E: vanja@vanjastace.com | P: +61 (0) 425 433 335

Wet & Wendy weatherwear

Wet & Wendy: perfect for spring

Wet & Wendy is an optimistic little label. It was created by Anna Martino in an effort to change how we feel about the weather. A monumental task indeed! The weatherwear’s label’s first collection includes umbrellas and raincoats that deserve to pop up in street style snaps everywhere.

 

Wet & Wendy weatherwear

 

As Australia welcomes spring here in Queensland it is the start of the wet season – the perfect time to get to know Wet & Wendy! It just so happens they have 50% off most items in their online store.

My faves from the range include the double layered long umbrella (love the curved handle), the raincoat and the cape-coat, some are available online. Be quick though! These pieces won’t last long.

 

Wet & Wendy weatherwear

 

Wet & Wendy weatherwear

 

Wet & Wendy weatherwear

 

Wet & Wendy information:

 

Maison Michel autumn winter 2011

Maison Michel accessories – Autumn / Winter 2011

Maison Michel is a Paris based accessories label started by Auguste Michel in 1936. Currently it is owned by Chanel. Laetitia Crahay, Chanel‘s accessories and jewellery designer, is the artistic director of Maison Michel.

The Autumn / Winter 2011 lookbook features Clemence Poesy and Sasha Pivovarova.

In Brisbane you can find Maison Michel at Jean Brown and in Melbourne go to Christine.

 

Maison Michel autumn winter 2011

 

 

Maison Michel autumn winter 2011

 

 

Maison Michel autumn winter 2011

 

 

Maison Michel autumn winter 2011

 

 

Maison Michel autumn winter 2011

 

 

Maison Michel autumn winter 2011

 

 

Maison Michel autumn winter 2011

 

 

Maison Michel autumn winter 2011

 

 

Maison Michel autumn winter 2011

 

 

Maison Michel autumn winter 2011

 

 

Maison Michel autumn winter 2011

 

 

Maison Michel autumn winter 2011

 

Jamie Louise Brisbane fashion stylist

Fashion Insider: Jamie Louise – Fashion / Event Stylist

I met Jamie Louise late last year when she styled me into a Gucci and a DKNY dress. She’s a Melbourne girl living in Brisbane and she’s tireless in her work. Here’s what she had to say about her career so far.

 

Jamie Louise

 

Tell us a little about yourself

I grew up in Melbourne, Australia. Melbourne, my other true love. I now live in Brisbane with my fiancee and our 4 year old labradoodle, Roxy. I love travel and adventure and discovering new things. I am a really strong advocate for the causes I believe in and am always ready to petition and get my placard out for what I believe in.

I have an amazing support network of family and friends and love sharing food and wine and good times…

 

How did you get your start in fashion?

I was introduced to the world of fashion at a very young age, my mother made belts in the 80′s for large Australian retailers. I can recall dancing around in my mothers shoes (7 sizes too big for me) whilst she would be doing an all-nighter to get her order finished on time!

My uncle Colin is the person who actually gave me my start in the fashion business. Colin has been in the fashion industry for the past 35 years. He has done everything from design to retail and I was so lucky to have him as my mentor in the crazy land of fashion!

I have a fairly corporate background so when Colin and I joined forces in 2009 we started Jamie Collins, a fashion agency that focused on representing local and international labels within the Australian market.

After relocating to Brisbane in 2010 I decided to turn my hand to fashion styling as a way of still being connected to the fashion world whilst I develop an online e-commerce site. My site should be ready to launch in early 2012. So stay tuned!

 

Jamie Louise Brisbane fashion stylist

copyright Glen Krohn

 

Why did you choose fashion?

I’m an artist and I feel that I am really lucky to work in a creative industry that allows me the freedom to express that creativity. The beauty of my job is that its always different, always new and forever changing! Isn’t that great?

After coming from a corporate and regimented background where consistency is key it feels really nice to just be and do what feels good! Oh and the people! I meet the most amazing and talented people! From other artists such as designers to models and all sorts in between.

