wekilledCOUTURE.

Le Paradis du Fruit

2012-01-22T23:54:00.000+10:00

10 Boulevard des Batignolles

75017 Paris

This restaurant had only just opened and wewere there from day 1 I think. It has got to have one of the most beautifullydecorated interiors I have seen, not to mention an amazing menu.

We went pretty much everyday since arrivingin Paris and I have ordered the same thing each time, I don’t think I couldever get sick of it – a grande Rose Paradis – sans sucre. Alexander is a bit more adventurous and triesa different dessert or drink everyday.

There are many different Paradis Du Fruitrestaurants around Paris, some doing take away and other variations. Ourshowever was Batignolles, and we would not go anywhere else. The food wasamazing, the atmosphere was astonishing and the people were incredible.

With each visit I noticed something new,whether it was the incredible blown glass fruit chandelier, the screens thatdisplay videos filmed underwater of fruit being dropped in slow motion, or evensmall things – like how the knives are placed. We were informed during one of our visits thatthe designer was infact, Philippe Starck the infamousdesigner of the Ghost Chair.

The staff here are absolutely lovely, extremely welcoming and friendly. On the day we left we gave our favoritewaitress a card and a bottle of champagne, thanking her for her hospitality andeven more than that – her friendship.

We also gave a card to the manager,addressed to the whole team thanking them as well. And when we had finishedlunch the manager and the waitress that was on both met us at the door and saidsome of the loveliest things, things you would expect from friends, not justfrom people at a restaurant you go to – even as regularly as we did.

So merci beaucoup to Lea, and the team atLe Paradis Du Fruit Batignolles

Europe Cont.

2012-01-04T08:09:00.000+10:00

Firstly, Happy New Year!

After 2 weeks and a beautiful Christmas in Paris, Alexander and I headed off to Munich, Arriving at 730 in the morning to complete darkness and to the coldest place we have visited on this trip. From Munich we picked up our car and Alexander got used to the concept on driving on the wrong side of the street. We had a planned drive of 400km to Frankfurt where we were to stay for the night - however, we were not informed that there was two Frankfurts and both contained the street name of our hotel.
Unfortunately the Nav-Man took us to the other Frankfurt (oder) which is 600km from the Frankfurt we needed. Frankfurt oder is also very close to the Polish border and we had started to see signs in Polish...

Upon arriving in Frankfurt oder which was 650km from Munich and realising we were very much in the wrong place, the last thing Alexander wanted to do was drive a Further 600km on no sleep. Three red bulls and a chocolate muffin later (and a call to the hotel to explain our situation) we were back on the road our 400km drive turned into a total of 1300km for the day (in less than 11 hours driving time). We arrived at our hotel around 10.30pm and were able to sit at the restaurant and eat a proper meal (our first since the night before we left Paris). When we first realised and calculated the second part of our drive into the Nav-Man I felt horrible, I was meant to be in charge of navigation and addresses, luckily Alexander and I are so close we were laughing about it within a few hundred kilometres.

Armed with 4 hours sleep, breakfast and a great story to tell, we checked out at 7.30am and began our drive to Amsterdam where we were dropping our car off. Unfortunately although the car company knew we were dropping the car off in Amsterdam, they had only loaded on the maps for Germany, so from the German border, I was in charge of navigation - which isn't fun when you understand absolutely none of the language. However I managed, and we arrived in Amsterdam around 1.30pm, Plenty of time get the car back to the garage for the planned drop off time of 3pm.

Unfortunately this is where my navigating luck ran out, when half an hour of driving in circles and a call to Europcar for directions proved fruitless, Europcar sent someone out to us with a pre-programmed tom-tom to guide us the rest of the way (and I must admit I wasn't far off, we just should have turned left where we turned right). We unloaded everything from the car, including a bunch of lilies Alexander bought me on Christmas that had travelled all through Germany and were looking a bit worse for wear -but still beautiful.

Checking into our hotel in Amsterdam was a massive relief, and our cab driver informed us to "only take the red and black cabs, not these guys, these guys are assholes, they will charge you 4 times as much", and luckily my ability to choose amazing hotel and incredible prices overshadowed my lack of ability to navigate! I would highly recommend the NH Galaxy in Amsterdam Noord, with a free shuttle bus to and from the centre of Amsterdam we barely spent any money on transport and our room was incredible.

Climbing into our king size bed for a real nights sleep was a very welcome feeling and the next day we awoke ready to take on Amsterdam - It is here I must admit that neither of us were fans of Amsterdam - perhaps it was the weather and the fact is was the low season.. But we were happy to be heading off that night to a country were we spoke the language. Our trip to the port where our ferry to London left started out a bit worrying when we missed our train by 1 minute, luckily with the European train system the way it is (and my insistence that when travelling we allow ourselves two hours for potential problems) we were on a train to the same place just 5 minutes later.

Our ferry departed from Hoek Van Holland around 10.30pm and I was stunned upon arrival at the terminal. We were travelling on Stenaline and the staff were so helpful, with a gentleman helping us with our bags when he noticed me struggling (something that I did not see anyone else do with people who had small carry on bags) with a shower bigger than our shower in Paris, and a beautifully decorated interior our cabin was a lovely place to lay our heads after a long day of killing time in Amsterdam.

Ill leave this update here, I congratulate you if you bothered to read it all! And now i'll share some photos of this section of our trip.

Christmas Eve at Notre Dame

Candles at Notre Dame

Christmas night at the Eiffel Tower

Christmas dinner for Alexander (made in our tiny kitchenette)

Driving on the Autobahn

Our little baby!

190km/h and it was legal

Our room in Amsterdam.

Chanel Tweed

2011-12-19T03:38:00.000+10:00

Dragging Alexander around to roughly 8 Depot Ventes in Paris was probably not his idea of a good time. However I could not think anything better than being surrounded by Chanel, Lacroix, Dior, Galliano, Hermes, Alaia, Balmain and Vuitton. It was incredible to lay my hands on those garments I never thought I would have the pleasure of seeing in person, to be able to pick up and run my hands over those Balmain SS09 Dresses, Vintage Lacroix gowns and incredible Dior creations was unbelievable.

Having read multiple books on the art of couture sewing and pages upon pages on the workmanships behind these pieces, it was with great excitement that I ever so gently moved between the racks with a care usually reserved for new born babies and highly breakable crystal objects. However in each store I immediately went to find a certain rack, the rack that held the Chanel Tweed Suits. This was the item I was searching for, and I found “the one” after trying on close to 20 suits.

Concealed within the silk lining of a Chanel Jacket is a fine chain that gives the garment its flawless silhouette. This chain allows the jacket to hang correctly against a woman’s figure and ensure the impeccable structure remains intact. Chanel is the only couture house to use ‘weight’ within jackets in this way.And it works, the way this jacket sits is unbelievable and It fit like it was made for me. I immediately knew this one would be coming home with me.

By exercising a continual formula and utilizing the same materials and methods that went into Coco’s first suit, the Chanel suit remains an iconic and highly desired garment of fashion today.The suit has evolved during its existence to fit with ever-transient fashion trends, however the structure of this garment has remained the same at the most fundamental level.

Hermes; St Honore & Sevres

2011-12-14T18:26:00.000+10:00

Stepping foot into the Faubourg St Honore Hermes store is like stepping into luxurious controlled chaos - people everywhere, for such a large store it is very cramped. Between the people and the merchandise there is very little room to move.From the scarf counter, to bracelets, ties and onto the other 2 floors, there is always a sales assistant at your service - or there will be as soon as possible.

Ever helpful they arrange your item within it's box and ensure the customers last name is safely secured with the purchase request, as you browse through the store, each assistant will do this and when you are at your last sales assistant you simply tell them which departments have items set aside for you.

