Maiden Luxe

A Short Intermission

2011-02-23T20:11:00.000+11:00

Thank you everyone for your continued support of this blog, it has been a pleasure reading your comments each day. I will be taking a 8 week break starting this week and look forward to catching up on all of your blogs and on my return. xxx

Friday Night Drinks

2011-02-19T00:40:00.000+11:00

On a warm summer's evening there is nothing more appealing than a scoop of homemade lemon sorbet drowned in champagne. As light and bubbly as air with the tang and sweetness of lemon and sugar it is guaranteed to lift the spirits. Happy Friday!

Friday Night Drinks

2011-02-11T22:07:00.000+11:00

A full moon, strong dark rum and sailing the high seas is my poison tonight. Happy Friday.

Time Flies

2011-02-09T22:37:00.000+11:00

This week is dragging its heels for me and I cannot believe that it is only Wednesday. It always astounds me that I can simultaneously wish days away and at the same time complain about getting old. So I plan to try and embrace the day tomorrow and not wish the hours away, this will be no mean feat given the fact that I have a day full of very boring meetings scheduled.

In the Red

2011-02-08T12:30:00.000+11:00

What is it about red hair that inspires so much passion (both positive and negative)? Personally I think it is quite beautiful.

Sea Dreaming

2011-02-07T20:04:00.000+11:00

After I snapped this shot today of some of my jewellery sparkling in the sun, I was struck by how much it reminded me of seaweed and the sea. Now I am craving a trip to the beach.

Happy Sunday and a Giveaway!

2011-02-06T13:14:00.003+11:00

To celebrate a lovely sunny Sunday, I am holding a GIVEAWAY for a $50 dollar store gift voucher over on my other blog CLOSET, please drop by the blog to enter. Hope everyone is having a lovely Sunday xx

Friday Night Drinks

2011-02-04T21:36:00.000+11:00

On Sunday I plan to visit a winery that makes one of my favourite Rose wines. In anticipation of this visit drinks tonight are a glass of this pretty blush wine. Its raining and storming outside so it seems the perfect night to put on some perfectly pretty lingerie and curl up in this blush hued room. Happy Friday!

In The Wild

2011-02-01T12:53:00.000+11:00

I love these spectacularly beautiful images from photographer Racetay. The muted but vibrant colour and stunning focus are beautifully framed. To see more of Raceytay's work please visit the here.

Late Summer Afternoon

2011-01-29T18:09:00.000+11:00

It is a stunning late afternoon summer's day here today so I am off out to enjoy it. Wherever you are I hope you are having a lovely, relaxing day.

Friday Night Drinks

2011-01-28T20:58:00.000+11:00

Over the last week I have fallen in love with Marshmallow Kokettes from my favourite chocolate shop in the city. I am not usually a marshmallow eater but these super soft and sweet squares coated in premium milk chocolate are too much for me to resist. In honour of this new found passion tonight's drinks are super sweet and girly. A rich hot chocolate filled with pink marshmallow and laced heavily with rum. Of course to wear it has to be something ridiculously frothy and pink. Happy Friday!

An Angel in My Shower

2011-01-26T10:17:00.001+11:00

How fabulous and beautiful are these handmade angel wing soaps from SatinandBirch? They are way too pretty to use but would make such a lovely addition to my bathroom. See their etsy store here to purchase. Unfortunately for me they don't post to Australia at the moment so I will just have to admire online.

Hair Love

2011-01-25T20:45:00.000+11:00

Im off to an event next weekend and am looking for a hairslytle to go with a very simple shift dress that I am wearing. I love the these three images above, my favourite being number 1. Would love to hear your opinion on which I should choose.

Friday Night Drinks

2011-01-21T17:01:00.000+11:00

After a busy week I feel like something utterly frivolous and fun to drink. Pineapple juice and rum with loads of fresh ice is entirely appropriate and this flirty yellow dress (minus the black net veil and stockings) would be perfect to wear. The grilled pineapple and ice cream dessert is also very tempting. Happy Friday!

Space Wars

2011-01-18T16:51:00.000+11:00

Fashion, art or just plain ridiculous??

The Swing

2011-01-17T23:07:00.001+11:00

How spectacular is this image, it gives a whole new (glamorous) meaning to swinging from a chandelier.

