Fashion in the field

Just last month I wrote my first review of the stunning house brand UV available at Unique Vintage and only a few weeks later my addiction is in full swing! But can you blame me? They have the most stunning selection of dresses, separates and accessories and I'm constantly adding new styles to my wish list. 

So with a bag filled with accessories and frocks we drove to Bendigo and shot with one of my all time favourite local photographers - Katherine Davis! It's been way too long in between play dates for us and nature turned it on for us on this sunny Sunday! 

Black Polka Dot  - $128.00

Heart of Haute Betty Bolero in Red - $34.00

2" Faux Leather Belt in Black by Pinup Couture - $14.00

These past few months I've really been giving into my love for black clothing. Be it a a floral, dot or solid fabric I'm going gaga for the darkest of dark shades. When I first saw the Happily Ever After dress I was instantly attracted to the black on black polka dot print and the amazing pleated sweetheart  bust line. A soft and flowing swing skirted summer dress with print unlike any I've come across before. While I usually find polka dots rather casual this print and fabric combination makes the Ever After Dress more of a evening/cocktail style dress.

The super soft and flowing fabric is an absolute dream to wear and I feel like this style was almost made for my hourglass shape. Now I'm wearing this style without a petticoat and I love the flow of the fabric and the natural drape. As I mentioned in my first Unique Vintage post I'm a XL in stretch fabrics and a 2XL in not stretch styles. 

I find the size chart is a little different measurement wise than say Pinup Girl Clothing or Heart of Haute as they seem to have smidgen smaller bust and waist measurements. But don't let this stop you from getting the best fit! A number means nothing when you get a perfectly tailored and fitted dress. 

I paired this stunning black number with my brightest bolero as I love these two colours together. The bolero shape complements the thick straps of this dress and they work perfectly together. The best thing about this dress is the endless styling combinations you can create. I'm currently on the hunt for a green and purple cardigans to pair with this all year long.

We have an overload of images in this post as the location was absolutely magical! Every time I work with Katherine we always find divine locations in the great outdoors. I cant wait until all the spring flowers are in bloom so we can keep creating such magic. 

 1950s Style Black Floral Dandridge Strapless Chiffon Swing Dress - $138.00

Heart of Haute Sweet Sweater in Red - $40.00

2" Faux Leather Belt in Black by Pinup Couture - $14.00

Does this style look a little familiar? Well it definitely should! I was so taken by the 'prom style' dress from my first UV post that I instantly put my order in for this stunning black floral version. From the bustline (yes I'm smitten with strapless) to the pleated swing style skirt the Dandridge Strapless Swing Dress is my new must have style in very possible colour or print option. 

How divine is this floral print? I'm such a sucker for black based florals as they pair with absolutely every cardigan or accessory in my wardrobe. As I mentioned in my previous review this strapless style can accommodate some very large busts and still nip you in at the waist. I found the fit to be perfect in this non stretch style.

The only item I could ever envision with this stunning dress had to be my second skin - The Sweet Sweater. The simple wrap style pairs perfectly with this strapless number and is a great cover up if you are like me and have upper arm issues. 

I can't wait to pair both of these styles with my leather moto jackets, both winter and summer accessories and twirling up a storm with these full skirts.

Now after collecting the navy blue and black prints in this style I think I'm going to be brave and try a paler option such as the peach floral. It's so much outside my comfort zone but this strapless style was also outside for me until recently.

Many thanks to the always brilliant Katherine Davis for working with me on this and the next few blog posts. I'm so excited to share the rest of our images and to get back to Bendigo to shoot even more outfits!

Cherry Velvet Plus



Recently I had the pleasure featuring an amazing Canadian company Cherry Velvet Plus. Now I've obviously been hiding under a rock because it's taken me way too long to discover this brilliant company! I found Cherry Velvet when looking for some great work appropriate dresses for my latest article in Adore Pinup Magazine (full review and post will be out next Monday) and I must say they have such a brilliant selection and size range.

Fitting sizes XS to 4X they help dresses each and every shape. It's great to see every size being included as no one like to be left out. Many companies focus on either standard or plus sizes but companies such as Cherry Plus Velvet give both small and large shoppers the chance to wear whatever they want.

For my first review I needed to go with my most loved colour of all time - ruby red!

Ruby Dress in Red Damask - $175.00

Heart of Haute Betty Bolero in black - $34.00

Bordello TEEZE-07  Red Patent Maryjane Pump from Shoe Me Gorgeous  - $100.95

Bright red - check! Full skirted - check! Stunning bust line - check! Hidden pockets - check!

