MannequinMe

Hungry Jacques

2010-07-18T00:56:00.007+10:00

Lemongrass, spinach and rock lobster soup, fragrant Tiger prawn, sweet potato and tumeric ice cream. My favourite for the night.

Sandwich of spanner crab, mirin and fresh wasabi jelly, lacquered Petuna ocean trout, black bean and sweetcorn dressing.

Wild barramundi, almond and bush mountain pepper caramel, yoghurt and black garlic, kaffir lime and lemongrass espuma

Pekin duck and Hervey Bay scallops, peking juices, spiced marshmallow like a crepe, ginger sesame and pandan oil

Highland venison with warm carpaccio, horseradish mustard dressing, butternut pumpkin with honey and bitter chocolate beignet.... and black truffle

Western plains suckling pig and tamarind, celeriac and bitter almond, dashi apple veil, dancing bonito flakes and rosella chutney salad, cavalo nero

Do I look like Dali yet?

Pacific Rim martini of pineapple, passionfruit and banana, licorice ice cream and honeycomb

Millesfeuilles of chocolates: (from left to right) dark choc mousse, praline ice cream, white choc mousse, 'pure Caribbean chilli ice cream', honey and a cherry infused with cassis

Petits fours: raspberry macaroon, turkish delight, alcoholic choc mousses, cream-filled choux pastry

Bib from Blue Illusion, silver chain with letter pendant from Tiffany & Co.

"A Taste of our Degustation Menu" ($170.00 without wine, $265.00 with wine)at
JACQUES REYMOND
78 Williams Rd
Prahan 3181
(03) 9525 2178

"Mary er min!"

2010-06-15T20:35:00.004+10:00

I remember when this was splashed across every newspaper in Australia and Denmark. The perfect tale of a beautiful girl meeting a dashing prince and falling helplessly in love almost instantly.

I cry a little every time I watch this clip. If only I were half as poetic as Prince Fredrik is!
I love you Mary. Come let us see! Come let us go! Throughout a thousand worlds, weightless love awaits.

St Ali's

2010-06-14T15:06:00.004+10:00

Have you been to St Ali's for a kick-arse latte? My favourite breakfast option is the Mexican Cousin, and coming close behind it is The Hangover Cure. I mean, who doesn't love popping their poached egg on to a bed of salad, haloumi and corn fritters??

I know I've been MIA lately, but so much has happened! There are so many exciting things happening in the coming months, I can not tell you how excited I am! Everything from learning how to wash my car, French lessons, books and art to immerse myself in, a trip overseas to plan..just to name a few!

St Ali's
12-18 Yarra Pl
South Melbourne VIC 3205
(03) 9686 2990

Where magic sleeps.

2010-05-24T01:44:00.006+10:00

Where is your favourite magical location in Victoria?

Feels a bit like 'Postcards' at the moment. Haha!

Prepare to be seriously charmed.

LAVANDULA SWISS ITALIAN FARM
10 minutes north of Daylesford
PH: 5476 4393

DION LEE

2010-05-08T19:10:00.002+10:00

STAY TUNED. It's going off!

Why hello..!

2010-05-04T08:24:00.002+10:00

I was exhausted after dance last night. Then I saw you.

I desperately want you, black coat.

Autumn Sun

2010-05-01T18:57:00.006+10:00

I'm wearing a vintage dress, Sass & Bide slip, Portmans blazer, Herringbone belt, Enzo Angiolini python shoes, Palas necklace, Mouche earrings, Tiffany & Co. bracelet, Rolex watch, Prada handbag, Chanel nail varnish no.18 Rouge Noir.

Jewel-encrusted armour.

2010-04-30T00:20:00.006+10:00

Need to show you my serious sugar-frosted knuckles! They look like extravagant crustaceans or pieces of armour. Which?? I don't know!! But aren't they pretty??

Good night!

Garance

2010-04-28T18:54:00.003+10:00

...meet and greet her at Westfield Doncaster tomorrow at around 1.30PM!

The European

2010-04-27T18:33:00.013+10:00

Last night I took my family to The European for some late afternoon tea.

Sure, the evening dinner menu can be unecessarily fancy, and the breakfast appalling to mediocre, but you can almost always trust the croque monsieur and the coffee to be splendid. I think Siglo/Melbourne Supper Club/The European are all owned by the same people as the sandwich is always perfect whether you're sitting on a leather couch, up on the roof or down in the cosy cafe.

Wearing Sass long sleeved top (adjusted to be cropped), high-waisted Zara pants, Witchery scalloped flats, NastyGal leather jacket, vintage fur collar, Prada handbag. Close-ups after the jump.

I think my roasted vegies are ready! It's been terribly cold! Hope you're all tucking into some good food tonight.

THE EUROPEAN
161 Spring Street
Melbourne VIC
+61 3 9654 0811

Light and Love

2010-04-26T11:10:00.011+10:00

This Palas necklace, my Herringbone cashmere jumper and I have been inseparable lately! They were purchased from Bauhaus on Rundle St in Adelaide, and a pop-up sale store on Bridge Rd, respectively.

I've been told the engraved French phrase on my necklace could be grammatically incorrect. Can you help? Lee, can you help?

Regardless, it's a beautiful reminder to always strive to be a positive influence on everything around you. You'll find me still wearing it!

Witchery

2010-04-24T10:40:00.003+10:00

Went looking to buy this luxurious coat last night:

And they have sold out in size 6 across the state. Tear!

Café Vue at 401

2010-04-22T11:05:00.003+10:00

Go to Café Vue, 401 St Kilda Rd (near the corner of Toorak Road), for some tea/coffee and macarons:

Passionfruit (yellow) is a popular favourite. Here we have blueberry, coffee, and pistachio too. Other flavours include violet and raspberry. 6 heavenly morsels for $12. Crispy, yielding, airy, sweet, delightful.

It's a brilliant day for macarons. What are you waiting for?

CAFE VUE
401 St Kilda Road (near the corner of Toorak Road)
03 9866 8055
Monday to Friday 7am – 11pm
Saturday and Sunday 8am – 11pm

Seen in Milano

2010-04-21T23:46:00.006+10:00

StockholmStreetStyle

I completely adore everything about her: the large tribal necklaces, the layering of wool knits cinched in with a tan belt, the thigh-high socks made to look like thigh high boots and.... the hat. The hat wins. A copy, paste and credit job but I had to share.

Been looking for a real fedora or Akubra in olive or dark brown for the winter ahead... Don't you love the thrill of the search and the overwhelming joy when you get your paws on the prized item?

