in and tell me to put away the phone)

I fell in love with one of the dresses ... can you tell which one? And which is your favourite?

Laura Ashley - Black Daisy Pinwheel Dress

Veronica Maine - Colbalt Bow Top

Laura Ashley - Black Bow Dress

(Sorry for the boob shot, the shoulders are waaaay too long - as are most dresses and tops!)

Thanks Mum !!!

2009-12-20T18:45:00.001+10:00

A huge thankyou is going out to my lovely mum who came and stayed with me to keep my little terrors under control while I had (and recovered!) from my wisdom teeth removal. To thank her properly, I figured a little Twilight action would be the order of the day ... so off we went to see New Moon at the movies - Gold Class.

Large Screen, Wine and Edward = a great girls' night out ;)

Top - Pea in a Pod

Cardigan - The Works

Jeans - Calvin Klein

Shoes - Black Espirit Pumps

Peacock Earrings - Diva

Just Jeans ...

2009-12-15T14:09:00.000+10:00

Just a quick one, I was caught in a flash-storm before I managed to get the photos - hence the top :) I probably wont be on for a little while, I'm off to get four wisdom teeth removed this afternoon so comfort is the word. Ouch!!

A day to play

2009-12-14T14:10:00.000+10:00

Shirt - Basque for Myer

Camisole - Portmans

Shorts - Katies

Shoes - Corelli

Earrings - Target

Bracelet - Pandora

Bag - Fossil

I adore my bag, I have had it for over a year now and it is used everyday without fail. While I have plenty of clutches and 'nighttime' bags, I really only have the one everyday bag, so I thought I'd give it a showing on here. I have a two playdates today - one for each of my children, so comfort is definately order of the day.

Week in Review

2009-12-14T14:02:00.002+10:00

Dress, dress & more dresses ... must be summer!

So which was your favorite, and why? Mine was the last one - I felt so cool and sassy, I think I'll be using that combo again soon.

Blue Moon ...

2009-12-13T10:12:00.001+10:00

After watching Fashion For Nerds Audi do amazing things with layering skirts and dresses, I couldn't help but try something new. Both dresses I haven't worn on their own before. The top one is just too short to be worn on its own, and the bottom one has a really revealing neckline which requires some bravery. But together I love it. I'll have to try this more often :)

Bottom Dress - Wayne by Wayne Cooper

Top Dress - Azuki

Shoes - Nine West

Bracelets - Pandora (gifted from friends & family) and an old remix

Lunch with the girls ...

2009-12-12T11:50:00.000+10:00

Going out for a girls' lunch today .. to celebrate that we made it though our year of Kindergarten!

Dress - Hi There! by Karen Walker

Shoes - Nine West

Necklace - Diva

Bracelet - Free Spirit

Black & White

2009-12-11T13:18:00.004+10:00

Today I decided to add something from my wardrobe (a sheer, ruffled romantic-era top) that I havent worn before, mainly because I haven't been able to style it with anything else that I own.

I'm in the process of finding a place to take my photo's and I seem to be having some problems finding a place to stick my Joby, so whilst some photo's appear that I have legs the length of a matchstick - I assure you, its just the crappy angle I've set my camera up on. Then to make my photography skills seem even more accomplished than what they are, I seem to have cut off a part of me in EVERY. SINGLE. PHOTO. After uploading and realising what horrible photos I had taken I decided to post them anyway. Afterall, its for the outfit not my head ;)

Top - JacquiE

Dress - Portmans

Earrings - Target

Shoes - Tony Bianco

Its starting to feel alot like Christmas .....

2009-12-10T15:48:00.001+10:00

Dress - Jane Lamberton

Earrings - Vintage find in Melbourne & still in original 1950's setting :)

Sandals - Sandler

With my daughters Kindergarten finished for the year (*gulp* she will be in school next year, talk about starting to feel old!) and spending today at the shopping centre getting presents and the annual Santa photo's ... Christmas has definately started. Not to mention the heatwave, which always kicks off around this time every year.

So in celebration of the start of Christmas this year, my photos are infront of my (newly) decorated tree :) Now I know how bare the bottom 3-foot our tree looks, but I have a very good excuse - I have a one year old who eats everything!) But I had to move outside to get the detail shot of my earrings (they blended into the tree baubles a little too much for my liking.)

Oh, to have Emma Pillsbury's wardrobe ...

2009-11-13T15:45:00.002+10:00

Ok, I may be late to the game ... but oh have I fallen hard. Its official, Im a gleek. I GLEEfully sing along on Thursday nights, while my husband sighs in disgust. But the most impressive thing about such a happy, happy show has to be the wardrobe of ridiculously germophobic Emma Pillsbury. And the accessories ... *sigh* where do I start?

I have such a crush on this necklace ... does anyone know where it comes from?

So these are just a few of the gorgeous pieces that has been worn so far, and I'm sure I will be doing an inspiration day soon.