Friday Night Drinks

2011-01-14T22:29:00.000+11:00

Although it is sickly sweet and guaranteed to induce a hangover, I have very fond memories of peach schnapps, usually consumed by shot at the end of the evening. Eli Saab's 70s inspired peach frock adds the right level of kitsch to the evening. Happy Friday!

Clashing Brights

2011-01-12T16:17:00.000+11:00

Wandering past a shoe shop in the city today I spied a pair of neon bright shoes (similar to pic one) that now have me lusting for all things bright and beautiful. Completely impractical and a fast fading fashion trend I'm not sure that I will buy them but they are certainly spectacular to look at.

Deja Vu

2011-01-11T22:34:00.000+11:00

Around this time two years ago Victoria, the State that I live in, was hit with the worst bushfires in the history of the nation resulting in a massive loss of life and wide spread devastation. At the time I remember the number of text messages and telephone calls from concerned friends and family. The roles are reversed this week and it is with a feeling of deja vu that I contact my parents, brother and family and cousins who are all in or close by the floods that are devastating South-East Queensland to check that are all right. With the death toll set to continue to rise along with the flood water it it is yet another reminder of the harshness of this beautiful country we inhabit. Wishing safety to everyone affected in this area.

Arthur Elgort

2011-01-10T13:25:00.002+11:00

How fabulous are these images from acclaimed Vogue photographer, Arthur Elgort.

Happy Sunday

2011-01-09T09:19:00.001+11:00

Hope you are having a lovely, relaxing day. xx

Paris on My Mind

2011-01-08T13:38:00.005+11:00

Oh to be in Paris wandering the wintery boulevards today.

Friday Night Drinks

2011-01-07T16:35:00.000+11:00

Last week I visited a Melbourne dining institution, Pellegrini's Espresso Bar, a small traditional Italian cafe/restaurant which delivers bucketloads of history and atmosphere. On arrival you either perch at the bar or share a communal table in the kitchen (where a small Italian nonna will ask you what you would like to eat - no menu required). Heaped bowls of steaming pasta follow with plenty of bread and a shots of espresso. All for under $20. Tonight's drinks are inspired by this place, which serves no alcohol, so a Chinotto is a must. Of course for those who cant go past a Friday night without a little tipple, a splash of gin and a slice of lemon is a worthwhile addition to this bittersweet drink. To wear is has to be another traditional Italian institution, Prada, and a healthy does of black to fit in with the Melbourne uniform. Happy Friday!

Palm Springs

2011-01-06T13:19:00.000+11:00

Im planning a trip to Los Angeles in early spring for work, at the end of this trip we plan to spend a few days in Palm Springs. I have neve been to this desert oasis however I am fascinated by the architecture and natural location so I am very excited about the trip. I would love to hear from anyone who has been there on the best places to eat, shop, stay and be entertained.

Pale Beauty

2011-01-04T09:26:00.000+11:00

Pale and interesting beauties or unhealthy and in need of a good tan?? Would love to hear your thoughts.

Miles

2011-01-03T15:08:00.000+11:00

I love this image by photographer Miles Aldridge, the textures and styling are beautiful. It has a 1960s feel and although it is most likely meant to represent sadness, for me it is a very calming photograph.

All is Quiet

2011-01-01T14:17:00.001+11:00

After a hectic 2010, Im happy for the peace and quiet of New Year's Day. I'm off to the see a late afternoon film followed hopefully by some home cooked food and a a peaceful evening. I hope you are having a relaxing day, wherever you are.

New Years Eve Drinks

2010-12-31T13:39:00.001+11:00

I'm not one for resolutions at this time of year, preferring to ease in to the New Year without commiting to something I will most likely not keep. That said I do enjoy the festive spirit of New Year and love to start the evening off with a Kir Royale. Regular readers of this blog will know that a Kir Royale has featured in Friday Night Drinks before, however (like champagne and martinis) they are a firm favourite of mine which I can't go past on New Year. This red sequin Dior dress (on a very slim Lydia Hearst) would be the ideal dress with just the right amount of sparkle and fun. Happy New Year's Eve!

Picnic Time

2010-12-28T12:48:00.001+11:00

For many people today is the last day of the Chistmas break, I think a perfect way to spend it would be with close friends and family on a relaxed country picnic.

Where is the Sunshine?

2010-12-27T15:28:00.001+11:00

It is cool and cloudy today even though it is the middle of summer, these images help add a little sunshine to an otherwise gloomy day.

