TORQUAY VICTORIA...Home of SURF, FASHION and GREAT FOOD!

Hello from Sunny Torquay....

I have had the most gorgeous Easter Holiday with my Beautiful bestest Friends in Jan Juc (Torquay).  Home of the Rip Curl Surf Pro - loads of spunky types wandering around with wetsuits on!!! ha ha.. The surf comp is over but I am here til Saturday.  And there is so much more to Torquay and the Surf Coast than just the magnificent Coast and Beaches.

Of course a bit of retail therapy is definitely a must.  So along with the best array of Surf Stores in Victoria - YES..All the big boys have massive flagship stores down here.  I think nearly every Surf, Skate and Snow brand is represented down here in these stores. They are so much fun to check out.  You will see them all as soon as you drive into Torquay and if you don't just ask one of the natives - they'll be happy to point you in the right direction  

NOT ONLY THAT there is also a nice little selection of fashion stores to choose from.  

S & R, 3 Gilbert St, Torquay is just full of gorgeous Clothing, Accessories, Jewellery, Artwork and Home wares.  Fashion labels include LILYA, Goddess of Babylon, Moda Immagine (from Italy) and some yummy leather pieces from DESMOND.  The look is a sophisticated, cool, thrown together look.  

And I LOVE their fantastic range of Handbags and Jewellery.  I am CRAZY about CHUNKY NECKLACES, EARRINGS or BANGLES.  Just think Trinny and Suzanna - they have definitely got it going on.  BUT remember if you are wearing a Chunky Neckpeice then no earrings OR vic versa!  So layer up and chunk up for Autumn/Winter.

Here are some pics from S & R..... 

Love this LILYA Blouse

S & R's great range of Handbags.

Also some lovely Home wares.  Yes, they definitely carry similar pieces to your favourite local home wares store, so in that respect the range is not totally original BUT you will definitely find some beautiful original art, throws and other bits and pieces.

FOOD AND GREAT COFFEE
AFTER your little shop up - do yourself a huge favour and go next door to to the LITTLE LARDER - This little gastronomic find is awesome.  Beautiful, local, homemade delicacies to eat in or take home.  Best coffee in Torquay.

And if you don't feel like cooking you will surely pick up something yummy to take home from the Larder.  It's right next door to S & R in Gilbert St.

Okay that's definitely enough from me today.  Have a wonderful night.  I hope you're planning something very posh to celebrate the Royal Wedding! I can't wait...
Jo
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ZARA HITS AUSTRALIA - The latest Trends at the BEST Prices! OH YEAH!!!

Happy GOOD FRIDAY.. I hope you've had a happy day - I had a wonderful day with my family.  I'm feeling pretty lucky tonight.  And very full!  OKAY....

The hottest news for Australian fashion retail this week was the Opening of ZARA, Pitt St Mall, Sydney. On Wednesday Night.

The store opened with an excellent turn out from an A-list crowd!  Lapping up the Zara wear.

Zara has designed a collection specifically for Australia's southern hemisphere seasons, which incorporates key looks now hitting the runway.  The hottest colour is CAMEL/CARAMEL/NUDE..you know what I mean! However, ZARA are really picking up on the Brights which are huge Overseas.  See this page from Harpers BAZAAR, UK (March 2011) - Editor's Picks:

Zara's chief communications officer Jesus Echevarria was in town for the opening.  AND the most wonderful news is that they are holding the similar price points to their International stores.

Jeans and cigarette pants are priced from $69, trench coats start from $120 and dresses are around $120.

Australia is the 78th country to become home to the brand, owned by Inditex, which first opened in Spain in 1975.

Today there are 1700 stores worldwide, which last year generated sales of more than E8 billion ($A10.87 billion).  A brilliant retail giant.

Apparently, there will be twice weekly stock drops.  Which will make for constant fresh updated looks - Awesome!!  SO WOMEN, MEN AND KIDS its all there for you in lovely SYDNEY Town.  With MELBOURNE store opening later in the year.  Next to DJ's in Bourke St Mall.  I'll keep you posted. 