 

Is the fashion industry what you expected it to be?

No. It’s not all champagne and catwalks, it’s hard work and long hours and sometimes very little reward. When I started my agency I thought it would be really glamorous, but the shine wore off fast and the challenges began! Now that I understand the industry a little better I can accept its flaws…

 

What does your job consist of?

I work in many different fields of styling; any given day can be different which is something I totally love!

I can be doing a personal styling job, a music video, an event, a photo shoot or a workshop. It’s really a ‘create-your-own-adventure’.

 

Jamie Louise Brisbane fashion stylist

JnS Photography

 

Describe your week

It’s always changing! I am freelance so it’s all about being self motivated and interacting with people who will pass on my information. At the moment I am working with a close friend of mine to develop a series of workshops so it’s keeping us very busy!

 

Roughly how many hours do you work per week?

Depending on what I have on! It really is so different week to week. But I try to spend at least 3 hours a day working on creating contacts and studying latest fashions.

 

What are the key skills you need for your role?

  • Self motivated
  • Independent thinker
  • Ability to work in a team
  • Ability to work alone
  • Energetic!
  • Take criticism
  • Encourage feedback
  • Be a networker
  • Good listening skills
  • Good communication skills
  • Love fashion

 

What do you enjoy most about your role?

The people, hands down. There is just this synergy you feel when you are constantly surrounded by other creatives that I  just cant explain – it’s like the feeling that anything is possible.

 

Jamie Louise Brisbane fashion stylist

copyright Glen Krohn

 

What do you find challenging?

Knowing when to say “no”. Its my biggest obstacle. I love the creative process so much that its really difficult to turn down projects, but I find I am learning.

 

What do you do in your time off?

I love Bikram Yoga, Jazz, food and wine and spending time in good company.

 

What’s the highlight of your career so far?

Every new experience is a highlight! I really can’t say enough about the people I work with, their talents and experience is a wonder to be around. I don’t believe you ever stop learning so I just want to continue being included in creative process.

 

Do you have any advice for someone starting out in fashion?

You never know it all… No job is too small and leave your ego at the door.

 

Finish this sentence: Fashion is…

The truest form of self expression… An art that everyone practices.

 

audrey

USA Shopping Affair – personal shopping service

When I was in New York last month I shopped like a maniac. Sephora, Betsey Johnson, Barneys – you name it. The most frustrating thing? Not being able to shop at these places now I’m back in Australia. Enter USA Shopping Affair!

USA Shopping Affair offers personal shopping buying sprees in the USA as well as mail forwarding for all your online shopping all the way to Australia.

Each month they nominate a US online retailer that they purchase bulk orders on behalf of clients, allowing them to buy single items without the excessive expense.

Charmaine Graham, founder of USA Shopping Affair says that “there are a lot of companies based in the US offering package forwarding services, but none are coordinated from Australia consolidating multiple client purchases to enable discounted shipping. Essentially USA Shopping Affair facilitates ‘collective buying power’ that an individual would not normally have access too. The result is an affordable and reliable shipping option that offers online shoppers even more incentive to snap up bargains from the US.”

 

HOW IT WORKS:

  • You let them know what you want to buy;
  • They purchase on your behalf and arrange shipment to you;
  • You pay the cost of the item plus applicable US sales tax;
  • They charge a 10% personal shopping fee based on purchase cost;
  • They ship to you at a low fixed fee of $10.00 per item (discount is available on 5 or more products purchased in same transaction.)

 

Price Comparison – M.A.C Lipstick

  • M.A.C. Australia
  • $36.00 (inc tax) product cost
  • $10.00 domestic shipping
  • $46.00 TOTAL COST

VS

  • M.A.C. United States
  • $15.45 (inc tax) product cost
  • $ 1.55 (10%) personal shopping fee
  • $10.00 domestice & international shipping
  • $27.00 TOTAL COST – that’s a 40% saving

Register now at USA Shopping Affair and start shopping!

