Monday, December 14, 2015

All I want for Christmas...is a Lekker bicycle


 Growing up in Brazil, I vividly recall a TV ad of a little kid writing to Santa: "Não se esqueça da minha Caloi" (Don't forget my Caloi - a Brazilian bicycle brand).  I wrote such a letter to Santa, and a few years later received a bicycle that I rode to school everyday,  I absolutely loved the freedom that gave me.  When I later moved to Cambridge (UK), my parents bought me a £10 vintage fixie bicycle which I rode everyday and everywhere, rain, hail or shine (less shine, more rain).  Despite the lack of gears (worked up my quads!), I loved cycling everywhere in my repainted black vintage bicycle (not so much in the cold rain though)...

It's been 21 years since I moved to Australia (ok, showing my age here, eeps!), and it is only this year that I started wishing for a bicycle for myself.  Mr Brigs is an avid bicycle rider (the serious kind that goes on crazy rides down narrow winding roads up the hills), and my little ones started riding their own little bicycles (Lil' Brigs #1 has foregone her training wheels and is mad about cycling now - you should see the joy on her face when she is pedalling!), and I wanted in on the fun...that feeling of freedom while riding around, wind in my hair...

I immediately knew what style I wanted, a vintage 'fixie' style bicycle, but with gears (because I live in a slightly hilly part of town), and one I could add a cute little wicker basket to...you know the kind you carry flowers, a baguette and perhaps a fluffy dog in?  Ok, maybe no fluffy dog (for now).

When I discovered Lekker bicycles, I fell in love with their vintage style bikes.  They are built to last in a light, 100% rust free aluminium frame in gorgeous colours that made it really hard for me to choose which one to go for.  I decided to pay the extra $200 for the Jordaan bicycle with extra gears due to my hilly surrounds, otherwise the Sportief would have suited just splendidly (or the Amsterdam bicycle, a beautiful more modern version).  And the colours! Oh, the colours! I have to say that even though I chose a gorgeous shiny candy red bicycle, the pastel green set my heart aflutter (I don't think pictures do it justice), and the black is so beautiful and classic!

As if the bicycles weren't gorgeous enough, Lekker also have their own beautiful range of accessories (from which I purchased the Andalas wicker basket).  Even though I saw cheaper baskets at bicycle stores, the quality and look did not compare with that of the Lekker baskets...And even though I love the white handles and seat on my bicycle, the lush leather handles and seat that Lekker have on their website has me eyeing those as well.

Lekker (Dutch for 'yummy'), is Dutch in design.  Its founder Meindert Wolfraad is originally from The Netherlands but moved to Australia in 2009.  He saw the need for beautiful Dutch classic bicycles that combined with the Australian beach culture (parts that are more beach friendly and don't rust as easily).  The high workmanship quality and focus on comfort is greatly appreciated, with the wide oh-so-comfy seat on my bicycle putting any fear of a sore derriere to rest, and the upright sitting position and thick tires ensuring a comfy and smooth ride.  Now I can ride for a quick trip to the grocery store, into the city, along the river...

With the recent changes in Adelaide's bicycle laws now allowing cyclists to ride on the pavement, I am so excited I can now enjoy my city on this easy enjoyable ride, with and without my little ones in tow.  Oh, and they even have cool children's seats so I can cycle them to school and not have to battle for a carpark during crazy drop-off times.


  Love Lekker's iconic Dutch 'ding-dong' brass bell
http://bit.ly/1PDeUYT
 Please excuse the cheesy grin.
http://bit.ly/1PDeUYThttp://bit.ly/1SPWGkX
 Lekker's own brand of beautifully woven baskets

http://bit.ly/1PDeUYT
Free to explore this city where one would not ordinarily reach by car... 

(all images by me and my trusty tripod)

"Querido Papai Noel (Dear Santa Claus),

Obrigada por não ter esquecido minha Lekker (thank you for not forgetting my Lekker bike).

Clarice"

Has anyone else asked for bicycle for Christmas?



