They're Here!

Now they can be yours!

After being inundated with emails and constantly stopped in the street about my fabulous wide leg, vintage style pants, I've decided to offer them as custom orders through Etsy. I am offering sizes 8-16 (Australian) at this stage, but am happy to take custom orders for other sizes too. Just send me a message on Etsy for more details. Each pair will be custom made to your height so that there are no alterations to be done and you don't loose the lovely cuff detailing.

Every time I wear these I get so many compliments, and as they have quickly become a staple of my wardrobe I've decided that they are just too good not to share. So get in quick to order yourself some serious style. Originality guaranteed!

Etsy Love - Pink Delight

It has been some time since I showed you some of my favorite Etsy finds, so today here's a peek into my current favorites. I came across these pretties while seeking inspiration for a new reader request project I have on the go. I wonder if any of you can guess what it might be? Only those fashion super sleuths or psychics will guess this one.

Kimono Dress from Sky Creations

Buffalo Girl print from Pinky Toast

Valentine Gift Tags by Krafty Chic Designs

Bow Tie Scarf by Mousse Au Chocolat

Poopsie Necklace from I'm Your Present.

Swanky Panky

I'm doing some online fantasy shopping today as I am heading out to my brother's birthday evening and just feel like something other than what is presently in the wardrobe. When I found this dress by Jason Brundson, I knew it was the one. Luckily I couldn't buy it online to satisfy my instant gratification tendencies. Truthfully, almost all his latest designs made me rub my hands in glee. (And Jason, if you are by chance reading this, your designs would look much better on me than these girls. So when you need an ambassador, give me a call.) Instead I am fantasizing about how I might style this number as the runway look does nothing for me.

Firstly the shoes. Everyone seems to be buying gold runners or gold pants these days, but that trend really isn't for me. Instead, these Luzzi gold heels are more my speed. A little bit vintage and a little bit hoochie, but worn with the demure neckline of Brundson's dress they'll work a treat.


For a day time option I love these emerald green, suede peep toe platforms. With these shoes and that dress, I can just picture myself acting as Mr. Cary Grant's (circa 1950) personal secretary for the day. " Yes, Mr. Grant. Of course I can take dictation."


And because I couldn't arrive at the office with the wind blowing through my perfectly coiffed hair, I think a little mystery is in order in the form of this Hot Hollywood hat.



This pill box style Bell Hop Hat from Topsy Turvy Designs on Etsy won me over big time. With the gold heeled, plaid shoes - this would be my choice for party night on the town.


So now that is all in order, I am off to raid my wardrobe in the hope of creating something just right for the night. And Jason, my publicist is awaiting your call.

Daily Outfit

Outfit details: Red leopard top - The Coveted on Etsy, Teal top - Miss Shop, Skirt - SES, Shoes - Urban Originals on Ebay.

Firstly, let me apologize for today's rushed pictures. The colour and detail is somewhat lost here. It was a mad rush to get to kinder this morning. I'd like to get some better outfit shots with these shoes, but I just had to show you these lovelies. After my blue shoe obsession, these are one of the pairs I purchased on Ebay and they are a perfect fit. I am so please as it all worked out much more economically that I initially thought, particularly if I take into account the cost of petrol here at present and the time I would have taken to drive around and find something similar.

I actually had a day to spend to myself today. So I took the opportunity to book myself into the hairdresser as my visits tend to be marathon events. After 4 hours and the perfect colour (finally - thank you Brad!), I headed off happy to tackle a little shopping before my child free day came to an abrupt end. When you have a rare five hours to yourself, they go all to quickly.

I am about to spend the next week as a sole parent while the Mr. gallivants around in Thailand, hanging out at the pool and drinking Mai Tai's. He says it is a conference but I know better. *wink* But that is good news for you all, as I plan to occupy my time tackling many of the requests I've received for specific posts and concocting all sorts of surprises to come. And perhaps I'll start tomorrow with a Bloody Mary, just to share in that vacation spirit.

Playing Dress Ups With - The Lil Midget

Finally, the third winner of my 'Dressing Up' contest, is The Lil Midget. As a fellow Australian, The Lil Midget is coming into Winter and lives in an area that can be rather chilly at times. Her special outfits requests were to help her look taller as she is only 5'2", and outfits for both everyday, (Lil Midget is a university student) and out on the town. I also happen to know that she loves both Gothic and alternative fashion, so as a Goth from way back, I have a bit of an advantage here. It is my opinion that Goth can also be sophisticated. Cliche Goth really doesn't take all that much creativity and can be quite formulaic, I suggest showing your darker side with style. Besides which, this is one Goth look you can take from Den to Dinner.

Firstly, in my aim to create both an elongated and elegant look, I have aimed for a lean silhouette. I don't want to swamp her small frame with long, flowing skirts or trailing sleeves. Floor length flowing skirts can create a 'pillar' look, with the heaviest part of the silhouette at the bottom, they draw the eye down and can get quite weighty. Rather, I want to draw the eye inward and upward, so I have allowed for volume in the sleeves and shoulders.

