Warming to winter in the West

Winter in the West has so far, been free of rain and full of sunny blue skies. Which is fantastic for being out and about during the day but with the clear days comes bitterly cold mornings.

Every morning I build up the courage to jump out of bed and into the chilly morning air. My usual morning routine is performed in super speed as I hurry toward the warm shower that awaits me. Fair to say, I am a lover of the warmer months!

However, I try to convince myself every year that there are things to love about the colder weather and I came up with the following;

1. Baths – Having a warm bath and jumping into some cosy knitwear before settling in for a relaxed evening is my idea of winter bliss.

2. Winter wardrobe – tailored coats, layered outfits, patterned tights, fur trims and boots!

I love following the trends of winter emerging from fashion houses in the Northern Hemisphere.

Designers in Europe and the US create stylish collections which are suited to the chilliest of climates… Pick up a copy of Vogue Paris to get a sneak peek of what's in store for next season and get excited for 2014!!

3. Candles – filling the house with scented candles not only makes it feel warm and inviting but the aroma is devine. Rarely can I walk past a store selling a collection of scented candles without going in to smell their wares!

There are so brands and styles of candles now on the market now, all boasting gorgeous packaging and designs. But whether it be Blood orange and cinnamon, Wild orchid and vanilla, Lime and coconut or Tahitian Spa…. My house smells delicious in winter!

4. Body R&R – in winter I am happy getting to bed a bit earlier and recharge my energy levels. With my pillow the destination for the night, I throw on some pre-bed moisturiser, lip balm and the occasional hair mask and I wake up feeling amazing.

5. Comfort food – I start the day with wheatgrass, lemon juice and a fresh juice so I have every excuse to then indulge in some of my favourite winter meals. Hot oats with toasted almonds, apricot pies, custards, puddings and roast vegetables are some of my winter weaknesses. Winter weather creates the perfect excuse for me to stay inside and create in the kitchen.

6. Swan valley days – I grew up in Guildford and spent many weekends browsing antique stores in Guildford with my mum (although I wasn't a fan of this until I was older- as a child I despised the musty smells that filled the stores I thought they were in real need of a good scented candle!!).

I also spent days visiting places in the Swan Valley with my parents – cafe's and wineries and riverside picnic spots were weekend destinations and now I love an excuse for a visit to see what's new in our Swan Valley.

Ok, enough said that there is infact, some good reasons to love winter but I am still absolutely longing for the warmer months to be here again. I figure I have around twelve weeks of winter before I can throw on a summer dress …. My countdown is on!

I have a treasure trove of new season finds in store for spring/summer 13/14 already and I can't wait to share at Stylewa soon…. X

 

Western Australian Fashion Awards 2013

 

The 17th annual WA Fashion Awards took place last night at Perth's new style hub, Brookfield Place.

More than 400 guests were invited to walk the red carpet and what a high-profile red carpet it was!

Stunning West Australian fashions were shown off as guests made their way into the terrace courtyard. The Black tie event saw the courtyard a filled by a sea of Costarella, Ae'lkemi and Tarvydas gowns as well as jewels by Sewelley, Bianc and Lust Pearls to mention a few!

With a balmy Perth night and a crowd mingling in marvellous creations, it was certainly a fantastic night to celebrate the amazing creative talent we have here in Western Australia.

 

After an hour or so of pre-Award festivities and fashion admiration, we moved into the cool foyer of Brookfield Place where we found our seats and enjoyed an acoustic by Little Ebony before the all important presentations

The ceremony was presented by Channel 10 weather presenter, Magdalena Rose and Director of the University of Western Australia's Cultural Precinct, Professor Ted Snell.

Mariella Harvey- Hanrahan (Festival Director, alongside Tony Sage) and Lord Mayor Lisa Scaffidi also gave address, which created not only a sense of pride for our our creative community but also an appreciation for all the hard work that goes into Western Australian fashion, throughout all sectors.

So the presentations began!

