Here I am chasing cherry blossoms somewhat unsuccessfully over the weekend. A friend told me that the Abbotsford Convent had a beautiful cherry blossom tree in bloom so I checked the geotag on instagram and saw that it was in full bloom three days previously and decided to hedge my bets and venture down to see it in it's full beauty for myself. Unfortunately it seems three days was enough time for it to start to wilt, but it still was a pretty sight to see. I wore my new ultimate dream outfit comprising of pretty pastel pieces layered under an amazing black sheer patchwork dress from Gorman's incredible latest SS15 collection.
Oh I dyed my hair pink using Fudge recently, it was meant to be a little more pastel but it will fade out and I kinda like this bright pink anyway. What do you think?
WOW look at that, I'm not wearing glasses! Yes I have finally got contact lenses. I've actually asked my optometrists over the years for contacts but was always told I probably couldn't wear them, but my new optometrist said I definitely could. There's actually no reason why I couldnt. I am so confused and angry about my previous optometrists saying I can't, was it purely and simply fat shaming - like there was no point in me wearing them as I was already fat and therefore ugly? I actually can't work it out. Sadly contacts wearing means I can't grow my nails long, at least not just yet as I still am getting used to putting them in. It took me over two hours on my first try to get them in but now it takes me under five minutes for both eyes and is getting easier and easier with each try. This means I can wear all my designer sunglasses now and not just stick to the few pairs that I had prescription lenses put into. Also hello fake eyelashes which I'm wearing above. I could never wear them previously as they would hit my glasses constantly. My makeup also needs to change slightly as it's a little too bold perhaps as I needed it to be stand out to be seen whilst wearing my specs. I'm still going to be wearing my glasses most days, contacts are just for special occasions or for days when I want to wear my sunnies. It's so weird to be able to clearly see my face when not wearing my glasses for the first time in years, which means I can clearly see what I'm doing when I'm doing my makeup too.
I can wear sunglasses and SEE! Thank you contact lenses!
If you follow me on instagram you would know that Lena Dunham followed me on instagram and commented on one of my photos "You are so fresh to death!!!' which was maybe the best moment of my life so far! So when I saw this 'fresh to death' rosette brooch pop up on my friend Phebe's Etsy store a few days later I knew I had to have it to celebrate that Lena Dunham moment forever and ever.
WIN this Gorman 'Stuck on You' stud earrings set valued at $39 by commenting on this blog post! To enter Simply comment on this post with what you would name the pink poodle. Don't forget to leave your email, twitter or blog address so I can get in touch with you if you win. The winner will be chosen at random using random.org. Competition is open Internationally. Competition closes Monday 31st August 2015 at 5pm AEST. Winner will be announced that evening via twitter and contacted via email.
Remember late last year when I was flown to Brisbane for the opening of that amazing Japanese Fashion exhibition at QAGOMA? Well the above dress is what I had dreamed of wearing to the opening, by local Melbourne label Alpha 60 it has that modern Japanese sensibility to it and I wanted to represent some local Melbourne design at the event. However at the time this dress did not fit me at all, so I had to make other outfit plans - but I never forgot the dress. Since then I've been on a bit of a journey, both of the emotional and physical kind, and part of that journey was signing up for a weight loss trial with a local university and I've lost 20kgs so far. Previously I had never in my life actively tried to lose weight, I was happy as I was, and even now I am completely comfortable with being whatever size I may be, big or small I am still 100% body positive. I did this for me and I am proud that I have lost the weight but I do know that me doing this won't make everyone happy in the fatosphere and there could be a backlash which is why I've not really addressed it before today, even though people have noticed in the comments. At this point I'm still fat, I still happily identify as fat, and I'm not currently trying to lose any more weight. Right now, even more so than before, I sit in that awkward "inbetweenie" size range where I can fit into certain pieces in straight sized stores and still fit into plus size clothing too. As you all know I've always shopped and worn both plus size and straight sized clothes but now I just have more options in the straight sized clothing world, and this dress is one of them. It was such a freaking surprise that this fit me, I saw it sitting in the Alpha 60 outlet store in Fitzroy and remembered how much I had wanted it to fit just a few months ago for that opening night in Brisbane, so I decided to try it on. I honestly could not believe it got on, surely I hadn't lost that much weight? I don't really see it when I look in the mirror, I only notice it when I go to wear an old favourite skirt and it won't stay up, or in this instance something I really wanted but couldn't get over my head in the past in size L would now fit me in the size M. FYI sizing is weird and arbitrary, every store is different and if there's one thing I've learnt over the years it is it pays to always try things on. I'm still plus size, but I fit more into the size 14-16 bracket now, I still can't go into most stores and have something fit, but when I can it honestly is mind blowing. I can't imagine what it's like to have that be every single shop in every single street, that is a heck of a lot of choice, I'm not sure I or my wallet could handle it, especially considering my old rule of if it fits I buy it because finding something that fit was so rare. Experiencing some elements of thin privilege for the first time is certainly an eye opener and for now I'm happy to stay in this happy middle ground, but who knows what the future may bring? I may not be able to maintain the weight loss, which I know from extensive reading and the doctors I've been seeing is extremely common as your body is naturally fighting to go back to its set point weight. The weight loss industry feeds off this, and blames the dieters for going back to their old habits creating a never ending cycle of profit off the backs of people who then get depressed and blame themselves. I'm glad I've still never paid a single cent to the diet industry, not that there's anything wrong with you if you have. Eeeep this is meant to be about a dress and not an essay on my feelings about the evilness of the diet industry. This dress is what dreams are made of, white spotty silk goodness, I'm so happy that eventually we were able to be together.