Also (and I know she probably won't like this idea), but to help her look taller I suggest getting rid of the long hair. Long hair, while beautiful, can also be quite weighty both literally and visually. I'd love to see a sharp, asymmetrical bob; something a little avante garde and edgy, for our Lil Midget.

First up, a rather special 'Evening at the Opera' or perhaps Graduation outfit.




You'll notice in these sets that I have worked with block colour from head to toe, (with the odd splash) which if done correctly, will also create an elongated look. This fabulous dress has the added advantage of the vertical stripes running from top to bottom, and the square neckline continues the vertical line. The snake skin bangle and fur shrug, push this whole ensemble from office to opulence.

This one is Gothic Mistress at cocktails, or an evening of seduction.



Once again, you'll notice the use of a single predominate colour, even keeping with a dark red, (black could also work, but is much more predictable) for the tights rather than chopping her off at the knees with skin tone. The ruffled cardigan allows a little width at the shoulders, but the skirt and heels allow the eye to travel all the way up without stopping. I do love the Hare Cameo and skull clasp clutch. If you're budget doesn't stretch to some of these designer picks, check out Etsy for some fabulous near matches on the cameo, or customize your own clutch.

After these stunning looks, I can't forget that Lil Midget is a student after all, and will need some practical solutions for everyday. Thus; The Sophisticated Goth goes Casual.



Okay, same thing with the block colour, I have chosen two tops here as I couldn't go past the ruffles, but I know how cold it is where Lil Midget lives, so I have thrown in this beautiful muted purple trench for good measure. Keeping the interest, I have added this fabulous leather corset top with big button detail, a more modern take on the studded cuff and (this time) all the puff is in the bag. The wonderful linen, buckled boots should handle walking all over campus, but still give you a lift with their square, stable heel. The Victorian Momento Mori brooch should be just the conversation starter with that dark, brooding chap in the cafe.



And to show the versatility of all these pieces, I have taken something from every look, paired with a pleated red satin flat, and created yet another casual look. How's that for bang for your buck? I can see so many combinations of all these pieces, it is really just a matter of sticking to the rules and keeping that eye traveling upwards.


And If you do decide to cut your hair, please let us know.

Daily Outfit

Red Leopard top - Etsy, Jeans - Target, Stilettos - Hot Options, Make up note: Lipstick- Sangria by Avon (for all those who keep asking).

My Red Leopard top from The Coveted on Etsy arrived today. Thanks to Wendy B for pointing this one out. It is has fabulous puff sleeves and ribbing at the bottom, which gives it a different silhouette to the standard cardi. I love it! I have so many outfits to work this into but I didn't really have time to experiment today, so it was just on with the jeans and then heading out. I think it would look great with a slim black pencil skirt and some killer heels. Possibly also short culottes and stiletto boots. Any suggestions?

Can't you tell I'm pleased as punch?

Swanky Panky

One of the things you will learn about me is I am obsessed with decorating, and then re-decorating. I work room to room and then once I have finished I am likely to be inspired all over again. We moved house just over twelve months ago, and as I was heavily pregnant at the time, I didn't do much in the way of decorating. So I have been living in a passable, but fairly nana-ish environment for the better part of a year. As I slowly work on the Master bedroom, (I spent today re-painting furniture in a kind of Gothic Burlesque theme), I am busy thinking about how I would like to redo my kitchen. After seeing these very cute photos from Johanni, (you really must check out her photo stream. She has THE MOST amazing personal retro style) I am all inspired to paint my cabinetry in the same blue as her walls, and inject a little humor to the room.

So of course, off I went to the treasure trove that is the internet, looking for inspiration and lovely things to fill my kitchen with. So this weeks Swanky Panky is a little kitsch for the kitchen.

I just love this poster, so cheeky!

But this one is probably not such a good idea with a highly suggestible 3 year old around.

When things get a little too hot to handle, this trivet from The Vintage Kitchen should do the trick.

The tiles I have in the kitchen are a fairly non offensive cream colour, but I'm not so keen on the feature tile. It is very Australiana, a galah hanging from a gum leaf branch. (My fellow Australians will understand this cringe) So I was thinking of having them re-sprayed, but it costs a lot and may look quite shabby, so I am instead thinking of covering them with something like these decals.


I am not really into reproduction canisters and things (so over done!), but I do have some of those multi coloured Nally ones, just like my great grandmother had. Come to think of it, they could have been hers as I bought them from her local op shop, (although Great Nana dies many years ago). When I came across this vintage one on EbayI thought it was perfect for storing all chocolate and other treats in. A perfect reminder of what will happen to my arse should I choose to indulge.




And while I'm doing all this, I could recover the kitchen chairs too. I think that this Dick and Jane fabric from Repro Depot would work particularly well on those guests that go secretly ferreting for the cooking sherry after dinner.