Viva La ZARA!

Joey

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ALI MCGRAW meets POCHAHONTIS!!! HAT me up ....

Hey There lovely people

Holiday tomorrow - yaaaay.  I hope you all have something fab to wear for GOOD Friday??  Did you know Easter Saturday is one of the biggest retail trading days of the year! 

Personally, I have done my spending to already! MMMmm the Winter Hat, a floaty blouse and fabulous Embellished Vest.  Yep I did some serious retail therapy this afternoon BUT hey it was all from Sportsgirl and it's my birthday on Saturday...so what they hell :)  I'm happy!

I LOVE HATS but have been umming about this latest trend yet knowing I love it-  what the hell ....Here I am in my HAT

OH don't you just Love photos of yourself, taken by yourself with your iphone!!! OH DEAR - I promise I look better in real life :)

There are loads of Hats out there. BUT personally I think it's a short term trend so stick to Sportsgirl or maybe Portmans etc.  Unless you have money to burn.  And the other option is check out Op Shops and Vintage Stores.

Love

Jo

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PS:  A special Hello to my beautiful friends in Tasmania xxxxxxx LOVE U

BEST VINTAGE STORE IN MELB - even if you're not a vintage type! READ ON...

OMG...Hi, I hope you are all really happy and healthy and looking forward to the Easter Break!

I cannot begin to tell you how much I LOVE this store.... SHAPPERE.  IT IS ONE OF THE BEST VINTAGE STORES I HAVE COME ACROSS.  Great finds from USA and EUROPE FOR THE GALS AND BOYS - SO YOU DON'T NEED TO RUMMAGE - and the prices are reasonable....YAAAAAY!

The stores are owned by Rachael - who obviously has a great eye! She has stores in Chapel St, WINDSOR, Brunswick St, FITZROY and a new store opening in High Street NORTHCOTE any day now.  For more info go to http://www.shappere.com.au/ or call 03 9419 0738 for Fitzroy OR 03 9533 2006.

She has fantastic, talented people working for her - Sarah Enticknap: A Photographer and Stylist see: sarahenticknap.blogspot.com  AND lovely Jacinta Yelland - an Actress (see photo) She is starring in a Play called MISS JULIE  At The Owl and the Pussy Cat in Richmond - I'm going and I don't really like theatre that much, but her description of the play was enticing.  See http://www.5pound.com.au/ for tickets, they are $20 or $15 concession. Starts May 18 -til 28th.

BTW my pics do not do the store justice at all...

HONESTLY ...this was such a find for me I sort of wanted to keep it a secret :)  And for the Peeps that don't do Vintage or are a little scared of it - this is the store for you.  ENJOY!

Take care
Joey
x

PS: As you know, if you need any help with styling/shopping etc please give me a buzz.

Love this ...Boots and style worn by Ruthie

Hey There...

It's been a a few days too long - sorry I've been selling car, interviewing people and having a melt down about getting older! Yes I know - embrace it!

Well this beautiful, stylish woman was in 4M in High St, Prahran on Saturday.  Her name is Ruthie Johnson and MAN she is HOT - I begged to take her pic - she said OKAY but not my head. BTW her face is beautiful.....

And she is wearing the Gorgeous riding boots (see my last weeks blog) from HUSK!  I love her look and she wears it with style and ease.  And that isn't always easy for us when were over 40.  Go Girl go...I love it! PS: notice the fabulous Turquoise / diamond earrings - O YEAHHH!! 

Embrace your own style and go for it!
J
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OSCAR, HENRY, BRUTUS and TALITHA Getty.....PLEASE don't sell yourself short!

Hi Beautiful People,

Today is about TALITHA, OSCAR, HENRY, BRUTUS and my day - please entertain me....

I was with a gorgeous client today doing a wardrobe detox and it was sooooo much fun.  We had a good old laugh about how (for example) we see a summer dress and think MMMmmm that is so: Talitha Getty on the beach!  Only to get home and go - I look like a colourful, short Whale in this! OUCH!!   Know what I mean???