 

Catherine Leon

Behind the Label – Catherine Leon

Catherine Leon is a new, very wearable label. Here’s a glimpse into the world of Catherine Leon and her debut collection, Element of Freedom.

 

Catherine Leon

  • Label Catherine Leon
  • Website: Catherine Leon
  • Facebook: Catherine Leon
  • Place of residence: Melbourne Australia
  • Your name Catherine Leon
  • Occupation: Designer

 

Catherine Leon

Catherine Leon

 

Describe your label

Catherine Leon features timeless signature pieces which simultaneously adopt and reflect a trend driven approach to fashion. Designed and manufactured in Australia, my collection has been carefully created using the highest quality fabrics and with the finest attention to detail.

My debut collection, Element of Freedom, incorporates cutting edge designs alongside classic wardrobe staples, evoking a sense of innovation alongside timeless style.

 

Who does your label appeal to?

Catherine Leon appeals the fashion savvy, cutting edge girl. She loves to express herself through her choice of clothing and appreciates classic couture as well as contemporary trends.

 

Why do you think your work is loved by your customers?

Because the designs are classic yet contemporary and each piece is made with high quality fabrics. I also think the fact that the collection is designed and manufactured in Australia is appealing.

 

Catherine Leon

 

Who would you most like to see in your designs?

Erin Wasson.

 

What is the price range of your garments / products?

$100- $400.

 

How many collections do you produce per year?

2 collections; Autumn/Winter and Summer.

 

Where is the label manufactured?

The label is 100% manufactured in Australia.

 

Where is the label stocked?

  • Online at Catherine Leon website
  • Medici Clothing - 1103 Mt Alexander Rd Essendon Melbourne VIC 3040 Australia
  • Crimson and Clover – 1, 118 Pakington St Geelong West VIC 3218 Australia
  • Lee and Me – 87 Crown Street Wollongong Sydney NSW 2500 Australia
  • Soul Sisters – 73 Market St Fremantle Fremantle WA 3592 Australia
  • Black Wall – Shop 1/30 Jarrad Strret Cottesloe Perth WA 6011 Australia
  • Chateau Clothing -205 Nicholson Rd Shenton Park Perth WA 6008 Australia

 

Do you have plans to expand stockists beyond Australia?

At the moment my focus is on developing a strong following in Australia. Once I have achieved that I will have a look at what opportunities exist in other countries.

 

How did the label get started?

I started the label by myself and launched it in stores around the country at the beginning of the year.

 

Catherine Leon

 

How big is the design team?

I am the only designer for my brand at the moment.

 

How did you get started in design?

From a young age I was inspired by garment construction and the talented works of my seamstress aunt. I have been blessed with a creative nature and have always found myself designing and creating. I have always wanted to create something that was my own and to be able to share it with everyone.

I studied fashion at RMIT – where I was able to further develop my interest and skills in pattern making and visual merchandising. I was then accepted at the Melbourne School of Fashion where I specialised in product development and design. Following my studies I worked in various product development roles at Australian boutique Green With Envy and fashion house Inshop PTY, and then launched my self titled label, Catherine Leon!

 

How do you find inspiration for your work?

I get a lot of inspiration from art galleries – I find myself particularly inspired by abstract paintings and graphic prints. I also pay close attention to detail to the nominal elements of classic couture, artwork and even significant life experiences.

 

Catherine Leon

 

What have you found most rewarding about having your own label?

Having 100% freedom in the creative direction of the label.

 

What do you wish you knew at the start of your label?

I always knew starting my label would involve a lot of hard work but I don’t think I could’ve imagined the scale of this! It’s all worth it though when the collection is complete!

 

The next step for your label is….

The next step for Catherine Leon is online; we have just launched our online store at CatherineLeon.com and are really keen to get the word out there!

 

Fred

Fashion Insider: Kelly Wheatley – Buyer / Owner

Cardi lovers unite! If there was ever a need for a cardigan revolution it is NOW! What with global warming wrecking havoc with our seasons and jet setting around the world, we couldn’t be more prepared than with a beautiful cardi.