It's autumn here now, but tomorrow is a balmy 28 degrees celsius! Hooray for a last chance appearance for a summer dress! Which will it be??

Home

2010-04-19T22:31:00.003+10:00

Flying interstates for work and back home for a wedding over the weekend meant it was a busy one. On reflection...

No matter how luxurious the hotel you're staying at is, it can not compare with home...

I don't think I could ever afford a walk-in-wardrobe a la Bradshaw in SATC but what I would like is plenty of room and lights fitted into my wardrobe in the future. That's reasonable, don't you think?

We love Richmond Hill Cafe and Larder!

2010-04-14T23:54:00.006+10:00

I am a huge fan of Stephanie Alexander's The Cook's Companion, a terrific alphabetical guide to ingredients and cooking for clueless people like me. Each ingredient has information about its various types; how to store, select, prepare it; recipes and quick cooking ideas. It's interesting to read (I get bored very easily particularly when there are not many pictures), easy to understand, but not too simplistic. What's especially appealing about the books is Stephanie's passion for fine Australian produce.

Although she no longer owns Richmond Hill, the new owners (previously long-time staff members of hers) have endeavoured to maintain that philosophy. Richmond Hill invokes that warm, glowing feeling inside that I think good food should always invoke. Simple, earthy, warm, inviting, and quality.

RICHMOND HILL CAFE AND LARDER
48-50 Bridge Road,
Richmond
Phone: 03 9421 2808

MALAYSIA.... truly Asia.

2010-04-12T22:01:00.017+10:00

KUALA LUMPUR

There's really only two things that you need to do with your time in Kuala Lumpur: shop and eat. (Essentially the only two activities we ever think about, right?)
Shopping
- Petaling St or Chinatown is said to be too crowded with tourists and have little variation from stall to stall... but can you really complain when all they are heavily stocked with is 'luxury goods'? Hermes, Chanel, Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Marc Jacobs, Chloe, Jimmy Choo, Miu Miu, Rolex, Tag Heuer, Prada, Fendi, Tiffany & Co., Burberry, Dolce & Gabbana, Mont Blanc... often neatly wrapped in tissue paper, accompanied by a warranty card, in a box and shopping bag with appropriate logos. You name it, they'll sell it! Ray Ban wayfarers anyone? Strings of Swarovski crystal? Scattered amongst the stalls are delicious hawker food stalls too so you won't go hungry or thirsty while bargaining and purchasing!

- The shopping malls are generally all similar, having the same chain stores in each complex. My favourite were Sungei Wang Plaza and Pavilion. These two are very different, however: (1)The former is much older, darker and brimming with cheap, alternative, urban, young fashion, accessories, DVDs, electrical goods, everything. It's where the cool kids go. (2)Pavilion is my haven in KL. It's clean, beautiful, new and shiny. It can be quiet and peaceful in some areas but just as chaotic as the streets of KL in others! Get your fix of Zara, Topshop, Bebe, and Charles & Keith there!
Eating
- I had heard Pavilion's food court for dinner is a good idea before arriving in Malaysia, so we went to scope it out on the first night. Lo, behold! Our eyes clapped with the most magnificent, stupendous, wonderful-est food court we'd ever seen! You must try char keuh teow (pictured above), nasi lemak, mi goreng, Portuguese egg tarts, and green tea egg tarts... all fresh and warm straight from the frying pan or oven! (It is approximately AUD$3 a meal and the portions are not large as they are here. It is very easy to get carried away trying lots of different Malaysian dishes and, boy, do they like to pack in flavour!)
- Nearby, KL's biggest collection of roadside restaurants sprawl all along Jalan Alor. The biggest restaurant there makes this amazing Thai mango chicken dish that is out of this world. Also worth trying deep-fried Barramundi, mango kacang (mango + sago + syrup + coconut milk + shaved ice), and Asian green vegies of your choice (to meet some dietary fibre requirements and maintain good bowel movements too)!

It is a good idea to avoid going too close to Chinese New Year as many places are closed (it is the most highly anticipated, widely-celebrated public holiday on the calendar and festivities can go on for weeks). We arrived about 2-3 weeks after Chinese New Year and these decorations were still up! There were still impressive lion dances to be seen.... they danced atop metal posts about 2-3 metres high!

MELACCA

Melacca is a beautiful old town filled with heritage and rich in culture, a ~2h bus ride from KL. This is Christ Church with the tourist market in front and on the left is St Francis Xavier's Church. Both date back to the 16th century. I loved the rows and rows of narrow, historical, quaint townhouses most. There's a night market on weekends, lots of arts/crafts/handmade jewellery stores during the day, and Chicken Rice Balls (popular with the Chinese tourists) is a must try!

PENANG

- Really only worth visiting for the Tropical Spice Garden. A stunning large garden or a miniature jungle? I don't know! Either way, there is lots to learn and lots of exotic things see. I highly recommend the visit, with a guided tour and cooking class (all before 2pm)!
- Spend another 24 hours in Penang to explore old colonial buildings, hotels, shops, streets... and the movie set of Anna and the King (1999)! There is naan to be had, coconut pastries to be eaten and manicures to be done!

LANGKAWI

- Words and photos do it no justice. Need I say more? You must see for yourself!
- It is a resort island and although language barriers were a slight issue at our resort, I would highly recommend Berjaya's junior water chalets. A house on stilts! Over glittering waters! Why not??
- Dinner at a restaurant over water while being serenaded, and viewing a completely unadulterated sunset...why not?

- Buffet breakfast, swim-up bar in the swanky pool, water sports, private beaches.
- The resort was so large we needed a shuttle to get around! Free and almost instantly outside your chalet when you lift the phone of the receiver...
- We had a spa treatment as part of our special accomodation package: Mr PDiddy highly recommends the relaxing massage, while Tam would highly recommend the manicure/pedicure and the cocoa/coffee bean body scrub! Smells delicious and feels heavenly!

- A 2h bumpy speedboat ride (it felt very James Bond) from Langkawi to Koh Lipeh (Thailand) is a must try if you would like to snorkel and soak up some serious sun.

KOH LIPEH

- Can you smell the sun, sand and sea already?

- The Swedish tourists were all over it!

Beautifully cold

2010-04-03T13:24:00.003+11:00

As you can see I thought I would just quickly check out some archives from StockholmStreetStyle as I'd missed out on a lot while I was away.

I am sitting here with my laptop balanced on my knees, craning my neck, my nose close to the monitor, completely glued.

Isn't this girl sweet? Yet here she reminds me of the wicked White Witch of Narnia. I love that!

Frou frou

2010-04-03T13:07:00.002+11:00

Don't they remind you of beautifully wrapped sweets?