Christmas Eve Drinks

2010-12-25T00:20:00.001+11:00

I love hosting Christmas Eve dinner at my place, I find that it is a incredibly romantic and anticipatory evening, I like to make the night as simple as possible with champagne, fresh seafood (we are in Australia!), fresh flowers and family. Tonight was no exception, we feasted on crayfish and traditional fish pie, later in the evening use the remains of the cray to make a pot of stock for a champagne and prawn risotto on Boxing day. Perfect! Wherever you are I hope you are having a beautiful Christmas Eve. xx

The Festive Room

2010-12-23T15:17:00.000+11:00

It can be hard to get Christmas interiors right, I think these rooms above achieve the right balance between festive and stylish.

A Marchesa Moment

2010-12-19T10:20:00.002+11:00

Im having a small love affair with Marchesa at the moment, these three dresses are my pick for a perfect Christmas party dress.

Wallpaper Love

2010-12-18T10:12:00.001+11:00

I love the clash of violet and blue in this image.

Friday Night Drinks

2010-12-17T22:12:00.000+11:00

I was looking at my blog today and realised I have nearly gone 5 days without blogging, my only excuse has is that it has been a busy lead up to Christmas this year. Of course this is really not a good excuse so I promise this coming week I will be much more regular! Ginger is a flavour I associate with both Autumn and also Christmas. These ginger snap cocktails are simple and festive. Baking ginger cookies to decorate and hang on the tree is a favourite festive season ritual and this gold Marchesa dress would be on my Christmas wish list. Happy Friday!

Ginger Snap
•2 ounces Advocaat liqueur
•3 ounces good quality ginger ale
Mix Advocaat and ginger ale in a highball glass filed with ice.

The Reading Nook

2010-12-12T18:19:00.000+11:00

Happy Sunday, I hope you find a nice relaxing spot to spend the afternoon.

Carousel

2010-12-11T20:09:00.000+11:00

To me there is something magical about a carousel at night. The music, the lights and the smell of hot donuts and popcorn never fail to make me nostalgic.

Friday Night Drinks

2010-12-10T23:12:00.000+11:00

When I was 18 I spent a blissful three weeks laying on a Thai beach thinking about nothing but which beachside bar or restaurant I would visit after a long day of sunning myself by the water. I developed a taste for hollowed out coconuts filled with rum, ice and fresh lime.Tonight's drinks are inspired by these very fond memories. Happy Friday!

A Ballerina Moment

2010-12-06T09:33:00.002+11:00

I love the elegance and strength of these pretty ballerina images.

Ms Moss

2010-12-04T20:02:00.001+11:00

These images of a 30+ Kate Moss are for Vogue Italia December 2010. The interesting thing I find about Ms Moss is that no matter the controversy she courts in her private life she is always in demand professionally.

Friday Night Drinks

2010-12-03T19:20:00.000+11:00

Drinks tonight are inspired by the lovely Dita and the citrus sweetness of French liquer Contreau. Whilst it is not a drink I indulge in often when I do it has to be straight up on ice. Happy Friday!

Summer Shoe Love

2010-12-02T15:49:00.000+11:00

After a winter filled with grey and black, I have been busy shopping for shoes in an array of colours to brighten up my summer wardrobe. Bright turquoise, hot pink and gold feature heavily with bow, sparkle and stud details dominating. I cant wait to wear some of these lovely jewels, if only it would stop raining!

It's Official

2010-12-01T18:53:00.001+11:00

I can't begin to even contemplate Christmas until December so today marks the first day of the festive season for me. It's time to dig out the decorations and start thinking about all of Christmas shopping I need to do. Heres hoping for a relaxing lead up to Christmas for you all!

A Touch of Blue

2010-12-01T04:43:00.001+11:00

A dose of daily inspiration brought to you by the colour blue.

A Rosy Morning

2010-11-30T13:13:00.000+11:00

There is not much that competes with a sunny morning spent pottering in the garden. Here are some of the pretty roses I collected.

Beach Day

2010-11-27T21:07:00.000+11:00

Happy Saturday by the beach! xx

Friday Night Drinks

2010-11-26T23:39:00.000+11:00

I am down at the beach this weekend and a walk on the jetty tonight bought us to the wharf where fresh crayfish had just been caught. The decision of what to have for dinner was solved pretty quickly and with a bottle of chilled champagne we headed to the beach to watch the sun set. Happy Friday!