First of all, Gabrielle Sullivan (Chadwick) was announced Runway Model of the Year and Grady Wulff (Chadwick), Hot New Model of the Year. Nicole Harrison (Chadwick) picked up the Photographic Model of the Year.

Half way through the presentations guests were treated to a display by Fliptease Aerialist, Scott Craig who hung from the ceiling of the foyer.

Models also walked among guests showing off fashions by Ae'lkemi , Flannel, Garth Cook, Kim Barton, Martini & Coz, Sewellery, Steph Audino, Tindale, Wild Horses and Zsadar.

Then the presentations continued…

STM best dressed boutique – Hatch

Best blogger – It's Now Cool

Fitness First Platinum Fine Details Award – Sewellery

Total Digital Creative Edge – Pippa McManus

CBA Designer for Tomorrow – Shane Newton Zsadar

City of Perth Most Innovative Designer of the Year – Ae'lkemi

And the winner…..

Gorgeous Models at presentations

Tiffany Spencer (House of Zaccaria) & Shane Newton, ZSDAR (Winner of Designer for Tomorrow)

With the lovely Magdalena Rose – both heavenly Ae'lkemi gown

Designer Stephanie Audino with Kymm (Designed by WA) – stunning in Steph Audino Gowns

With designer & winner of Most Innovative Designer, Alvin Fernandez (Ae'lkemi)… Gorgeous dress by Ae'lkemi!!!

What a fantastic ceremony highlighting the achievements of the WA Fashion Industry – Congratulations to all!!

 

Get set for Northern Style explosion

 

What do you know about The Urban Couture Festival in Joondalup?

You are forgiven if the answer is “Not much!”

But with Urban Couture now in its 3rd year, this super Stylish Festival is one worth getting to know!

Urban Couture is a key feature of the Joondalup Festival and is a month long program of events that transform unconventional spaces into popular fashion happenings.

Fashion designers, hair and makeup stylists, textile artists, runway models and fashion photographers will come together to put on some fantastic shows which are free to the public.

You don't have to be a lover of art or fashion to enjoy all that this Festival has to offer so do make a point of heading North where you'll find some innovative expressions of from our local creatives!

Principal Events Officer, Kelly Price has had a busy lead up to this exciting event and here she shares with some key points about Urban Couture!

STYLEWA – Now in its third year, how did Urban Couture become an addition to the Joondalup Festival and how successful has it been?

KP: URBAN COUTURE BEGAN AS AN INITIATIVE TO PROVIDE LOCAL STUDENT DESIGNERS WITH A PUBLIC PLATFORM TO SHOWCASE THEIR WORK. URBAN COUTURE HAS BOOMED TO BECOME A MONTH LONG PROGRAM SUPPORTING FASHION CREATIVES IN THE FIELDS OF FASHION DESIGN, CONTEMPORARY ART, FASHION PHOTOGRAPHY, STYLING AND MODELLING. THE 2012 PROGRAM WAS AN OVERWHELMING SUCCESS, SUPPORTING OVER 200 INDIVIDUAL FASHION CREATIVES AND ATTRACTING MORE THAN 50,000 VISITORS. THE 2013 PROGRAM IS SET TO BE THE BIGGEST YET WITH A REPERTOIRE OF NATIONAL DESIGNERS AND FASHION CREATIVES IN FOUR WEEKS OF POP UP EVENTS.

STYLEWA – The programme for Urban Couture 2013 is yet to be announced, but can you share any details about the designers we can hope to find?

KP: THE 2013 PROGRAM IS FILLED TO THE BRIM WITH EMERGING AUSTRALIAN DESIGNERS WHO HAVE ALREADY MADE BIG IMPRESSIONS IN THE INDUSTRY. WE CAN LET YOU KNOW THAT SWIMWEAR QUEEN LOUISE BOND OF BIKINI ATOLL AND SYDNEY MENSWEAR DESIGNER TEAMM8 JOIN THE URBAN COUTURE PROGRAM WITH MORE DESIGNERS TO BE ANNOUNCED VERY SOON!

