Styl-E-Letter July 2007
Melanie Moss Styling Styl-E-Letter July 2007
Welcome to the July issue of the Melanie Moss Styl-E-Letter, your guide to all things fashion and fun, filled with hints and tips to help you create the perfect wardrobe.
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Instant and fashionable dressing is easy if we follow a few simple rules. Juxtaposition and contrast are the name of this fashion game. But how do we know if we have it right?
Opting for a voluminous top requires a skinny bottom half and vice versa; pair leggings with a chunky knit for example, or wide leg pants with a tight fighting blouse. A basic understanding of proportions ensures classic and easy style. Too much volume? Belt it! Cinching a belt around your waist establishes instant proportion.
It is important to understand the basic proportions and key elements to create a successful outfit without loosing your figure within this season's shapes. Never work with too many volume shapes or you could lose your femininity amongst the clothes. Use one key element and play off that. Alternatively clothing that is too tight often ends up revealing too much and can be uncomplimentary. So by choosing a bubble skirt, now work with and emphasise the elements that it accentuates. For example, your waist will ultimately appear smaller to the volume component added from the skirt, so by adding a fitted delicate blouse with a belt you are drawing the eye towards the waist. Remember, keep it simple and use one key shape in each outfit.
This season's fashion comes in all shapes and sizes and also works for all women. Let's face it, the winter months often leave us a bit rounder around the edges. The endless shapes range across all aspects of clothing so there will ultimately be a perfect piece and essential item for your wardrobe.
We have seen the return of the bubble skirt which mentioned earlier goes perfectly with a delicate fitted blouse.
For those who are looking for a great coat, the latest shapes are amazing! The new silhouettes of the oversized coats look great in textured fabrics teamed with a simple roll neck and tights and give a layered elegance instantly. Bell style coats are good for creating the illusion of feminine curves for those with boyish figures. The great thing about a coat is that they work with any outfit and are also practical in these cooler months. Look for colours that work well with your existing wardrobe. Try hues of grey or simple blacks and whites to maximise wear.
Another, simple combination is a wide-leg pant teamed with a feminine top for man-style chic. This look works for both night and day elegance and is a flattering way to experiment with a high waist.
The sweater dress is also a key trend this winter. By adding opaques and a cinched waist this effortlessly creates a classic and sleek look. Alternatively, you could team a detailed sweater dress over a classic black roll neck.
There are some key investments that work well with these shapes and your existing wardrobe. For example, a versatile pussy bow blouse gives a stylish edge under a voluminous smock dress whilst still looking chic paired with a wide leg pant or even a bubble skirt.
Roll neck sweaters work well with slouchy shorts and are great at adding warmth and interest to a tunic dress. Opaque tights are also wonderful to add to outfits with a volume style as they create streamlined legs. Tip: Don't be afraid to use different coloured opaques to add interest to an outfit! Try Leona Edmiston pins.
If in doubt, always contrast colours and fabric rather than aim for a match. Contrasting colours instantly creates a fresh edge on an old look. The importance of mixing fabrics this season can not be overlooked, with all from Marc Jacobs to Balenciaga taking part. Try combining leathers and silks, such juxtapositions create an instant chic, adding extra interest to your outfit.
If feeling daring try a checked style for a new-season take, but be sure to keep the rest of your outfit in block colours for the most flattering effect.
Always remember when using loose layers to keep accessories to a minimum!
So where can you find these new shapes? The great news is that they come at affordable prices and are easily accessible from some of the best Australian designers which means you can stop coveting the latest fashions and start interpreting them into your wardrobe. Country Road has created some key classics whilst using the latest shapes so head there for a new look volume skirt in fabulous colours or Stephanie Conley has used some interesting textured fabrics which could bring life to a classic appearance.
Some other great labels using the new shapes in an outstanding way are Saba, Karen Walker, Witchery, Cue, Camilla & Marc and Veronika Maine.