(StockholmStreetStyle)

Play me Greensleeves...

2010-04-03T12:55:00.002+11:00

(StockholmStreetStyle)
Just had to share as soon as I laid eyes on it.

Mad Print Job

2010-04-02T23:01:00.010+11:00

Prints are going to be huge in upcoming collections. They provide a lot of room for creativity while still appealing to most people's appreciation of aesthetics, colour and contrast.

Erdem Moralioglu is a London-based designer with a penchant for custom-designed silk prints, sharp tailoring and bold colour palettes. Three things I am completely mad for at the moment. I especially love the evening gowns, ruffle top and skirt combinations in his latest Autumn/Winter '10 Collection:

Aren't they utterly romantic and playful? He graduated from the Royal College of Arts only 7 years ago and his label is about 5 years old. The inaugural British Fashion Council/UK Vogue Designer Fashion Fund recently awarded him £200,000 to help spearhead the development of his label into a global fashion label.

Zac Posen's latest AW10 collection resonates similar whimsical notes: interesting forms, mixed textures and embellished prints. I love the panelling on the dresses. (The little red velvet piece is a slightly odd one out in the following photos... adorable and somewhat opulent at the same time, isn't it?)

"The freaks are outside..."

2010-04-01T22:48:00.005+11:00

NEWS UPDATE!
I know I've been terribly MIA but things will pick up I promise.

1. Exciting bits: Lady Gaga's concert was mind-blowing.
2. Sad bits: They played Michael Jackson before the show, and no one knew the words...
3. Amusing bits: Grazia loved my Urban Outfitters boots so much, I made it into Grazia's Bounty Hunter! Caption "No pants, well done!" (I was wearing a bathing suit under a mini skirt.)
4. Recommended bits: Malaysia, namely Kuala Lumpur/Langkawi/Koh Lipeh/Melakka, was cheap, fun, relaxing, beautiful, breathtaking, tiring, exciting, thrilling, old and new all at once.
5. Ideas for Easter Saturday: indulge in some Haigh's Easter eggs, order a latte and an Avacado Hommus on Toast served with Honeyed Bacon and Dukkah at Duke's Coffee Roasters on Chapel St, drop into Papucci a few doors down for sales of up 75% off Nude/Siren/RMK shoes.

Jet-settin'

2010-02-25T11:13:00.002+11:00

Hello dears!

Off on vacation for a week or two. See you on the other side!

Sunday treats

2010-02-21T22:32:00.001+11:00

Hope you all had a beautiful Sunday.

Albert Park Deli
129 Dundas Place
Albert Park 3206

IT'S GOING OFFFFFFFF!!!!!

2010-02-21T11:05:00.007+11:00

You won't believe what I did. My latest purchase: guess what I bought on my birthday?

I'm flipping out!!!!!!! Who wants a ride come Tuesday?!

PS My birthday was magick. Simply magical. I love my friends (you know who you are, the ones who don't need facebook notifications) so much. I love my P Diddums. I love my life. I'm the luckiest. Thank you.

I borned a baby:

2010-02-16T00:13:00.004+11:00

My little store. It's official!

Swim by me

2010-02-14T23:31:00.004+11:00

If you're like me and can't swim, chances are the thought of swimming in the ocean is overwhelming.

But I really want to snorkel in Malaysia in two weeks.

P Diddy's solution was to get some flippers on me, and get me into the local pool. Armed with flippers, goggles, and a will to learn how to swim, we began the lesson by blowing bubbles in the water..... while small, itty-bitty children did breast strokes and freestyle in the next lane.

Perfect. While P Diddy's patience lasted a lot longer, my determination dissipated into nothing in about 15 minutes.

On an almost entirely different topic I really like my 50s-inspired, checked Speedo swimsuit. Panelling is so body-flattering and a boy-leg cut is so refreshing in the age where scantily-clad bodies by the beach/pool reign.

Wearing checked Speedo one-piece swimsuit, Target Fusion high-waisted denim shorts, Diva medallion, Country Road T-bar wedges.

PS. If you are Asian and love gambling, can you please spread it out over the year instead of clogging up Kings Way in both directions on Chinese New Years? We'd all rather not sit in epic traffic on a beautiful Sunday afternoon, thanks.

Additionally, can everyone please ensure your car doesn't break down on the Kings Way bridge, next to Crown's carpark entrance, on New Years?

We all appreciate it. Thanks, folks!

Lovers and haters,

2010-02-14T11:55:00.000+11:00

Wishing you all a stupendous Valentine's Day. Don't forget to hug someone.

Hugs!

CRUNCH!

2010-02-10T20:07:00.006+11:00

When I crave something crunchy- I really crave something really CRUNCHY. Thankfully, we have Mess Hall's crunchy polenta chips served with uber-garlicky aioli to satiate me in those dire moments. Just a trundle down Bourke St and they're open late!

Have I captured how crunchy they can be?
What is it about crunchy foods that is so toe-curlingly satisfying?

This is a hot sopressa (crunchy around the edges of course) and pesto pizza (thin, crispy base). Crunch!

This is P Diddy's slow cooked lamb and 'taters.

+ + +

Yesterday was our 2nd anniversary and boy was I spoilt. He surprised me with a brilliant bouquet after work and then we headed over to Shira Nui in Glen Waverly for the most amazing sushi/omakase experience I've had in my life.

Translucent dory,tuna steak, pan-seared salmon, marinated kingfish, grilled wagyu beef, fish-stuffed okra tempura nigiri sushi- they all danced across the palette like magnificent pirouettes across the stage. My favourite was the mackerel nigiri- served with finely choped spring onion, sprinkled with sesame, wrapped in a light green, translucent square sheet of sweet seaweed. Dessert was complimenatary: the lemon and melon sorbet served in a shot glass brought a beautiful, sweet, refreshing full stop to the meal.

It was a lot of excitmenet for all the senses- the noisy chatter, the tastes, textures, smells, the beautifully presented food, seeing Hiro-san swish his ridiculously long samurai-esque knives/swords about...

I didn't take photos sadly, but tummyrumbles has two great accounts of her experiences there (here and here), complete with photographs. At about $80-90 a head, it is not cheap..... but I believe it's an experience not to be missed!

