Sambag Chatswood has arrived! Even though Sambag has a fabulous on-line store, there are some of us who simply like to try before we buy, and fair enough too.
The only problem with this theory is that everything here looks so wonderful when you can touch and feel it, I'm sure most of us find it harder to walk away from those pretty ballet flats and cosy winter knits in person than we do holding back from the 'add to cart button'.
Sambag Chatswood Chase is located at Level 1, Shop 31, 345 Victoria Avenue, Chatswood.
www.sambag.com.au
On the box at Sportsgirl Once again Sportsgirl has teamed up with one of the country's most exciting new fashion labels as TV have joined the legendary brand as part of its on-going Australian designer program.
The capsule collection draws upon all things ethereal, intrinsically linking nature to the female form. The free spirited 10 piece collection stars pieces such as the Coogi Knit Boy Pullover, Perforated Leather Jacket, Printed Bird Dress and Bow Pencil Skirt.
In store now! Prices range from $90.00 - $400.00.
www.sportsgirl.com.au
Cool cocoon It's not easy being a fashionable Mum. Sure, it's easy to put your baby in an adorable outfit, but it's very easy to forget the rest, leaving yourself, the blankets, the pram and your baby bag out of the fashion picture.
Crafted from 100% New Zealand Merino Wool, the Mokopuna Cocoono is the perfect solution when out and about with baby. Not only does it work hard, with the natural merino fibre breathing and insulating to keeping your baby's temperature constant, it looks good too.
Mokopuna Merino Wool Cocoono - RRP $169.95
www.metromum.com.au
Skinny Nelson and Friends There are certainly one or two Australian designers putting together organic basic ranges at the moment but who's to knock another? They're doing the right thing for the environment and everyone knows you can't beat a white tee and jeans.
Skinny Nelson and Friends is a collection of 35 100% organic garments, each piece is available in white, light charcoal, dark charcoal, black and tomato.
Missy couldn't go past the all in one (pictured) which they're calling the Skinny BIBT and retails for $130.00.
www.skinnynelson.com
Good Skin
Not sure where to get started when it comes to the mysterious world of creams, serums, gels and exfoliants? With so many options out there it's easy to become a little confused.
Joy of joys, Face Boutique has come to our rescue with the Good Skin Kit, which contains everything you need to get gorgeous, glowing skin including a foaming facial wash, moisturising gel and blemish gel, as well as the Good Skin Guide, which explains how to use it all. Amen!
RRP $66.95.
www.kitcosmetics.com
Winter wonderland Now is certainly the time of year when we all need to re-organise our wardrobes and think about what we need to complete a nicely rounded and well thought out winter wardrobe.
Witchery is a go-to destination for well priced, quality pieces you can easily slot into your wardrobe and make work hard throughout the season. Snap up an outfit such as this (see picture) with skirts starting at $109.95 and jackets from $119.95.
Too cold to go out? Shop on-line
www.witchery.com.au
GPO loves S&B Melbourne's GPO has welcomed with open arms it's newest tenant, Sass & Bide, which opened last month. One thing better than shopping is shopping in a beautiful environment.
In store now is the eclectic and beautifully sexy Autumn Winter '09 collection. Inspired by the obscure and the beautiful, Sass and Bide is a label with an inimitable style and is perfect for women who appreciate a quirky yet ultimately sexy aesthetic.
Now is also a good time to remember who does denim best!
www.sassandbide.com
Organic bath and body For all those stressed out fashionistas recovering from Rosemount Australian Fashion Week, now is the time to reach for the new Natio Spa with Organics bath and body range.
Enriched with certified organic plant extracts and essential oils to revive and rebalance, this range promises to nurture wholeheartedly and help you to relax, relax, relax.
Free of pesticides and herbicide residue, there are eight products in the range from body cleansers to face masks with prices starting from a mere $10.95.
www.natio.com.au
Bahamonde Let's face it, fashion is all about accessibility these days, and Bahamonde is the latest label to open a flagship boutique with on-line store in the pipeline to follow.
The recently opened store stocks the Bahamonde women's wear and accessories collections as well as edited selections from other labels such as Thurley knitwear and Elke jewellery.
Based on the principles of eclectic design and affordable luxury, all Bahamonde collections are made from natural fibers such as silk, cotton, bamboo and linen and hand-screen printed fabrics.