I've been searching high and low for a dress with a winged bust but I've never had any luck with them as my cup is a 34GG. Finally my searching is over as the Elly dress has ticked every box and given me the chance to finally wear a winged bust.

A vibrant and super cute swing dress style made from a high quality cotton/spandex mix the Elly is not only a great fit but a really comfortable fit. The spandex mixture in the fabric offers the right amount of stretch and give around the waist and bust line. According to the size chart, I'm a size Large and I think the fit is spot on for this style. I could have even gone down a size as it's super roomy at the waist. With a simple back zip this style is effortlessly chic and a joy to wear.

This dress offers a few more features that I adore for very specific reasons. Being a busty lass I wear thicker strap bras and hate having to wear thin strapped dresses that show off my bra straps. This style offers full bra strap coverage while still cupping the bust perfectly and showing a little cleavage. I can't wait to style this in the warmer months with bright boleros and lots more colour!

If you love the shape but don't want the a red dress you can choose from black damask, black jacquard and a stunning ivory pearlized jacquard print fabric which would be an amazing wedding dress.

  

Robin Dress in Pinwheels Print - $145.00

Brooke Dress in Vanilla Stardust - $149.00



I currently have a few more of their stunning dresses on my lust list and hope to get my hands on them over the next few months. The Robin dress is on the top of my list due to the adorable pastel print and neckline, I'd love to style this with teal accessories over summer. Then I need the Brooke Dress in Vanilla Stardust as I've already worn this style and it is FANASTIC! The black and white retro print will work wonderfully with my wardrobe staples and to be honest I want to live in this style. I forsee see a long term romance with all of their brilliant designs and fabrics.

Many thanks to the my amazing photographer Robin Elk for braving the winter chills and snapping these images by the waterside. Next week I'll be able to share a few more items from Cherry Velvet Plus with you and the remainder of my review so be sure to check back!

Tragic Beautiful

If there is one style of casual dress that I can say I'm addicted to, it has to be the very dark and always brilliant Wednesday Addams dress. I've got a cupboard full of this style frock and I continue to add more as more colourways and collar options hit the market. 

Disturbia Clothing Thursday Dress - $84.95

Kixies 

The Thursday dress is my current go to winter dress for day or night and I'm absolutely in love with the simple yet unique design. With a full sleeve, free flowing hip and nipped in waist/under bust section this style is both flattering and super comfortable. The extra addition of a silk ribbon bow tie adds that little something extra that most of my Wednesday Addams inspired outfits don't have. There is also a sneaky back print as shown bellow!

I adore each and every design from Disturbia and love the gothic and creepy style/vibe they have created with their range. As I'm always more comfortable and, let's face it, live in all black items, this adds a little more mod goth inspired style to my wardrobe.



I'm wearing this style in a size XL but I could have easily have slipped into a Large given the stretchy fabric and roomy hips and waist. The viscose fabric is a dream to wear as it's lightweight and can be layered with ease. This dress will suit all season but winter as well so you can wear it constantly! I'm actually wearing this to work today and heading straight to the David Bowie Exhibition afterwards. It's so versatile and a dream to wear.

I wanted to put a little 60's spin on the Thursday Dress so I opted to tease my hair and add a bold and quirky set of sunglasses from my collection. These were purchased from eBay and say 'Cross my heart and hope to die, stick a needle in my eye' on each frame.

There are heaps of other items at Tragic Beautiful with this Addams Family vibe and my lust list is getting huge! Tragic Beautiful are an Australian based company (yay for more Aussies!) and have a huge range of alternative clothing, accessories and housewares.

Cozmic Death Dress - $79.00

Addams Crop Top - $49.00

Doll Dress - $65.00

Addams Velvet Dress - $84.00

I'll take one of each please! The 90's are coming back it seems with a moon, sun and stars print fabric all mixed with a little evil. I love the crop style top and would love to wear it with both swing and pencil skirts.

I have the Dolly Dress and it's a great fit, very mod looking and a dream to wear. The bold buttons add a little more drama and the ribbon waist tie is adorable. Then I think it's an absolute must to get a version of this dress in velvet. Is there anything more delicious than black velvet?



Rosemary Velour Dress - $84.95

Pentagram Wednesday Dress - $65.00

There are two options for a Wednesday Addams style textured fabric dress. The Addams Velvet above and the Rosemary Velour dress from Disturbia. I love the extra addition of bold alien head buttons on this style. Then finally there is the Pentagram Wednesday Dress which has the same fit as the Thursday style but with a short sleeve and a large white pentagram printed on the back.

I think I'm getting greedy with this theme/style but I can't help it!