Unfortunately I did not have this indulgence as after I chose my scarf, we discovered that there was one black with silver Collier De Chien left in Paris, and it was at Hermes Sevres, I paid for my scarf and departed with Alexander into the first cab we could find and rushed to the Sevres store (we had dinner reservations that are not easy to get and still had to get back to the other side of town and get ready)

Walking into the Sevres store is like nothing else. At the entrance is a flower shop and the loft-like space was built in the former swimming pool of the Lutetia Hotel. A grand staircase made of curved strips of ash wood, and the surprises continue with the floor holding three pear-shaped structures using the same strips of wood as the stairs, creating a lattice work effect. Inside the tee-pees are room settings with items from Hermes Maison. In addition to the usual items there is a bookshop with the latest coffee table books and a cafe, Le Plongeoir (The diving board). The cafe overlooks the main floor and the tea and coffee are served in Hermes tablewareArchitect Denis Montel maintained the unique facets of the space, keeping the original tiled columns and floors, and the ironwork on the upper balconies yet still making the space modern.

It was here that I was shown the last Black and Silver Collier De Chien in Paris, And I did not hesitate.

Paris; days 1&2

2011-12-13T16:01:00.000+10:00

A dream come true, As I type this I am in my hotel in Paris, and it still doesn't feel quite real.

The past 2 days have been amazing, we have settled in, with a Christmas tree for our room, we have found our local supermarket and food stalls (plenty of amazing vegan options) as well as the metro system figured out!

Yesterday brought alex and I to our first year together and we celebrated with a dinner at the michelin restaurant L'arpege which specialises in vegetarian and fresh ingredients. An amazing meal topped off by a Glass of Tattinger after an interesting day running to the other side of Paris from one Hermes store to another (another post on this to come), We strolled the Champs Elysees before heading to the Pont des Arts bridge to attach our lovelock and throw the keys in.

Pont Des Arts

Click Read more to see the rest of the post!

My lover Alexander (coat; country road scarf; burberry jeans; calvin klein)

Our Love Lock

Birkin spotting

Window at Hermes (more windows to come)

Unfortunately it is just fake snow for now!

And this image brings me to my next two posts...

Beginning Boutique X Brisbane Bloggers

2011-12-07T23:53:00.001+10:00

Tonight the Amazing Sarah and Kate from Beginning Boutique hosted the last Brisbane Fashion Bloggers Meetup for 2011. It was amazing finally putting more names to faces and getting to know everyone. It was great to catch up again with Francesca of Opinion Slave, Nora of Black Balloon and Chloe of Social Emissions before I jet off to Europe for a Month on Saturday.

A massive thank you to Kate and Sarah who gifted all of us with Karen Walker earrings! (I got the skulls, how fitting!)

A shout out must also go to my Lover Alexander who went with me to the event and held himself quite well in a room full of such beautiful and powerful women.

He wouldn't let me photograph him though and the photos I did get he would't let me post!

Click Read More to see the rest of the photos!

Francesca of Opinion Slave & Nora of Black Balloon

Bianca of Sargasso Sea & Chloe of Social Emissions

The Amazing Sarah from Beginning Boutique

Kate & Sarah from Beginning Boutique

Kaity from Modern Legacy

Nora, Sarah and Francesca

Kellie & Bianca from Sargasso Sea

Soph from Owl Vs Dove

Massive thank you again to Kate & Sarah and to all the girls!

Relic

2011-11-25T12:39:00.001+10:00

The ever inspiring and always beautiful Miss Cameron from Molten Store has just released her very own collection of limited edition jewellery and curiosities from around the globe inspired by a love for the bohemian, the obscure and the sentimental.

Click Read More to see the images

All Images Courtesy of Dan @ Red Eclipse for Molten Store

Rick Owen's 10 Rules of Style

2011-11-24T01:32:00.001+10:00

1.
I’m not good at subtlety. If you’re not going to be discreet and quiet, then just go all the way and have the balls to shave off your eyebrows, bleach your hair, and put on some big bracelets.

The rest after the jump! Just click read more

2.
Working out is modern couture. No outfit is going to make you look or feel as good as having a fit body. Buy less clothing and go to the gym instead.

3.
I’ve lived in Paris for six years, and I’m sorry to say that the Ugly American syndrome still exists. Sometimes you just want to say “Stop destroying the landscape with your outfit.” Still, from a design standpoint, I’m tempted to redo the fanny pack. I look at it as a challenge—it’s something to react against.

4.
When a suit gets middle-of-the-road it kind of loses me—it has to be sharp and classic and almost forties.

5.
Hair and shoes say it all. Everything in between is forgivable as long as you keep it simple. Trying to talk with your clothes is passive-aggressive.

6.
There’s something a little too chatterboxy about color. Right now I want black, for its sharpness and punctuation.

7.
Jean-Michel Frank, the thirties interior and furniture designer, supposedly had 40 identical double-breasted gray flannel suits. He knew himself and is a wonderful example of restraint and extravagance.

8.
I hate rings and bracelets on men. I’m not a fan of man bags, or girl bags either—or even sunglasses. I don’t like fussy accessories. Isn’t it more chic to be free? Every jacket I make has interior pockets big enough to store a book and a sandwich and a passport.

9.
With layering, sometimes the more the better. When you layer a lot of black you’re like a walking Louise Nevelson sculpture, and that’s pretty attractive. Allowing yourself to be vulnerable is also one of the most attractive things you can do.

10.
It’s funny—whenever someone talks about rules, I just want to break them. I recoil from the whole idea of rules.

Via. Details Magazine

Seventeen Days

2011-11-23T00:44:00.001+10:00

Until I am in the most amazing city in the world with my Alexander.
We will be celebrating our first year together, Christmas and New Years.
Travelling through Paris, Germany and London!

Brush & Powder

2011-11-15T15:00:00.001+10:00

So happy Chanel has finally released the full size brushes.

Couture Couture

2011-11-07T15:07:00.001+10:00

Candice Swanepoel by Karl Lagerfeld for Harper's Bazaar US October 2011

love it!

Romance My Ego

2011-10-18T15:59:00.000+10:00

Alex Sultan of I Envy Alex has just released her first accessories collection "Romance My Ego" and I have to admit it could be potentially damaging for my savings account. I need both the clutch and bag from the first two images. I'm not going to rant on about how perfect it is, because if you can't see it - well I feel sorry for you.

Also, the fur is all faux, so if you are against the use of real fur, this is a way to get the look without the guilt.

Photographer: Michael Comninus
Model: Katty Luxford
Location: The Bunker Boutique

All Images http://www.ienvyalex.com/

Muse

2011-10-13T16:52:00.001+10:00

So much inspiration.
I love everything, the hair, the classic styling, the photography.

SELF SERVICE N° 35
Photography: Alasdair McLellan
Styling: Suzanne Koller
Model: Arizona Muse

All images from www.selfservicemagazine.com

Versace X H&M

2011-10-11T17:03:00.001+10:00

Shot by Mert and Marcus, the campaign features some of the worlds best models, Abbey Lee, Daphne, Lindsay and Sasha.

Looking forward to seeing some more of the looks! What do you think?

All Images from Pages Digital

JD Williams

2011-09-27T15:09:00.000+10:00

In my hunt for coats I found these gorgeous women’s winter coats from JD Williams

I want it in black!

Marisota

2011-09-19T20:31:00.000+10:00

There are so many e-boutiques that sometimes we can miss out on some real gems, sure they don't have designer brands or follow all the trends (I prefer this!) - but they can have some of the most simple and effective basics. Also, for the larger ladies - they can go to up to sizes that designer labels have nightmares about. Marisota is one of these, and I found this great simple wrap-stye dress that I would happily have hanging in my wardrobe for occasions where some of my other clothing could be seen as "too much".

So go check it out, women’s plus size clothing from Marisota and petite clothing.