Camilla & Marc (02 9699 8655)
Country Road (1800 801 911)
Cue (1800 060 706)
Karen Walker (02 9281 1110)
Leona Edmiston - also available at Myer and David Jones stores (9311 7177)
Saba (1800 441 739)
Stephanie Conley (02 9361 3222)
Veronika Maine (1800 060 707)
Witchery (1800 640 249)
Less time and more commitments. Sound familiar? Busy has become the new black, But how well is this new shade really suiting us? In our increasingly competitive world, to get ahead we have to do more, faster and better. Increasingly hectic schedules have seen the rise of anxiety and depression in our society, so how to counter this but achieve your goals? Here at Melanie Moss, we believe a priority list may be the answer. Simple enough; jotting down what's important to you and prioritizing them. It allows an objective view of your definition of success and how you should be spending your time appropriately to achieve it. Success is personal; whether it be family, friends or work, in order to get what you want, first you have to know what you want and in what order you'd like them.
Everyone needs that one perfect shirt. Crisp and white, adds a touch ofoccasion to any outfit. It is the office must-have and so right for smartening up a simple pair of jeans and ballets flats. We all wear them, so why is it so hard to find a good one?! All we want is a quality fabric, a feminine cut and something unique. Is it too much too ask?
At Melanie Moss Lifestyling we are endlessly looking for just the right one, always searching. But it's always the same old stuff! Cheap, poorly made or cut and over priced.
Search no longer. MR ROSE, has come to the rescue of modern women everywhere!
'MR ROSE has an uncanny appreciation for the mysterious world of the female species. He applauds their uniqueness and is obsessed with their silhouette, vowing to create the ultimate wardrobe of quality fashion essentials that embody the perfect fit.'
MR ROSE understands women's requirements and wishes from the simple wardrobe staple, the shirt. The MR ROSE concept is to design high quality, tailored shirts to perfectly fit the female form.
His groundbreaking sizing illustrates his understanding of the beauty and diversity of the female body. Each shirt is available from 8 to 16, in a variety of bust sizes, resulting in a shirt that is tailored to your body. MR ROSE aptly named these sizes 'Bud' (A/B Cup), 'Blossom' (B/C Cup) and 'Bloom' (C/D Cup).
The fabrics are sourced from the finest mills, drawing on generations of experience; smooth cottons from Italy, textured jacquard cottons from Switzerland and Chantilly lace from France. All designs are manufactured in Australia under the watchful eye of MR ROSE .
It was time for me to have my very own MR ROSE shirt.
Ordering takes place from the MR ROSE website www.mrrose.com.au or at exclusive VIP truck shows held at various distinguished hotels, only the best for MR ROSE.
The designers at MR ROSE spend a phenomenal amount of time developing correct sizing and labeling for the website, the shirts are made to fit any shape, even mine. All I had to do was measure and select the correct size and style.
A knock on the door announced the arrival of MR ROSE
I sat down to unravel the package. The secret calming fragrance of MR ROSE engulfed the room. Stunningly encased in an elegant black and white pure cotton shirt-bag, printed with a mirrored rose motif. The "Old-English" embossed stationary took me back to another place and time, a time of elegance and beauty.
The key range is made up of several must-have pieces. The MR ROSE Essentials Classico may be a wardrobe basic but the Devil's in the detail - sharp lines, oversized French cuffs, extended plackets and striking collar. They have really re-invented the wheel with this one.
The limited edition MAN-OH-MAN is cut to flatter. Crisp yet soft Italian man-style shirt, has a head for business and a body for sin. Designed for experimentation; a blouson sleeve that can be worn long, or ruched back creating a billowing shape. It has decorative top stitching and a top pocket just to bring out the man in us. No leaking pens please......
The TUXEDO shirt adds a distinctive dash that makes them sit up and take note, this style of shirt has many details that make it special. The Tuxedo style encompasses three stunning designs: the essential, the lace tuxedo and the limited edition silk tuxedo.
MR ROSE launches into the market with their Autumn Winter 2007 collection of shirts and bold accessories; including, vests, ties, dickies, cravats and handmade jewelled cufflinks.
Dear MR ROSE has thought of everything, with every detail to accompany the perfect shirt; providing beautiful feminine cufflinks. The Swarovski and Czech crystal jewelled links are an elegant and feminine addition to the man inspired shirt.