Vegas Dreaming

My husband (it's still so new to call him that!) and I have recently started to plan our Honeymoon and to make sure we save up for the time of our lives we are planning a year in advance to get the most out of our trip.

Starting in the US we are heading to LA, Vegas and San Francisco! We already know our accommodation and entertainment for each and every location but I'm already in 'what to wear' plan mode. Mary Blair collection items from PUG for our two days at Disneyland, lots of killer pinup outfits for evenings out and heaps of comfy traveling clothes for long road and plain trips. I think I'll be investing in a few more pairs of disco pants for this trip.

On this trip I'm really excited to hopefully set up some shoots with lots of great friends and companies while I'm in town. But what I'm really excited to do is go back to Vegas without a limp! A few years ago I headed over for Viva Las Vegas but 8 weeks earlier I had hurt my left knee so having lots of fun and painting the town red was not on the cards.

Well in 2016 I'm making up for it! I'm so excited to experience the US with my fella and it's his first time on US soil so it's all new to him.

I plan both seasons and years ahead at times - a girl's gotta save! So while in outfit planning mode I've been thinking of what I will need to add to my collection and wear while abroad. I'm focusing on Vegas as I have the rest of my trip covered with 80's of my pinup/casual wardrobe but for Vegas I'm going to go for a little more sparkle.

There are few outfits I'm lusting after right now and these will definitely be in my suitcase for Vegas 2016, well it would be wrong to waste them playing at a mobile casino instead. I missed out on a few experiences last time but with more time and funds I'll be making sure I get to stay and play to my heart's content.

 

The Laura Byrnes Gilda Dress in Deep Wine Velvet by Laura Byrnes - $160.00

Bordello TEEZE-06 High Heel Black Pu Platform Pump - $90.00

My first outfit choice is for finally seeing Beatles Love at the Mirage with my husband and hopefully an amazing date night in and out of casinos. I adore the fit and stunning fabric of the Gilda dress and having owned the Gilda Gown I know how amazing this style is for curves. The perfect little red cocktail dress and the perfect outfit for a show, drinks and a few games of roulette. The deep wine velvet fabric needs a bold black shoe and I love the matte PU Bordello Teeze style for this outfit.

Angelique Collar Necklace in Green by Pinup Couture - $109.00

I did mention that I wanted to sparkle just a little, didn't I? I think the stunning Angelique Collar Necklace pairs perfectly with the deep red velvet fabric. The rich mixture of red. gold and green are perfect for my colouring

  

Malibu Tiki Dress with Bolero in Orange Tropical Print by Deadly Dames - $140.00

Then we will head off the strip and go straight to Frankies Tiki Room! I wanted to visit this iconic retro venue years ago but sadly I missed out. For Frankies, I need the ultimate Tiki dress and the Malibu Dress with matching bolero is one of the most figure flattering dresses I've ever owned. With a molded bust, faux wrap design and adorable bolero this is the perfect outfit to wear while we spend our night drinking amazing cocktails.

Tropical Hair Flower in Yellow and Marigold - $10.00

Bamboo Bangles - $8.00

BOMBSHELL-01G Red Pearlized Glitter Patent - $71.00

But the outfit does not stop there! The accessories are what complete this look and I don't want to take away from the print in any way. A bold tropical hair flower, some bamboo bangles and a killer red pump turn take this dress from simply stunning to a killer tiki look.

So there we have it! 2 days worth of outfits sorted for Vegas. Now to hunt for a day time outfit!

Starlet Fever

A new label has burst into the curvy Australian market providing vintage inspired women's clothing designed and manufactured in Australia. Creating amazing silhouettes for women with curves to kill and giving women the styles that are both classy and sexy.


Starlet lives by the motto - "Don't be like the rest of them, Darling!" which means you won't find these designs in a mall or outlet store and this is one of the main reasons I love them! With a focus on quality fabrics, flawless tailoring and stunning prints the outfit options are endless as they stock both skirts, blouses, tops, tailored pants and more formal dresses.

I first noticed Starlet Fever through the ever so stunning Stefania Ferrario who is the face and body for their first look book. Shot in a stunning retro cinema location this bold and brilliant set of images made my heart flutter and I could not wait to see what the full range looked like. Starlet Fever's size range is from 8 to 18 and with each listed item you will find a full size chart and specific measurements for each model shown. I love this feature as it gives you more of a specific idea of fit.

 

Outfit 1 : 

Marie Day Dress Black Floral - $170.00 AUD

A figure hugging bombshell styled floral dress designed for women with curves in all the right places. The perfect style for an hourglass shape as it highlights all your best features. The stunning floral fabric makes this the perfect evening dress or special occasion outfit. 