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Monday, November 16, 2015

Everlane is shipping Internationally for ONE week only (trial)! Run, don't walk!


Ok, the day we have all be waiting for (well, I certainly have) is here!

Everlane is offering international shipping (and for a flat rate of only $15!!!) for one week only (for now, here's hoping the trial goes well and it becomes a permanent thing soon).

For years I have been using forwarding companies to get my beloved Everlane wares here Down Under, so as soon as I caught wind that they would be shipping directly to us for one week, I had my items waiting in my bag ready for me to click 'pay' before you could say 'hello'.

Sadly I had to cull my shopping bag right down due to the horrendous state of the Australian dollar against the US dollar, but ah well! I am doing my happy dance nevertheless.

I ordered their Short-sleeved silk crew and the men's card case (I have discovered my love for card cases after using a 'disposable' one for almost a year now! Time to upgrade to leather).  I am leaving behind their long-sleeved silk tee and their slouchy black trousers (anyone have either item? Would love to hear your thoughts on them), and really, I practically want every single item in their store!

International shipping started today and we only have T minus 6 days left, so I suggest running, not walking!

http://bit.ly/1kZ7Zf7
http://bit.ly/1QGD6J4
http://bit.ly/1kZ7Gku
http://bit.ly/20WywdW

 shop now at Everlane

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Wednesday, October 14, 2015

Ralph Lauren Pink Pony


October is breast cancer awareness month, and every year Ralph Lauren raises funds for regional and rural programs to ensure treatment is available to all at an earlier, more curable stage, by giving 25% or more of every Pink Pony purchase proceeds towards this worthy cause.

Sneakers: Adidas Superstar, Tee: Ralph Lauren, Overalls: Edit the Brand (old season), Backpack: Mansur Gavriel (available at Ssense, Barneys and Forward in the mini-version)  , Sunglasses: Shuron

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Wednesday, September 2, 2015

I found it: the Instagram bag!


Ok, it is no secret that I have a bit of love for Instagram.  The beautiful images in square format (from landscapes to food, and occasionally, fashion) and the lovely community there make it an amazing and inspiring platform.

When I first spotted this Instagram-inspired leather bag on Vogue Italia Fashion (Gioellio) Editor Georgia Tal I had hearts for eyes (I am an emoticon over-user, not using them feels like talking without any expressions on my face).  At long last, I tracked it down, placed myself on the waitlist, and when it came back in stock, I pounced.

Sure, I will get strange looks when I use it outside of my house, and will probably get glared at by Mr Brigs (who is not uber fond of Instagram, or the time I spend there), but I just couldn't resist...

How could I?

 photo of Georgia Tal (Vogue Italia) by UrbanSpotter

So in love with the No. 21 Bow Mule Sandals (available in a beautiful olive colour at Selfridges

 photo by Tommy Ton for Style.com

Me - Jeans: Frame Denim Le Garcon (available at Forward, and Net-a-Porter) , Pumps: Isabel Marant Poppy (leopard version available at Forward), Bag: Mua Mua (from Browns Fashion)
Bag: Mua Mua Leather App bag (from Browns Fashion)
Photo: by me.

The leather is uber soft, and I love the chain.  Sure it is uber kitsch...but sometimes it is good to have a bit of fun!

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Wednesday, August 19, 2015

I Love Mr Mittens - I so do!



Belgian-born Stéphanie Caulier learned how to knit at an early age, a passion that was reignited following a visit to a small knitting cafe in New York in 2007.  On her return to Belgium, Stephanie started by selling her knitwear to friends and family, and launched her label there, before moving to Perth with her partner (now husband, Stephanie got married just this last week! Congratulations again Stéphanie!).