Korean Dream

2010-11-24T22:23:00.001+11:00

Given the current tension in the region I thought it was an ideal time to showcase some beautiful, artistic and very peaceful images from Vogue Korea.

Over the Top Lime

2010-11-23T10:22:00.000+11:00

How fabulously over the top is the decor in this 1960s caravan. Im not sure I could manage more than a day or two on holidays with this lime green overload.

Marvellous Madeleine

2010-11-22T09:58:00.001+11:00

These images are the work of renowned 20th century French interior designer Madeleine Castaing.

Colour Love

2010-11-22T07:19:00.001+11:00

A little colour inspiration to brighten up a Monday morning.

Happy Sunday

2010-11-21T10:26:00.000+11:00

Have a lovely day xx

Friday Night Drinks

2010-11-19T20:42:00.001+11:00

Instead of going in to the office this morning we decided to organise a volunteer event for our group. The obvious choice was working up at ANZAC house to help them get ready for the ANZAC day appeal in April. The task was fairly mundane (attaching pins to backing card to sell for $2 a pop) to raise much needed funds for the RSL (Retired Services League) so that they can support the veteran community and other returned soldiers and their families. I am very happy to say we managed to do 10,600 badges in a 3 hour period. So tonight's drinks are inspired by the many soldiers who have fought in wars all across the globe. I can only imagine a daily rum ration would have seemed like heaven to those in the trenches. Of course it really wouldnt be a Maiden Luxe post without a nod to fashion so tonight Im going military style, inspired by the lovely Cat Deeley. Happy Friday!

Ginger and Rose

2010-11-18T10:35:00.007+11:00

I baked these ginger and rose petal heart cookies on the weekend. I had no idea how they would turn out as I made the recipe up as I went along. They taste quite good so I was very pleased with the result.

The Project - An Update

2010-11-16T21:34:00.000+11:00

You may recall a few months back I posted a picture of this deco sideboard (bottom pic) that was collecting dust in our garage. I wasnt sure what to do with it and some of you helped with suggestions. I promised to post some images once I did something with it. Well here they are, I must admit my contribution to this project was taking the pictures, my lovely husband did all the actual work.

Italian Summer

2010-11-16T03:26:00.002+11:00

I recently ordered this book online 'Recipes from an Italian Summer'. Im looking forward to long summer evenings trying out a range of the beautiful recipes inside.

Fashion House

2010-11-15T08:10:00.003+11:00

I adore the eclectic feel and subtle use of colour throughout this home which belongs to one of American Vogue's fashion elite.

Happy Sunday

2010-11-14T10:06:00.002+11:00

Happy Sunday to all! xxx

The First of the Season

2010-11-13T09:30:00.001+11:00

A couple of days ago I blogged about the magnificent rose bush that borders a path in my garden and promised to post some images of the blooms I picked from the first flourish of the season. The roses found the perfect home on my newly purchased stool in my study where I often retire to read and while away the hours when I am supposed to be working.

Friday Night Drinks

2010-11-12T14:46:00.001+11:00

Im mad about blueberries so when I stumbled across this cocktail I knew I would have to try it. This beautiful Givenchy dress would suit me perfectly to wear to tonight and I think I a great place to enjoy would be under the Wisteria (see below post). Happy Friday!

5 blueberries

1/2 oz. lemongrass syrup
3/4 oz. lemon juice
1/2 oz. Pagés Parfait Amour Liqueur
1 1/2 oz. Gin
Bitter Lemon Soda
2 purple and 2 white violets
Lavender stem with flower

Fill a glass with ice, interspersing violets throughout. In a mixing glass, combine berries, syrup, and lemon juice. Muddle thoroughly. Add spirits and fill glass with ice. Shake vigorously. Add bitter lemon soda to mixture. Strain mixture into glass. Garnish with 2 blueberries, a long thin lemon twist, and a lavender sprig.
(To make lemongrass syrup, bring 4 cups water to a boil. Add 4 stalks chopped lemongrass. Let boil until reduced by half. Turn off heat and add 2 1/2 cups sugar. Stir well and strain. Let cool before using and refrigerate between use).

In My Garden Today

2010-11-11T22:16:00.002+11:00

One of the things I love most about my garden is this little pathway that leads out to the back garden. At this time of year the wisteria is out in abundance and on the adjoining side there is a beautiful rose bush that flowers magnificently (ill post some photos soon of the blooms I picked this morning). I hardly ever make time to sit on the bench seat on this path but I am comforted just knowing it is there.