Outfit 2 : 

Olive Sleeveless Top Leopard - $105.00 AUD

Claudine Pants Black - $150.00 AUD

Effortless chic is the first description that pops into mind when looking at this perfectly paired outfit. Super flattering high waisted black pants with a pop of leopard print on top. The perfect day to night time outfit as you could pair this with flats to shop then slip into a pair of killer heels and head out for the evening.

  

Outfit 1 :

Antoinette Blouse White / Navy - $165.00 AUD

Claudine Pants Indigo - $150.00 AUD

Number 1 on my lust list from Starlet Fever has to be the Antoinette Blouse! I'm a sucker for a 1940's style blouse and the bust flattering style means that I don't have to compromise with fit. I adore shirts this for both work or play and I love how this looks both with a wiggle skirt or with the brilliant Claudine pants. The Claudine pant comes in Black, Black Pinstripe, Navy and Red and is a core style for any vintage lovers wardrobe. The high waist focusing on all the little details insures a great flattering fit and each outfit highlights your waist. The number one thing I look for when shopping. 

Outfit 2 : 

Marie Day Dress Maroon - $170.00 AUD

Another version of the Marie Day dress but this time in a solid Maroon colour. While I adore the floral version there is something so very lush and old Hollywood glam about the rich Maroon fabric used in this dress. The outfit is completed perfectly with retro styled accessories and I love how the fabric colour pairs with the white fur. 

   

Outfit 1 :

Delphine Short Sleeve Blouse Fuchsia - $145.00 AUD

Adelaide Skirt Black Floral - $120.00 AUD

Starlet Fever also offer a huge selection of wiggle skirts! With a selection of fabrics to take you right through the year the Adelaide in black floral is the perfect skirt for Spring/Summer. If you are a curvy woman the one item you need above all in your collection is the perfect wiggle skirt. I've search for years and I've tested them all. While I still need to test these I can say after seeing Stefania wearing these styles that they are a proper fit and focus on the tailoring aspect not just the fabric. This floral style is a great number for work or cocktails and can be paired with items like the Delphine top for a more work appropriate look. A low cut top for evening wear or even a simple black tank and flats for summer day time wear. 

I love the bright pop of colour that comes with the Delphine top and this like many of the tops available comes in multiple colour ways.

Outfit 2 : 

Olive 3/4 Sleeve Top Black - $130.00 AUD

Laverne Skirt Rust / Black - $190.00 AUD

Second on my lust list - This outfit! There is something so effortlessly stunning about a perfectly created scoop neck 3/4 sleeve top when paired with a woolen pencil skirt. I've been hunting high and low for tops like this and I'm so excited to be able to photograph both of these items next month!! Yes you'd be getting a full review of my stand out favourite items from their range! 

I'm also loving the woolen plaid print as I've never owned anything in this colour way before. The styling options are endless and I can't wait to create a full winter look with these items. 

 

Outfit 1 :

Eleanor Dress High Risk Red - $220.00 AUD

Every woman needs a little black dress but every woman also needs a little red dress that when worn will knock everyone socks off! High risk? Yes, a high risk of getting you noticed for all of the best reasons. Curve hugging and simply stunning without showing too much skin, the Eleanor dress is for a really special occasion as it will give you amazing shape and make you stand out in the crowd. This dress is bold enough to only need an amazing pair of heels and a stunning brooch to complete the whole look. 

Outfit 2 : 

Wilhelmina Gown Ivory Print - $390.00 AUD

Finally we have the Wilhelmina Gown in a stunning Ivory print. This gown is a classic 50's shape swing dress made 100% silk is awe inspiring and luxury at it's finest. The Wilhelmina is the signature style from from Starlet Fever and is that quintessential formal gown for any vintage lovers. The boat neck and low v shaped back makes this style perfect for all body shapes and sizes. So if you have curves or not you will look amazing in this dress!

It's so great to see a vintage inspired brand that has such a focus on fit, tailoring and creating luxury products all made here in Australia. I will be shooting and reviewing a few of favourite styles next month so be sure to come back and see all of the fit details. I only hope I can look as amazing as Stefania does in these! All images shown were taken by Cupcake Photography and I'm in love with their style. Here's hoping we can work together one day!

She's A Dollbaby

As we head into another issue of Adore Pinup Magazine it's think it's about time that I share my last article with you guys! Last issue I focused on Winter styling and accessories while reviewing Wheels & Dollbaby's latest collection. I was amazed by the fits of the garments this season and I can't wait to see what's in store for Spring/Summer 2015!