Maximo Riera

2011-09-13T15:48:00.002+10:00

Im sure you have seen these images floating around, especially if you are a tumblr regular. But very few people actually know the artist behind these incredible sculptures. Maximo Riera has been an artist for over thirty years. Whilst predominantly working in photography, painting and sculpture, he has also published a collection of poetry - which, like his sculpture - is both haunting and beautiful.

Also I apologize for the lack of fashion posts, but lately I have been finding more inspiration in homewares and interiors. My mother believes that I am "nesting"
All I know is I need the octopus chair in my house.

All images from www.maximoriera.com

Rachel Gilbert

2011-09-08T16:07:00.002+10:00

On my way to work one night, a particular dress in the window of the boutique across the street caught my eye. In the window of Frockshop, front and centre - was the Rachel Gilbert Simone dress.

A long, elegant, black sequin dress that was so unbelievably beautiful I followed it with my eyes as we drove past. Very rarely does an item of clothing lure me in the way this dress did, but everything about it was just right; the cut of the neckline, the figure hugging body with the slight fishtail around the legs and ankles. It was truly beautiful.

Again, very rarely is there something I truly need when it comes to fashion, plenty of things I want. But this was a new level. I need this dress.

Images from Net-A-Porter
The dress is available at Frockshop and Net-A-Porter

Tea Time

2011-08-24T21:18:00.000+10:00

Green, Black, Chai, Roibois, Peppermint... what tea do you prefer?
Whatever i'm drinking - I want it served in one of these...

"Trying to mix an element of craft with industrially manufactured products, doing so by designing various tea sets with the aim of combining old and new. There is no doubt that collectables and old things add so much to our lives, from soothing our fragile psyches after a less than wonderful day to reminding us about the beauty in this world"
Press release from the designer Christine Misiak

Vintage silver tea sets, powder coated in beautiful colours (and most importantly - black).
I love the idea of something so classic being given new life.

Christine currently has no website but her teapots can be viewed on her flickr here

Spring Cleaning

2011-08-24T01:01:00.001+10:00

Spring is fast approaching - bringing with it a fresh take on life, love, exercise, friendships and.. Cleaning.
Plus all the other little tasks that just seem so much harder in the colder months.

In my case spring cleaning means blog renovations.
I figured wekilledCOUTURE. was well overdue for a bit of tender loving care, a fresh layout, a new font... the works.

Let me know what you think, if there's anything you find that doesn't work and if anything can be improved!

Inspiration

2011-08-17T13:04:00.000+10:00

The three H's, a perfect bag, just everything about it.
Love
all images via carolinesmode.com

Un Pour Moi, Un Pour Toi

2011-08-15T17:10:00.003+10:00

One for me, One for you.
To celebrate the launch of Molten Store, one of your readers and myself will have the chance to score a highly coveted Pyrite Ring!
In an exclusive collaboration with Molten Store, Rachel Pfeffer has created breathtaking mountainous forms of pyrite, something that the curator of Molten Store has loved since I first met her (she wore a pyrite ring the first day we met!)

To enter,
Comment on this post to confirm your entry
Like Molten Store on Facebook (www.facebook.com/moltenstore)
Comment on Molten Store’s Facebook Page with wekilledcouture so they know who sent them!

MOLTEN

2011-07-22T14:51:00.000+10:00

Perfection, this is not a word that I throw around lightly - However, when I am referring to the curator and owner of Molten Store it rolls off the tongue as if there was no other possible word in the world to describe her.

Launched on the 21st just after midnight, I stayed awake just to see the dream be brought to life, and from the excitement being thrown around the twitter sphere I wasn't the only one!

I plan on placing my first order in the next few days (and blogging more). Unfortunately Uni is starting and I am working more than ever!

Enough of me, I will let the Molten Store lookbook do the rest.

Do Want

2011-06-29T11:05:00.001+10:00

FarFetched

2011-06-17T12:04:00.001+10:00

The worlds best designers and boutiques in one place, who could think of anything better.

The newly redesigned website is minimalistic, something that most definitely appeals to my choice of website aesthetics.

Luxury & influential designers such as Alexander McQueen, Balenciaga & Givenchy can be found in the same place as the best diffusion lines, experimental and emerging labels. Designers include Henrik Vibskov, Stine Goya and Tsumori Chisato.

No matter what your budget, style or choice of designers - You can find it on FarFetch in Luxe , Lab or Contemporary

I spend a lot of time lurking on FarFetch, so I figured I would present you with my picks of designer skirts and trousers for winter.

L - R: Rick Owens Lilies Draped Skirt, Vivienne Westwood Anglomania Assymetric Gathered Skirt, Preen "Whiskey" Skirt

L - R: Current/Elliot Leather Trousers, Cheap Monday Tapered Sweatpants, Elizabeth and James PJ Trousers

Travel

2011-05-23T12:49:00.003+10:00

My love an I took a week long escape to Melbourne instead, staying on Little Collins Street we were only a short walk from Chanel, Assin, Miss Louise, Belinda and everywhere else you can imagine.
My friend who lives down there also took us to Chadstone, which was like a form of heaven for me. Turn my head one way and there is Miu Miu (which we dont have in Brisbane) Jimmy Choo, and the other way - Gucci, Chanel and anything else you can imagine.

In Transit
ph: Raymond Meier
style: Charlotte Pilcher
model: Julija Sep, Guy Robinson

Titanium Aura

2011-03-16T07:05:00.000+10:00

This was the ring I made whilst completing my silver smithing course.

I did my course at FIO Contemporary on James Street in Brisbane and Matt is a brilliant and encouraging teacher.

The ring is worn on three fingers, made of sterling silver with a ‘titanium aura’ crystal cluster as the centre piece.

I fashioned three rings in the usual manner and soldered them togther. Rather than using a flat piece of metal to sit the crystal on top of the rings, the base had to be made out of wax and then cast in silver to replicate its unique shape and contours underside, and give it strength and stability. The crystal is quite brittle so it was important that it was well supported underneath.

The crystal is claw set in multiple places. It may not look like such small claws could hold a huge piece in place but this type of setting is actually very resilient.

FOR SALE

2011-03-04T09:28:00.000+10:00

Selling my Dolce & Gabbana Dress. Click to go to the eBay listing.

Seasons Greetings

2011-01-02T13:43:00.000+10:00

Merry Christmas, Happy New Year, Hanukkah.

Whatever you celebrate I hope you enjoyed yourself.

I can honestly say that I have been enjoying my time away from the computer and the blogging world.
But no, I am not going anywhere permanently.
This past year was a big one, and I am so completely and utterly thankful for those people I have in my life, whether they be new, old or a returning member (hopefully not going anywhere again)

Christmas was possibly the best I can remember in my short 17 years, and New Years was spent with the only person I could imagine wanting to spend it with. (outfit post of the dress will be coming soon - don't stress)

This year is set to be even bigger than the last, I turn 18, start Uni, and many other wonderful things.

You will be hearing from me again soon my wonderful followers, and for the time being you can still follow me on twitter ( I have been away from home, hence the having to suffice with iPhone twitpics of what I am wearing).

I leave you now with some pictures of what my christmas consisted of, new perfume, Thomas Sabo (from my man), RUSSH, Oyster and Vogue by the pool (just kidding - we have had two days of sun so far this summer), Starting the New Year with a Fresh Day Planner from Kikki. K and Various goodies from Chanel.

Like a boy

2010-12-04T17:57:00.000+10:00

I have been a lazy blogger I know. But I have a reason - upon graduating from high school I found myself in a full time job. Alas, very little time for outfit photos. However I will be making an effort to get up earlier and give it a go!

I am enjoying the freedom that comes with no long having to wear a school uniform 5 days of the week.

Belt byHermes, Jeans by Cheap Monday, Vintage silk singlet, Thrifted blazer, Winklepickers by Underground, Earrings and Ring by Joshua Hall Couture

Transparency

2010-11-23T10:37:00.000+10:00

Transparent Hermes Kelly Bag from 1996.
So incredibly impractical and yet so perfect.
I love transparent bags for reasons that I cannot put into words - must be something about how it completely strips away all privacy that a handbag is meant to represent.
This is the handbag equivalent to a sheer skirt or micro-mesh top - trends that are overtaking blogs and the streets.

