The Darkest Hour

When I fist laid eyes on this stunning horned headpiece from Cherri Lane I knew I had to add it to my Restyle headband collection. Restyle create affordable and stunning headpieces that compliment any dark or creative wardrobe.



These have just sold out but more styles available via Cherri Lane's webstore. What I love most about Restyle's range of headwear has to be the focus on all things blacker than black. Always sleek, lightweight and really comfortable to wear plus the option of flowers or just horns or antlers means you can create multiple looks or themes.

 

 

 



Hell Bunny Draco Blouse -  $89.99 
Restyle Horns - Cherri Lane

The obvious choice when pairing clothing with this stunning accessory had to be two of my favourite more gothic themed pieces from Hell Bunny. The Draco Blouse is a Victorian dream with a high neckline, sheer flowing cape like sleeves and a fitted waist.

 



I'm wearing this style in a 2XL and the fit is perfect for my bust and waist. With a higher neckline I tend to be rather worried about fit but this style really does fit comfortably and has a tiny amount of stretch. The cape style sleeve also offers extra room if you have fit issues with your upper arms in other garments.

 



Such a bold and strong shaped blouse I can't wait to pair this with plain wiggles and swings over winter and my other Hell Bunny Coats for a full winter Goth look.



Just look at the flowing fabric of this stunning cape. It's those little details that will have you swooning over this blouse.



Hell Bunny Onyx Dress - $101.99

Shonna Coat in Red  - From my collection

Oh Onyx I think I love you! The Onyx dress although simple is sexy, fits like a dream in a 2XL and really shows off  my favourite features. A mini style which covers my toosh with room to spare features layers of sheer black fabric with a solid stretchy underdress.

 

 



Now lets focus on the top section of this flirty little frock! The lace up detailing at the bust and those flowing sleeves make this garment unbelievably flattering and able to be styled all year round. Wear as is in the summer and layered  with tights, coats and boots in the winter. The lacing on the bust accommodates my large chest with ease and can be loosened or tightened to your shape. The sleeve is a layered flowing mid upper arm style that covers you nicely while still having that ethereal gothic feel.

What better to pair this dress with other than simple black tights. My main go to pairs are Sonsee as I love how durable, soft and stretchy they are. These are keeping my pins warm all winter and I'm obsessed.



 I've chosen to pair this with my favourite Hell Bunny coat the Shonna in a deep maroon/red. The faux fur and dark shade of red really look amazing with the bust of this dress. When we shot it was so cold I absolutely forgot to get a full length shot of the dress itself but Hell Bunny have your sorted with shots on both straight and plus sized models.



Many thanks to Liz Fleming for Capturing these looks perfectly!

Bardot

For months I've been impatiently waiting for two Micheline Pitt releases from her own brand and Unique Vintage. A range full of gingham, soft lace detailing, polka dots and much more.

The Bardot range (Vixen) the Unique Vintage collaboration pieces are absolutely dreamy with the fit we've all come to know and love and amazing fabric/print choices. I snapped up my  favourite pieces from these ranges as I can't say no to a black and white gingham print or some bold polka dots.

Bardot Beauty in Black Gingham by Vixen by Micheline Pitt - $148.00
Reverfolie Hoops
DELIGHT-660FH Black-Red Patent/Black - $116.95 AUD  

When we were blessed with the BTS shots of the stunning Renee Olsen  in a selection of the Bardot pieces Vixen's all around the globe went crazy. There is something so sweet yet sexy about a gingham print and the Bardot Beauty dress is absolutely magical.

Custom Gingham nails from Nightmare Nails

The ultimate peasant dress with a  fully lined and front fused bodice (gives the twins support with or without a bra) adjustable sleeves and the sweetest cotton eyelet trim and black bow features. Plus those giant pockets we always expect from all of Micheline's swing designs.

I'm wearing the Bardot Beauty in a size 2XL and the fit is superb. The fabric a cotton/spandex/stretch sateen mixture holds you in firmly but the fabric gives a little once you've worn it for a few hours. The fabric choice gives great shape both on the bodice and the skirt and there is no real need for a petticoat as it naturally has this shape.

What I love most about all Micheline's designs are the skirt lengths and the attention to fit at the waist and bust. Every item I've ever worn or purchased from her shop have fit me like a glove and really flatter my shape.

Now as I mentioned at the sleeves of this dress are fully adjustable so you can wear them up as shown in these images or off the shoulder to create a smoldering look. I can do either with ease but I also love the neckline so I've opted to wear them up.

