The most popular client request in the last few weeks is none other than the humble raincoat.
How do you stay dry and not look like you borrowed your partners oversized ill fitting coat? On top of this you need to avoid the unlimited "fashion rain coats" in stores that offer next to no protection from the rain. After extensive research for my clients I wanted to share with you the best raincoats available right now.
Rains Brand - Available at Area 51
The Rains brand from Denmark has taken cornered the market with what is surely the best quality, best technically and at a great price point of around $160 - $220. Great stores like Area 51, Sisters at the Mount, Father Rabbit , and Black Box Boutique in Grey Lynn offer this range. Totally Water Proof easy wearable style. Try Navy to get away from the Solid black.
Lulu Lemon - Definitely Raining Jacket $249
For a great lined Rain Jacket, try Lulu Lemon's Definitely Raining Jacket. Will provide a little more warmth, perfect over active wear but still smart enough to wear for multiple uses.
Okewa Rainwear - Birmingham Trench - $795
Keep it local with this amazing New Zealand company Okewa Rainwear. This gorgeous Trench works well for casual and smart. $795. www.okewarainwear.com
Stutterheim Bright Yellow Raincoat
For the ultimate raincoat an all levels you may need to go to Sweden. This company has designed the perfect raincoat and offers great colour options. Priced from $250 to $375 USD you will have to order overseas for the different styles or try www.eightpaws.co.nz. Yes because people with dogs need great raincoats.
Enjoy the rain!!
I made a promise to myself this season. Buy Less, buy better quality and only buy the items you really want and love. In other words practise what I preach. This put me in an unusual spot, whilst out perusing the shops I couldn't do my usual random last minute purchases. You know how it goes - I saw this $79 top in "generic Australian branded store" and it's just like the designer one I saw all the bloggers wear. Turns out the cheap top looks good for about 3 months and I still want the designer one.
So after trying on a pair of quality leather boots in Scarpa for the 5th time in 2 years, I was about to depart the store again without the purchase when I had a small flash back to putting things on Layby. "Yes we do layby" said very lovely shop assistant without a hint of distain in her voice - she even looked pleased I had asked. It was a lovely hot summers day, I wouldn't need the boots for at least 6 weeks and they only had one left in my size. I did one third deposit and now every time I am tempted to buy a cheaper purchase I am putting the money towards my layby knowing that I will get a quality item that will last me many seasons.
The benefits are perfect. Get in early in the season before it sells out, pay off over time when you have the cash, avoid adding to credit card dept and therefore paying interest, get an item you really want and buy have impulse buys.
Right I am off to see if they do Layby for a new handbag I have been after. What other stores do layby?
Last bag wish list Chloe Hudson bag
You need help with your wardrobe, but you are not sure what is involved?
Meet with Closet Confidential and have all those questions answered
- How long will it take?
- What to do to get ready?
- Is it the right thing for me?
- Will I have to throw out my favourite jumper?
- What is the cost?
- What am I going to get out of it?
Over your favourite drink, in less than half an hour we can discuss exactly all of this and make you feel confident it is the right thing for you.
Take it or leave it after this. No Obligation.
** Travel costs may apply for those outside Auckland.
My current blog crush is on the immaculately styled and amazing "Happily Grey". Not a name I would normally be drawn to. Feel very inspired to live a life in tones that would normally be considered boring, this woman makes even the dullest of tones come to life. Happily Grey's style draws on boho inspiration but avoiding being too hippy. Quite hard to pull off. Be inspired and check out Happily Grey here
images from website www.happliygrey.com
images from website www.happliygrey.com
images from website www.happliygrey.com
images from website www.happliygrey.com
images from website www.happliygrey.com
Yesterday I was passing Dress-smart in Onehunga and decided to pop in just to get some lingerie. I have previously had very low expectations for this place and normally avoid sales and outlet stores. Quite possibly due to those exact low expectations I came away exceedingly happy with some great finds.
I managed to escape 3 hours later. Yes with some new lingerie and some extra goodies. Here is what I found.
I initially wanted a white bra but came away with 2 blue bras. So much cuter for summer and at only $15 each that is a steal. I can't imagine paying full price for bras again.
Mango Leather Jacket $390
This cute leather jacket in the best feeling soft leather was $390
Stella Mcartney for Adidas
These are the most awesome sneakers and was so disappointed that the Adidas store did not have them in my size. $150 and gorgeous.
I don't normally consider myself a K&K customer but this caught my eye on the way out the door. Referencing one of my favourite designers (shame probably a direct copy) but I couldn't resist the 50% off and it cost me $45..... Looking forward to wearing it by the pool or out one night.
For the Husband Working Style Blazer $189
And for Mr Closet Confidential I was happy to find a jacket similar to what he has been searching for quite some time. $189 at Working Style.
So please to have a great experience at Dressmart.
Closet Confidential has gone all tassel and fringe obsessed for what seems like forever and it hasn't worn off yet. From homewear, necklaces, dresses with fringe fronts and now to shoes. Here is a selection of the best fringe shoes on offer.
Kathryn Wilson - 911 Lena Heels $289
Kathryn Wilson shoes are looking amazing right now for Summer 2015/2016 and I have had several of my clients walking out the door with a pair. These 911 Lena Heels at $289 are a great nod to the trend. Even better, when the fringe is no longer "of the moment", remove it and treat yourself to a fantastic basic sandal.
Kathryn Wilson 911 Lena Heels in Silver
The silver alternative is a great variation.
Chloe Fringe Sandals - Available at Workshop $959
For the designer lovers you can't go past these gorgeous Chloe versions, available at Workshop Stores.
Mi Piaci - Bianca High Heel - $240
Mi Piaci offers the best version of fringe and party at a fraction of the Chloe versions above. If you love boho fringing without the hippy undertones, then these are the perfect shoes for you. Christmas party shoes all the way.
Seed - Sophia Fringe - ($179.99 AUD)
Seed have done the best black version with a sturdy heel which we love. The gold detail is an added bonus for going out glamour.
Country Road - Molly Tassel Flatform - $169
Country Road's Molly Tassel Flatform is the perfect comfortable everyday causal sandal, featuring suede tassels and cork detail for a more everyday boho look.
Chloe Stripe Suede Espadrille - $598 - Available at workshop
For a low key weekend Espadrille these Chloe stripe Suede Espadrilles available at Workshop are a fantastic summer essential.