To Market

2010-11-10T22:15:00.004+11:00

Borough Market, London

Food Market, Florence

Rue de Mouffetard, Paris

Outdoor Food Market, Florence

Rue de Mouffetard, Paris

Tsukiji Fish Market, Japan

Ladies Market, Hong Kong

When I am travelling one of my favourite things to do is to wander around the abundent food markets of the city I am in. Usually if I am staying in a hotel this is absolute torture as I have no way of cooking up some of the delights that I find. That said, a trip to Paris would not be complete without purchasing some soft brie and a baguette and finding the nearest park to scoff it down in. When I lived in London Sunday for me was spent at the Borough Market, gathering food for the evening meal and ending the day with a glass of wine at one of the adjoining wine bars. Im always on the hunt for new markets so if anyone has any favourites they care to share with me I would love to hear from you.

Lusting After

2010-11-10T10:04:00.000+11:00

I currently have my eye on this adorable coffee table book by Fleur Wood ' Food, Fashion, Friends', Im hoping that maybe one of my nearest and dearest may read this post and suprise me with it at Christmas.

2010-11-09T04:43:00.001+11:00

I love the drama, colour and the styling of these images by Pierre Del Corso feauturing northern hemisphere fall courure pieces.

Early Evening

2010-11-08T16:33:00.003+11:00

This looks like a perfectly glamourous place to spend the early evening watching the sun go down with an icy cold drink. Anyone care to join me?

Sunday Style

2010-11-07T16:31:00.000+11:00

Happy Sunday xxx

Friday Night Drinks

2010-11-05T23:01:00.001+11:00

Every now and again I love nothing more than at the end of the evening to curl up with a steaming hot cup of chamomile tea and a good book. Whilst this usually does not occur on a Friday night tonight it is unseasonably cold and I am feel like retreating from the world to the comfort of my home. A dash of honey adds a little sweetness to the mix. Happy Friday!

Yellow

2010-11-05T12:55:00.001+11:00

I am having a mini obsession with bright yellow at the moment, Im not sure if it is because we are approaching summer after a long cold winter or whether it is prompted by a beautiful pair of bright yellow shoes I spotted in the window of one of my favourite stores a few days ago. Either way it is one colour I really shouldn't flirt with too much as it neither suits my colouring or my home. Maybe purchasing the shoes will help alleviate my desire to fill my wardrobe and house with this hue.

Cup Eve

2010-11-01T16:00:00.000+11:00

It is Melbourne Cup day tomorrow which is a huge event here in Victoria. Usually it is the champagne that flows freely on this day however tomorrow it is predicted that it will be rain flowing in bucket loads at the track. A stylish umbrella will be required to keep that rain at bay and keep the pretty fillies looking perfect throughout the day.

Friday Night Drinks

2010-10-29T16:06:00.000+11:00

I dont normally like my martini to be messed with however I can make one exception for a Pomegranate Martini. I love the jewelled beauty of pomgrante and mixed with vodka it is superb. Happy Friday!

2 oz vodka
1/2 oz fresh lemon juice
1/4 oz fresh pomegranate juice
1 oz sugar syrup
Shake all ingredients well with ice and strain into a chilled martini glass. Add a spinkle of pomegranate seeds. Enjoy!

The New Shoes

2010-10-27T10:05:00.001+11:00

I purchased these shoes on a whim a couple of weeks ago, something about the impracticality and gold sparkles was particularly attractive to me. Im not sure when I will wear them however in the meantime they look very pretty sitting on my shelf.

Smell the Roses

2010-10-26T22:27:00.000+11:00

I always find that Tuesday is one of my busiest days of the week, the week has just begun and there is a semblance of motivation to achieve goals and fit in the more mundane day to day activities that make up a big portion of a Tuesday. Sometimes I long for time to just stop and smell the roses every now and again..

Sunday Blossom

2010-10-24T13:59:00.009+11:00

We have been away for the last week so I was delighted to return home and see that one of the trees in our back yard had blossomed seemingly overnight. When we left it was just sprouting new growth however the combination of rain followed by a series of warm sunny days led to the fabulous blossoming.

