TWO WAYS

Natasha Gan dress, Witchery suede wedges / Asos bodycon midi dress, Karen Millen jacket, Zara heels

I love both bumblebee-inspired outfits above because each piece is so simple, yet with a characteristic twist. With peplums in my opinion now being so commonplace and nearly overdone, it was a refreshing change in this sunshine yellow Nat Gan dress to see the peplum pleated and puffed. And to such beautiful effect that anything more than simple black suede wedges would have been deemed unnecessary. 

I have also discovered that midis that keep you cocooned through till your knees are surprisingly comforting. Also that the jacket-around-your-waist look 10-year-old me used to sport is back. Except this time with a little more effortless sophistication than clumsy cool. 

Or at least, we hope, anyway.

Photography by Thomas Lo

 [ facebook  / twitter / instagram ] 

Parrots & Prints

Natasha Gan halter top, Witchery culottes, Zara heels, Petite Grand bracelet

It's not everyday you find yourself dressed in an exuberant parrot print. An absolute statement piece and in all honesty not the easiest to work with in the mix and match pile. Details that got me were the gathered neckline, low back and the little sash that gives it all shape just the way you want it. Stayed away from over the top floral print clashing to avoid looking like a walking ad for the wildlife park and instead played it simple with slouchy black culottes - which apparently are the next big thing. Not that you have to follow trends or anything. 

And if you're a sucker for fine, fine jewellery (high-five!), Petite Grand will leave you lost for words.

Photography by Thomas Lo

 [ facebook  / twitter / instagram ] 

BLOOM

Jolie & Deen dress and rings, Zara heels

It just felt slightly wrong sharing Spring floral dresses on this space when all of last week mercury levels in Melbourne plummeted and we found ourselves staring at the gloomy skies and fighting the continuously intermittent rain. I retreated to my brunch-loving ways. Also found some comfort and inspiration in Jolie & Deen's new collection.

In under 24 hours I shall be exam-free and racing to the newly-opened, much hyped about Messina on Smith St. No longer shall I have to make the trip to Sydney for the best gelato experience(s) ever. White chocolate and parmesean. Coconut Pandan. You guys get me. Insert cheesy grin as above. 

Photography by Thomas Lo

 [ facebook  / twitter / instagram ] 

THE FAIR FOODSTORE

Soy Chai, Banana Hotcakes, Bagel with Trout at The Fair Foodstore

My Instagram feed is a clear giveaway that I have a soft spot for brunches (the whole cafe experience, really), and a compelling need to document my gastronomical adventures in photo form. And Melbourne's just about the perfect environment for that but given the rate at which new places spring up (I thank Broadsheet for keeping me wise), a quick online search before trying a new place is a must to avoid the regular egg and bacon menu. 

A close friend vouched for the incredibility of The Fair Foodstore's hotcakes. FLUFFIEST IN MELBOURNE, she said. They were indeed fairly fluffy, although I would have loved an indulgent caramelised banana concoction instead of fresh ones. I might have also gone a little gaga over the mini honey jar and accompanying dipper. And despite the slightly overpriced trout bagel it was a cozy little space that catered to our 4pm hunger pangs and kept us away from the mini storm brewing outside. We also enjoyed studying closely their Scandinavian-inspired interior and inventive decor. 

So I quote one of the most awe-inspiring musicians I have had the pleasure of working and learning with - 'Please do not photograph your lunch. Just eat it.' 

Guilty as charged.

Photos by me

 [ facebook  / twitter / instagram ]