Those who know me personally will think of me as a cardi addict – I have one in every colour, shape, length, size. From oversize and chunky to crop and bright – you name it, I have it.

It’s fitting then that I should find the Caridganstore.com – a place where cardi-thusiasts go to shop.

 

Kelly Wheatley

 

Tell us a little about yourself

Well I am born and bred in lovely Melbourne… perfect cardi weather!

My background is in the retail sales side of Fashion. I did the whole study/work part time in retail when I was younger and now as an Area Manager for one of Australia’s biggest retailers as my ‘day job’!

My cardigan business suits me perfectly as I’ve always been an avid cardi wearer and a bit of a nanna! :) Now I’m trying to start a cardi revolution!

 

Kelly Wheatley

Kelly Wheatley

 

How did you get your start in fashion?

I have worked my way up from a Casual to Area Manager to Business Owner over many years! The idea for my own fashion business came to me after years of serving customers in store and finding a niche in the market. I talked about it for years with friends and my partner before giving it a go!

 

Why did you choose fashion?

I’ve always felt a connection and understanding to that world, I guess it has always been an interest… early on in magazines, dress ups, helping in my parents’ business on weekends.

Retail is basically in my blood! There is a long line of family that have influenced me growing up, both creatively and guiding my ‘business/sales’ brain.

 

Friends of Couture Fixitfrieda beige

Friends of Couture

 

Is the fashion industry what you expected it to be?

Yes, I have never been under any illusions about the hard work required in fashion! Having your own small business is A LOT of work, but extremely rewarding when you succeed in your own right!

I always thought going ‘online’ with my business would be easier in many ways… but it has also been more difficult in many ways!

I thought I could save on normal shop overheads such as staff, rent, fitout etc… But gained many long hours photographing product for the site, writing descriptions and content, updating and uploading stock to our back end system. The list goes on! :)

 

What does your job consist of?

Day to day my role changes… with any small business you are CEO, COO, CFO, BUYER, PR/MARKETING!

I spend a lot of my time photographing for the site, meeting with suppliers and labels for next season’s stock, getting my head around admin and financials for the site (my amazing partner Alex does most of this), creating graphics and emails for our database, packing and sending parcels to our lovely customers! Plus much more!

 

Cable knit cardigan

Cable – Cable Knit Cardigan

 

Describe your week

This changes day to day, week to week… As my partner and I both still have ‘day jobs’ we work on the business when we come home each night for about an hour or so, we try to structure our weeks.

  • Monday might be sending an update to our database, planning our week ahead, pack and send parcels.
  • Through the week might be updating our financials, spreadsheets, stock control, pack and send parcels, liaise with suppliers etc…
  • Weekend we block out a mainly a Saturday morning to photograph new stock, update the site, re-group and assess how we are tracking
  • Sunday is my day off! Running the business from home means sometimes you just have to shut the door! Or leave the house for a few hours! :)

 

Roughly how many hours do you work per week?

Well! This is the first time I’ve actually thought about it… day job maybe 55 hrs and Cardiganstore 20 hrs a week! I know I’m a crazy lady but I really love what I do and enjoy the challenge both roles give me.

No matter how crazy your day has been, you can rarely take a night off with your own business and its needs!

 

Friends of Couture

Friends of Couture

 

What are the key skills you need for your role?

Time management, Sales skills, Photographic skills… the list is endless!

 

What do you enjoy most about your role?

The flexibility of hours, learning new skills, all the cardies!!!

 

What do you find challenging?

Learning about retailing online. It’s a constant challenge to compete with really players both in Australia and O.S, our nice strong Aussie dollar at the moment means shoppers can get a bargain from O.S!

Trying to fit everything into a 24hr day! :)

 

What do you do in your time off?

Hang out with my partner Alex and our very spoilt and crazy ‘child’ Fred the Shitszu! Catch up with girlfriends for brekkie or coffee on the weekend. We also head down to Lorne to get away or just couch time at home!