SHIRA NUI
247 Springvale Road,
Glen Waverley
Phone 03 9886 7755

MESS HALL
51 Bourke St
Melbourne
p: 9654 6800

Station Hotel

2010-02-08T20:33:00.005+11:00

Our Australia Day afternoon at Station Hotel:

Aromatic, delicious, frothy coffee served at a good temperature. Sliced Noisette baguette (crunchy, warm crust with a sweet, yielding crumb) and butter. Crunchy steak fries and garlic aioli. Open steak sandwich, garden salad and pumpkin soup lunch special, a bargain at $12.50 (Mon-Sat till 3pm). All of 300g of perfectly executed Black Angus medium rare steak. Served with béarnaise sauce, handcut chips and fresh garden salad. MMM-MMMMM-MMMMMMMMMM!

Then we went to a friend's house for a traditional BBQ. Berp!

STATION HOTEL
59 Napier St,
Footscray
(03) 9687 2913

Can't go wrong when they've got the following to boast about:
'The Age' Good Food Guide 2010
Winner 3AW "Pub of the Year 2008"

Short 'n' sweet

2010-02-07T17:42:00.008+11:00

My posts are perhaps a bit infrequent lately- but for good reason I promise. I'm in the process of selecting and purchasing a new car! I did consider a second hand Mini Cooper but the more sensible side of me wants safety, affordability, fuel efficiency, and practicality. I'm thinking a bright yellow Suzuki Swift Sport at this stage- how fun! What do you drive?

Recently I visited one of those VIP warehouse sales in Collingwood for the first time, and perhaps the last time. It makes me ill thinking about all the resources wasted on millions of poor quality garments that are never bought or worn!

I did, however, pick up this well-made, silk top by Fate for only $25. I'm mad for anything cropped at the moment. And these shorts. These ancient shorts that used to belong to my mother. I've been found wearing these shorts every summer since I was 12. Bring back the 90s!

Wearing Fate silk crop top, high-waisted cut-off shorts, thrifted alligator belt, Country Road leather T-bar wedges, Testorossa Safety Shield sunglasses, Mouche ring, Sussan bracelet.

Mondegreens

2010-02-02T19:39:00.002+11:00

Hilariously random:

"As we've observed, English is a slippery language, strewn with homonymic banana peels, slapstick mondegreens, and tongue twisters. Even fluent speakers of English constantly make mistakes."

- Steve Rivkin and Fraser Sutherland, The Making of a Name: The Inside Story of the Brands We Buy

Inside out

2010-02-01T10:13:00.002+11:00

I can't tear my eyes away from her undergarments worn as clothes. I simply love it!

Tangerine

2010-01-30T20:47:00.001+11:00

OH dear. An unusually busy week meant an unusually late post.

If only you could see the colossal Italian murals on the ceiling too.

My best friend. Doesn't she just melt in your mouth? Like a drop of butter.

I don't find Melbourne weather discussions tedious since there's so much happening all the time. We're in the middle of summer and a week ago (when these photos were taken) it was a somewhat chilly night. But tonight it's balmy and breezy- perfect for some weekend mischief. What are you doing this weekened?

I thought I'd enthuse you with a burst of colour! Wearing vintage suede jacket, vintage leopard purse, Forever New top, Nasty Gal faux leather leggings, UO booties.

Truly, bff.

Gigi Baba

2010-01-23T19:46:00.003+11:00

Last night we trundled over to Smith St to Gigi Baba for some Turkish, evening grub at ~8.30pm and were told the wait was about 45 minutes! A little on the pricey side, it was still worth it. (The person who recommended it to me said when it first opened last year, word had gotten around and people were apparently on waiting lists to get in!)

It was stifling in there last night and it was buzzing- I loved the walls of carpet, the jungle of dim light bulbs, and the wall littered with ornate porcelain plates.

I feel uneasy when there is a huge menu where ever I go because:
A) it's overwhelming
B) the likelihood of picking something really well done is generally slim

Suffice to say I was very pleased upon discovering the menu had only a handful of dips, meats, salads and desserts.

HIGHLIGHTS: The Baba Ganoush dip, their bread and BBQ lamb sausages simply blew our shoes off.
ALSO WORTH TRYING: Capsicum and tomato dip, prawns, BBQ beef ribs.

A must try.

GIGI BABA
102 Smith St
Collingwood VIC 3065
(03) 9486 0345

Watch this space.

2010-01-21T23:47:00.005+11:00

I'm in the (very difficult) process of putting together some of my most favourite (sob) vintage pieces up on etsy to share (sniff). I hope you love them as much as I do.

I've noticed I haven't been posting much vintage clothing at all- I am, in fact, an avid, compulsive vintage clothing and accessories' collector and hoarder. If only there was more room in all my wardrobes!

Here's a quick peep:

I am listening to Koop Islands as I write this- a delightful, electronic jazz album by a Stockholm-based duo called Koop who take their inspiration from Caribbean beats. I heard the first track, Koop Island Blues, off a video game P Diddy was playing called The Sabouter. Don't be so quick to dismiss video games, the industry's value is apparently surpassing that of the the film industry.

Good night everyone!

Sway so gently

2010-01-20T23:03:00.001+11:00

This high-waisted ruffle skirt is loads of fun as it is loads of volume. Flirty and girly, I like how the skirt contrasts with the slightly upturned collar which has a somewhat.. austere feel about it.

Wearing Kookai top, Witchery skirt, Urban Original shoes, Diva ring, Sportsgirl jewelled bib.

A spot of winter.

2010-01-19T11:04:00.002+11:00

Yesterday Melbourne couldn't decide what weather it should be every 20 minutes. So it gave us everything all at once, all day: hail, rain, sunshine, wind, clouds, and more rain.

Wearing vintage fur collar, Portmans blazer, Witchery silk blouse, Scanlan and Theodore riding pants, Charles and Keith shoes, Sussans bracelet, Diva rings, T2 giant teacup and saucer.

Cuban heels.

2010-01-17T19:12:00.010+11:00

Last night I went to an engagement party at Canary Club- you've really got to try their tiny, bite-sized pieces of crispy potato wedges and sangria!

The bejewelled shoulders on this MNG wool dress won me over instantly when I first laid eyes upon it. I love the simple cut, turtle neck and elegant length paired with Jonathan Aston backseams. P Diddy says I look like some female, Cuban drug lord who's only missing a big fat cigar hanging off her lower lip.

Wearing MNG wool dress, Jonathan Aston backseams, Wittner heels, Aldo black ribbon and gold chain necklaces, vintage gold necklaces, Mouche oversized gold flower ring, Herringbone cropped jacket, Napoleon Hess Lipstick.

CANARY CLUB
6 Melbourne Pl,
Melbourne
(03) 9663 1983

Lady Godiva

2010-01-14T10:00:00.009+11:00

“With the new day comes new strength and new thoughts.”
Eleanor Roosevelt

Good morning!