Its' been a long time ...

2009-11-13T14:52:00.000+10:00

I know, I know ... its been a very long time since my last post .. Ive had some time away and come back excited and rejuvenated to be back in the world of blogging.. plus I dont think camping pics are quite what everyone is dying to see :) Mind you, I did get a little shock when I checked out Reader to discover 479 posts awaiting my eyes .. needless to say its going to take a little while to catch up with everyone :)

So I'm going to post the daily shot, but I'm afraid to say, it is not what I would like my return to be - basically a lazy day at home with the kids so it's a jeans and top kinda day. (Apologies for the hair and weird photo angles, but it's just one of those days)

Top - Colorado

Jeans - Calving Klein

Belt - Target

Shoes - Nine West

Week In Review

2009-09-27T12:15:00.002+10:00

At the end of each week, Im going to start doing a quick review ... hopefully help me spot my common themes.

Well for someone who doesn't wear many dresses or skirts - I certainly made an effort this week. Hmmm, those red wedges got a bit of a workout but I'm trying to break them in before I go on my holiday. :)

Weekend Jeans

2009-09-27T11:56:00.002+10:00

I'm still divided on the whole rolling up jeans, but I'll play with it. :)

So while I'm still not convinced, at least it shakes it up a little.

Shirt - Basque for Myer

Camisole - Giordano

Jeans - calvin Klien

Shoes - Steve Madden

Bracelets (Right side) - Diva, Free Spirit & Remix

Bracelets (Left side) - Pandora gifted from friends & fam, Watch

Same Material, different style ...

2009-09-25T12:07:00.001+10:00

I have another skirt in this same material, but this is a little shorter with ALOT less material. I know they look so similar, but at 70% off, I couldn't resist both :)

Shirt - Tokito

Skirt - Laura Ashley

Belt - Target

Shoes - Pepe Castell

Earrings - Sportsgirl

The shoes Im wearing are THE most expensive pair I have ever paid full price for. And my husband still looks like he's choking on something every time he looks at them. But they have a very special place in my heart after many, many wears and they still look fabulous with everything. (and incredibly comfortable to boot!)

How do you fix clinging fabric?

2009-09-24T14:33:00.002+10:00

This was my original Thursday outfit ... completely out of my comfort zone. To start with its short (for me) and a dress (which I dont wear often). And completely shows off my fabulous Queensland tan ... yes, I really am that white - I believe its called alabaster ;)

After wearing it around the house while getting ready, it had already started to clingy to my legs in the most unwelcoming way, and by the time I finished my makeup I couldnt pry the material from my legs without it velcro-ing itself to the other leg. Long story short ... I didnt leave the house in this one.

So the question of the day is ... do you have dresses that do this, and what do you do with them?

Really bad shots .. sorry! I dont know what was going on with the flash

Shirt - Giordano (which makes a final daily shot next)

Dress - Portmans

Sash - Laura Ashley (also makes another appearance)

Shoes - Famous Shoes

A case of the stripes and knock-off's

2009-09-24T10:53:00.001+10:00

Okay, let try it again ...

and introducing ....... (drum roll please!)

my knockoff RayBans - I lurve them!

Shirt - Giordano

Skirt - Giordano (hmmm sensing a trend here?)

Waist Sash - from my delicious new Laura Ashley dress which hasnt made its debut yet

Shoes - Famous Shoes

Earings - Diva

Bracelet - Free Earth

Sunglasses - knockoffs from the market

Dusty, Dusty & Dusty!!

2009-09-23T18:32:00.002+10:00

We had the biggest dust storm today, it came up from Sydney and completely covered the whole south-east of our state. Apparently it may hit New Zealand before it eases .... just incredible.

Shirt - Espirit

Camisole - Giodarno

Skirt - Laura Ashley

Shoes - Famous Shoes

Flower Ring - Diva

Headband - ???

Necklace/Watch - Marc by Marc Jacobs

Wedding Rings

Visit from my Mum ....

2009-09-18T12:03:00.002+10:00

Started off with a another outfit ... but I managed to fall into a full bathtub fully dressed when trying to empty it! So here is the next attempt .....

Top - JeansWest

Pants - Etre

Cardigan - JeansWest

Shoes - Tony Bianco

Necklace/Watch - Marc Jacobs

Brooch - Diva

What Im Doing: My mum has driven down to spend the day with us - so a little bit of shopping and lunch!

Its finally here ...

2009-09-12T21:27:00.001+10:00

Well actually, its not even here (Australia) but its been released to the public in US and its looking beautiful.

Be quick - its going to sell SUPER fast .... http://uma.chanel.com/makeup/jade-nail.php

What can I say - I LOVE it

Jade 407 - you have a home in my heart!

Comedy Club with a friend .....