White spotty dressAlpha60 Clearance Store Gold satchel bag Comme des Garçons x Cambridge Satchel Co collaboration piece Gold bunny mask H&M Gold clogsFunkis Gold flakes resin bangleSly Pony Gold pom pom braceletPoms Jewellery Gold flower ringMarc by Marc Jacobs, Gold nailsKmart press on nails, only $2!
I found this amazing gold bunny ears mask whilst cutting through H&M one night as it was raining outside. It was just sitting there with a giant red $2 sticker, and as much as it pains me to buy anything at H&M because I deplore their unethical factory conditions, I also really loved this mask. I've spoken before on my relationship with cheap fast fashion and preferring to steer clear as much as possible, but I also indulge very occasionally when something really stands out and catches my eye. Personally I believe I do the best I can and really it is up to the corporations to do better and not the individual entirely, yes I can and do mostly take my money elsewhere but sometimes I don't and that's okay too. Basically guys, this mask was cute, and hey, at least I'm talking about the issues of shopping at H&M and not glossing over it with pretty pictures like 99% of the blogosphere out there?
I am so in love with this bag! It's a Comme des Garçons x Cambridge Satchel Co collaboration piece that I found on a buy and sell facebook page. Such a fun bag to wear, and I love how I now have accidentally collected a bunch of gold accessories to pair with it, even down to my gold press on nails which were another cheapo $2 score this time from Kmart (who have signed the Oxfam accord, so potentially not as unethical as H&M but you can never be 100% sure).
Accessories! Gold satchel bag Comme des Garçons x Cambridge Satchel Co collaboration piece Gold flakes resin bangleSly Pony Gold pom pom braceletPoms Jewellery Gold flower ringMarc by Marc Jacobs, Gold nailsKmart press on nails, only $2!
I have always wanted a pair of Funkis clogs, and as I was walking through the city one night I noticed they were having a big sale at their Strand Arcade store in Melbourne. I got these for only $60, quite the score, and this time the bargain is an ethical one! I think I'm having a bit of a gold moment hey?
I don't believe in basics, well not in the way that nearly every magazine or fashion blog preaches their importance to your wardrobe - "The 10 must have winter basics you need have in your wardrobe now" with a list of mostly black, white and denim pieces that are all incredibly boring to my eye. For me my winter wardrobe basics are of the loud and bold variety, sure I need a raincoat but make mine yellow with bright flowers all over it. Pink tights replace black tights, a cute pink beanie instead of a grey one, pink patterned gloves and so on, you get the picture - give me all the colour please! As Buzzfeed said recently of my style it's "retro meets rainbow, and shows that bright colours shouldn't be confined to the warmer months"!!! These photos were taken on a cold and rainy day whilst we were away in Daylesford, at beautiful Lake Daylesford. Did I mention it was absolutely freezing cold and lightly raining when we decided to walk around the lake? Thankfully I had my trusty and oh so bright Tsumori Chisato raincoat to layer over my outfit to keep the rain at bay, which had all the Daylesford locals and tourists starring at me as I was the brightest person in the whole town that day.
Outfit details Yellow flower raincoat Tsumori Chisato Pink leather jacketGorman Neoprene tie dye co-ord jumper and skirt Shakuhachi no longer available but the dress is on sale at David Jones Pink tights Kardashian Kollection from Woolies Pink glasses Bespecd Nara's in Rose Pink Pink ear muffsDaiso Pink beanieDaiso Lilac backpack Little shop in the main street in Noosa Brogues Gorman
Underneath the raincoat I was wearing my trusty pink Gorman leather jacket which kept me toasty warm. A biker jacket is a must have piece for winter in my opinion, and I love owning one in statement making pink!