I find it incredibly difficult to let go of certain pieces of clothes and I can hardly explain why! Such as this one: it's old, cheap and something I wouldn't look twice at if I came across it today. I found it on sale years ago when Forever New first opened in Melbourne: a meagre $10! My best friend and I had purchased one each. It reminds me of old Alice McCall collections.

True or not, I love any opportunity to tell the story of Lady Godiva when anyone asks. I purchased this gorgeous necklace from Chinacherie- a beautiful, quaint etsy shop with plenty of handmade jewllery to go around.

Wearing Forever New semi sheer and satin dress, tribal peacock necklace, Chinacherie Lady Godiva necklace, Country Road T-Bar sandal platform wedges, Diva owl ring.

Cupcake?

2010-01-13T23:55:00.001+11:00

Nothing like a bit of pottering in the kitchen to settle some nerves after a frightfully busy day.

Adapted from Nigella Feasts

In a food processor:
125g of softened unsalted butter, 85g of sugar, 125g of all-purpose flour, 2 eggs, 1 tsp of baking powder, 1/2 tsp of bicarb, 2 tsps of vanilla extract- blend well. Then add 2 tbs of milk with the motor on to help bind everything. Final blitz. Makes 12 cupcakes. Into a pre-heated oven set to 200 deg Celsius and bake for 15-20 mins.

Royal Icing:
200g of icing sugar whipped with 2 egg whites for 5 mins (with a hand mixer of course) and then squeeze a lemon into it and whizz for another 2 mins. Add coloured gel (gels give you much more intense colours) if you wish to have coloured icing!

I get my 'EdAble Art glitter'(England) and other various bakeware trinkets from a cake shop in an arcade on Flinders st, Cake Deco. If you live in Melbourne, make sure you lose yourself in the store some time! Such a delicious treasure trove! The people are so very kind. Here we have Disco Peach Melba glitter.

Sprinkle a sugary bouquet on top and hey presto! Beautiful cupcakes worthy of a stall at your next local fete.

Enjoy! X

A Date With Heartbreak

2010-01-10T10:34:00.004+11:00

I apologise for being so neglectful. Here, on my way to work I'm wearing: Thoimay silk top with sheer sleeves, Witchery skirt and sandals, Sportsgirl bag and Cue belt.

I'm going to do as no other blogger I've known has done and take you into my little, humble bathroom for a beauty post...

Here it is! There are lotions and potions spilling everywhere. (Wearing Country Road T-Bar platforms I scored for $74.99 on Boxing Day, but changed my shoes at the last minute).

Despite all that I've tried, I find the simplest works best. Life's full of complicated things, why on earth would you want to make it more complicated than necessary?

I am shamefully lazy (I could place a full stop here) when it comes to beauty routines. I've managed to keep it down to the bare minimum:

I like the tinted dermalogica ultra sensitive skin faceblock, but after cleansing I find my face needs a little extra moisture, so I blend in some Hamilton "Everyday face" tinted moisturising cream. And voila! Blemishes and discolourations are airbrushed out.

Afterwards, a super quick dusting of Napoleon powder foundation and Estee Lauder's powder blush in Nude Rose (which has won numerous beauty awards and once you start using it, it's easy to see why).

A lick of Maybelline's absurdly named 'COLOSSAL Volum EXPRESS' mascara. No clumping, no waiting between coats, safe for contact-lens-wearers and the result is statement feathery lashes!

Finally, a dab of rosy gloss: I really love L'Occitane's moisturising and un-sticky Cherry Blossom Gloss (smells lovely and non-chemically).

Don't you adore the case this 'A Date with Heartbreak' Blushing Rose lip balm comes in? I haven't tried it yet, so I wouldn't know how useful it is! (I can see P Diddy rolling his eyes at me.)

And you're out the door in 3 minutes.

Rubik

2010-01-07T02:28:00.001+11:00

Ever since I first laid eyes on her eons ago, I've never stopped being in awe of her supreme beauty and poise. I just can't find a bad photograph.

If I had me a modern-day Mr Rochester with all the Victorian English charm...

2010-01-05T21:38:00.004+11:00

*
Amorina studded leather vest by Temperley London, Printed silk-blend dress by Zac Posen and Very Jaws 140 Pumps by Christian Louboutin.

What would you wear?

Lazy hazy Sunday

2010-01-04T01:45:00.001+11:00

This cream-coloured blazer was purchased from Portmans on Boxing Day for just $39.95 while I was interstates (I love the cut and it's so very comfy). The nude flats with a scalloped trim were purchased from Witchery that day too for only $49.95 (down from $140)! As you can see, I find it difficult to keep quiet about my enthusiasm for bargains! What's wrong with being a little prudent, anyway?

Wearing Portmans blazer, rings from Diva, Sussan's bracelet, Cotton On plunging V-neck in grey-blue, AA tricot nylon leggings in black, Prada silk scarf, Witchery scalloped flats.

Just returned from watching Avatar in 3D. What a load of crock! I'm thoroughly convinced they write silly storylines so people have plenty to criticise at the conclusion of the movie! (Though I must admit, it was pretty to watch and somewhat entertaining....)

Beforehand, we visited City Wine Shop for our evening meal and were completely blown away by the food and the friendly, prompt service we received. The place is what its name says it is:- a fancy city wine shop where a large selection of wine can be ordered by the glass at any one time.

Sadly, I do not drink much wine so I can't tell you much about their collection of fine wines. My boyfriend, who drinks much more than me, says good wine is wine that you enjoy drinking (not because someone important says it is) whenever I lament about how little I know about a good drop.

Do you like my owl?

For me: chicken schnitzel and homemade coleslaw. The schnitzel was very crunchy on the outside without being one bit oily, and it was both succulent and tender in the middle. Perfect.

P Diddy's Roast Pork Belly.
The waiter, upon collecting his plate, 'Are you finished with that, sir?.... I suppose you couldn't be more finished than that.'

Dessert: Lemon cheesecake and strawberry salad. Delectable cake with a digestive biscuit base I think (I love those biscuits!), cream, dried strawberries, and fresh strawberries tossed in a teensy bit of sugar and mint. Mmmm!

The Wine Shop will certainly be seeing more of me!

CITY WINE SHOP
159 Spring St
Melbourne VIC 3000
(03) 9654 6657

Any way that you want.

2010-01-03T13:48:00.011+11:00

Kaleidoscope

2010-01-02T01:44:00.003+11:00

Hope the mercury hovering close to 40 degrees Celsius didn't spoil any festivities yesterday!