 

Fred

Fred

 

What’s the highlight of your career so far?

Highlights would have to be, being nominated for COSMOPOLITAN Magazines Fun & Fearless Entrepreneur Award! Voting is still live till Sunday May 8th!

 

Do you have any advice for someone starting out in fashion?

I love this quote: “Don’t undertake a project unless it’s manifestly important & nearly impossible” (Edwin Land)

You have to love what you do! If you believe in something take it as far as you can! Ask for help too, I don’t know any one that can do it all on their own.

 

Finish this sentence: Fashion is…

… lots of fun and hard work!

 

Damselfly

Label love: Damselfly

Damselfly is the brainchild of Christianna Heideman, who at only 18 years old started the label from her passion for fine art, silver-smithing, gems and sculpture.

The women’s label Damselfly Design (2001) and the men’s label Elias (2004) have been well received by wholesalers and retailers alike and have since been stocked globally in many fashion destinations across Europe, America and South East Asia. Damselfly design has received extensive media attention in many of Australia’s leading fashion publications, Vogue, Harpers Bazaar and Russh to mention a few, but also on the catwalks of LMFF and RAFW/AFW.

 

Damselfly

 

Christianna’s aesthetic and inspiration is gathered from a vast array of sources. Predominantly derived from art, culture, travel, fairytales, her obsession with antique jewellery and the ’70′s love child’. Combine this with a good dose of daydreaming and we have collections that are a must have for the fashion elite.

Damselfly’s stars have aligned this season with ‘Call to the Moon’, a spell binding collection of celestial glamour inspired by all things mythical and mystical. Delving deeper into her love affair with crystals, designer Christianna Heideman has successfully mixed ancient, lunar and earthly elements to recreate her Midsummer Night’s Dream.

Raw and beautiful, the crystals and stones in the range possess healing, protective and life enhancing properties, while evil eye amulets offer more than adornment. With otherwordly style names such as ‘Alchemist’ and ‘Aurora’, powerful amethyst, quartz, citrine and turquoise are stunningly cast in antique silver, ideal for generous layering.

Other key styles include the ‘Goddess Grace’ Egyptian-inspired neckpiece, showcasing faceted quartz drops and silver coins, and matching ‘Circe Slave’ bracelet. The amethyst crystal cluster of the ‘Avonia’ ring mesmerises, while the multi-link ‘White Hearts Chain Ring’ makes a bold style statement.

Priced from $50 to $350, ‘Call to the Moon’ is utterly bewitching.

 

Damselfly

 

Damselfly information:

 

Damselfly is available online in June and in stores nationally first week of July.

For a full list of stockists contact head office (03) 9 489 6240 or via email info@damselfly.com.au.

 

Damselfly

Damselfly

Damselfly

Damselfly

Sharon Green

Fashion Insider: Sharon Green – Journalist

Sharon Green is a print and online journalist based in Melbourne, Australia. She has written across a variety of Fairfax community newspapers including Melbourne Weekly Magazine, City Weekly and The Melbourne Times specialising in fashion.

 

Sharon Green

 

Tell us a little about yourself

My name is Sharon Green and I’m a Melbourne based journalist. I have written extensively across a number of leading Australian publications including The Age, Herald Sun, Geelong Advertiser, Fairfax Weekly newspapers, Bride Magazine, Fashion Journal and Onya Magazine among many others.

I have done a range of fashion writing including features and profiles on some of the country’s renowned fashion labels, designers, and events.

 

How did you get your start in fashion?

I first entered the fashion scene back in 2005 when, after much fascination with the inner workings of the industry, I decided it would be a good idea to volunteer at the L’Oreal Melbourne Fashion Festival. I worked backstage as an assistant and dressed models, taped shoes, organised garments, and got my first real insight into how a fashion show is put together.