STYLEWA –The ambassador for this years event is the lovely Renae Ayris who was named Miss Universe Australia in June 2012. How will Renae be representing Urbane Couture during the festival (ie will she be modelling or hosting any events?)
KP: AS A CITY OF JOONDALUP LOCAL, RENAE AYRIS IS THRILLED TO REPRESENT HER HOME TOWN AS THE URBAN COUTURE AMBASSADOR. RENAE WILL MAKE APPEARANCES THROUGHOUT THE URBAN COUTURE PROGRAM INCLUDING HOSTING THE VIP LAUNCH AND GUEST MODELLING IN THE URBAN COUTURE FINALE RUNWAY AT THE JOONDALUP FESTIVAL ON SUNDAY 24 MARCH.

STYLEWA – When can we expect to see the full program for 2013 so visitors can plan their attendance at Urban Couture?
KP: WE WILL BE ANNOUNCING THE FULL PROGRAM IN THE NEXT COUPLE OF WEEKS – SO STAY TUNED!

STYLEWA- What do you believe will be a highlight for the event in 2013?
KP: WITH ALL URBAN COUTURE EVENTS FREE-TO-THE-PUBLIC, THERE IS NO EXCUSE TO MISS A SECOND OF THE PROGRAM! THE 2013 JOONDALUP FESTIVAL ON 23 – 24 MARCHWILL CERTAINLY BE A HIGHLIGHT AT THE NEW LOCATION OF CENTRAL PARK AND FEATURING FOUR POP UP RUNWAY SHOWS, ART NOW PROJECT WITH PERTH'S FAVOURITE FASHION PHOTOGRAPHER AARON MCPOLIN, DESIGNER MARKETPLACE AND FINAL DAYS OF THE APERTURE & LACE EXHIBITION AT BLEND(ER) GALLERY.

A month of exciting times! See you there to check out the talent!!

 

Perth kicks off an amazing Fashion Festival!!

The Perth Fashion Festival kicked off this week with Local designer ‘One Fell Swoop’ being the star attraction. The Perth Town Hall played host to a flock of fashionistas, media and VIPs all keen to join in Opening Night celebrations.

With the Festival now in it’s 14th year, the events have never been better, with so many talented designers showing off their latest creations.

PFF Essentials!

Last night was my first PFF event – Designer Capsule 1 which showcased the collections of talented Western Australian labels including; The Butcher and the Crow, ZSADAR, Daniella Caputi and Lisa Marjanovich.

Held in Hackett Hall at the WA Museum, this event was one I had been much anticipating. The venue presents the most intimate feel for the PFF events and being on the doorstep of both Northbridge and the city, ticket holders are able to make a complete night out of it.

I had planned my night with my gorgeous friend Lucy (LR Style Academy), where we collected our PFF essentials and headed to the VIP Peroni bar at the Court Hotel for a pre-show glass of bubbles. The vibe in the room was fantastic and it wasn’t before long that this fashionable crowd moved over to Fashion Paramount for the start of Designer Capsule 1.

 

 Lucy & I pre- PFF

So after finding our fabulous seats (behind Mel B -former Spice Girl) and opposite glamour girl, Bree Maddox we held tight for what was an amazing night of fashion.

The Butcher and the Crow were the first to step onto the catwalk and what a way to start!! Their SS12/13 collection has been inspired by the book ‘Picnic at Hanging Rock’ and is coloured with the pallet of the landscape. The garments were soft and draping which really gave a feel for the warmer months (despite the wintry weather outside!).

 

Next off the rank, Lisa Majanovich. What can I say….wow! Simply stylish lines and unique applications of leathers, digital prints and soft block colouring make her collection very individual. Not only did I fall in love with her designs but also the palette was very fresh and feminine. Whites, nudes, oranges and black made pieces from this collection, a great addition to any wardrobe! Lisa Majanovich is one designer to keep an eye on in the future….!

 

 

 

ZSADAR …….one of my favourite WA designers! Shane Newton has a clever mind and put on a hot runway show. Although a little out there with models sporting leather masks, chains and the odd faux octopus head dress…. His garments were edgy, innovative and earthy. Well done ZSADAR for a show worth talking about and a label worth investing in!