I am a great believer in the pointlessness of Boxing Day sales if you live in Melbourne. Frankly, it is very important my limbs stay attached to the rest of my body. This year, however, I was lucky enough to be interstates where shopping proved easier on the nerves, post-Christmas-Day.

I bought this gorgeous silk top and skirt separately (costing me less than $100 in total), when it occurred to me the bright colours of both the garments complement each other beautifully without being too garish.

BARGAIN!

Wearing Forever New one-shoulder silk top and pleated silk skirt, Orbit shoes, Plum Seduction Revlon nail lacquer.

Live in the present.

2009-12-31T12:10:00.001+11:00

2009 has been very good to me and I hope it was for you too.

Happy New Year!

Delightful

2009-12-30T00:22:00.002+11:00

Don't you love borrowing things for festive dinner parties?

My aunt certainly is the coolest cat around with this explosively colourful Marc Jacobs creation sitting in her wardrobe.

Sakura Kaiten Sushi

2009-12-29T22:07:00.009+11:00

This time of year is made for people who love eating and talking. So let's! talk! about food!

Just before I went away, P Diddy and I trundled over to Sakura to satisfy an after-work-Japanese-nibble-craving. Though perhaps not as fun, cheap and tasty as Izakaya Chuji (we'll talk about that gem another day) the sweet, little restaurant tucked away on the side of an office block on Little Collins Street sought to please... and please it did, if you don't mind some mediocrity. Most plates averaged $5.

And o hey! I managed to catch some of my food before it disappeared into my digestive tract this time. Above, some crumbed prawn sushi, red bean cakes (perhaps too sweet), mixed green salad accompanied by a mysterious, sweet and tangy dressing. On the train: salmon and mayo nigiri (which was actually pretty tasty), crumbed chicken wings (seriously), sashimi (salmon/tuna/etc),...

Where is your favourite Japanese joint?

SAKURA KAITEN SUSHI
Shop 1 Ground Floor
61 Little Collins STreet
Melbourne 3000
(03) 9663 0898

I'm sending all my love

2009-12-24T11:30:00.002+11:00

It's the perfect time to snatch the day and enjoy it to the hilt! Wishing you all a very Merry Christmas, take lots of pictures, have loads of fun, be safe... be happy.

Spending the next few days with family interstates- hope y'all have a beautiful one filled with love too. Got a plane to catch!

The sun has gone to bed and so must I

2009-12-22T23:34:00.005+11:00

Bought this huge shoulder-padded sequin top at a vintage fair in Williamstown last month- it's brilliant as a mini dress! I especially love the scalloped hem and sleeves.

G'NIGHT!

Freya Stark meets The Sheltering Sky: Kenzo SS10

2009-12-21T23:12:00.013+11:00

The backdrop for his latest collection for Kenzo was a huge golden disc—the sun hanging heavy over the Sahara. At the finale, it literally exploded in a shower of gold filaments that rained down on the catwalk while models walked in juicily shaded chiffons—aqua, peach, hot pink—with heads wrapped like nomad princesses. It was a spectacular conclusion to a show that took as its starting point the Middle Eastern excursions of the early twentieth-century English adventuress Freya Stark, then stirred in a little of Bertolucci's film 'The Sheltering Sky'. So there was a Europe-meets-ethnic vibe to the clothes, which was so perfectly in tune with the ethos of the house that it underlined how appropriate a choice Marras was for this job. Tim Blanks for style.com.

The storyline for Kenzo's SS '10 collection is superb in that it allows for a vast array of designs, prints, colours, fabrics, textures and materials to be used- no mean feat, yet Antonio Marras executed it finely while still encapsulating the distinctive Kenzo style so wonderfully!

And it ends when Freya comes across African women in all their glorious, colourful, traditional clothes.

I am crazy about the jumpsuits, the metallic ombre jacket, the unusually faded denim, the turbans, the cropped gold pants (is it velvet or isn't it?) and (even though I can't really explain why) the sequin camo print.

So, NOTA BENE: add more tribal, ethnic things to wardrobe...

(Has anyone had Lebanese coffee? My head felt like it was flying far above my shoulders and my extremeties were tingling! Replied to comments in the last post.)

But Beautiful

2009-12-20T13:26:00.008+11:00

The weather's been nothing but beautiful in Melbourne. The sunshine has had no rest! "Don your brightest hats, shoes, dresses, and pants, boys and girls," it says. I happily oblige.

Bought these babies on Friday night- I persuaded two others to purchase them too after I did. I love sharing love!

Wearing American Apparel tricot nylon leggings in coral ice, Cotton On singlet, Youlah top from 'Hello Gorgeous!', Diva oversized CZ studs, orbit shoes from Santini, new hair courtesy David from Falcone Collins St!

Yesterday morning it was all bustlin' and happenin' at Queen Victoria market.

Don't you love that pre-Christmas atmosphere when everything's buzzing and there's a lot of everything everywhere (perhaps minus the stressed and cranky shoppers)?

It makes me think of the families where there will be no Christmas turkey or lamb, no presents under the Christmas tree or those who will be celebrating Christmas without a family member...

Do something for someone like this, this Christmas. Try World Vision Must Have Gifts or get your presents gift-wrapped at Myer for Vision Australia.

All smiles.

2009-12-19T00:19:00.007+11:00

What terrific weather to welcome in the weekend! Today, we spent the entire day at lawn bowls for the Christmas work party. Drinks flowed, there was much mirth and a Jack Johnson/Mayer/Leto/Mraz sound-a-like, one-man-band singing to us the entire day. Laarv-lih.

Meanwhile, just got back from a fruitful shopping expedition but I'm so sad to discover Enzo Angiolini stores have all closed in Victoria and there are very few stockists. Their shoes are so comfy and affordable!

Wearing Arabella Ramsay top, MNG jeans, Enzo Angiolini pumps, Sussan bracelets, Oroton earrings, Mouche ring, Three Horses's fringe necklace.

Wanted to share these Nasty Gal beauties with you before I sign off (hope you haven't already bought yourself a Christmas present like I have!):

Bon weekend, mon ami! (Haha!)

Apple of My Eye

2009-12-15T18:51:00.009+11:00

Last night he made me dinner- a variant of the bucatini all'amatriciana. Naturally, I had a gentle post-dinner snooze while he pottered around in the garden.

When I woke, the smell of blueberry ricotta hotcakes fresh off the pan greeted me. With a little plum conserve, we demolished them within minutes. Naturally, I had a gentle post-breakfast-food-masquerading-as-dessert snooze.

Oink.

P Diddy gave me these books and apple-shaped Post-It notes last night too. The books are from cdwow.com, who messed the order and took almost 2 months to correct it. So instead I recommend The Book Depository which displays prices in AUD, has free worldwide delivery and is generally cheaper than Borders!