Afternoon Light

2010-10-23T16:58:00.000+11:00

I snapped these shots in my study this afternoon while I was doing some work. The afternoon light was shining perfectly for about 45 seconds through a glass a soda and it looked so pretty.

Friday Night Drinks

2010-10-22T16:48:00.001+11:00

The Australian dollar has gone through the roof this week so I have been doing my bit to help to the US economy by shopping online at my favourite US stores. One of my pretty purchases has been a white peach Archipeligo scented candle (which costs about 60% less in the States than here!) which has inspired tonight's post. A peach bellini reminds me of sun and summer which is perfect for today as we have had our first real summery day for the season. This Chanel dress would be perfect to wear however no matter how high the dollar is prices for Chanel dont seem to alter. Maybe a trip to Paris to by from the source is required. Happy Friday!

Hot or Not?

2010-10-16T20:55:00.000+11:00

It is very rare to see smoking featured in a fashion or beauty shoot these days so this shot in LOfficial Ukraine is suprising. Although I know it is totally inappropriate to think that smoking is hot or sexy there is something slightly seductive about this shot. Thoughts??

Friday Night Drinks

2010-10-16T00:49:00.000+11:00

My father turned 70 today so we are having a very big family weekend up on the sunny Gold Coast. I asked my dad what his favoutrite drink was and aside from beer he said it was a good old Malted Milk. He is also a lover of Elvis and everything 1950's so Dad, Happy Birthday- this blog is for you. Happy Friday!

Work Style

2010-10-12T23:52:00.001+11:00

Oh if everyone at my work was as immaculately presented as this lovely lady the workplace would be much more fabulous!

Friday Night Drinks

2010-10-01T23:30:00.001+10:00

I'm watching a classic 80s film tonight, Big Business, so drinks tonight are influenced by the excess, big hair and over the top outfits of 1980s New York. Strawberry Daquiri anyone? Happy Friday!

Blend strawberries, ice, sugar, rum, lemon juice, soda in a blender.Pour in to a chilled glass. Enjoy!

Friday Night Drinks ...on Saturday

2010-09-25T23:07:00.001+10:00

This week I thought it was appropriate to hold off on Friday Night Drinks until Saturday. Today is the biggest sporting event in Australia, the Grand Final of the Australian Rules football. Unless you have spent some time in Melbourne when this final is on it may be difficult to comprehend the mayhem and atmosphere that it brings to the city. Fans descend from everywhere and over 100,000 make it to the stadium to watch the match. The drink of choice is undoubtably Victorian Bitter beer and the food? A traditional meat pie of course. No one said it was glamorous...The result of today's match ended in a draw which means that this is going to be repeated all over again next Saturday. Happy Saturday!

Friday Night Drinks

2010-09-17T18:53:00.000+10:00

Im only a gin drinker on very rare occasions and my preference in white spirits always tends to vodka so when making a gimlet the only choice is a vodka one. The perfect blend of icy vodka and lime is a lovely way to start the weekend, particularly with the abundance of fresh lime available at the moment. Of course in a drink with so few ingredients the key is to select the best quality vodka that can be afforded. Happy Friday!

Friday Night Drinks

2010-09-10T15:49:00.001+10:00

Its Friday again and tonight vodka is the choice of the day. The zest and fizz of a moscow mule is a perfect start to the weekend. Happy Friday!

Moscow Mule
In a glass with ice add odka, ginger beer, lime juice and garnish with a sprig of mint and a slice of lime. Enjoy!

Pretty Ballerina

2010-09-10T15:41:00.000+10:00

I love the strength and beauty in these shots of Lara Swieciki by Pierre Dal Corso.

The Swim

2010-09-04T20:37:00.001+10:00

Most weekends I manage to fit in a swim at some stage, I find it very relaxing after a very busy week. Scarlett's poolside look is very beautiful but perhaps a little bit unpractical for my local watering hole.

Friday Night Drinks

2010-09-03T20:50:00.000+10:00

We are due to have a weekend of wild weather and torrential rain here however tonight is mild and balmy and feels like the seasons are about to change. So tonights drink is a very girly shandy, and on odd occasions I love the slight sweetness and light that he lemonade brings to a glass of beer. This dress is cute however that flimsy umbrella may not hold up to the deluge of rain due to arrive here soon!

Guinevere

2010-08-30T09:25:00.001+10:00

Ethereal images of the unique fashion model Guinevere van Seenus.