Micheline Pitt For Unique Vintage White and Black Dotted Pink Palace Playsuit  - $144.95

I've been avoiding summer style playsuits for a while now as many moons a go I hurt my knee and visually they've never really recovered. So most of my playsuit styling has been based around winter so I can hide those knobby knees under warm thick tights.

But when the Pink Palace playsuit was released I knew I had to be brave and snap it up. I feel in love with the pink version of this last season and how easily was styled with skirts to create a whole new look.

As soon as I slipped into this amazing little number all my fears vanished and I was instantly in love with the fit. Soft, stretchy and form fitting when you need it the most. I'm wearing this in a 2XL and the fabric is so comfortable you'd think you are in your PJ's!

Micheline Pitt For Unique Vintage Black Off Shoulder Hissy Fit Top - $94.95

After falling in love with the fit of the playsuit I knew the Hissy Fit top was a must have. This style is exactly the same fit as the bodice of the playsuit and creates the most sexy shape while still being covered up.

Available in black, white and hunter green each shade looks amazing when paired with skirts or any high waisted bottoms. The length of this top his mid tummy so it's not a super long blouse but it tucks perfectly into my skater skirt as seen here.

I'm wearing a 2XL and it's stretchy yet firm while the thickness of the fabric hugs my curves instead of hiding them. I opted to get the black version first but now it's obvious I need every colour! What I love most about this style is how well it suits all bust shapes. I've seen all bust sizes wear this top over social media and absolutely everyone rocks it.

This is merely a smidgen of the amazing selection of all things Vixen and UV+Micheline Pitt's collaboration at Natasha Marie Clothing so swing buy and buy lots of stunning goodies. This stockiest is my go to shop for all of Micheline's creations.



Thank you to my girl Brooke Orchard for taking these images of me and for knowing all the best spots locally to pair with the cutest of outfits.

Avast Ye!

My official countdown to Halloween is on! Yes, I know it's early, but I absolutely adore this time of year and wish to celebrate the spooky season 365 days year. So over the September and October, you'll be seeing lots of spooky themed posts and costume shoots. Helping you get the perfect look for all of your Halloween events, parties and if you are anything like me goodies for your collection all year round.

 



 

Pirate Wench Womens Plus Size Costume - $74.99

Skeleton Cutlass
Brown and Gold Pirate Pistol
Feathered Pirate Parrot
Tricorn Pirate Hat with Red Lace Trim

 

My go to store for costumes in Australia is Costume Box! They have a huge range of stunning costumes and all of the best accessories on the market. From wigs to shoes, stunning costumes and accessories you can find all those little pieces to perfect your look.

 

For this shoot I went for a full Pirate  theme complete with parrot! I'm wearing the amazing Plus Pirate Wench costume in a size 1XL. This super stretchy fabric is very forgiving and will fit a 16/18 with ease. The full outfit is a off the shoulder ruffled blouse dress with a black bodice and red and black striped skirt. The gathered sleeves offer that billowing effect you can opt to wear the sleeves up or down.

 

The rich red and black stripes really pop and while this look does come with a fabric corset I opted to pair a more bold silver d-ring belt with this look. The skirt featured a jagged edge to add that extra level pirate style and I just adore the fit. 

 

The last item included in the costume set is a matching red and black striped head scarf witch is hidden under my hat and proved to be the best way to keep my fringe hidden when wearing the tricorn hat. It's not often I go fringeless for a photo shoot but I love the look of this style of hat so I had to.  

The Tricorn Pirate Hat with Red Lace Trim is absolutely fab I think I clearly have a thing for this specific style as I've used two different versions of this hat in the past year!

 

 

 

But for this look I did not limit myself to just a pirate hat. No, I needed a few awesome weapons to complete the evil pirate theme. I chose a brown and gold fake pirate pistol (clearly I have no idea how to use it lol) and all my time favourite piece the Skeleton Cutlass!



 

This magnificent plastic sword features skeletons, skulls and chains. The red, silver and black accents pair perfectly with my look and I just adore how bold and big this piece is. While some of these pieces have sold out there are many more in stock that will work just as brilliantly.

 

As you can also see I even added a little parrot to my outfit as every pirate needs a trusty parrot! This little fella is adorable and will now be a feature with all my skeletons and silly goodies in my lounge room.  He's that cute he took over my portraits as you can see!