I came back to volunteer at the Melbourne Spring Fashion Week that September but tried my hand at front-of-house duties and found myself enjoying the pre-production tasks of setting up catwalk spaces, seating plans, and show bags just as much as backstage. The following year Pronto Productions approached me to work on contract as a backstage assistant at these two major fashion festivals in Melbourne, as well as a number of corporate and independent events, and I stayed on with them for about three years.

At the time I was studying a media degree but had no idea where it was going to take me. I’d enjoyed the event management and production side of things and knew I wanted to stay in touch with the fashion industry. I started doing a bit of freelance writing for some fashion publications and really enjoyed the process of sourcing information from an ever-changing industry and meeting talented designers to get their story.

When I enrolled in a Masters of Journalism, I knew it was time to get serious about my writing. I did a host of fashion features and profiles for online publication Onya Magazine, and later began a monthly feature for street press magazine Fashion Journal. It was most exciting when I was invited to cover fashion week for Onya Magazine and to this day I am still searching for interesting stories with a fusion of fashion.

 

Sharon Green

Sharon Green fashion journalist

 

Why did you choose fashion?

I’m not sure that I ever really “chose” fashion per se. It wasn’t like I woke up one day and decided “I’m going to work in fashion!” My journey into the industry certainly stemmed from curiosity and fascination, and when I realised that I had an extensive network of people working in fashion at my disposal, the shift to into fashion journalism was a natural progression. Having said that, I wouldn’t still be writing about fashion if it didn’t continue to inspire and fascinate me. And I suppose that is one of the reasons I am still drawn to it.

 

Is the fashion industry what you expected it to be?

To be honest, I didn’t really know what to expect. Apart from the high fashion scenes we see in movies and on television, I never really had an image in my mind of what to expect. The only thing I expected was to feel excited and inspired when surrounded by people working in the same field, and it’s definitely lived up to that.

 

What does your job consist of?

Each day can be different and that’s the beauty of doing journalism. One day might consist of solid research where I’m looking for someone unique to profile, or a fresh angle for a story, or a new breakthrough in the fashion industry. Other days might consist of organising and securing interviews with fashion designers and other industry experts.

Then there are occasions when I’ll spend the day meeting with people, getting their story, or attending fashion shows and other events. Then of course, there are days when deadlines loom and I’ll be busy writing articles and chasing up photos to ensure I can submit the story to the relevant publication on time.

 

Describe a typical week

There is no such thing as a “typical” week because it changes all the time. But that keeps the pace interesting and there’s never a dull moment. But generally, I’ll start my week sourcing story ideas and teeing up interviews, and by mid-week I’ll usually be doing an interview and starting the writing phase.

Then I’ll spend some good time editing and proofing the piece and tweaking it as much as I can. Of course, this stage of the process can vary greatly depending on how much time I have up my sleeve before deadline. I generally have weekends free because most people are not usually available for interviews and to do business during this time.

 

Yeojin Bae article

Yeojin Bae article

 

Roughly how many hours do you work per week?

Depending on how many commissions I’m juggling at once, the hours can vary. On a steady week, I’d work your average 38-40 hour week. But in the world of freelancing, it’s always a case of feast or famine and the trick is to be flexible around the work flow.

Sometimes I’ll have quiet weeks that get me worried whether I’ll have any work the following week and sometimes I’ll get 3 commissions assigned all on one day.

During busy weeks, I can work in excess of 60 plus hours especially if we throw fashion week into the mix and events held on weekends and after hours. It’s therefore very important for me to make the most of relaxing when I do get some down time.

 

What are the key skills you need for your role?

In order to thrive and survive in fashion and in journalism, you definitely need to be tenacious, organised, resourceful, and at times patient. I often find myself in situations where I’m juggling multiple stories at a time and so having the ability to prioritise is important too, as is the ability to multi-task when I have conflicting deadlines.

I also think having a reliable and varied source of contacts in the industry is key – if I’m writing a fashion article and require comment from industry experts from different backgrounds, I need to refer to my network of contacts to help me out. As they say these days, it’s all about networking, networking, networking!