What do you think? How do you feel about transparency?

Tatehana

2010-11-16T08:35:00.001+10:00

Warning: Image Heavy Post.
Click "read more" Below the first image to see the rest.

So yesterday, the moment I have been waiting for finally arrived. And if you follow me on twitter - you know what this is about.
I came home from school to see a large box sitting on my desk. I knew what it contained instantly.
I was pretty much paralyzed. After gathering my composure I started to unveil what can only be described as one of the most perfect pairs of shoes in existence. Ones that I have been in love with for a very very long time. Before I even knew that the amazing designer, Noritaka Tatehana - was Lady Gaga's custom shoe maker.

It was an absolute honor to have Noritaka entrust his exquisite works with me. And to slide my feet into the shoes that Chanel Iman wore for her editorial in The Block and who knows who else had worn. These structurally and aesthetically perfect shoes gave me a buzz I had never received from an item of clothing before. And I discovered a few things..
Firstly, there was almost too much pleasure and satisfaction in the doing up of the zippers.
Secondly, the shoes are actually very easy to walk in - I can see how Gaga can do it all day.
and Thirdly (I could go on longer, but 3 is a nice number) I was nearly 7 feet tall.

Credits for this post are:
Dress by Dolce and Gabbana FW2010 from XILE , Cuff from Etsy, Necklace by Mimco.

So with out anymore rambling, what you are really here for..

Drape in, Drape out

2010-11-12T10:35:00.000+10:00

In 4 days, I will be free from the shackles of high school and released from the wearing of a school uniform 5 days a week. It feels amazing, to be nearly free and as my 25 year old friend puts it "become a real person" when he wants to spite me about my age.

Expect to see posts more often now, I no longer have this drain on my time and my ability to wear something that isn't maroon and white and the only blazers I have to wear don't makeme look like a school boy from the 50's (and not in a cute way)
Anyway, I had been wanting the most gorgeous Alexander Wang dress and decided to purchase it before the other dress I wanted (the Shakuhachi drape in and out dress) which sold out on pre-order and then again on release.

Saving money is hard for me, and when I saw that someone had returned the Shakuhachi dress on My Catwalk I knew it was meant to be.

Less than 24 hours later and the dress arrived in my hands and was everything I had hoped for (though it is trickier to put on than I imagined)

Worn with my Joe's Jeans Suede Wedges, Chanel Jade Nail-polish and a couple of my usual rings.

Outtakes

2010-11-07T12:21:00.001+10:00

I fell in love with these out takes of Freja Beha Erichsen by Hedi Slimane for Vogue Paris November 2010.

I think I almost enjoy them more than the actual editorial.

Her energy really comes out in these shots. So gorgeous.

Darla Jackson

2010-11-07T08:59:00.000+10:00

I don't even know how I came across it, but this morning I stumbled upon some of the most gorgeous animal sculpture I have ever seen by Darla Jackson.
So different and incredibly aesthetically pleasing.
From looking at her blog (click) it is obvious that she has this inherent raw talent for creating visually wonderful pieces of work.

So check her out on twitter here and Etsy here.

Image from The Darla Jackson Sculpture Blog

For Us, By Them.

2010-11-01T15:30:00.001+10:00

Just some images from the For Us By Us launch I posted about last week. Some of the garments were absolutely brilliant and the film itself was breathtakingly beautiful.
The night began with a documentary on the project and then the fashion film itself (which will be uploaded on the For Us By Us site soon) was premiered in a theatre that looked like a miniature opera theatre - red velvet curtains and all.
After the showing, some of the garments were brought out on mannequins, and it was amazing to see how much detail went into them. Hundreds of buttons on one, and individually sewn together vintage crocheted lace and doilies.

Tricks and Treats

2010-10-31T14:17:00.002+10:00

Samhain. All Hallows. All Hallow's Eve. Hallow E'en. Halloween.
The most magical night of the year. A night of tricks or treats, jack-o-lanterns and dressing in elaborate or not so elaborate costumes.
Ghost stories, horror movies and seances, tarot card readings and scrying with mirrors. A night of power, when the veil that separates our world from the Otherworld is at its thinnest. A 'spirit night'

What did you dress up as for Halloween? (Or what are you dressing up as)

Tim Burtons "Tricks and Treats" photographed by Tim Walker for Harper's Bazaar October 2009

For Us By Us

2010-10-27T19:52:00.000+10:00

I have been invited to attend the launch of an amazing collaboration with 24 fashion design students and 6 emerging Brisbane artists. Designers have created garments inspired by the artists and they will be shown in a fashion film to be premiered on Friday night. For Us By Us is collaboration project the likes of Brisbane has never seen before. By exploring popularity in fashion and art and the demonstrating the powers of cross-disciplinary collaboration For Us By Us unlocks the creative talent that lies in Brisbane.

Also, The people at Whooga Ugg Boots have been kind enough to offer my readers 10% off, Just use the code 578COUTURE

Structure and Suede

2010-10-19T20:54:00.001+10:00

If you follow me on twitter then you would have seen or heard my story behind these.

I wanted to do a whole outfit post to go with them, but I thought the structural beauty of the wedge was enough in itself. Perhaps it is just the fact I live in a town where barely anyone wears heels during the day... But the 6 inch tall wedges were quite the conversation starter.

Joe's Jeans Princess Suede Wedges from ShopBop

APOLLO II

2010-10-17T16:27:00.001+10:00

They have been featured here twice already, so I think my love for Billy Bride Jewelry is pretty obviously demonstrated. I was overjoyed when I received an email from the amazing Renee - telling me that Billy Bride have just released the 2nd drop of the Apollo Collection.
This second drop is possibly even more covetable than the last, with pieces of pyrite, smokey topaz and lapis lazuli that make the mouth water and my bank account quake with anxiety.

Eres is my favourite! Possibly the most gorgeous indigo aura cluster I have ever seen!

See the rest of the collection here.

What's in my bag?

2010-10-15T12:08:00.002+10:00

If you saw my post a little while ago entitled "Chronicles" you would know how much I wanted the Chronicles of Never bag that bears the name "The Rectangle".
Well after much hunting, I found it. In all (and there is a lot) it's vintage blue-black, buttery leather glory.
Here is a little peek into what I carry around on a daily basis.

What do you keep in your bag?

1. Various Rings, Does Not Equal necklace, Mimco necklace, Disposable party camera

2. Business cards, MAC lipstick in Cyber, Lancome clear gloss, Butter nail varnish, Lighter and cigarettes, Lancome Makeup case.

3. Kikki. K 2010 Leather Day Planner, Bank card & travel card, Clutch/Wallet

E L L E R Y.

2010-09-29T10:50:00.001+10:00

After seeing this skirt on the runway at the Ellery SS10/11 show "Horreur Scope" I knew I needed to own it. Unfortunately after emailing Ellery, the lovely sales/PR girls informed me that the skirt had not been put into production.

However I did not give up, as there was another skirt that DID go into production that looks very similar, so similar in fact I thought it was the same skirt.

More emailing with the exceedingly helpful sales and marketing co-ordinator and it was revealed that one store in Queensland had ordered 2 of the skirts. Luckily this store was very close to home and I was able to go into Izabel and Sebastian (who's director is absolutely lovely) and the Ellery Emma Bubbly Skirt was mine.

It is absolutely amazing, Hand sewn loops of silk with a leather waistband. The skirt is beautifully structured and hovers around you when you walk. Ellery will be my weakness, I already have my eyes on another dress from this collection.

Feast your eyes on "Horreur Scope" online at E L L E R Y L A N D.