119 Ormond Road, Elwood Village VIC.
www.bahamonde.com.au
Bojoux Baby! Jewellery is a sure fire way to jazz up any outfit. Charming, quirky, and impossibly chic - the Paul and Joe Bijoux Autumn Winter '09 jewellery collection is an assortment of unique necklaces, rings and bracelets featuring a menagerie of animals interpreted with the creative fingerprint of Paul & Joe.
Not landing in Australia until July, 'Jewels Imagination' is limited-edition and highly covetable. Having attracted wait-list attention in Paris already, you'll need to be swift to secure your piece of this beautiful collection.
Stockist enquiries (03) 9421 2688 ext 203.
www.paulandjoe.com
Earth undies Eco-friendly certainly is a buzz topic and has been for some time. Usually to buy organic, you have to justify the additional cost by reliving your guilt about damaging the environment - not this time!
Just arrived at online store E-Lilianne is an eco-friendly and affordable collection called Chamomile. The underwear is made from organic cotton fibers and is grown without the use of chemical pesticides and synthetic fertilizers.
With no compromise on femininity you can pick up a set for as little as around $40.00.
Shop on-line at www.e-lilianne.com.au
Knit one, pearl one Just in time for the onset of winter, Melbourne knitwear label, Cable, has opened a pop-up shop on Armadale's Beatty Avenue.
One of few labels to be entirely Australian made, Cable uses Australian Merino wools and imported Italian bamboo, silk, and cotton yarns to create their collections.
The boutique will stock the Cable Autumn Winter '09 Collection including trench coats, jackets, vests and the
must-have Classic long wrap cardi. Keep your eye out for knitted dresses, skirts, and the new range of Cable Basics.
25 Beatty Avenue, Armadale, VIC.
www.cablemelbourne.com
Hello Heidi A tribute to all things feminine and floral, Heidi Klum's jewellery collection has been on the radar for some time internationally and is now available on Australian shores.
The collection includes intricate drop earrings, slinky pendants, dainty bracelets, chunky cuffs, statement cocktail rings and cute button studs.
The clover, a symbol of good luck, is a theme throughout the collections and Missy loves the way they envelope the wrist in the form of the gold hammered cuff (pictured).
Heidi Klum gold hammered cuff $465.
www.patrickdavid.com.au
Hussy heads north Australian fashion label Hussy has opened the doors to its first Queensland flagship store in Surfers Paradise.
Hussy designer Marie Hatzis says; "Our collections have always been very trans-seasonal and geared towards balmy summer days and hot summer nights on the town". Perfect for the Gold Coast, wouldn't you say?
Drop into the store on May 6th from 6pm for your chance to meet Hatzis whilst sipping some bubbly and picking up a new item or two for your trans-seasonal wardrobe.
Shop T11 Circle on Cavill, Ferny Avenue, Surfers Paradise.
www.hussy.com.au
Runway ready Don't you just hate models? Perhaps we can't all have a body like Giselle, but we can have dewy, runway ready skin!
Model Co has teamed up with Gary Bigeni to sponsor his Spring Summer 09/10 show at Rosemount Australian Fashion Week. Make up director Natasha Severino will be creating luminous, radiant skin for the runway, and to do it, she'll be using Fluid Splash. A three-in-one foundation, which delivers a flawless yet natural looking, finish.
Now - no excuses! Get runway ready.
RRP $62.00
www.modelco.com.au
Parallel Worlds Missy is most excited to note Su-Wen Leong's Parallel Worlds Trouser from the label's Melbourne Fashion Week Penthouse Mouse show are in store now.
Sitting high on the waist with a cocoon like shape through to tapered ankles, these tailored pants are the new shape for winter and will lift any tired wardrobe for just $295.00 a pair. They come in three colours - black, steel blue and cinnamon (pictured).
Available online at www.suwenleong.com or exclusively at Bracewell stores nationally.
A lesson in layering Boho is certainly not dead and what better time of year to layer up in an eccentric, colourful, lightweight jacket than in autumn?
Missy has come across a perfect specimen in the POL 'Jade' cotton jacket in green. Its Ikat pattern, bracelet length sleeves and single button closure make it the perfect item to throw over jeans and a white tee, adding an exotic edge to any outfit. Layer up with bangles and a patterned, tonal scarf to play up the bohemian vibe.
RRP $229, for stockists, phone 0403 869 178 or visit www.poldesign.com.au
Nixon Player Recent times have seen many an offering of the block coloured 80's style plastic watch, however Californian brand Nixon are now offering a true collections item.