A friend who used to work opposite the accessories' store, Mouche on Lt Collins St, years ago is responsible for introducing me to the world of affordable, adorable bags and jewellery. I think of her every time I get my fix of sparkles. This is the latest purchase- it's been around in the store for a while now, but I still love it!

PS THANK YOU Walking In The Street for the mention! X

Mas Que Nada

2009-12-12T18:05:00.013+11:00

The blazer: been wearing this Balmain-inspired number constantly over the past year- it's so sharp, smart, and figure-flattering. I got it for ~$75AUD (I've heard from friends it's a littler dearer now), including shipping, from Queen's Wardrobe (South Korea) and it arrived in 3 days!

The hat: purchased from one of the most beautiful places in Victoria- Lavendula, a Swiss-Italian farm about a 7-minutes-drive north of Daylesford. The rustic food from La Trattoria, Lavendula's cafe, is amazing and uses a lot of fresh, local produce. The tables and seats are set higgledy-piggledy amongst lots of closely planted, tall, skinny ash trees overlooking gentle grassy slopes and lavender gardens. You can enjoy your food and wine under dappled shade while little sparrows and finches twitter above and flit about at your feet. Hopelessly romantic. I was somewhat miffed that I had forgotten my camera at the hotel, but reassured myself that I'd return soon!

Wearing Queen's Wardrobe blazer, Country Road shirt, American Apparel tricot nylon leggings, Wittner heels, Napoleon Aphrodite Divine Goddess lipstick (so moisturising, vibrant and lasting!).

My definition of a perfect Friday night:
- Finishing work on time.
- Coming home for a quick nap.
- Dinner at a not-too-crowded Grossi Florentino Cellar Bar, getting a window seat, ordering the Bucatini all'Amatriciana with a side of patatine.
- Dessert: Cellar Bar's Raspberry cheesecake.

It was a perfect Friday night last night (except I was too full for dessert...but fell asleep in PDiddy's arms so that made up for it). This blog was supposed to be a food one- but I'm not very good at it. I'm always close to finishing my meal when I realise there's no photo of the food when it was on the plate. Oops.

So here is a photo of the romantic facade.

Hope y'all having a terrific weekend!

Thursday's all so sad...

2009-12-10T22:51:00.010+11:00

'They call it Stormy Monday but Tuesday's just as ba-ad...'

I'm completely addicted to Lou Rawls smooth vocal style. Even just his name seems to promise silky tunes. Lou Rawls. Rolls off the tongue, doesn't it?

It's been a while since my last post. I've been saving it... for a rainy day. Hope you didn't get caught with peeptoes on!

NastyGal vintage bronze leather slouch jacket, Cotton On singlet, Target leggings, UO boots, Sussans bracelets, Mouche ring, Sportsgirl bag.
I bought this jacket before winter this year and it's oh so very warm! Things often get snapped up very quickly on shopnastygal.com, so it was incredibly lucky no one else had instantly fallen in obsession with the embossed metallic bronze pattern!

PS I am in desperate need of a haircut. Can anyone recommend a good hairdresser? rokk ebony in Toorak and South Yarra have disappointed :(

Jump and shout!

2009-12-05T22:32:00.012+11:00

After a gruelling week at work, I'm so glad the weekend's here. Though others may feel sad half of it is gone already, I feel like I've just finished half a Crunchie bar and am ecstatic about the other half to go!

I bought these boots ages ago, but due to the warmer weather, they've been collecting dust on the shelf. So glad to cavort down Bourke St in them.

Christmas shopping with some folks from interstate kept me suitably stressed the whole day. I wore an old swing dress from Sportsgirl, a tailor-made tuxedo jacket, Jonathan Aston tan fishnets, Urban Original ankle boots, a kitty necklace from a random acessories store in Singapore and a Mouche ring. (Purchased this one about this time last year... thought it was about time I got another... so I did!)

The other night, the boy and I went to get some late night dessert at Pellegrini's. We've agreed it isn't the best spag bog around- he says the 'nostalgia factor' keeps him coming back. It's the atmosphere, the retro furnishings, the customers sitting in the back kitchen while Nonna cooks, the flirtatious staff, the history..... and, okay, their cherry tart is pretty darn good.

PELLEGRINI'S ESPRESSO BAR
66 Bourke St
Melbourne, VIC 3000
(03) 9662 1885

Trunk

2009-12-01T02:02:00.009+11:00

I'm so sad dance classes have finished for the year- they really helped me get through my Mondays. Sideways sadface.

P Diddy and I wandered over to Trunk for some evening grub tonight. I can't figure if I love their fries and aioli or their industrial decor most! The place used to be a synagogue 150 years ago and a heritage-listed Coral Tree as old as the building sits proudly in the front courtyard.

I ordered the pizza No. 9 which had chilli, brocolli and italian sausage. P Diddy had the No. 10 which had aged balsamic, pancetta and radicchio (which I thought made the pizza look very pretty). We also got a side salad: witlof, gorgonzola, pear and walnut vinaigrette... but then realised how much we both detest gorgonzola (the sweetness of the pear, the sourness of the vinaigrette, the crunchiness of the witlof and walnut was a lovely combination though!)

Belch. There was also a wedding there tonight... funny night to have a wedding, don't you think?

Yesterday I was busy putting together a present for an expecting couple:

I'm crazy about the plethora of cute clothes they have for newborns and infants at Country Road. Wish I were paid to shop...!

TRUNK
275 Exhibition St
Melbourne 3000
Victoria Australia

Stormy Weather

2009-11-29T10:47:00.008+11:00

I bought this jewelled bib from Sportygirl for just $15.99, reduced from $59.99. They had plenty in excellent condition when I left the Melbourne Central store last Friday.

The night was very humid and people spilled out onto the streets- every corner was crowded, every place felt stifling. My friend and I were turned away from five different restaurants because they were too packed and the wait was about an hour and half at all of them! We finally plodded over to Mess Hall on Bourke St where we found a lovely spot next to their large open windows. There were police squads and undercover police walking up and down Bourke St- it was fascinating to watch (especially since my friend is obsessed with the Australian TV show, Rush).

I wore this to a 40th birthday last night (a Decjuba wool top, David Lawrence trousers, vintage alligator skin belt, and Urban Original shoes). I copped my share of name-calling: 'Harry High Pants', 'groovy' and 'Flat Asian Bum'. Some friends tried to see if they could hide things up the trouser legs and check if I had shaved my legs. Hahaha. My outfit felt most complete when I picked sugar flowers off the chocolate birthday cake and stuck them all over my face... finishing the look with forks up my nostrils of course.