Skirt by Ellery - (Online now here), Vintage Victoria's Secret singlet, Various Rings

Oh Mr. Ford

2010-09-14T15:21:00.001+10:00

Terry Richardson for Tom Ford via Fashionologie.

Only head shots have been released, but even from these and a few tweets describing the white tuxedos, pantsuits and fedoras - the 20's inspired collection has claimed my heart already.
Waiting with baited breath until the Tom Ford edited issue of Vogue Paris to be realeased late 2010, early 2011 will be exceedingly difficult. Luckily, we will have the pleasure of viewing images on his website in December.

Does Not Equal

2010-09-12T10:29:00.001+10:00

≠

I've nursed my love of Does Not Equal for quite sometime - Their refined way of creating exceedingly distinct pieces is clean and crisp and I can definitely foresee a rather large collection of Does Not Equal jewelry ending up in my hands.

Shirt - Alexander McQueen via. Net-a-Porter, Necklace - Gift courtesy of Does Not Equal

The real cost of fast fashion

2010-09-09T20:16:00.004+10:00

EDIT:All statistics and facts were referenced in my assignment. UK and American figures are used as finding Australian ones are very difficult.
Please also keep in mind the task was a persuasive speech with my class as the audience, not a research paper, essay or thesis.

I'm coming up to my last couple weeks of my final year of high school, with holidays approaching - Posting will be returning to normal.
For my final English oral, we were required to write a persuasive speech on a topic of our choice.
And because of my disdain for fast fashion and chain store clothing I decided to do my speech on this.
As a result of time limits and the fact I had to keep it simple for the people in my class it is not as detailed as I would like. But here it is.

"Saturday, Queen Street Mall, you are sitting in Gloria Jeans and flipping through the newest copy of RUSSH that you just bought from borders. Plastic bags surround your feet from a day of shopping as you plan potential outfits with which to fill your wardrobe for the upcoming summer. Chances are these garments will be worn once or twice and then discarded once the trend is over or they fall apart due to inferior manufacturing.
6 million 330 thousand tons of clothing and footwear a year is contributed to landfill in the United States alone.

Globalization has made it possible to produce this clothing at increasingly lower prices, prices so low they make the purchase tempting and the disposal painless. Some call it “fast fashion,” the clothing equivalent of fast food. This idea of "fast fashion" leaves a pollution footprint, with each step of the clothing life cycle generating potential environmental and occupational hazards. Recently, there has been an increased interest on the environmental impacts of our consumer behaviour.
So are you thinking about what you are doing to the environment? And more importantly, thinking about what can you do to help?

Fast Fashion is term used to describe the cheap trend clothing, usually sold by stores such as Sportsgirl or Witchery in Australia, or Topshop in the UK. Retailers now will have something new every month or even week in some cases, instead of just two collections (Autumn/Winter and Spring/Summer) each year. This change in consumer buying behaviour is driven by both the reduction in the price of clothing and increased marketing of new trends and fashions.

Fast fashion clothes are generally only worn a few times before being replaced by the latest trend.
But even if no bunnies were harmed in the making of your outfit, ask yourself if any children, rivers, or patches of ozone were destroyed in the quest for your $10 cotton on (or H&M) singlet.
Immense amounts of petro and polluting chemicals are used in Synthetic fibres like polyester which are regularly used in the production of 'fast fashion' clothing. These present health risks for workers, organisms and the environment in the vicinity. Green house gas emissions, chemical pollution and landfill waste are well reported as being key issues in environmental impacts of fast fashion.

The growth of cotton, the most widely used natural fibre uses huge amounts of chemicals that are damaging to the health of the workers and the surrounding environment. Manufacture of these textiles when combined with the transport of the garments around the world produces vast amounts of green house gas.
If that wasn't enough to make you think, there is then the problem of disposing of unwanted clothing. The amount of clothing ending up in landfill is astounding, and on average a person in the UK will contribute 30kgs (roughly 75 pounds) a year. These textiles present particular problems in landfill as synthetic (man-made fibres) products will not decompose. Even natural textiles pollute water systems with chemicals and dyes that are washed out by rain water, woollen garments decompose but produce methane, which again harms the environment.

Are you ready to do something yet? Donnatella Versace “there should be more quality." And it is undeniable when the current situation that the "Fast fashion" is causing is taken into consideration, with each step of the clothing life cycle generating potential environmental and occupational hazards. Buying an investment piece of clothing, something you really love and will last years and in some cases a lifetime – reduces its real cost per wear and is far more ethical than purchasing bags and bags of cheap clothing the second a new watered down catwalk trend hits stores.
Cheap clothing that you will probably wear just once.

if we want to be eco friendly and smart about our fashion purchases, we should put our money toward well-made items that are, unlike clothing from Sportsgirl or Bardot, seasonless and trendproof—a classic black blazer, jeans made from organic cotton, or a little black dress that never goes out of style.
Sure, they're not the most exciting purchases, but if they last, they'll survive any fashion whims.
Recycling of clothing is a great idea but the quality of many fast fashion items makes them less desirable second hand. The quality of the clothing that is coming through recycling plants is on the decline, which makes it harder to reuse.

And whilst there are a numerous manufacturers of eco textiles and brands with excellent environmental credentials available, it is consumer behaviour – Your behaviour, Our behaviour - that will need to change in order to reduce the impact of fashion and clothing on the environment.
Fashion retailers driven by consumer demand and will change their products and marketing to respond to a change in customer behavior.

So make the change from fast fashion to sustainable style. Choose clothes in classic styles that will last more than one season. Store clothes carefully to make them last, keeping shoes and clothes out of the sun will prevent any sun damage or dust and where possible, mend and repair instead of replacing.

And remember Fast isn’t free or cheap– someone, somewhere is paying."

Lanvin X H&M

2010-09-03T12:46:00.001+10:00

Was interesting to discover the news yesterday. Will be interesting to see what he does when fabric cost is very restricted. Wish we had H&M in Aus!

The Chronicles

2010-08-28T14:40:00.002+10:00

It's not often Brisbane has decent sales, but this morning I got to go to possible one of the best sales I could have imagined. The bag I had been lusting over all season was there, in black (sold out on every online store)

Unfortunately I realized I had forgotten my eftpos card (and thanks to spending too much money lately I don't think I had enough anyway), and I missed out.

Chronicles of Never is designed by ex Tsubi designer - Gareth Moody (who is not only lovely, but incredibly handsome)
Every garment, shoe, bag and piece of jewelry (the twig collection is brilliant) has this ambience about it. Indescribable almost, the materials need to be felt to be understood and being surrounded by a room of it I began to appreciate it even more than I did before. Dark and whimsical at the same time the clothes are honestly just too perfect. Comparable to Rick Owens, Gareth Moody is a genius.

I have decided leather is my weak point...
If you know of anywhere / anyone selling one of these bags please let me know!

Rest and Recovery

2010-08-22T16:47:00.000+10:00

I know I have neglected the blog but I assure you it's not without a good reason.

A death in my family and the couple weeks leading up to it was very hard and I just didn't have the inspiration to post.

I will be back soon though!

And thank you for continuing to follow me

Grain

2010-08-08T21:04:00.003+10:00

Spent a day in the city with the wonderful Louise Smit and had tea and took photos.

Gilt and Guilt.

2010-07-29T20:06:00.000+10:00

I'm sorry for the lack of new content, i'm back at school unfortunately and it seems I don't even have time to do the basic things let alone take pictures. Plus, when i'm at school i'm forced to wear a uniform.. which even if we were allowed to post pictures of it on the internet, would be terribly boring and make you all think what the fuck... she's gone crazy.

So I will give you these incredible images from Frockshopstyle. And promise that I have some very interesting and unique posts coming soon.

image credit: Photography Red Eclipse, Styling Jessy Cameron for FS Style, Hair & Make Up Desiree, Model Isabella Cameron.

Come as you are

2010-07-27T20:36:00.001+10:00

Possibly the most perfect editorial image I have seen in a very long time.
Image from theones2watch.