Pretty Polly

2010-08-29T07:00:00.006+10:00

The advice given to drivers on country Australian roads is not to swerve if confronted with wildlife on the road due to the danger it presents to the driver. I always battle with this advice as my first instinct is to try to avoid hitting any animal on the road. Last week a solitary parrot decided to stand his ground and speeding along at 110kms I was distressed to hear the sickening thump as I flew past. This image is in honor of this very Pretty Polly.

Winter Beach Blooms

2010-08-28T08:47:00.004+10:00

I love the beach in winter and was pleasantly suprised to come across a riot of winter blooms by the seaside today on a day trip to the coast. It was only 5 degrees outside however the weak winter sun and the pretty blooms made it an absolute pleasure to be there.

Friday Night Drinks

2010-08-27T20:45:00.000+10:00

Im patiently waiting for a steaming bowl of pasta which is being cooked in my kitchen as I type so drinks tonight are Italian themed. Post-dinner we plan to indulge in some Grappa. If I was not at home in rural Australia I would love to be enjoying this Grappa in the northern Italian town of Bassano de Grappa where it is believed that Grappa originated. Practical or not this divine dress from the Italian fashion house Versace is perfect. Not sure about the head gear...Happy Friday!

The Lovely Lara

2010-08-23T16:30:00.001+10:00

I adore these colourful shots of lovely Lara Stone for W magazine.

Friday Night Drinks

2010-08-20T18:02:00.000+10:00

It is wine again this week prompted by a visit by my sister to the Barossa Valley wine region in South Australia last weekend. She had some lovely bottles of Rockford wine sent back which have just arrived so dinner tonight is being replaced by a plate of Maggie Beer produce (another Barossa favourite) and a bottle of cabernet. After days fo rain wellington boots are a must to wear whilst navigating through the vines. Happy Friday!

Friday Night Drinks

2010-08-13T20:46:00.000+10:00

After a hectic week a simple and easy meal is required tonight. Im making a frittata with feta, pumkin and asparagus so it is only fitting to accompany it with a cool, light glass of pinot grigio. This cute Dior dress, sans hat, would be cute to wear. Happy Friday!

WIN GIVENCHY

2010-08-10T13:42:00.000+10:00

Drop over to the CLOSET blog today for the chance to win a beautiful vintage GIVENCHY necklace in their monthly GIVEAWAY. http://www.closetmelbourne.blogspot.com/

Friday Night Drinks

2010-08-06T21:53:00.001+10:00

I am in the middle of catching up on the Mad Men series and whilst I write this Im watching the 5th episode of Season 1 (alot to catch up on I know!). Im a little bit in love with the fashion and jewellery in the show so tonight's drinks are inspired by this era. My drink tonight is an 'Old Fashioned' and to wear a pretty 1950s style dress. Umbrellas and cigarettes optional. Happy Friday!

Old Fashioned
Dissolve a small lump of sugar with a little water in a glass, add two dashes Angostura bitters, a small piece ice, a piece lemon-peel and whiskey. Mix with small spoon and serve.

Winter Blooms

2010-08-05T19:17:00.000+10:00

I love the fact that even in the dead of winter I can manage to find a bunch of colourful blooms from the garden, Im not sure if it is a sign of early spring or just a spell of sunny winter weather.

Friday Night Drinks

2010-07-30T22:11:00.000+10:00

Its Friday night again and tonight Im choosing a non-alcoholic option. When I was younger I always thought of a lemon, lime and bitters as a soft option however as the years go by I have developed a taste for them. A sweet citrus hued dress to wear tops off the evening. Happy Friday!

The Project

2010-07-24T20:52:00.001+10:00

I found this beat up sideboard in a second hand store in a tiny country town miles from the city for $10 a few weeks ago. Would love to hear your thoughts on how I should restore it, currently its sitting in the garage gathering dust...

Time to Travel

2010-07-24T18:55:00.000+10:00

Im not long back from a trip to the New York and LA but Im already thinking about where I can go next. I find of late I am getting itchy feet and dreaming about destinations both near and far.

Friday Night Drinks

2010-07-23T22:59:00.000+10:00

A couple of weeks ago I went out for drinks with friends who are almost 10 years younger than I am. They introduced me to a Jam Donut shot which actually tasted exactly like a jam donut. I have no idea what was in it however they tasted great. Happy Friday!

60s New York

2010-07-23T22:05:00.001+10:00

I love this original 60s New York image.