Each garment is hand knitted with love by Stephanie and her team, fulfilling I Love Mr Mitten's "Heartworking" philosophy.  The team's common objective is to execute  Stephanie’s vision of how knitwear should be, simple, elegant, timeless and fashionable.  Quality over quantity.  Knitted in beautiful yarns of chunky wool or pima cotton, the range includes cute knitted shorts, dressesbeanies (I bought my black beanie last year and love it to bits), to cropped sweaters and 'The Cardigan'. Oh, The Cardigan! How long I have been enamoured with this piece, with its billowed sleeves, chunky wool knit, and oversized slightly draped silhouette...It is:

Monday, July 27, 2015

JH Zane's zangels


Instagram is a dangerous (for my wallet) yet wonderful place (for my wardrobe).  Through it I have learned so many things (and not only drool over fashion, food and pretty pictures), and discovered many new labels and designers.  JH.ZANE is one such label, with images of his beautiful 'off-shoulder' frilled top floating around on Instagram, his designs caught my ever-so-curious eye, and I just had to find out more about him.

The creative director and designer behind the label, Juhao Zeng, is originally from Southern China but has been London-based for the last 10 years.  After graduating in 2011 from Winchester School of Art, Zeng (or Zane, as he signs off in his emails) trained professionally in Katie Eary’s and Gareth Pugh’s studios, whilst at the same time establishing himself as a freelance stylist with editorials published in different independent magazines, and is highly involved in the Fashion industry in London.  I recently came across this video featuring Taekwondo Olympic bronze medallist Paige McPherson wearing kicking butt in Zane's off-shoulder bomber jacket (which I absolutely love) and culotte, which was a collaboration between Mercedez Benz and the British Fashion Council.

Androgyny is the key style reflected throughout JH.ZANE’s designs, which as a label aims in getting back to basics, combining subtle details with classic silhouettes, new textures and print.

Quirky. Androgyny. Clean. Sharp. Tailored.
 
SS'15 collection:


Upcoming AW15 collection 
(some pieces have already been released this month, with more to come soon THIS space):

The grey off-shoulder bomber jacket now reinvented in black faux leather...
 LOVE this blouse, and I saw on Zane's Instagram that there is a matching skirt! Ah, love me a beautiful ensemble...
Pics above provided by designer upon request

Finally got my hands on the top that first drew my attention to the designer, with the gorgeous matching culottes (how brilliant is its silhouette)? Love this ensemble, and both the top and culottes are now on sale (run, don't walk!)

 Black zipped knit by Super Youth, Bag: Celine
Top and culottes: J.H.Zane, Sneakers: Adidas x Topshop, Bag: Balenciaga (available here and here), Cuffs: THPshop


Pics above mine via iPhone/Instagram

Monday, July 6, 2015

My two cents on (portable) scents


So woo hoo, I am back in warmer climates, having escaped Australian Winter (which can be quite cold where I live), for the perennial warm weather in South East Asia.

This month will be a hectic one, travel-wise, and I'm not complaining one bit (I am an eternal wanderluster).  Four countries in four weeks, starting with Malaysia, then on to Thailand, followed by a few days in Singapore before I head home. I will have less than 24 hours at home, as I fly out the next day for New Zealand!

Traveling with two little ones for the South East Asian portion of my trip means I will be packing as light as I can.  The great thing about traveling to warmer climate means lightweight clothes and compact shoes like sandals and thongs, yay! I have also downsized my toiletries, packing my favourite Sunday Riley oil in a sample dropper bottle, and cleansing wipes instead of bringing my cleanser.  Usually I will pick just one perfume (not that I have that many, my two favourites are Prada D'Iris and Serge Lutens's Fleur D'oranger), but this time I have packed some Impulse Fragrances instead.  The great thing about them is that they're so lightweight, and don't require my usual careful wrapping (to protect a glass bottle) then placing them in a ziploc bag (to prevent spillage).  They are also so easy to pop into your handbag for a top-up when out and about for the day (which is much appreciated in hot humid weather!).

I used to associate Impulse with deodorizers, but they are a perfume in a spray (the first of its kind), having received a makeover mid-2014 by one of the top fragrance experts in the world, Anne Gottlieb (who in the last 22 years has crafted some of the world's best loved scents including CK Obsession, Eternity and CK One, Marc Jacobs Daisy, and one of my favourites, Christian Dior J'adore).