The mist

2010-07-21T20:53:00.000+10:00

Hauntingly beautiful images by a boy who is an acquaintance of mine.
A truly brilliant photographer.
Just a bit of inspiration, I need it. As much as I love winter i'm getting a little sick of it.
I feel the cold far too easily and when it gets to the point where I can no longer swim in my pool (which I do every night)well.. It doesn't make for a very happy Madeleine.

All Photos by Jordan Overbye, Images from his Flickr

No sound but the wind

2010-07-15T21:47:00.000+10:00

7:30am, winter, Fortitude Valley - Which anyone from Brisbane knows is quite literally a wind tunnel with very little sunlight.
A spontaneous shoot with the gorgeous Missy from Kohii
These are just a few of my favorite photos.
Vintage dress and just my usual rings.

Billy Bride

2010-07-11T13:19:00.001+10:00

I have posted about these jaw-droppingly beautiful rings before, but the lovelies over at Billy Bride Jewelery sent me a sneak preview of their new collection. Unfortunately I was unable to post these yesterday as I was at my senior formal. So instead of keeping you in a horrible suspense by saying the collection isn't being released until tomorrow - I can bring you the wonderful piggy-bank-breaking news that the collection has launched and up and running right now.

The new collection features the classic Champagne Aura and hand crafted silver rings I originally fell in love with, but upon viewing the images I was greeted with the amazing Citrine and was captivated by the deep blue Lapis Luzuli set in gold plated silver - and i'm someone who never wears gold jewelry, however the sight of this piece made me want to re-think that. A Rainbow Flourite crystal with a gradient from pale lavender to a baby blue invoked femininity without removing the designers raw aesthetic.

I fall more and more in love with these rings everytime I see them, the slightly rough, dark settings - claws that cling to the raw crystals in all the right places.
I'll let the picures do the talking now, and to see the whole new collection go to Billy Bride Jewelery

Día de los Muertos

2010-07-07T16:06:00.005+10:00

"It’s my romantic side, but the concept is very gothic and very dark."

Riccardo Tisci

Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead), is a holiday celebrated in Latin America and by Latin Americans living in the United States and Canada. The holiday focuses on gatherings of family and friends to pray for and remember friends and family members who have died.

wikipedia.com

When the news spread that Givenchy was no longer staging a runway show a shock wave was felt. However upon viewing the newest collection inspired by Mexican artist Frida Kahlo (what would have been her 103rd birthday was yesterday), the reasoning is very obvious.
This new way of presenting the garments to potential clients allows the viewers to truly see the intricate and breath-taking details on the pieces, their construction a result of "1,600 hours of work" (style.com).
Gicenchy designer Riccardo Tsici's religious upbringing was evident and the collection was inspired by Mexico's el Dia de los Muertos celebrations.
Silk and sparkling crystal, tulle, ostrich feathers and Chantilly lace are just some of the embellishments the jaw-droppingly beautiful 10 look collection features.
A tulle bodysuit maps out the bones of the human body - a hint of the darkness that has come to be expected of Riccardo. Bloody hearts from Mexico's Roman Catholic iconography were displayed through a jacket in bone hued leather (Lions, and tigers, and bears, Oh Chanel!) and also presented was a corseted golden crystal evening gown that took "2 weeks to create by a team of 30 people".(Lions, and tigers, and bears, Oh Chanel!)

This is true Haute Couture and truly appreciating that kind of detailing becomes very difficult when looks are seen briefly on the runway. On Wednesday (today) "clients will attend one on one appointments with the Givenchy couture coordinator" (Lions, and tigers, and bears, Oh Chanel!) and have an opportunity to give the collection a closer inspection.

The collection spoke to me - not from a religious point of view, but from the anatomical side. I love the human anatomy and I am immediately drawn to clothing that draws inspiration from it. Structuring and detailing following the bones of the body will always attract me and this collection was no different. The dress Natasha Poly (1st image) is wearing is my favorite of the whole collection. I am in love with the glimpses of skin that is revealed surrounding the intricately detailed pelvic region, torso and sternum that eventually ends in feathers that appear to float in mid air around the lower legs and feet of the wearer.
Like the vast majority - I would have killed to see this collection up close and personal. So much is lost in photos.

images from modelcouture

Follow with Bloglovin'

2010-06-30T10:48:00.002+10:00

Follow my blog with bloglovin

Raw-hide

2010-06-21T10:38:00.005+10:00

A leather needle is designed to actually cut the leather each time it pierces it.

Leather is a durable and flexible material created via the tanning of putrescible animal rawhide and skin, primarily cattlehide.
In the leather industry, the skin and rawhide are by-products of the meat industry, because the meat has greater commercial value than the rawhide and skin.

Although in theory a t-shirt should be relatively simple to sew and construct, i'm very picky about the fit - So I created the base pattern, a first muslin toile, and a final toile before I even touched the lambskin. Sewing with leather is a beautiful feeling, I could have kept doing it until I ran out of leather to sew, it must be something to do with the way it glides through the foot and the way the needle pierces it. This leather is so soft and buttery, I keep making people touch it.

I wore this outfit last week but only just got a chance to take photos!

Italian Lambskin Shirt - wekilledCOUTURE, Rings - Ebay & Markets, Necklace - Tiffany & Co, Skirt & Tights - Staples, Shoes - Demonia

NORITAKA TATEHANA

2010-06-17T16:30:00.002+10:00

Noritaka Tatehana's shoes, accessories and clothing both breathtakingly beautiful and darkly romantic.
Ever since I first saw images of these floating around the internet I was in love.
From dresses with Victorian themes to shoes to rival the McQueen Armadillo heels and the Nina Ricci Heel-less platform - A lovely and approachable person. Noritaka's online boutique and new website will be up in July and will be shipping world wide.

Now i'm not normally a huge fan of pink shoes... but I could definitely make an exception for these...

But I hope they are available in black.

images from Noritaka Tatehana

two words I hate more than most...

2010-06-14T09:23:00.001+10:00

SOLD OUT .
It wrenches the heart from it's very place in the chest and makes you think it is going to exit through your nose or mouth.
Maybe not that graphic, but it is horribly depressing.

ALEXANDER MCQUEEN Intarsia wool and silk-blend dress from Net-A-Porter
Sold out in XXS. Annoyed.

crystallography

2010-06-08T23:32:00.002+10:00

n. The science of crystal structure and phenomena.

all images from Billy Bride Jewelry

When the lovely Jackie Frank over at Marie Claire Australia saw the amazing Jessy of wide awake thoughts and I lusting over beautiful crystal jewelry via Twitter they directed us to a site they thought we might enjoy.
I could not have expected the rings that Billy Bride Jewelry creates and designs.
The segments of Azurite, Turquoise, Champagne Aura and Clear Quartz are set in an utterly striking way, resulting in rings that catch the eye and demand admiration.
No two stones are alike, and each has a unique appearance.
This irregularity shows individuality, much like that present in every human. As well as the appearance, each stone has inimitable properties and powers that affect the wearer. Each piece is designed and constructed in Australia.
And even if you don't believe in the power of the crystals - They are sure magnificent to look at.

a park of dying dreams.

2010-06-03T21:34:00.007+10:00

I honestly don't know how it could be called a park.
A derelict space with run-down tennis courts, graffitied walls falling down, an old mattress and a chair with 2 legs.
Probably the most fun I have had on a shoot, worked with an amazing team.
Photography by the lovely Stacey Russell
Just some of the photos, will probably post the rest another time

welcome home

2010-05-24T12:47:00.003+10:00

Images from the Selby
jamie isaia and anthony malat's home in Brooklyn

Fur, Lace and some Miu

2010-05-19T10:46:00.017+10:00

My Miu Miu's arrived last week, and although I originally wore this outfit with my creepers, I figured I would show these beauties off.
It's been so cold recently (well, for me... I'm always cold) and I will use any excuse to wear my furs.