The answer I believe is to stay true to yourself - don't sell yourself short.  That is: don't just buy something because it's on sale and it looks pretty good.  Only buy something because it looks fantastic on you and it accentuates all your best bits :)  and you really love it!



TALITHA was truly spectacular.  God bless her soul.  She died of a heroin overdose at the age of 30! The same year as Jim Morrison (The Doors), Jimi Hendrix and Janis Joplin. 

WHAT A HUGE WASTE OF TALENT - BECAUSE OF DRUGS AND ALCOHOL!!

On a lighter note I need to show you my new favourite shop assistant:

THIS IS OSCAR.  He is the best shop attendant ever, even at the age of 1 and he would prefer to like OR lick you to death than eat you! My friend Tyson (his Dad) gets a little jealous of all the attention he gets. Sorry Tyson but really you are the lucky one as he is yours and you are his :)

 THIS IS DARLING HENRY -HE IS the LITTLE BABY BUT (Actually a FEW YEARS OLD) WE ARE HAPPY WITH THAT BECAUSE HE HAS HIS OLDER SISTER HEIDI TO LOOK AFTER HIM. I love all xxxx  I am his God Mother :)

This is BRUTUS - HE IS SUCH A GORGEOUS PUG A LICIOUS BOY. HE JUST LOVES BEING LOVED AND REALLY LOVES A QUICK RUNAWAY IF HE GETS A CHANCE - ha ha ha. HE ALWAYS COMES BACK. OF COURSE! GOD BLESS HIM HE COULD LICK A STAIN OFF THE CARPET ALL DAY!!!! he he he ....... 

Thats all for tonight -

MUCH LOVE

Joey

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BOOTYLICIOUS continued....ZOMP, COUNTRY ROAD, SCANLAN & THEODORE, OLRIK Denmark, WITCHERY

Welcome to a very WET Wednesday in Melbourne town! 

If you have not already purchased your Winter Boots - I think it could be timely given this weather!  OH and I don't think I mentioned I think there are 3 styles which we need for Winter!!! Yes 3! 

1.  The Long knee length or over the knee - riding style flat Boot.  And when I say flat it can mean with a 1 to 2.5 cm heel.
2.  A Biker boot or Short Flat Riding Boot or slouchy suede flat boot
and
3.  A Kick Ass pair of Sky Scraper Ankle boots to take you out at Night!


So lets get on with the BOOT SHOW....


ZOMP

WOW!!!!!  These guys have every Boot style covered!  There are soooo many gorgeous boots to buy it's Scary - in a good way!  Their prices start at around $200 up to around $500.  Their product is good quality.  The variation and colour offer is just the best I have come across so far.
ZOMP have stores located in Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane and Perth.  You can visit them on line at http://www.zomp.com.au/ for store locations and all other info. 

Following are just some of my faves.....

SLOUCHY BIKER STYLE BOOTS - ABOVE AND BELOW.

Yummy riding boots - with interesting application.

 STUD TOE ANKLE BOOT - HOT!

 BOOT BROGUE - Gorgeous.

Gorgeous Mika from ZOMP - Chapel St, South Yarra - such a spunk, this girl knows how to wear a boot!!  The girls at Zomp are lovely and very clued onto fashion.  She is wearing my favourite stud toe ankle boot.

KICK ASS HIGH HEEL BOOTS.

CHUNKY BUCKLE UP STYLE.  LOVE IT.

Lovely Suede Ankle Boot - with stud detail - Gorgeous for any age and much better in real life.

COUNTRY ROAD

Country Road's Winter clothing collection is just lovely - SOOOO Many great things to buy.  Whether you're a business executive, Mums of all description, Fashionistas and even the casual country girl - there is seriously something for everyone.  It's just the way you mix it up and wear it.

I found the BOOT range a little small in comparison to their clothing offer. I would imagine there are still a few more styles yet to arrive for the Australian Winter. What I did see was definitely a well priced, well made classic boot, perfect for everyday wear.  With a few key fashion boots.  I have included the more interesting styles plus a photo of their Gorgeous Sherpa Vest - Yummy!