Winter is here in full swing and I honestly can't get enough of the cosy styling options available in the cooler months. Summer, spring and autumn pass by with stunning prints and colours but winter is my favourite season to style. With the internet at our fingertips, we are spoilt for choice when it comes to winter styles and accessories. From berets to gloves, scarves to stockings - there are so many stunning options to add to your collection this winter. 

There are three major addictions I have at this point in the year and they are filling up every inch of my bedroom. Some might call this a little crazy but I call it having all the possible options. I collect berets, gloves and winter coats and my collection is full of super soft fabrics in a multitude of colours and prints. This season I'm crazy about military styling, biker jackets and a sneaky ruffle. Wheels & Dollbaby have just released their Autumn/Winter 2015 range - La Belle Heroine and it's absolutely stunning. 

Wheels & Dollbaby Le Hendrix Wool Coat - $599.00

Kixies Stockings - $22.00

 Bordello Teeze Heels from Shoe Me Gorgeous - $93.00

Studded Bow Gloves - Forever New 

  

The Le Hendrix Wool Coat is the statement piece of the collection with bold military accents in gold and ruby red. From the bold gold piping,to the red cuffs and matching collar and epaulettes this coat is a mixture of military and rock'n'roll. The go to winter coat that can be worn with dresses, high waisted jeans and layered winter pinup looks. 

I've paired this coat with my stunning leather bow gloves and maroon beret. My collection is sourced from all around the globe from online retailers such as Asos, Dangerfield, Myer and even small accessories stores locally in Australia or chain stores such as Forever New. It's all about hunting for the style you want and looking out for sales on the other side of the globe when their winter season has ended. Locally I love Myer for all gloves and berets and a UK based brand that is sold in most Australian retailers - Dents.

To complete and compliment the outfit I wore the stunning Bordello Teeze 07 in patent red. The red pairs perfectly with the cuffs and accents on this coat almost like they were made for each other and they work brilliantly with my thigh high Kixie's stockings. Kixie's are my go to stockings over the cooler months as they are thigh highs that never - yes that's right - never fall down! Available in styles such as fishnet, back seamed polka dot, thicker winter ribbed styles and prints.  

Wheels & Dollbaby Knit Motorcycle Jacket - $285.00

Mooloola Angora Beret in Grey - $10.00

Dangerfield Green Heart Gloves 

My next stand out favourite from the Winter collection is the Knit Motorcycle Jacket. Being a huge fan of the leather biker and the hard rock edge it adds to your styling I instantly wanted this knitted cotton version. Complete with a leatherette collar, zip detailing and the embroidered logo on the black of the jacket. While the Hendricks is a more formal style coat, this is your go-to casual to night out style jacket. 



It works with everything and looks amazing with high waisted jeans as it nips you in right at the waist, accentuating those curves. What's brilliant about the Motorcycle jacket is the fit. Slim on the arms and the waist yet roomy for hips or a large bust, it can also work wonderfully on smaller frames with ease and still be fitted. 

Paired with a grey angora beret and deep green leather heart driving gloves to keep with a vintage feel. Angora berets are my new go to item this season as they are soft to the touch look amazing with all hair styles and shades.







The Dollbaby logo on the back is my stand out favourite feature and it really gives off that biker girl chic vibe.

  

Wheels & Dollbaby La Carla Bruni Blouse - $189.00

Mooloola Angora Beret in Black  - $10.00

Dangerfield Black Heart Gloves 



After focusing on outerwear we can't forget what to layer underneath. The La Carla Bruni Blouse is a cross seasonal shirt that layers brilliantly under cardigans, over dresses and pairs perfectly with waist coats and capri pants. In a stunning sheer red Georgette with ruffle detailing and cuffs this is an item you will style for each season and wear all year. Paired with a high waisted wiggle skirt, black corset belt, Dangerfield leather driving gloves and a black angora beret this outfit is timeless and full of vavavoom! 

These are just a few styling tips to inspire you over winter but don't let your imagination limit you. Stores like American Apparel stock pure wool berets in a huge selection of colours so not matter what hair colour you have you'll find the perfect shade. With gloves there many different varieties and choices but I tend to find the driving glove to be the most comfortable and stylish of all the styles. You can also find adorable finger-less styles, opera or elbow length gloves and many knitted gloves and mittens. So look out for winter sales, add to your collection throughout the year and when winter hits, you'll be ready to create some amazingly chic outfits with all of your accessories. 

Now this issue is sold out but you my lucky readers get to read my full article and see the extra images that were not included in the article! The next issue is on sale now and features my guide to pinup style work wear and I'll be sharing that with you later this month.