Also, nose is not actually pierced.. i'm just testing it out and seeing if I like it.

Lace mini-dress (worn underneath) - Ebay. Long sleeve turtleneck - Basic. Shoes - Miu Miu from Net A Porter. Rings - Ebay, Markets. Fur Coat - Vintage handmade in the 1950's in Melbourne.

2010-05-17T20:47:00.002+10:00

image from ebay.com (my newest purchase)

Apologies for the lack of posts. I've been running around non-stop.
New outfit post soon I promise.

frock shop

2010-05-04T08:39:00.003+10:00

illustration by Kelly Smith

To celebrate the relaunch of Frockshop.com and the launch of FS Style The lovely ladies from Frockshop are giving my readers (you) a very exclusive discount, just enter the codeword BLOGGER at the checkout to receive 10% off your purchase.

Frockshop stocks an amazing array of designers from Antipodium, Gail Sorronda, Karla Spetic, M Missoni and much more.
The offer expires on friday night, which happens to be wekilledCOUTURE's first birthday.

So go on, before time runs out!

Multi colored

2010-05-02T00:41:00.008+10:00

Dress by House of EZIS, Creepers by Demonia, Jacket from ebay, Rings from the markets and ebay, Black silk singlet is vintage Victoria Secret

What I love most about this dress is the way it is constructed, structurally it is brilliant - and goes from being completely flat to something that has so much body and texture. Little details like this make all the difference in a world so full of "fast fashion" it's great when you see a garment that is made with care and attention. Not to mention the colors, which are striking against the black organza.

I also threw in the photo of the hidden coffin compartment in the sole of the creepers, something most people don't know about - great for when you want to hide your... spare change...

Rooftop

2010-04-22T21:53:00.002+10:00

A shoot I did with the fantastic Justin Ma of Jam Photographics last week.
Shot on a rooftop carpark in China Town, climbing on rooftops and in foul smelling stair wells, so much fun. I also had an audience... a family eating yum cha in a restaurant that overlooks the carpark that came to the window and waved at me.

Hair and Makeup by Vivianne Tran
Styling by me

Image 1: Creepers - Demonia, Bodysuit - Basics, Leather jacket - Ebay
Image 2: Moleskin coat - My dads
Image 3: Vintage faux fur coat

Homme vs. Femme

2010-04-21T10:48:00.004+10:00

One coat, two looks.

My first outfit post, so excuse the mildly awkward poses.
I have to figure out somewhere where I have more space so I can get my tripod further back so I don't look so out of proportion due to the angle.

Vintage Yohji Yamamoto Tuxedo Coat from Claire Inc.

Homme: White button up - Vintage, Leather leggings - Ebay, Custom made leather Winkeplepickers - from the UK
Femme: Kimchi Blue Marilyn Dress - Urban Outfitters, Velvet thigh high boots - Pleaser

morning glory

2010-04-12T20:03:00.005+10:00

So this is the shoot I had to wake up at 4:30am for, the weather and sky in the morning was perfect.

Makeup was just done by me for a natural look.

Had another shoot today with very elaborate hair and makeup, 6 looks styled by me and required me climbing on rooftops, only just got home so i'm very tired.

I have some depressing news.

I spilt a glass of green tea on my Macbook Pro - And now it's dead.

Photography by Louise Smit

1. Dress from a boutique in Brisbane
2. Dress from Urban Outfitters
3. Basic top and nude bridal satin and chiffon skirt made by me

It's a good thing

2010-04-07T19:40:00.004+10:00

I don't have a problem waking up early!

Sorry for the lack of posts this week, everything has been hectic.
Hope everyone had a great easter - I worked... everyday except good friday.
And today I had to wake up at 4:30am to catch the water taxi over to an island off the coast of where I live to shoot in the early morning light.
Will have photos up on Monday probably

Image from Flickr

Everything is not normal.

2010-03-29T20:34:00.007+10:00

I have been thinking of this how I would construct this post since I first saw the images from the London College of Fashion MA show. There were so many amazing designs, fresh designers with brilliant minds.
But one particular piece completely stole the show for me (amidst the multicolored gradient dyed fur) , which resulted in dreams of carrying it with me like a loved pet, the dog I could never have as they are far more high maintenance than cats. This bag - made me forget all others. It didn't leave my thoughts.
IT bags never make me swoon, I covet items that are originally designed, handmade, using strange and wonderful textures and fabrics and pieces that aren't on the arm of every fashion blogger in the world wide web. This would explain my sheer worship of the goddess Luxirare.
I had to find out more about this piece.
So I emailed the designer - Merve Tuna - and was met with a welcome response. I discovered that my now most coveted bag is in fact named "Ms Boar" and belongs to the collection "Everything is normal"
The entire show was amazing, pants made from animal pelts ( long before the Chanel "Wookie" pants made their debut in the FW2010 collections ) beautiful tactile shirts embellished with eyes, floor length deep blue velvet with a scarf not only made of fox, but made of multiple complete foxes and birds.
I am in love, the bag has a completely grotesque quality to it that I find incredibly beautiful and attractive, highly controversial (please no hate mail) yes - but it shows that Merve is a designer that doesn't aim to please the vast majority, but rather designs the way they want to design. This is to me is what makes a great designer. True vision, and an imagination to take something far beyond the norm. My attraction is heightened by my respect for this method of creating fashion, of creating works of art.
My addiction to fur has escalated to a new level. And with it, knowledge of a new design technique that Merve is known for - Hacked Fashion - something I will have to do a completely separate post on at a later date. I was inspired and needless to say this resulted in me downloading a 200+ page thesis on "Hacktivism" and "Up-cycling"

Oh the looks I would get with this bag (not like a nearly 5"10 seventeen year old dressed in black leather pants and 5 1/2" platform wedge boots doesn't attract enough already)

I need, I want.

Ms Boar - Merve Tuna

Image courtesy of Morgan O'Donavan for Dazed Digital

preview

2010-03-28T11:29:00.001+10:00

One of the images from the shoot, photographer is editing them all.
More soon!
Sorry for not posting, life has been hectic!

Photo by Fabliha Reza

Seventeen

2010-03-14T15:09:00.005+10:00

Today is my 17th birthday, and I spent it shooting with the incredibly talented Fabliha Reza

The shoot was styled by me, inspired by miu miu s/s 10 to an extent, and incorporating the colored hair trend - taking me back to my obsession with colored hair when i was a mere pre-teen.

Featuring pastels, ribbon, tulle and the stunning costume jewelry in my previous post.

Nails were Chanel Jade Green and my hair was streaked with lavender.

Now, I would never normally post images that were taken on mac photo booth.

But I am extremely tired and cannot be bothered setting up my muslin and taking decent pictures.

But i figured your all itching to see what I look like (nealy one year and most of you - unless you follow me on twitter - will have no idea!) . And today is as good a day as any.

So these will have to do.

Introducing, Madeleine Louise (wekilledcouture)

Photos by me...obviously

Screen Siren

2010-03-12T07:24:00.004+10:00

I'm quite lucky to be able to say all the following pieces are all sitting on my dining table as I type this.

After scrubbing each piece with a toothbrush and toothpaste (the best way to clean costume jewelry) various inscriptions on the back of some became legible. Some say "Austria" "Holly..." "1957" And most of them are real crystal.

Mum was given this (and more that have been lost over the years) By an old time film star who lived in the apartment next to mum when mum lived in Brentwood / Hollywood.

When the lady passed away, mum was given her jewelry.

I'm wearing the pieces for a photo shoot I have on sunday (which is also my 17th birthday)

Photos all by me

Final Runway

2010-03-10T06:46:00.004+10:00

Alexander McQueen's final runway show, fall 2010/2011

It was incredible, though less produced and far smaller than Lee probably had planned, however the presentation of only 15 showpieces in a gilded salon would have been a highly emotional experience for anyone present.

