Saturday, July 31, 2010

Look what i did


After being inspired by Violet Le Beaux this simple packet of sparkles turned my USB drive from dull to dazzling! My USB is now covered with Smiggle ghosts on one side and LOTS of sparkles on the other. There is no way you could ever mistake my USB for anyone elses, plus it was super easy to do.

1) pick stickers
2) ensure drive is clean and dry
3) put stickers on
4) let dry/set for 30 mins
5) done, plug in and get online

Friday, July 30, 2010

My One and Only


On another afternoon filled with tea and cake I managed to watch My One and Only starring Renee Zellweger. Its a great little story and so easy to get lost in the fashion. Oh the fashion! Every outfit is stunning and yes I did have a bit of wardrobe envy.

So whats the story....
The beautiful but mercurial Ann Devereaux (Renée Zellweger) has just left her philandering husband Dan Devereaux (Kevin Bacon), a society bandleader, and taken to the road with her teenage sons, George (Logan Lerman) and Robbie (Mark Rendall), in search of a wealthy replacement mate. Although it's 1953, Ann is certain that her girlish charms will serve her as well as they did two decades earlier. But time has marched on since Ann's courting days, and it seems that the losers and playboys outnumber the eligible and willing bachelors. Ann never gives up hope, but a series of new schools for the boys, ever more humble lodgings and romantic misadventures start to take the gloss off their trip. Yet Ann is indefatigable, her pride matched by the flighty enthusiasm of her older son Robbie, a flamboyant boy who believes he is meant for a life on the stage, and the cynical wit of George, an observant aspiring writer. As the miles roll by, their journey veers from eccentric, to hair rising, to poignant, to comic. From her impulsive choices to the downright bizarre characters they meet on the road, Ann steers her sons on a narrow highway between excitement and panic. But ultimately, George discovers the determination, dignity and love underneath his mothers narcissistic exterior. And Ann makes a different future for herself and her sons than any of them had imagined.

Thursday, July 29, 2010

oh the choices!

Ok so it that time of the year again, winter is ending and I really fancy a new hair color. I'm thinking a bold red, but not sure. So I am looking at one of my favorite friends from QLD Miss Mishka to figure out what to do.

I adore Miss Mishka's style, she is so bold and sassy yet has this amazing little girl quality about her. The photo below is the sort of color I'm thinking of, although today's dye job effort (regarless what the box said) didn't really change my color much. So I think the next step is even bolder color.

Fingers crossed it works out well, as soon as the color works I'll post photos.

Wednesday, July 28, 2010

Slip into Peter Alexander

Oh this is super cute I just want to rush out and get this one.

You can find the Split detail slinky nightie from Peter Alexander in their stores and online. Made from 92% Polyester 8% Elastane. This very pretty nightie features lace trim panels at bust, subtle slits at the hem and adjustable straps.

Tuesday, July 27, 2010

My new treasures

The other day I headed off to the craft fair and have a look what I came home with. Firstly this badge simple saying Fabric Addict. So cute I just had to get it.


Ok so keys are my weakness, but these are going to become a necklace as well as being framed for my wall art. Now I just need to buy frames.

Sparkles, who can go past sparkles. I do have a plan for these...they are going to sparkle up my Ghost USB drive.


And these stunning woodern cutouts of lingerie/corsets and dressmakers busts. These will also become art for my walls. I was so surprised to see cutouts like this but I'm so happy I did! Art work here I come!

Monday, July 26, 2010

Recon for next weekend

Yep, time to jump on the train and head into the city.

The Mission : to search out some cool vintage and alternative fashion stores before next August 7th's get together of vintage and alternative shoppers.

So armed with a multitude of layers for the cold and a very big hot chocolate it was off to the city to pick up AK. Of course we just had to check out our usual haunts like Retrostar, Shag, Route 66 and a couple of others in the city CBD. Then a much needed break out at our cool little hang out Groove Train to see Ms Midnight. Plus as a special geek bonus I got to meet the members of the Fighting 501st Star Wars group. Ok so not vintage but as I am trying to make/find a Mara Jade costume for the next Star Wars event (yes light saber is on order) it was so cool to meet a member and be able to chat with them. If you have ever watched the doco "Heart of the Force" you will understand why I think these guys are so amazing.


How cool is this hot chocolate Ms Midnight made for me, and yes it was super yummy! Then after a much needed break it was off to South Melbourne for inspection of the op shops and South Melbourne market. And of course DIM SUM!!!!

The results was..... ok so we found some good things which means there are more options for the August get together. Plus LOTS of planning on where the group will meet and most importanly travel and shop! So all in order a rather good planning day.

Tiki & AK
AK looking very serious as we ponder where to go next



A big thank you to Ms Midnight for her much needed treats, to Brad and Amy for all their Mara Jade info, and for AK to be open to walking around various alley ways and indulging my weakness at the GPO.