MESS HALL
51 Bourke St Melbourne
VIC 3000
p: 9654 6800

Colour Pop!

2009-11-26T23:16:00.014+11:00

I found these wedges at a Shoobiz stock clearance for $25.oo when they were moving from Chadstone some time last year. They are the comfiest heels I own and literally go with everything I throw on. (I especially love that the colour matches the tan splotches on the $10.oo Supre dress).

PS Don't you love summer rainstorms?

Wearing Supre dress, Pinet wedges from Shoobiz, Sussan's bracelets, Balcony necklace, Oroton pearl earrings. Beige paisley print umbrella by Boston.

Ablaze

2009-11-24T23:59:00.005+11:00

The skies over St Kilda last Friday went from this:

to this within an hour:

No fiddlin' with Photoshop or Paint Shop Pro here, no suh.

Kate Lanphear (StockholmStreetStyle)

2009-11-22T22:13:00.006+11:00

EDIT: Do yourself a favour and check out UO's shoe sale page. So many beauties begging for a home.

Way We Wear Fair- Melbourne Spring 2009 Vintage Fair

2009-11-22T12:27:00.008+11:00

Williamstown Town Hall was heaving and sighing with history, glorious treasures, tidbits and trinkets this weekend. What fun it was to trawl through the racks and tables! After a big brunch and coffee in Yarraville, my sister and I spent four solid hours at the fair buying, haggling and playing dress ups! Pure bliss.

Wearing thrifted shoulder pad sheer blouse, Pleasure State bra, vintage cut off shorts, vintage alligator belt, Witchery slate grey/blue suede sandals, thrifted quilted leather handbag.

PS How cute is the current Hermes display window? I love the retro neon lights. The only thing I'm loving more right now is the torrential rain outside. A) The dams desperately need it; B) our cars needed a good wash after the dust on Friday! and C) it gives us reason to whip out our suede thigh high boots we didn't get to wear enough last winter! When did it last rain like this in Melbourne??

Bedazzled

2009-11-19T19:55:00.012+11:00

(StockholmStreetStyle)
Are you a complete sucker for sparkles and shiny things? I AM. What a wonderful necklace!

'Twas a warm and sultry night last night. I caught up with a friend for some dinner (Lygon St's Seasalt calamari 'n' chops and NZ Natural's Lime Vanilla cones..classy and nhumm!) and drinks. We parked next to Emerald Peacock, climbed the lofty stairs onto the roof.... and it was completely packed (on a Wednesday night)! I love Melbourne.

EMERALD PEACOCK
233 Lonsdale St
Melbourne VIC 3000
(03) 9654 8680

Siglo, Sunday night.

2009-11-17T10:42:00.007+11:00

I always forget that the rooftop area above Melbourne Supper Club has a different name: Siglo. They use the same kitchen though! Best. Croque. Monsieur. Around. Their lemon tart is simply superb too!

SIGLO
Lvl2/ 161 Spring St
Melbourne VIC 3000
03) 9654 6631

Charles and Keith shoes

2009-11-17T10:16:00.007+11:00

(The pictures are a little grainy; I did my best to cover it up!)
I bought these suede and patent wedges while we were holidaying in Singapore at the start of this year. Charles and Keith had a massive sale on and these were ridiculously cheap- something like AU$40 a pair! And I claimed back GST at the airport! I purchased about 8 pairs of shoes for about AU$200 that day. I'd love to go back to SG better prepared for a major shopping expedition!

Wearing Sass cardigan, Cotton On singlet, Target leggings, vintage silk scarf, sunglasses from random Smith St store, Charles and Keith Shoes.

Raymond Chandler

2009-11-15T01:22:00.004+11:00

Amongst the many many things P Diddums has introduced to me, Raymond Chandler is one of my favourites. His stories are set against a 1930s Southern Californian backdrop, and are drenched with suspense and violence. Think film noir, ladies and booze...

"His hand jerked and some ash fell on his white suit cuff. That annoyed him. He frowned down at it, then he said softly in a manner of a sultan suggesting a silk noose for a harem lady whose tricks have gone stale:..." (from a short story, Mandarin's Jade.)

I've yet to watch the end of 'Big Sleep' (with Humphrey Bogart)..... every time I watch it I'm terribly tired and fall asleep before it's over!

James Rowland Vintage Shoes

2009-11-15T01:05:00.005+11:00

Must. Try. To. Save. Money.

"It's an Ephelant."

2009-11-14T23:00:00.010+11:00

"There used to be a zoo near our office block. Whenever I see elephants these days I always think of this wee boy who turned to his mother, nodded gravely and said, 'Momma, that's an ephelant.'" For as long as I can remember, our favourite neighbour has always had a happy calmness about her, a cracker sense of humour, smiling eyes and a voice like cooing doves. We all love a good chinwag and needless to say, sister and I hardly ever make it past our gate on our rare evening strolls.

When we were holidaying in Kyneton (about half an hour's drive from Daylesford), the boy bought me this necklace from a jewellery store called 'Balcony' on Piper St (even though it was his birthday). Innit adorable??

Meanwhile, I know the YSL Tributue sandals are old, but these beauties were too cheap to pass up! USD$13.99 from Urban Original Dot Com- who can tell? They make me even happier when they're on my feet! Snapped up a pair in Lilac too for the sister. My podiatrist will not be very pleased. 'Spend as much time as you can in Asics,' she says. Easier said!

Wearing vintage crochet jumper, Cotton On singlet, vintage denim cut-off shorts, vintage alligator belt, vintage sunglasses, Balcony necklace, Sussan bracelet, Urban Original shoes.

Do you remember when milk was simple?

2009-11-12T00:00:00.009+11:00

PS I love my Witchery sandals!

Opening Bid

2009-11-08T23:19:00.014+11:00

This morning, hayfever-riddled Mr P and Tam trundled to Auction Rooms for some breakfast. It was hot. Too hot. In fact, it's too hot to talk in full sentences.
High ceiling fans. Big windows. A generally bright, large, open, airy space full of trendy wankers and people- perfectly appropriate on a 34.2 Celsius deg day.

Demerara sugar served in uber-vintage 'Condensed Pea and Ham Soup' can. Simultaneously gross and delightful to me.

2 x Opening Bids (nicely poached eggs with average bacon, normal tomato, ordinary spinach and shrooms on average sourdough toast; $16.50)

4 x cafe lattes (it was good and we needed it)

Auction Rooms. 103-107 Errol St North Melbourne 3051 VIC; Phone: (03) 9326 7749