A re-make of the iconic Player style, Nixon are releasing a series of four limited release 'Rubber Players', available in four colorways, for four consecutive months.
With the second release due on April 30, only four watches in each colour will be distributed to each retailer worldwide. This means there will only be 16 of each colour sold in Australia!
Available online from SurfStitch.com for $299.00.
Eco Elk Missy's summer wardrobe is already long forgotten as winter warmth, muted tones and an updated wardrobe for the cooler months has become a top priority.
Perfect for wintery weather and a great size for weekend outings (brunch followed by a lazy shop at your favourite book store or farmers market = roomy bag required), the Bredang Tote is made from pure, hand felted wool, cotton and leather and is also eco-friendly!
Hand made by a collective group of women in India this tote can be yours for just $155.00.
www.elkaccessories.com.au
Roy New in store (and on Chapel Street in particular) this month is Roy's latest collection, which is equal parts grunge-chic and winter warmth. Oh, how Missy loves the multitude of options for layering in winter.
The collection is designed to be worn dishevelled, slightly wreaking of beer and smoke but still perfectly formed. Prices start at $150 for the check button shirt (pictured).
Look out for the new store off Chapel Street (behind Scanlan & Theodore) which opens at the end of May.
www.royclothing.com
Love me (and leave me?) Designed as a second wardrobe for fashionistas who have to have the latest object of their desire, but don't want to commit to a full on purchase, Love Me & Leave Me offers high-end clothing pieces and accessories for hire from iconic designers such as Oscar De La Renta, Lanvin, Stella McCartney and Prada.
Now, if you'd rather buy than borrow, Love Me & Leave Me are about to launch their highly anticipated e-boutique including a range of vintage Chanel jewellery and hard to find Kenneth Jay Lane pieces.
www.lovemeandleaveme.com
Rodeo Show Wondering what to wear to that mother's day high tea you've organised for your favourite lady in the world? Look no further than Rodeo Show's 'Lovers Lane' dress.
Demure, fashionable and somehow sexy, all rolled into one tidy little frock, this is sure to be a wardrobe staple which can easily be called to service for weddings, christenings and afternoon teas that require something a little less racy than your standard Saturday night garb.
RRP $252.00
Shop on-line at www.ciaomeow.com.au
Dermalogical Uneven skin tone has been determined to add 10 - 12 years to a woman's perceived age - eeek!
Dermalogica founder Jane Wurwand says "Skin tone and luminosity have generally been overlooked as indicators of skin health, when in fact these are very significant measurements of skin condition".
Time to reach for Dermalogica's new Chroma White TRx product range. Designed to target current pigmentation while protecting the skin against further damage, these products aim to produce a more consistent, brighter skin tone. Yes please!
Available Nationally from April 2009.
www.dermalogica.com.au
A star (or two) is born Having recently won the prestigious New Designer Award 2009 presented by Woolmark at the L'Oreal Melbourne Fashion Festival, Anna Plunkett and Luke Sales of Romance Was Born's star is certainly on the rise.
For your chance to get your hands on one of their playful designs (before they rocket into the stratosphere), head to Sportsgirl and take your pick from the 12 piece capsule collection they have designed for the store titled "Clownin' Around".
Prices start at $90.00.
www.sportsgirl.com.au
Storage Solved! Fiona Kate designed her bright and durable storage solutions to solve her own need for strong and flexible storage.
The result? Beyond great storage for clothes, toys and books - Fiona Kate boxes are strong enough to play on - or sit on!
Designed & made in Australia, get yours in watermelon pink, classic white & sky blue.
ps - from April 1, save 30% off Fiona Kate simple gorgeous storage boxes at Kids Central.
www.fionakate.com.au
Strand Society Sydney based fashionistas take note! Much loved fashion destination The Strand Arcade will be hosting a series of intimate events starting this April.
The sophisticated Thursday night soirees will be an opportunity for style savvy Strand Society members to have a first glimpse of the latest collections, receive insider news on upcoming trends, rub shoulders with the designers and benefit from personal styling sessions.
First up is Akira who will be launching his European Printemps Ete collection and bridal range in collaboration with Dinosaur Designs' exquisite Antarctic & Bird Ranges.
Visit www.strandarcade.com.au to join the Strand Society and register your interest.