 

 

What I love most about Costume Box has to be the endless supply of themed goodies that help you create the whole look. I can't wait to get more styles and share more themes with you guys over the next 2 months!

 



Elements Rainwear

Over the last few winters I've noticed lots of pinups sporting some amazing rainwear. Being from soggy old Melbourne there is a huge need for stylish, vintage inspired raincoats that actually compliment your figure apposed to hiding it.

Elements Rainwear have answered our prayers with a huge selection of coats in retro and modern style coats, hats, umbrellas and more. If it's going to product you for the rain and wind Elements Rainwear have got you covered.

 

 

 

Ruby Raincoat - £51.01

With my figure and own personal style I wanted to pick a jacket that would hug my curves and protect my hair - the important things yes?

So after window shopping on the amazing webstore I ordered the Ruby Raincoat in the NAG2 clear PVC with black polka dots. I've always wanted a clear raincoat and the addition of polka dots won me over instantly.

Size wise I went to the fit gods (Elements Rainwear customer service) and we chatted about my measurements and what would fit me best. The size I ended up going with was a 3XL so be sure to check the size chart and add 3 or 4 inches to your actual measurements if you will be wearing this style with many layers.



When Ruby arrived I was blown away with the stunning clear PVC and instantly tried it on over my skater dress. The 3XL is a very firm fit on arms (an inch or two more in the upper arm would be perfect) but perfect for my waist. I tend not to button up any coats over my chest so this style is perfect for me - always need to show a cheeky bit of boobie! The coat is fully shaped to the waist with a flowing skirt, open placket, button down detail, side pockets, matching belt, 7 stainless post poppers and a drawstring hood. I also ordered the PVC belt in black to pair with this coat but as soon as I wore it I knew I loved the coat without.


 

As you can see from the images we took this piece is retro perfection and due to the polka dot print so many colours pop beneath it. For this photo shoot I wanted to add a little pop off colour so I paired the Ruby with a Dangerfield flamingo border dress and it really pops with when mixed with this clear PVC fabric.

Not a fan of clear coats? Well most styles have a huge selection of colour and sheerness options so you can find the perfect colour for any outfit. Just look at all the choices!

What I love most about Elements Rainwear is the brilliant selection of coats be I short or long. You can pick the perfect bright mod coat or a classic trench. Choose a more modern look or go full retro and if you love a style but don't want to over do it then order it once again in another colour!



After testing the fit of the Ruby I think I'll be sticking to this specific style and ordering one or two more colours in the future. I'm smitten with the GRT1 dark green shade and the Pink or Black based solid polka dots are just too adorable - you can never have too many polka do goodies in your wardrobe.

More Lyra

When you find a figure flattering, curve embracing, amazingly stunning dress like the Lyra you will find yourself ordering each and every version ever released. Or if you're like me, you might even hunt the internet wide to see if you can snap up any other versions that may exist! The addiction is real and this dress is a must have the item all year round.

 

From summer to winter I wear my Lyra's. Pairing them with a strappy pair of heels or flats in the summer as the slowing sleeve covers my arms while still being lightweight enough to keep me cool. In winter it's the perfect base to layer with chunky retro belts, long cardigans, tights, leather boots and trench coats.



The Lyra is a faux wrap dress with a flowing capped sleeve, waist tie or back tie and a full skirt. The mixture of a 96% Polyester / 4% Elastine fabric helps this dress skim over you hips and hang beautifully while really hugging your waist and bust.

I'm wearing my usual size 16 and the fit is as per usual - PERFECTION!



Sadly I missed out on being able link you to this stunning floral print but never fear as there is a selection of amazing prints and solids you can check out both the plus and standard section of the Lady V London website.

 



As I wear a size 16 in this dress I can shop both sections and if you are a busy size 18 be sure to size down to the 16 as it will be a perfect fit.

I think I need to snap up some more florals and that amazing watermelon print!

Inspired Pinup

One of my favourite local stores in Australia has to be inspired instantly! They always stock a variety of brilliant Hell Bunny garments, cardigans and all of those core pieces you need to complete a perfect pinup look.

 

 

So for this post I'm focusing on some of the items I've recently snapped up from their webstore featuring prints a plenty and some adorable colours.

HELL BUNNY Aggy Retro Scottie Dogs Blouse -  $39.95

I'm a huge fan of all things Hell Bunny but over the years I've never managed to model or review any tops so obviously this had to be rectified.