I LOVE THESE TWO BOOTS ABOVE AND BELOW FOR A POINT OF DIFFERENCE.  THE STUDS - THE TOE SHAPE AND THE WOODEN STACKED HEEL - VERY  NICE!

SCANLAN & THEODORE

This much loved and coveted Australian Designer Brand has some beautiful quality Boot Styles in for Winter.  Their range is not huge but big enough to represent a number of different looks from day to night.  Their styles are unique, beautiful, fashionable yet classic.  The prices are around $450 for a flat riding boot upwards to around $750.  They also carry some fabulous European Designer pieces - which are gorgeous, fan and well worth a look.

For store locations nationally and more info on Scanlan and Theodore please visit: www.scanlantheodore.com.au .   The service at their Chapel st, South Yarra store was terrific.

OLRIK Denmark

This Danish Emporium for Men and Women is sensational - WHAT A FIND!  Honestly, go and check this store out whether it be online or even better, in real life.  Find them at www.olrikdenmark.com  They stock there own label and a number of other fantastic Scandinavian Brands.  The Danes are so cool.

The prices range from $100 to $1000 - this is for a fabulous Jacket or a Heavily Appliqued pair of Boots. I found them to be very competitive with our mid to upper range stores.  My favourite Chunky Biker Boot is $299.  And its hot.

I will do a write up on the overall store soon.  Go and see beautiful Danish Brittanica (yes that's her name - and yes she is tall and Blonde with that lovely accent) or any of the lovely staff for something a little bit different!

GO DIRECTLY TO: www.olrikdenmark.com  YOU WILL NOT BE DISAPPOINTED!

WITCHERY

Witchery do a great job representing all the current global trends with out being too Trendy!!! Eeew!  Their product is sophisticated and generally well priced.  It is always my fave place to take clients for basics and of course highlight Fashion Pieces.

I don't think they have their whole Boot range in as yet.  However they have some great little suede ankle boots for a casual for any age and the most beautiful pair of Slim Line LONG flat riding Boots.  There were also a beautiful suede ankle boot which is just so stylish and perfect for elegant office wear, dinners and luncheons - very Lady like! 

Please go to www.witchery.com.au for all store locations, Internet shopping and all the latest from this Brand.

Here's a preview:

NOTE: WITCHERY'S SHERPA JACKET IS A GREAT FIND - CHECK IT OUT - I COULDN'T FIT ANY MORE PICS IN :)

I truly hope some of this information has helped or at least been of interest.  I welcome feedback (PLEASE) and if you need any help with Styling or Shopping just go directly to my website: jo@styleincorporated.com.au 

I just have a couple more stores to review this week including the beautiful DOLCi FiRME.  

Happy shopping -

Jo

x

BOOTYLICIOUS! ....FINK, Wittner, HUSK and more

Hey there.....

I have been BOOT scooting around the whole of Melbourne looking for the most beautiful Winter Boots.

All of the stores I visited have either an Internet store and/or are happy to deal with interstate customers.  And best of all I did NOT come across one bitchy sales person!! Wonders never cease to amaze me.

I will follow up tomorrow as there is quite a bit to digest in tonight's report......


FIRST STOP....
FINK 
999 Ormond Road ELWOOD. Telephone: (03) 9531 7889 A lovely store with passionate Kelly managing - she is incredibly knowledgeable about about the shoes and fashion in general and she wants to help you!  who would have thought :). The  Owner/Buyers are Mick and Sara.  All Boots are Leather and there is nothing over $329.  Ankle boots are around $100 to 169.  Lace UPs $109 - 199 and the fantastic print riding boots are only $169.  They offer a VIP discount of 10% once you purchase over $100.

My main favourite are the long riding style boot by NUDE at $289 that can be worn up or slouchy.  And are a great everyday boot.  They also come in a gorgeous vintage Tan.  See below...