Eco-chic Cute as a button and eco-friendly to boot, this is one handbag purchase you won't need to feel guilty about.
Teresa Cowley's 'Aisha' handbag is made with love from cotton velveteen cloth, lined with recycled fabric and uses handles manufactured from sustainable forest plantation wood.
Also featuring a gorgeous dusty pink or blue velvet floral removable brooch, this bag is perfect for those Carrie Bradshaw moments, Autumnal days strolling your local gallery or picnicking in the park.
RRP $59.00. Shop online at www.teresacowley.com.au.
La-la la-la la-lashes! Missy has always been a fan of voluminous lashes. What more could a girl want than brush on lash extensions easy enough to use every day?
Model Co.'s new Fibrelash Brush On Lashes are the ultimate in lash technology - the revolutionary 3-phase system extends and builds your lashes, acting like instant lash extensions. All that is required to finish the face with these babies is clean fresh skin and a slick of lip-gloss. Voila!
Retailing for $48.00 your new best friend will be available from March 21 at David Jones and selected stores nationally.
www.modelco.com.au
Designer delicacy Earrings are an often forgotten accessory that work so well at highlighting a beautiful face or peachy decolletage. Perhaps not as popular as the chunky cuff or pendant necklaces we've all seen doing the rounds of late, but certainly an accessory that will draw admiring glances from those looking a little more closely than some.
Missy loves these green Semi-Precious Stone Heart Earrings (pictured) from Lisa Marinucci's new diffusion line, White Label by Lisa Marinucci.
Even more exciting is the news that these antique-look heart charms are just $98.00.
www.lisamarinucci.com.au
Credit crunch? One for the keen bargain shopper, Siana has launched its winter collection of textured knits, feminine blouses and structured cardigans and vests.
The Petal Yoke Top (pictured) has just landed in store and is a meager $39.99. Perfect for the office, especially on that day when you're popping out for a quick romantic lunch with the man in your life. Elegant and chic with a small sleeve and pretty ribbon perfect for all-important waist cinching.
www.Sianaclothing.com.au
Retro revolution Missy was ever so pleased to hear that much loved sunglass brand Retrosuperfuture, or 'Supers' if you're in the know, have released a new range of spectacles.
All eyes are on the new Super Ciccios - oversized 60's style wayfarers in the style of Michael Caine, with clear Zeiss lenses available in a variety of fresh colours.
Created by Daniel and Simon Beckerman, Supers chunky minimal eyewear is adored by the likes of Kanye West, Sienna Miller, and Lindsey Rodriguez. Prices start from $229.95.
www.retrosuperfuture.com
Stick 'em up! Do you wish the man in your life would get a little more creative with accessorising?
It can't be that hard can it? Especially when ingenious jeweller Matt Weston is offering an expansive collection of androgynous looking pieces that have a one-off, raw, industrial aesthetic.
Grungy, hand crafted chains; rings, bracelets, brooches and hats make up his collections - fashionable, masculine and the perfect shared item. Buy something for your boy and trot out the house it in when he's not looking. The perfect gift some might say.
Shop on line at www.mattwestonjewellery.com
Boots ahoy Sydney fashion Darling Kym Ellery's "Ellery" fashion line is the latest to jump on board with on-line store Grand Social. You can view her latest collections, watch runway videos and indulge in online shopping, bliss!
Dresses, tops, denim, shorts, skirts, jackets and accessories are all available to buy, however Missy's pick of the month is the unique 'Barnacle Boot' with a fashionable nugget of gold on the heel, who could say no?
www.elleryland.com
Indy C's Right on trend this season, Adelaide based design duo, Indy C's, are turning out an impressive accessory collection inspired by bohemian gypsy style.
Offering not only jewellery but shoes, belts, scarves, tights, bags and hair accessories - all with a strong focus on rich colours, patterns and textures - you'll be hard pressed to choose from such an extensive collection.
The Winter 2009 collection is in store now call (08) 8377 5033 for your nearest stockist.
Bettina arrives at Chatswood Chase Good news for north shore princesses who crave a luxurious shopping experience. Denim darling, Bettina Liano, opened her tenth Australian boutique in Sydney's Chatswood Chase this month.
Known by many for her coveted denim line, Liano also produces an extensive fashion collection as well as sterling silver jewellery and accessories.
Level 1, Chatswood Chase Shopping Centre, 345 Victoria Avenue, Chatswood.
www.bettinaliano.com
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