For my first ever HB top review I've gone for the adorable Aggy Blouse with the retro scotty dog print. Now this piece is the perfect retro top for work or play as it has a relaxed fit, a short cuffed sleeve and the sweetest puppy print I've ever seen.

A mixture of pink, cream and black the Aggy blouse is simple to style and looks amazing with anything from high waisted jeans to a wiggle skirt. I'm wearing this style in a 2XL and the fit is perfect as it's roomy enough for my bust with limited stretch in the fabric.

Even though I'm a true crazy cat lady I have a soft spot for puppers as well and this print is going to be on weekly rotation for work.

 

 

 

HELL BUNNY Sailor Girl Rockabilly Mini Dress - $59.95

MAK Red  Cropped Cardigan Sweater - $31.95

Ever since I shot and wore my gingham mini dress I've been hunting for another print to add to my collection a the Sailor Girl mini has been found. Featuring an amazing framed sailor lass portrait giving us another spin on the classic nautical vibe.



A pale blue slightly stretchy cotton with amazing black accents, buttons and print, a smocked back and fully adjustable straps so you can customize the fit that fits you best.

 



I'm wearing this in a 2XL and it fits just like my gingham version. I can't wait until the wear warms up so I can wear this all summer long!  Now please note that this style is a mini so it will sit just above your knees so it's not a super mini and perfect for warmer weather.



My original plan was to pair this with a solid black MAK sweater but I mixed up my choices and I love the results. I'm wearing the red cropped cardigan in a size 1XL and I'm so smitten with these cardigans. I can easily go down to the size XL as the stretch makes this one a little loose but I just love the softness, length and feel of these amazing cover ups. I foresee a full collection happening!

 

HELL BUNNY Red/Black Dot 50's Dress - SOLD OUT

MAK Black Cropped Cardigan Sweater - $31.95

This dress has been on my lust list for many years and I was lucky enough to snap one up before they sold out! Hell Bunny's classic 50's halter neck dress with a full swing skirt in a lush white and black polka dot print. Being a huge fan of all things dot related I just adore a classic print when paired with the ruby red buttons and piping make this style absolutely dreamy.



Like the Sailor Girl dress this style has a panel of sheering at the back to insure the best fit at your bust and waist plus the halter style is able to be worn high or low. 

I'm wearing the 2XL and the fit is firm but really flattering and I just adore how the bust line pops when I pair this with red cardigans and wraps. The midi length skirt also offers lots of leg coverage and heaps of fabric to twirl.

 

 



Paired with the black version of my MAK cropped cardigan for that perfect sleek pinup look with a little touch of my gothic roots.

Safari Chic

Erstwilder's latest release takes us to the deserts, tropical rain forests and vast savannas of Africa. The stunning Out Of Africa range features some of your absolute favourite African animals created in brooch, earring and necklace form.

 



This collection has created some of my absolute favourite brooches to date as they've created some of the cutest little critters.



 



Young Warthog Brooch - $39.95

When I first saw the Out of Africa range, I gravitated to so many different animals but after growing up on films such as The Lion King  a Warthog was top of my list.

This adorable young warthog reminds me of Pummba, and I'll be signing Hakuna Matata whenever I wear him as the creators of this brooch state - he's renowned for such a philosophy.

Again Erstwilder are rocking those adorable long lashes and look at that snout! It's so cute you just want to tickle it!

 



 

Zesty Zebra Brooch - $39.95

Zebra stripes have been a part of my wardrobe for many years so it's only logical that I also need a Zesty Zebra to add to my stripped collection.

What I love most about this piece is the unique design. For zebras or horses the mane is usually 100% attached to the head and sometimes gets rather lost in the resin or design. But the spare space between the two in this brooch really makes it pop.

 

 



Now I've paired these with a bold leopard print but when you wear this piece with solid colours it's even bolder and stronger.

 



Finnicky Fennec Fox Brooch - $39.95

I'm forever as sucker for a fox brooch and the Fennec Fox is one of my absolute most loved animals on earth. Those huge ears, soft pale fur and sweet little peepers make me swoon and I've always loved this little creature.

The little upside down heart feature around the nose and mouth is a super sweet feature and just look at those whiskers.



Erstwilder have created the perfect version of the Fennec Fox with Finnicky and I'll be wearing this piece non stop.

 

Plus for the entire month of August they will be donating $2 from the sale of every design within to the African Wildlife Foundation! Reasons like these plus many more are why I absolutely adore the team at Erstwilder HQ.