My outfit was this Shakuhachi two piece co-ord tie dye neoprene jumper and mini skirt that I picked up at their store in the Emporium on sale. Neoprene get's a bad rep from a lot of people who don't like the texture, personally I find it really warm and comfy and I love how bright this set is.
Protected from the rain in my hooded raincoat from Tsumori Chisato. My Daiso gloves help keep me warm too.
Pink glovesDaiso Yellow flower raincoat Tsumori Chisato Lilac backpack Little shop in the main street in Noosa
As does my Daiso beanie and earmuffs! Perfect winter basics in my favourite shade of pink!
I'm super excited to announce that I'm teaching a class with Lady Petrova at her School of Fabulousness all about finding YOU & YOUR PERSONAL STYLE on September 19! In this insightful class, Fashion Hayley & Lady Petrova will teach you how to create your own signature look and fine tune your style identity. We will also help you with your self confidence and teach you the tools so you know what styles, colours and silhouettes suit you & your figure best. 100% Body Positive, Fun, Quirky and Insightful! For more information and to secure your spot please click here. I can't wait to meet you all (｡♥‿♥｡)
This outfit is very ME! It's LOUD, it's BOLD and it's BRIGHT hence the title of my post #DUFFlife! The DUFF is a subversive new teen comedy in cinemas 2 April that has been given the Tavi Gevinson seal of approval. #DUFFlife is all about individuality and embracing your inner DUFF (which means your truest self). For me this is it - a bold, bright and fabulous dress, fluff ball earrings and even fluffier accessories, statement shoes and my go-to favourite sunnies!
I adore Marimekko and am so happy that they finally have stores in Australia! I've had a special plate for my home with the Unikko flower print for over 10 years now and still love it as much as the day I bought it. The Unikko flower print is Marimekko's most famous design and in 2014 the print celebrated it's 50th Anniversary. As part of the celebrations they released a clothing collection featuring the now iconic print and this jumper dress is one of the stand out pieces from that collection. As soon as I saw it I knew I had to buy it. Not only was it such a good cut for my figure but I just couldn't pass up the opportunity to wear my favourite flower print.
So happy being me #DUFFlife
I see you babe! You too can express your inner #DUFF by hashtagging #DUFFlife on social media. Show us what makes you unique and you can win some great prizes. Make sure to follow me on Instagram to find out how to win.
Pom pom earrings are everything to me!
Now I even have a pom pom bracelet!
I love this cute little necklace I picked up at a craft market. Mixing local hand made pieces with designer and vintage is so me #DUFFlife!
Vintage Chloe fur ball bag - fluffy furry accessories are my thing you guys!
As most of you would know I recently moved house and nothing makes me feel more at home than a bunch of fresh flowers. This bunch of Australian natives caught my eye at my local florist as I love the colours and textures of the Banksia and Warratah flowers against the greens of the native leaves and grasses. Not only do Banksias and Waratahs look stunning they also last a really long time as as they dry out they retain their colour and shape. I actually had my last bunch for over six months so it's a good investment too, especially at only $10 a bunch in my new neighbourhood compared to the $18 of my old area.
I've been a big fan of Breton stripes forever, I mean who doesn't love this classic wardrobe staple? For a long time plus size women have been told that horizontal stripes are a big no-no which I believe is just not true! Wear whatever you want and feel confident and happy in. Personally I think horizontal stripes emphasise my curves in all the right places and as soon as I saw this Gorman dress I knew it would look amazing on me, and it does (well at least I think so). Paired back with simple black accessories this look is a more casual everyday look for me, just a simple day of running errands, picking up groceries at the local market and meeting a friend for brunch.
This classic look called for more simple and understated sunglasses than you're used to from me. I'm not always about the loud and crazy but everything I wear does have to have a certain 'design edge' to it. What I love about these Le Specs sunnies from Universal Store is their clear pinky bronze toned frame and gold arms which I felt perfectly matched my gold Poms bangle. I'm really loving all things gold right now so finding these sunglasses was a dream.
Going with the French chic vibes of this outfit I also picked up some Macarons from By Josephine, my new local French Patisserie. Their macarons won best macarons of Melbourne in 2010 and I can definitely see why, well taste why - so delicious! Yes I'm already loving living North side, so many new wonderful places to visit and try.