 For those cool chicks who love skinny jeans and an Ankle Boot - These are Hot and they are only $169.  They sell out really quickly - the third delivery is on it's way.  Also love these with Leggings or OPAQUE tights.  But would suggest you be of a medium to tall height to wear them well.

These little Babies are fab for night time.  With Skinny Jeans and a gorgeous Silk Blouse. 

Or Black Opaques and a fabulous Mini Dress.   Not for the faint of heart....

Down right Cool - these Zebra print Riding boots are HOT and well priced.

WITTNER

Lovely staff - Jessica in the St Kilda store was so helpful to me and the other customers.  Wittner have always been a go to store for me whenever I want shoes. 
Zoe Wittner has a fantastic eye for design. Her range is beautifully suited to a broad audience.  Check Wittner out! The Boots are all around $250 if not less!!!! WHAT!
For the nearest location in your state go to http://www.wittner.com.au/ or call 1300 137 463 for enquiries.



Elsa. Such a lovely Vintage style boot. My Friend's Zoe and Stephanie would look fab in these!

NERO'S - Smart / Cute and especially stylish with a gorgeous pair of leather shorts or
a lovely mini.  Even a Fab over the knee (new length) skirt with 60 denier panty hose - top  it off with a beautiful Silk Blouse.  Yummy.  You will be the sexy gal at the dinner party. Wear a Cool Blazer too!  Very Ali McGraw.

Harrison.  It's a style that keeps coming up in all collections - with or without fur.  But this one is named after my Nephew/Godson :) I had to choose it - Go Harrison!
I love this for all the skinny legged gals no matter what age - as long as you have skinny legs you can where them. BTW This is only my opinion - I don't have the legs to wear these boots even if I wanted to!

And below are my Favourite Wittner Boots.  I LOVE a chunky Biker boot for Winter and all my friends will tell you that my old ones have totally had it - So these are for me.  They are lined with black fur and have a great chunky leather sole.  And they are only about $250. 

PS: This bag is a sensation - LOVE IT!  At $229 where it with Glee!

HUSK

YES, YES, YES, I know - How yummy is this store.  It's the best.  Owned by the very lovely and beautiful Jackie Naylor - I hope I got that right Jackie.  I met her at the Fashion Festival recently and she is just the most lovely person - and gorgeous to boot!  I thought she was an ex model!

HUSK has four stores in Melbourne - Hawksburn Village - Prahran, Albert Park, Carlton and Melbourne City.  BUT THE BIG NEWS is they are opening in Adelaide SOON!  So let your S.A. peeps know they will now be able to experience this unique shopping experience in their own home town.  See Husk's website for more details.  http://www.husk.com.au/

HUSK'S BOOTS are simple and stunning.  These guys do not play around.  They have only 3 Styles by 3 Designers all in 2 different colour.  My hunch is - they give you THE BOOT to wear everyday throughout winter - knowing you are slick, cool and fabulous!  Here they are:

SANCHO - This is the Original Texan Boot! YES SERIOUSLY - This boot is exclusive to HUSK.  It is Hand Made and comes in 2 colourways.  At $799 you could wear these babies for years.

HUSK Designed - Italian Leather and Italian made classic Texan Boot.  Comes in 2 colourways - yummy - check them out.




AND the ROBERTO del CARLO CLASSIC RIDING BOOT. Italian Made and $795.  In Chocolate Brown or Black.  Husk stock this boot every year and they sell out every year.  It is the most beautiful Leather and you would be very happy with them on your feet.

A pic of the Gorgeous Sandra from HUSK Albert Park wearing their SHEAR LING JACKET! Give it to me NOW!!!   It also comes in leather with Shear ling trim - Yum!

NEXT.....

I'll review Country Road, Witchery, the Gorgeous DOLCi FiRME,  ZOMP the incredible and a great new fave OLRIK denmark - I love the Danes!

Hope this has given you some inspiration - as there are so many beautiful products out there.  If you need any help with your own wardrobe - please contact me at http://www.styleincorporated.com.au/

Have a lovely evening - see you with more BOOTy licious news tomorrow.

Joey

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