 

What do you enjoy most about your role?

I love the variety because it leaves little time to be bored. In my time as a journalist I can’t say I’ve ever written the same story twice, or met two people who are the same. Every day is different. And fashion is always changing. There’s always something to excite and surprise. And I’m always learning something new every day. That’s what I truly love about what I do.

 

What do you find challenging?

I find the biggest challenge always lies in finding the next story. And by that, I mean a story that has something special or unique about it. It’s easy to find an average story but to meet someone that has something different or fascinating to share is quite rare. I’m always on the search for that unusual, distinctive or exceptional factor in someone’s story that I can share with my readers.

 

What do you do in your time off?

I enjoy nothing more than waking up on a lazy Sunday morning knowing that I can indulge in a delicious breakfast and mull over the Sunday papers. Because journalism is so fast-paced these days, particularly with publishing online and always meeting a deadline of some kind, I relish in taking a slower pace.

I also have a permanent stash of magazines sitting under my bed and quite enjoy some quality magazine reading time. Watching movies is also one of my favourite past times.

 

What’s the highlight of your career so far?

I’ve been fortunate enough to have experienced many highlights throughout my career so far.

Certainly, being invited to cover L’Oreal Melbourne Fashion Festival and Melbourne Spring Fashion Week as a media representative has been a privilege and an experience I’ve been most grateful for. It’s given me a different perspective of the industry attending as someone who is not there to simply enjoy the show, but as someone who has to walk away with a story to share with readers who are so incredibly passionate about fashion.

Another highlight was interviewing Yeojin Bae for a profile article because, in my eyes, I feel she is a designer with outstanding talent. Since she released her first collection, I’ve always found myself relating to her design style – I really like her sophisticated touch. Yeojin shared her story with me and it was humbling to discover how she made a start in the industry and worked her way up to international success.

I’ve also had the chance to collaborate and work with some young, emerging fashion designers including Tash Witzleb (Miss T) and Eva Q Huynh (Eva Q Design). It’s been refreshing to watch these labels grow since their beginning and to see the tenacity and creativity of these young designers. I’m sure the future of the fashion industry will be bright if they are anything to go by.

 

Onya Mag

At Melbourne Spring Fashion Week with the Onya Magazine team

 

Do you have any advice for someone starting out in fashion?

Get involved in the industry as early as you can. Make a start while you’re still studying and begin accumulating experience. This will allow you to network with the right people in the field who you may later work with. Building a pool of valuable contacts in the industry will also be invaluable.

 

Finish this sentence: Fashion is…

… a way of life.

 

Holiday

Summer holidays – how and what to pack

As you might know I am going overseas in a couple of weeks. First to Croatia, then France, then the US. Yes it sounds so exciting but there’s one thing between me and my fabulous holiday – PACKING. Ergh.

I enlisted the help of Roopa Remmaraju to help me decide what to take. Roopa is a designer who specialises in resortwear with a luxurious, decadent feel.  She understands the need to pack light while looking stylish (let’s avoid the ‘tourist’ look please). The only thing better than the advice would have been her actually packing my suitcase but I guess I have to endure somewhat.

 

Roopa, what are the 10 things you would pack for a summer holiday in Europe?

A road map, a near-empty suitcase to fill with souvenirs, a compass, 2 pairs of shoes, a couple of bright, printed scarves, sunglasses, bangles for easy accessorising, a roomy tote bag for the plane, and a camera to capture it all.

 

Holiday

 

What is your packing style? Fold, roll, bundle, tissue paper or packing cells?

A combination of folding and rolling.

 

How many shoes do I really need for a month away?

Just two pairs: gladiator sandals for sightseeing during the day, and a more glamorous pair of heels for night.

 

What’s the secret to accessorising for a holiday?

Oversized scarves are excellent for adding a dash of colour (and keeping you warm on the flight).

 

So there you have it – packing tips from a professional. I have a couple of weeks to make this work…. Wish me luck!