See you all soon at the get together!

Sunday, July 25, 2010

WOW

While at the Quilt and Craft Expo I came across a selection of costumes created for the Textile Art Festival in Brisbane in June. The theme was Alice in Wonderland, and wow the designers did an amazing job.

This stunning piece was created by Cathy Sotirou titled The Echoes of Fear. I can so see the Queen of hearts wearing this dress.

Personally I would love to wear this dress out to any number of events. I believe this one was created by Kirry Elziabeth Toose and called Alice's Coat. Its so simple yet so bold.

Saturday, July 24, 2010

Craft Fair

On yet another chilly afternoon I decided to indulge my crafty side by going to the Craft and Quilt Expo at the Convention Centre. So once all dressed in my vintage green dress I headed into the city to see what treasures I could find.....

And boy what treasures did I find. Apart from workshops and master classes there were so many stalls and the Quilt expo. Which did make it very hard to figure out what to look at first!

After walking around the quilt expo (pictures to come) I headed for the work shop and stalls. So many pretty things just waiting to be made and taken home it was very hard for me not to buy one of everything. So I thought hard about what I was after and went thru the fantastic tutorials from Violet Le Beaux to think about what groovy bits of art I could make once home.

I managed to figure out my main aims such as keys, ribbons and sparkles. Then the hunt began and oh boy did I find some treats. Chances are if your looking for something for that latest craft project go into the Craft & Quilt Fair this weekend and start hunting.


See I wasn't the only one who just couldn't stay away!

Friday, July 23, 2010

Alannah Hill

As the weather warms and we head towards spring one designer springs to mind. Alannah Hill is an Australian fashion designer who is mostly known for her 'girly chic' fashion which makes you feel that amazing combination of girly and womanly all at once.

With stores all around Australia and online you really do feel like you step into her world when you enter. Be warned you will enter with stars in your eyes and leave with a lighter wallet.


Thursday, July 22, 2010

Dolly Q

Still inspired by my recent Goth trips around the city I thought I'd show you an amazing Australian design house called Dolly Q. I adore Dolly Q for there stunning designs that take inspiration from historical fashion, fairy tales and film. An very clearly promotes Danielle's desire for wearable glamor. For someone like myself who walks a very thin line between vintage, retro, rockabilly and goth Dolly Q creates looks for all elements.

Command your ship with this admiral inspired glamour little number, a Classic hour glass silhouette, shown in lush gold and cream satin with matching brocade side front panel. Caera is finished off with military chic in matching lace, braiding and bossy double chain detail, Caera debuted at Circa Nocturna 2009 and can also be seen in FIEND magazines ‘something old something nuclear’ fashion spread

Fabric: delustered satin, matching brocade, satin braiding, covered buttons and chains.

Ohara is as sweet as cherry pie, adorable sweet heart halter neck over bust corset with top and side hem ruffle, all topped off with super cute cherry buttons. The hemline cut of this style arches higher than our normal over bust corsets, making it pin-up perfect to wear with any sassy skirt.

So matter if your looking for steam punk or steamy pinup you will find brilliant designs at Dolly Q.

Model, Hair & MUA: Kate Watts Photographer: Steven Isaac


Wednesday, July 21, 2010

GreazeFest


Its that time of year again..... GreazeFest! Sadly though this year I can only day dream about being in the Queensland sun while drooling over one of the best kustom kulture event in the Southern Hemisphere. If your not sure what I'm talking about its a weekend of cool cars and great rockabilly tunes


Tuesday, July 20, 2010

Goodbye Guests

Having guests all went well. Thankfully they were ok living in my half finished house. So I thought I’d offer a glimpse into what you can do when people arrive in Melbourne.
BamBam & Kitty
As we only had 3 days and as one guest had never been to Melbourne it was a case of how much can we fit in and show a locals guide to Melbourne. We did do the normal Flinders street station, tram spotting, Federation square and I guess what you would say the normal visitor places.

Then it was off to Degraves street for food at The Quarter and a stop at little cupcakes, a bit of shopping in all the cool alley way stores and of course more cupcakes at the Cupcake Bakery.

A quick trip up Mckillop Street to find the haunted bookshop and Wildlocks for some alternative reading and clothing. Not to mention a stop at Antons.

Then a tram ride to St Kilda for Mexican food at Blue Corn. Of course more shopping and more food.

Nights were spent showing off Burlesque Bar, Order of Melbourne and Curtain House with my favourite Rooftop bar. Lets just say it was a busy few days!

Monday, July 19, 2010

Antons Melbourne

Even in a shopping centre you can find very different fashion if you know where to look. This weekend I ended up with Kitty and BamBam at Anton’s. This is an amazing store, a little on the pricey side but well worth the money! Especially as they offer unlimited lay-by and can even custom fit your clothing for you.

Think funky retro gangster. I adore this store as the cuts and styles are not the norm and they will ensure you stand out in the crowd.