Opening the package I found a ballerina, dressed only in stockings, suspenders and of course MR ROSE. Added is a 'Dicky', a silk organza modern inspiration of a bow tie, feminine and unique.
Included in my package from MR ROSE, along with an enticing scent, was a travel bag, care and ironing notes for my new shirt. What more could a woman want? The product was sent with love, the perfect gift. MR ROSE truly is the new man in my life....
Changing weather requires a changed beauty routine. With the plummeting temperatures upon us, skin and hair require protection. The best protection for such in the cooler months is moisture. For your hair to maintain its summer shine (and avoiding all those nasty brittle ends) we recommend the following DIY hair and skincare, and it is as simple as going to your pantry and fridge for all the ingredients.
1 egg
1 eggshell's worth of olive oil
1 quarter of a peeled cucumber
Blend the egg, olive oil and peeled cucumber. Spread evenly through your hair, leave on for 10 minutes, and then thoroughly rinse. For the best results year-round, continue this treatment monthly.
1 small jar of real mayonnaise
½ an avocado
Put together in a medium bowl and squish together with your hands until it's a minty green colour. Smooth into hair all the way to the tips and put on a shower cap. For a deeper treatment, wrap a warm towel around you shower cap. Leave in for 20 minutes.
½ cup of dried rosemary leaves
½ cup olive oil
Combine ingredients then heat up until warm. Strain. Coat the entire scalp and ends of hair with the oil mixture. Wrap hair in saran wrap and a towel over that, leave on for 15 minutes. Wash hair twice to remove the oil. Use this treatment twice a month or when your needs a deep conditioning. Leaves hair shiny and dehydrated.
3 teaspoons beeswax
3 teaspoons olive oil
3 teaspoons sweet almond oil
1 teaspoon honey
5 drops of essential oil (lemon, peppermint, orange, lime)
Melt oils and beeswax together. Take off stove and add in honey then essential oil & colouring. Stir well and pour into small container
2 tablespoons plain yogurt
1 tablespoon oatmeal - cooked then cooled
1 tablespoon honey
Mix thoroughly together, then allow to sit to soften the oatmeal and honey to create a smooth paste.
The Yogurt gently exfoliates and cleanses while the oatmeal and honey moisturise and dehydrate the skin
Hands up anyone in need of a mini getaway? Or perhaps a romantic weekend with a loved one?
We found the ultimate winter warm up in the form of a luxury yacht exploring the scenic Sydney Harbour.
I always feel sorry for hubby who misses out on water activities for his birthday due to its winter date so this year I decided to find something we could do that involved warmth and water. Sound impossible?
Introducing B'N'B on the sea, a service offering numerous wining and dining packages that can be catered to your needs. Standard package inclusions are: Yacht skipper for drop off and pick up, linen, dinner, tea/coffee, a complementary bottle of champagne and breakfast voucher for use at the Waterfront Café in Darling Harbor. You can chose from a menu of fresh Seafood, Meat or even vegetarian, and can upgrade to a platinum package for personalised massage and three hour scheduled group sailing around the harbor.
I chose the skippered charter yacht for the night which picked us up at Darling Harbour at 3pm in the afternoon for a sailing tour before anchoring for the rest of the evening. Hubby was excited for a moment when we walked towards the casino with our overnight bags but wasn't too disappointed when we stopped at the yacht bay.
We were taken out into the harbour wrapped snuggly in coats I had brought along with us. It felt nothing short of fabulous to be riding high against the waves pulling in the sails and doing things that real life sailors do!
Once twilight hit it was time for our skipper to leave us alone on the gently rocking sea. He had moored us in the middle of a private bay to enjoy the full moon falling onto the water. We had plenty to eat and drink and wanted for nothing. It was turning into a fabulous romantic night away.
For the cost of a half decent Sydney hotel room we had a 30 foot luxury yacht with all the trimmings at our disposal. We snuggled up inside with DVD's, music, seafood and champagne. When it was time for bed we huddled under the deck and were gently rocked to sleep hearing only the noise of small waves lapping against the side of the boat.
What could be better on a chilly winter night! Prices start from $900 for this highly recommended winter activity.
We hope you enjoyed the July Styl-E-Letter.
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