 

Vanja x

Sgt Sookie

Sgt Sookie

Sgt Sookie is an online store based in Melbourne. They sell new and vintage clothing and accessories from Australia and overseas.

They travel overseas on a regular basis hand picking gorgeous additions to the store. From Paris, Tokyo and New York, they work the market scene tirelessly just for you.

I found quite a few items I like, in dresses and accessories as well. I just wish the model would crack a smile, I feel like giving her a hug!


>>
For my readers only! Get 10% off EVERYTHING by entering FASHION2011 at the checkout.

 

Sgt Sookie information

 

Sgt Sookie

Sgt Sookie

Sgt Sookie

Sgt Sookie

Fashion Insider: Jacinta Lippold – Vintage buyer

Jacinta owns the coolest little virtual vintage shop called Jac in a Box. She presents everything so beautifully, with a lot of care and intent, that I had to bring you her story and her work.

Thanks Jac for a great interview! I’ll be popping by your store for a cape and a lovely dress.

Jacinta Lippold

 

Tell us a little about yourself

I work for myself as a graphic/web designer, and have just started Jac in a Box Vintage as my side business.

How did you get your start in fashion?

I have always been an obsessive op shopper, and have a love for things of yesteryear, but my house was beginning to look like that of a crazy cat lady’s. Not wanting to give up the thrill of the chase, I began op shopping for others then gradually saw the opportunity for that to grow a little more, and now here we are.

Jac in a Box

Why did you choose fashion?

I love it. Plain and simple.

Is the fashion industry what you expected it to be?

To be perfectly honest, I didn’t have a lot of expectation going into things. But I have been pleasantly surprised with how helpful the other vintage sellers have been and also how appreciative and polite my customers are.

What does your job consist of?

At the moment, a lot of sourcing. So, dragging my boyfriend out to the country to scour op shops is high on the priority list.

As well as ear bashing anyone who will listen to me talk about my new business!

Describe a typical week

Most of my weekdays are spent on the graphic/web design side of things.  So I find my weekends filled with sourcing new items, shooting them and getting them online for people to see.

Jac in a Box

Roughly how many hours do you work per week?

As I’ve just started this little venture, I’m spending quite a bit of time on it. Although I hope to narrow it down to 2-3 days per week, if possible.

What are the key skills you need for your role?

You need to really enjoy it. If sifting through piles of clothing to find just one nice dress doesn’t excite you, then this probably isn’t for you.

What do you enjoy most about your role?

When someone really loves an item they’ve purchased.

Jac in a Box

What do you find challenging?

Letting go of the items! It’s truly devastating sometimes, but you can’t keep everything.

What do you do in your time off?

Well, my ‘time off’ used to be spent op shopping. So now I’m at a bit of a loss with what to do with myself!

What’s the highlight of your career so far?

Early days yet. We’ll see.

Do you have any advice for someone starting out in fashion?

Don’t put things on hold. If there’s something you want to do, find a way.

Finish this sencence: Fashion is…

…different for everyone.

Jac in a Box

Melbourne

Melbourne, the cloudy city

Part two of our mini holiday was going to Melbourne to see Geoff, an old friend from New Zealand. He was actually my neighbour back in the day and he’s one of those people who you know will be in your life forever.  I caught up with him for a day in November (my first visit to Melbourne) but the weather was extreme and all we could do was shop (that’s my story and I’m sticking to it).

Read more…

Harem boutique Melbourne

Melbourne – Harem Boutique

During my short trip to Melbourne I had found the cutest store – Harem Boutique on Brunswick Street. The store assistant had kindly allowed me to take some photos of the interior, it’s just too gorgeous to keep it a secret.

Read more…

Digital Marketing and Media Summit 2009, Melbourne

I have just returned from attending the Digital Marketing and Media Summit in Melbourne. I went there to hear from industry leaders, companies and agencies who are the the forefront of the digital revolution. So I thought…

Read more…

Content Protected Using Blog Protector By: PcDrome.