PFW

2010-03-07T09:11:00.002+10:00

Fall 2010/11

Ann Demeulemeester

Elegant, Chic and very sexy.

Haider Ackermann

Love as always

Viktor & Rolf

Pictures cannot do it justice. First face wearing every garment from the collection. Dressing the models as they emerge.

The final collection

2010-03-06T07:39:00.001+10:00

Alexander Mcqueen Pre-Fall 2010.

This collection is pure perfection.

It has everything, stunning graphic prints, suits, leather pants and fur. and more leather.

Blonde on Blonde

2010-02-28T15:26:00.002+10:00

Fantastic editorial, with a model off duty / fashion blogger / magazine editor mix of styling.

It's everything I love.

Images via The Ones to Watch.

Mind is like a mad monkey.

2010-02-21T21:07:00.003+10:00

I think i just fell in love.

Monkey fur, houndstooth, disheveled hair, oversized sunglasses, barely there red lipstick, big black scarf.

And cigarette in hand.

image by Tommy Ton for Style.com

The color of truth is gray.

2010-02-18T20:52:00.003+10:00

I am deathly in love with this shoot, but all of his work is stunning.

I need something like this in my portfolio.

The tone, the atmosphere - Brilliant

And a fellow blogger from Brisbane no less.

Images courtesy of Unsigned Works / chihhanhsu.com

Rodarte AW 2010/11

2010-02-17T20:55:00.003+10:00

image from hanneli.com

Frank Tell AW 2010/11

2010-02-16T07:15:00.003+10:00

Not much to say besides i love it, i want it.

The silhouettes are fantastic, and the palette is amazing.

Alexander Wang FW1011

2010-02-14T12:37:00.004+10:00

So it's been said to channel "Twilight" (something i never ever thought i would mention on this blog... ever... )

But all i see is a rather dark collection, that with some editing could be perfect..

Some of it just looks a bit.. underwhelming.. and some is just bad mixing of fabrics.

Don't get me wrong, I love A. Wang, when he hits it right.. he hits it right.

But this... doesn't make me want to buy it.

And in the end... isn't that the point.. to make us want it? covet it?

I do quite like these 3 looks though...

Preen AW2010

2010-02-14T06:34:00.002+10:00

My first show posting from New York Fashion week this season, and it's wonderful.

Fantastic examples of draping and fit, and exploration of fabric. And not to mention cut-outs.

pictures courtesy of nymag.com

RIP Alexander (Lee) McQueen

2010-02-12T07:17:00.004+10:00

“From heaven to hell and back again, life is a funny thing. Beauty can come from even the most disgusting places.”

— Alexander McQueen (twitter)

1969 - 2010

“The news that Alexander McQueen has killed himself is particularly devastating because it always felt to me like he’d be the last man standing. He was restless, but so pragmatic with it I assumed he had what it took to endure the extreme situations he placed himself in. He was also an arch romantic with a pessimistic streak. It produced some of the most beautiful, shocking images in the history of fashion, but it’s a state of mind that can lead to endless disappointments. The death of McQueen’s mother last week would have validated his pessimism. It would undoubtedly have taken away his most vital support. It’s awful to imagine him trying—and failing—to cope, and one can only hope that, if he was looking for peace, he found it. For everyone left behind, there will eventually be consolation, however scant right now, in a body of work whose power will never die.”

— Tim Blanks via style.com

I am shaken, severely upset. One of fashion's greatest designers, one of fashion's greatest losses.

"Live Alive"

2010-02-11T06:50:00.004+10:00

Tribute to the men and women "rocking" the fashion world.

These shirts were created by art direction team Sandberg & Timonen for a special exhibition at the Brachfeld Gallery in Paris presented by Dorothee Perret.

Again...

2010-02-03T22:01:00.005+10:00

Oh.. now he's just being coy, hiding in the background with the street style shooters.

But really, any boy wearing monkey fur deserves all the attention on his beautiful self.

Previous Posts on Charles:

Charles in Red

Charles in Rad

More Charles.. And Fur

Slow Day

The Boy Behind the Images

dream shoes.

2010-02-01T15:29:00.004+10:00

I think they nearly beat the nina ricci's....

Boots by Phylea

A Landing Not Totally Under Control

160g February 2010

Shot by: Urivaldo Lopes

Styling by: Caroline Nadeau

Model:Luzia @ WM management.

SS10 Artisanal

2010-01-29T20:28:00.001+10:00

Maison Martin Margiela SS10 Haute Couture

Its just not the same... but amazing nonetheless

Oh Coco

2010-01-27T07:00:00.003+10:00

Thank You Karl for returning to some traditional elements of Chanel.

These suits are amazing.

Chanel SS2010 Haute Couture

The haute couture of the animal kingdom.

2010-01-23T19:16:00.003+10:00

Alexander McQueen SS 2010 Ad campaign

This is too freaking amazing for words..

Snakes and McQueen

Rick Owens Homme Fall 2010

2010-01-23T06:37:00.004+10:00

Every outfit... amazing. The first outfit opened and it was bound to be a great show...

The leather, the fur, snakeskin boots and boys that kind of look like girls.

Paris Men's Fashion Week is looking good...

The only disappointing thing is I haven't found any images of Charles Guislain

They will come though...

Images courtesy of Coutorture

artisanal.

2010-01-21T13:45:00.004+10:00

Such a beautiful video, I was sure I had posted it on here before. But I went looking for it and couldn't find it.
So here it is. MMM SS 09
MAISON MARTIN MARGIELA LIGNE ARTISANALE SS09 VIDEO
PIERRE DEBUSSCHERE FOR DAZED & CONFUSED
WWW.DAZEDDIGITAL.COM
MUSIC EINSTURZENDE NEUBAUTEN

Dear Sir

2010-01-18T09:08:00.002+10:00

Just like the creator of these insanely to die for shoes, I LOVE ruffles.

I am not a "pretty" girly girl by any means... but ruffles are my one weakness.

These shoes are genius, and indecorous is now becoming another one of my goddesses. (No-one beats Ji though)

Styled, photographed and created by (IN)DECOROUS TASTE.

The Tribe

2010-01-17T10:26:00.002+10:00

Mariacarla Boscono and Natalia Vodianova in Givenchy SS10 Campaign

I never normally like tribal prints... but i nearly bought the wedges from this collection!

images courtesy of Hanneli.com

Givenchy Pre-Fall 2010

2010-01-14T12:28:00.001+10:00

The palette, the silhouettes.

I love it.

Charles in Red

2010-01-13T08:57:00.004+10:00

Charles, perfection in every outfit.

Previous Posts on Charles:

Charles in Rad

More Charles.. And Fur

Slow Day

The Boy Behind the Images

Images courtesy of JakandJil

Off Duty.

2010-01-05T15:39:00.003+10:00

Models off duty, loving these two looks.

The leather jacket is beautiful, and the blue cape is stunning - would make me consider wearing a super bright color, however my hair is dark so the blue would need to be deeper.

images courtesy from ModelCouture

A matter of taste

2010-01-01T13:41:00.003+10:00

Just when I thought my love for stripper heels and fetish shoes could not increase anymore...

These babies created, styled and photographed by (IN)DECOROUS TASTE come along.

Christmas keeps on coming

2009-12-30T14:47:00.004+10:00

Hope everyone had a Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays.

I couldn't wait to post this in an outfit post (yes, there will be wekilledcouture outfit posts in the new year), so here it is.

My newest purchase - bought this morning.

The Konstantina Mittas white jumper that looks to me like its covered in cigar burns.

It's just like the image on the right, the left was just to show the material a bit more (I did try on the dress in white as well... but the jumper held my heart), and my jumper is in white.

Oh my, so amazing.

Purchased from the most beautiful and hauntingly fantastic store Fallow Brisbane

Which is literally heaven on earth. (also would be my dream job)