So jump on the train and have a look next time your in the city.


Antons Melbourne
Shop 224, Level 2 Lonsdale St Building
Melbourne Central
Phone: 03 9663 8610
Opening Hours: normal Melbourne Central hours




Sunday, July 18, 2010

Art

As the paint starts to dry my mind is wandering to daydreams of decorating the walls. However how do I fill my home with art that not only complements my house, my style and most of all, my budget
Thankfully I have a few pieces of Keith Wessner art which, will take pride of place in my home.

I’ve also brought with me some very groovy tin plate art such as Soda and Cocktail lounge adds.

My new addition I’ve named Birdwatching.

Its a really simple canvas piece I picked up for $15. I adore this artwork and I’m thinking its great for my bedroom as its clean, simple and the small amount of color allows me to mix and match my bedroom style to any mood. Now to figure out where to hang them.



Saturday, July 17, 2010

Tickets Please - Quadrophenia


Time to catch up on another one of my fav movies that it a) a great story & b) set in another era. Now this one is not for everyone one, but if your like me and have a little bit of Mod in you then this is a must. I thank ModMan for introducing this to me many years ago, and since have fallen for the movie, music and fashion. Plus it doesn't hurt that I love seeing so many famous faces as they were.

Sure, according to ModMan it's not exact but hey what can you expect when the Who wrote the movie. If you don't know who I'm talking about I'm refering to The Who, English rockband formed in 1964 by Roger Daltrey (vocals), Pete Townshend (guitar), John Entwistle (bass) and Keith Moon (drums).

The Story - London, 1965 and set against the soundtrack of The Who's 1973 mighty concept album "Quadrophenia". Jimmy, working-class drug-induced Mod hates the philistine life, especially his parents and his job in a company's mailing division. By night, he comes alive, with the all-nighters, his pills and his scooter-riding friends. Then there's the August Bank Holiday in Brighton. All looks like it will be great, with a chance to see his Vespa-riding hero Ace, do battle with the Rockers, and maybe get lucky with Steph. Sadly, after the weekend, reality and disppointments crowd in all the more.Brighton scooter run, where both Mods and Rockers converge, ending in the battle of the cults on Brighton Beach. What goes up must come down, and with Jimmy's come-down, his life is turned around, and so begins his downward spiral into paranoia and isolation, and the four-faceted mindset: Quadrophenia.

As the fashion was of high importance at the time it is great to see the Mod Style in all aspects. Guys, girls and the transition from youth to legend.

Friday, July 16, 2010

Dollhouse Bettie


Again Dollhouse Bettie have caught my eye with this super cute Gingham bustier.

Molded and lightly lined underwire bustier provides great support while the trim lines and boned princess seams create a sleek shiloutte. Plus its super CUTE!!

Thursday, July 15, 2010

who's coming to stay?

Normally I adore having guests. The excitement of seeing old friends, catching up over tea and cake....however as I am in the process of rebuilding/decorating my house there is no room that's safe. So how do you create a place where you and your guests feel comfortable? This is my challenge for the week.

Creating space for guests in your home involves more than providing a comfortable place to sleep; it's an opportunity to make people feel welcome and ensure that their time spent with you is memorable.

Step 1. Be Honest
Ok so you've been living in a building site, so be honest and tell your guests before they arrive. Make sure that they don't allergies to dust or paint, and be honest with what your doing. For instance I'm pulling up carpets, painting and plastering so I've warned guests what to expect, so far so good.

Step 2. Choose the Right Room
I'd love to say here I have a perfect room already for my guests. In my mind maybe, as its the room that is almost finished and has a bed in it. And often this is the best you can hope for. Again be honest at what stage your renovations are at, this way your guests will know what ever you offer is the best you have at the time, it also will get them excited to come back and visit when finished to see all your hard work.

Step 3. Decorate Sparingly
In a strange room, comfort and space are more soothing than a clutter of unfamiliar things. And lets face it move out the paint tins, tools or other work gear where possible.

Step 4. Outfit the Bed
Make up a double bed with four ample sleeping pillows -- two medium or firm, and two soft -- as well as two smaller pillows to prop up the head when reading. Provide both light and heavy blankets, as well as a lightweight throw for afternoon naps.

Step 5. Closets and Drawers
Make sure there is adequate closet and drawer space. And don't be offended if they don't unpack, thats just some people.

Step 6. Bathroom Essentials
If the bathroom is shared, clear space in it for guests' toiletries. Stock it with new toothbrushes and toothpaste and a supply of clean cotton towels for each guest. Supply a few luxuries that one might not find at home: a beautiful soap, an unusual cream, a special shampoo, or a small bottle of perfume or cologne. If your guest has allergies, provide a hypoallergenic soap and moisturizer.

Step 7. HAVE FUN!

Chances are you won't be home much so go and enjoy your town and time together.

 
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