2009-09-12T08:07:00.000+10:00

Last night I went to a sit-down comedy club with a friend and had a fantastic time. It was such a treat as I dont get a chance to go out very often without the children.

Top - Basque by Myer

Pants - Portmans

Shoes - Nine West (and so, so comfortable!)

Bracelet - Pandora (gifted friends & fam)

Watch & Wedding Bands - as always

The pumps .... again

2009-09-11T12:03:00.000+10:00

I know these shoes are being worn to death .. but they are so comfortable and go with EVERYTHING, plus its starting to heat up so they will be put away once summer hits full force.

Camisole - The Works

Ruffle Top - Country Road

Jeans - Portmans

Shoes - Espirit

Bracelet - Pandora (Gifted from friends & fam) Wedding Rings & Watch

And just because its rather cute, my little son P, was watching me pose for the camera and started mimicking me, so for the gratuious 'my children are gorgeous' post .... here he is striking his best model pose

Loving Coral ....

2009-09-10T17:06:00.001+10:00

The black necklace and esprit pumps are back...... and I feel fabulous in this colour top with the very cute sleeves.

However most importantly, I am in love with my new coral lipstick ....

Top - Tokito by Myer

Pants - Etre

Shoes - Espirit Pumps

Jewellery - Diva necklace, Pandora Bracelet (gifted from friends & fam)

Sunglasses - Calvin Klein

Lipstick - Chanel 'Exaltation' No 61

Hot days at home ...

2009-09-08T12:59:00.002+10:00

Not a scrap of makeup - just enjoying a day at home doing chores. The top is a singlet with a light top layer that kind of billows around and it feels so light and breezy ... just what a day like today calls for. After seeing these photos though, I don't think I'll wear this singlet again, it just no favours for me :(

Ruffles & Flowers ...

2009-09-05T19:48:00.002+10:00

After adding a cardi and ruffle top to a pretty boring pair of plaid three-quarters, I decided to take some inspiration from Just my Style ... and 'borrowed' my daughters headband. Who knew - I just doubled my hair accessories :o)

And despite owning for a year, this is the first time I've worn my gorgeous Via Spiga shoes, and they turned out to be incredibly uncomfortable :(

Shirt - Stella for Myer
Cardigan - Country Road
Pants - Sussan
Shoes - Via Spiga
Headband - borrowed from my daughter
Watch & Wedding - as always

Booted up!

2009-09-02T19:49:00.001+10:00

Wearing my horsey boots today (as my mum calls them) So easy to run around in - but VERY slippery on the escalators! Other than than bit of a boring outfit .. jeans and a white shirt. Will have to make more of an effort tomorrow :)

Shirt - JeansWest

Jeans - Portmans 'Allegra Skinny'

Boots - Country Road 'Taylor Riding'

Ring - Shout Out

Other Jewellery - watch & wedding ring, as always

I LOVE Mondays ...

2009-08-31T13:35:00.000+10:00

I adore Mondays - both kids are either at Kindy or Daycare - so I usually have 6 hours ALL to myself :)

Usually I spend those precious hours running around, doing all the things that are so much easier to do without two littlies ... and today will be no different.

My to-do list is pretty boring today - but includes a trip to the camera store to research a new replacement and the camping store to pick up some supplies for the big family camping trip in November :) I know, I'm getting way too excited too early .....

Top - Witchery
Cami - Giordano
Pants - Colorado
Belt - Sportscraft
Shoes - Colorado leather Flip Flops
Necklace - Be Yourself
Bracelets - remixed
Watch & Wedding band - as always

My camera has died :(

2009-08-29T15:42:00.000+10:00

Exactly one day after after my first blog post and on my very first blog photo - my good old, dependable camera up and died .... so whilst I am cringing at the quality, here is todays clothes. Today is a quiet but busy day at home, plans to have an awesome day with the kids doing lots of craft. :)

Also, thanks must be given to my gorgeous 4yo G, who was director and photographer of the shoot!

(Hence the crazy face ..)

Top - Portmans

Skirt - Giordano

Sandals - Sandler (?? very old and couldnt read the label)

Jewellery - necklace and ring both Diva
watch and wedding bands - thanks hubby!

iphone photos will have to be used for a little while - apologies to all!

There's a first time for everything ...

2009-08-22T10:01:00.000+10:00

This is my VERY. FIRST. BLOG. ... ever. I literally did not even realise they existed until I stumbled across some fashion blogspots that I havent been able to stop reading. They all inspired me so much to start looking good, for myself, even at home with two small kids.

There is a long, long story behind my fall from fashion, but in a nutshell, it includes two kids, a husband and becoming a stay-at-home mum (not to mention the extra 20kgs that crept up along the way).

So this blog will be the new me ... or should I say the old me, while I'm upgrading ... I dont think anyone will read this, but I'm going to use it as my diary, my soundboard, my inspiration to keep improving myself ... because as they say .. they only way is up!!!