Since buying this House of Holland dress on sale on ASOS a little while ago I've been practically living in it. It's just the most comfortable soft jersey fabric you can imagine which perfectly skims over my lumpy bits rather than clinging to them which is perfect for the hot weather we've been having (well occasional hot weather - this is Melbourne we're talking about here!) What drew me to the dress however was not the soft fabric, as with shopping online I of course had no idea it was just this soft, rather it was the amazingly bold pink cloud print that I instantly fell in love with. My never ending obsession with the colour pink and wearing it head to toe just never dies. So this is yet another #pinkcore all pink outfit that has fast become a favourite in my wardrobe.
Outfit details Dress House of Holland on sale (now sold out but similar styles still available and on sale today!) Pink sunglassesCraig and Karl for Le Specs Pink pom pom earrings DIY Flower bangle House of Cards Circle bagChip Chop! for Sportsgirl Metallic pink sandals ASOS
Sometimes my hair likes to stick out all crazy like this, thanks hair! Pink sunglassesCraig and Karl for Le Specs Pink pom pom earrings DIY
P.S. I'm having an epic GARAGE SALE tomorrow from 9am with a few of my friends and neighbours. Clearing out old season clothes with a mix of vintage and designer pieces. Sizes range from size 6 through to plus size. Will be a great day for it so hopefully see you there xxx
It's hard to believe that Keith Haring came out to Australia in 1984 at the height of his fame, on a three week visit to undertake a series of public art projects including this now iconic mural in Collingwood, at what was then the Collingwood Technical College. Added to the Victorian Heritage Register in 2004 and restored in 2013 after deteriorating due to weather exposure it's now more vibrant than I can ever remember seeing. You can see just how faded the mural was over at Art's Victoria. I'm the same age as this mural, I've walked or been driven past (I still don't drive) many times over the years, and it's always amazed me how it's survived all these years without someone tagging over it. It's only one of 31 known surviving murals by Keith Haring in the world today. That being said, Keith Haring actually signed the mural over the small door that you can see in the bottom right of the photo, but that disappeared from the wall shortly after with no trace for many years. As The Age reported that was until Art's Victoria project officer Jessica Hochberg noticed something on instagram which led her to finding the building's old caretaker who had heard something about the door at a party many years before. Somehow the signed door ended up being anonymously handed in thanks to her detective work, just in time for the restoration project. However as you can see in my photo above the signed door is not there, and the last information I can find is that it was placed back during the restoration process in 2013 according this ABC news article. Hopefully it hasn't gone missing again!
This raincoat is everything to me, I'm so glad I decided to buy it on my last day in Tokyo earlier this year. I had been umming and ahhing over it for the whole trip but finally caved on the last day. So happy I did as I've been wearing it so much since it got a bit warmer as it's the perfect lightweight raincoat for those warmer wet days that we get in spring. Plus it's so cute! I get so many compliments on it when out.
I finally got this Obus dress last week after wanting it for over a month. I instagram'd me trying it on in the changeroom and couldn't get it out of my head this whole time. Unfortunately I was having a bit of a lean cash flow month so had to wait. Luckily I didn't wait too long though as it's now sold out, but some pieces in the print are still available. The print reminds me of Memphis Group Design with it's bold squares and dots in and use of bright colours. According to Dezeen Memphis design is currently making a comeback, albeit a more subtle paired back version - which you can definitely see elements of around Melbourne - from Sportsgirls Bourke Street window earlier this year, to the fit out and even donut decoration over at All Day Donuts, and even local jewellery designer Emily Green has created a Memphis inspired collection. You heard it here first #Memphis is totally trending right now!
Even these sunglasses are a bit Memphis-y. These are another piece I've wanted for a long time, over a year in fact. No idea why I waited so long as I bloody love them. The eye print necklace I picked up at the recent Finders Keepers design market in Melbourne, it's smaller than most of the necklaces I wear which makes a nice change.
I bought this ridiculous faux fur bag on a recent trip to Camberwell market. I only paid $5 for it and didn't really notice the 'See by Chloe' label until I got home, I just loved it's awesome faux fur crazyness. I'm 99% sure it is fake as I only paid $5 for it but for me it wasn't the label I bought it for, it was the crazyness of the bag. I have to be careful when walking down the street with it though as some dogs go crazy thinking it's another dog, twice it's been kinda attacked by dogs, they just lunge for it and bark like crazy #funtimes.
Faux fur bag See By Chloe (?)
Ok even my bangle has Memphis design elements to it. Interesting...
These pink tights were a gift with purchase from Obus when I bought my dress at their recent VIP night. They just so happened to be the perfect peach shade of pink to go with my dress, a happy accident of the random goody bag. I was pleasantly surprised that they fit me perfectly too making me even happier. Thanks Obus!