** Re: Dressing your age from yesterday - I am going to track down some photos of my at about 19 for comparison. That should be interesting. **

New In Store

I haven't had a lot of time for sewing this month. I think I have spent much more time planning all the lovely things I want to make and shopping for supplies. But there comes a time when the supply cupboards are filled to bursting and some actual creating must take place. So now for your wearing enjoyment, I present my latest batch of Etsy goodies!





My latest hair clips are a little bit Vintage and a little bit Kawaii, with a healthy dose of drama thrown in for good measure. Each of these bows are on a metal spring clip base and have a stretch net snood at the bottom (which is also removable) to tuck all your hair up into. Perfect for jazzing up a simply pony tail, or for a quick solution when you don't have time to blow dry your hair!
I am working on more colour variations at the moment, so there will be some black and blue numbers in the coming weeks. I'd love to hear your thoughts on these new pieces and any suggestions for colours you'd like to see.

Daily Outfit

Blue Jacket - Free Fusion, Skirt - Somewhere in Chinatown, Shoes - Novo, Crown pin - Chinatown, Lace Cuff - Super Kawaii Mama on Esty.

Today was a lazy Sunday. I am trying to get through the To Do list of tasks that I posted on the first of April, and I am nearly there. I have finished quite a few new pieces for my Etsy store and hope to get them all photographed and up by the end of the week. Stay tuned for that one, especially if you are looking for something a little different for your coif.

So today's agenda consisted of a quick trip to the fabric store and then home for some gardening, after which a little indulgence was due. So as I write this and enjoy floating around all your lovely blogs, I am indulging in a little Semillion and Oyster Churchill.

That is, Oysters natural with smoked salon and caviar, mmmmmm....

Swanky Panky

As you may have read in my earlier post on Socks, I really dislike pantyhose. And while I wait for my order of lovely thigh high socks to arrive, I have been doing a little shopping for a garter belt too. While looking for a pretty and practical number I came upon these two for comparisons. Without any preference for the size of the models, Picture Number Two made me want to poke my eyes out to say nothing of creating a distinct lack of passion for their garments!

So my pick for something both sexy and practical is Picture One, a slinky number from Stocking Girl. It is also a great place if you are after some funky leggings or socks. I love striped stockings but horizontal ones are just not kind to me. They also tend to increase my 'Wicked Witch of the West' factor. These ones remind me of a peppermint stick and look like they have the potential to make me look much taller than my 5 foot 4 inches.

As you know by now, I am a sucker for accessories, so when I came across the work of Sweetheart Sinner on Etsy, I came over all a flutter, as I know many of you will too. She specialises in designs inspired by rockabilly, pinup, horror, goth, punk, psychobilly, pop culture, Victorian, and flapper. (That's an awful lot!) Each piece is completely hand made, including the settings which she creates and fires in her own kiln. So you know that whatever your choice, you won't see this piece replicated elsewhere.

I love this Gypsy pin. She looks so thoughtful, somewhat of a Mona Lisa smile, and makes me wonder what is on her mind.

All this virtual shopping around is dangerous, I keep finding FAR too many things I love. It's just lucky I get so much pleasure from sharing it with you all.

Wearing A Little Sunshine - Daily Outfit

Today was a Shopping Day. Not just a regular knocking around the supermarket, but an actual uninterrupted experience full of lots of lovely things. Pictures will follow tomorrow of my fabulous new shoes. :)

After spending last night reading so many of your lovely blogs, I was particularly inspired by Strawberry Kitten and her delightful use of color to give her look some punch. So I felt that a sunny yellow would be just the thing for a cloudy Autumn day.

So for now, here is what I wore today.

Shirt - Guess, Braces - Costume shop, Wide leg pants - Living Doll, Boots- Wittner, Brooch- Etsy, Red Are The Roses.


Detail of the brooch that I had pinned to my braces. Just adorable, another Etsy triumph.

A Little Swanky Panky

Today I'm finding ways of not just being a Super Kawai Mama, but making my girls even more Kawaii - if that is actually possible. ;) So I am on the look out for some funky finds for the smaller people in your life, be they your own or someone else's. It's just great to have another excuse to shop for fashion.
Asia Jam have super cute fashion and accessories, as always; and now they have some for kids too. They have a great range of cheap and cheerful for girls (sorry no boys yet), and loads of things to tempt you while you browse.


When I found these onesies over at Bored Inc, I nearly died of excitement. As a parent, you'd be surprised just how much talk of poo suddenly happens in your household, so having it adorn baby's shirt (when it's not the real stuff) is ironically cute. !And while little girls may not love skulls as much as mummy, ( I did dress my three year old in all manner of pirate accessories until she started protesting for pink and ponies ) this Bunny and Crossbones could be the answer. In fact, the bunny's face reminds me somewhat of Miss 3 when she says, "..I'm not kidding Mummy!"


And how to say 'Happy Birthday' or just 'I Love You' , without having to resort to the saccharine words of Hallmark or another glittery Disney card? This 'Audrey and the Flying Fish' card from Ouou on Etsy. Clear, simple illustrations full of whimsy and imagination.

Surprise someone today, be they little or big, with something that will make you both smile.