My favourite kind of scent is the kind that is discreet, and  makes me smell clean and fresh, like I just came out of the shower (which is why I love my Prada D'Iris), and I have found my match in Impulse's 'Merely Musk', which blends lime and sandalwood to produce a clean and fresh perfume, that is unexpectedly discreet, fresh and floral.
What about you, what kind of scents do you prefer? Fruity? Floral? Oriental?

 Overnight leather bag: Nomadic (weekender available from The Iconic), Handbag: Balenciaga (available at Net-a-Porter), Sandals: Birkenstock all-black leather (available at The Iconic, Nordstrom, The Dreslyn, Need Supply and Barneys), Camera: Instax Mini Neo 90 (available at Selfridges and Urban Outfitters), Watch: Larsson Jennings (available at Matches Fashion, Net-a-Porter and ), Hat: Lack of Color Boater (available at Free People and Need Supply)
Lightweight and inexpensive, you can throw any of these 9 fragrances in your bag and off you go..
 Daily essentials.
Overalls: Zara (sold out online, but similar one here), Tank: Gap, Hat: Lack of Color Boater (wide brim version available at Free People and Need Supply), Bag: Balenciaga (available at Net-a-Porter), Espadrilles: Chanel, Fragrance: Impulse


You can find Impulse fragrance at Priceline. 

And more info on:

Instagram - @ImpulseFragranceAUS
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/myimpulseImpulse 
Impulse Website - http://www.impulsefragrances.com.au/ 


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Monday, June 29, 2015

Much love for Kelly Love


 Every so often I discover a new label that I become very excited about, and such is the case with Kelly Love, which I discovered sometime last year.  London-based designer Kelly Love originally hails from Down Under, and prints hand drawn feminine yet contemporary etchings onto silk and cotton, which sit alongside luxurious outerwear made with beautiful fabrics sourced in Europe and the UK, predominately leather, mohair, jacquard and wool.  Now, you all know my love for beautiful textiles and outerwear, which explains my love for Kelly Love, and she does both so beautifully.  I am even more enamoured with her upcoming AW15 collection 'Blues before Sunrise' , which will be released in August.  I am waiting with baited breath, as I am seriously head-over-heels in love with every single piece.

The collection is named after Leeroy Carr's song 'Blues before Sunrise', which inspired the designer to explore the historical towns of South Carolina in the Deep South of America.  Prints of wildflowers, thistles and succulents on a background of contemporary checks wash over silk blouses and dresses. They are feminine but not overly so, sitting alongside heavy leathers, Italian Alpaca and structured tailoring to create a perfect juxtaposition of textures.  And the knits, oh the knits!  This is the first time Kelly introduces knitwear to her label, and the result is just gorgeous, beautiful knits like a hand knitted roll neck sweater and chunky cardigans in hues of nude pink, olive green, French navy, smoky grey and buttermilk I just want to snuggle in.

This designer is going from strength to strength, recently collaborating with Anthropologie on a capsule exclusive collection.

I have her 'Flawed Beauty Coat' and literally get stopped to receive a compliment on it whenever I wear it, I asked Kelly for some images of her upcoming collection to share with you all, hope you love them as much as I do.
You can find Kelly Love at:


Need this knit in my life...look at that texture!
 How beautiful is this print? Love!
 My beloved 'Flawed Beauty Coat' - the Italian fabric on this is just stunning, a lightweight (yet so warm) mix of silk and wool, simply divine!
 Fluid two-toned trench? Yes please!

 That print and that texture - match made in heaven.
 Ok, I keep tossing between the Buttermilk knit and this Cactus knit, perhaps I need both...
LOVE a good jumpsuit, and this one is just gorgeous!

pics above sent upon request by the designer

Me and my Kelly Love 'Flawed Beauty Coat':

The blush tones and texture on Kelly Love's 'Flawed Beauty Coat' is simply beautiful...
Hat: Sarah J Curtis, Boots: Chloe Susanna (available at Forward and Net-a-Porter), Coat: Kelly Love, Sweater: Super Youth
 Vintage hat from Millay Vintage

pics above are mine via iPhone/Instagram.

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