 

 

 

Finally, we were graced with the collection of Daniella Caputi. Her SS12/13 collection support a monochromatic palette with bold colour of turmeric and smoke. She has focused on contrasting elements of simple versus detailed and opaque versus sheer and her designs are very suited to the Australian summer.

 

 

So with that a wrap, the end of Designer Capsule 1 was upon us. It was a fantastic display of four emerging WA designers and I can’t wait to see what’s in store for each and everyone of them in the future!

The Perth Fashion Festival is such an amazing event, put together by a talented group of people and supported by many. This event was supported by Department of Culture and the Arts and it is fabulous that we have such a tight network in WA to enable our up and coming artists become the next big thing!

 

 

 (Image courtesy LR Style Academy)

Well done to PFF, talented WA designers as well as our supporting bodies to make events such as this one such a success!

 Looking forward to the next installments of PFF events included in this weeks calendar! X

Ae’lkemi – “Let there be light!”

Ae'lkemi

Ae'lkemi's designer Alvin Fernandez is one man I am in complete admiration of. His work is always truly an artform that has been put together with total respect for a woman's figure. His designs are simply stunning and his collections have made it to the catwalks of New York, Milan, Berlin and of course, Australia.

With Ae'lkemi set to impress at the upcoming Perth Fashion Festival in their showcase event, 'Lumiere', Stylewa has been lucky enough to steal some time with Alvin Fernandez to find find out more about the stunning label.

Stylewa- What Motivated you to start your own label here in WA and where did the name Ae'kemi come from?

Ae'lkemi has been established for 10 years. Initially the business was operated from home before moving into our Claremont boutique, 5 years ago?

The name came about after watching a music show on the SBS. The show featured a band by the name of 'alchemy' (of that spelling) and after looking it's meaning up in the dictionary, it was fitting for my label with the definition being 'a medieval chemistry- to turn a raw material into something beautiful.' So it was very fitting for my label, although Ae'lkemi is the phonetic way of spelling the word.

Stylewa- What inspired the SS12/13 collection?

The silhouette has been my inspiration for this collection with long and lean lines. I focused on volume placement and layering with the addition of embellishment. I have focused on beaded work and colours incorporating bright tangerines, navy and anything that sparkles -golds and metallics!

Stylewa- What can people expect to see from Ae'lkemi at this years PFF?

For the second year in a row we have worked with the talented David Brittian to put together our parade. We aim to 'present' the collection to our audience and will have some of our couture peices on show. The feel of the evening will be somewhat like an epic movie. One on the darker side that has a moody, gothic yet romantic feel.

Stylewa- Tell us how the theme of Lumiere was decided?

With a focus on “let there be light!”, the theme Lumiere seemed to fit the collection whereby the peices show a 'lightness in the dark'. There is a juxtaposition in the texture of the pieces and so the name Lumiere became the name of our event.

Stylewa- What do you love about the Perth Fashion Festival?

Being able to share our collection with fans and supporters of Ae'lkemi! It's great to be able to show our work to our peers and others in the industry.

Stylewa- Who are you style inspirations?

Balenciaga, Christian Dior, anything from the 1950's with a classic, romantic feel. I am inspired by classic shapes with a contemporary, modern twist.

Stylewa- Which celebrities do you feel honoured to have designed for?

I don't look at my clients as celebrities as such, rather I feel happy to dress anyone that walks through my door….

Alvin Fernandez, your work is exceptional and I think Ae'lkemi is inspirational. Thank you for sharing your world with Stylewa and we can't wait to witness the sparkle that is…..Lumiere!

(for event info, head to http://www.perthfashionfestival.com)

 

Influencing face of style AUS to NYC – Jessica Bratich

The gorgeous face behind her fast growing collection of luxurious leather goods is Jessica Bratich.

Over the years, her successes have unfolded in the public eye and she has accomplished a lot in a relatively small time frame.
Jessica Bratich has launched a handbag collection that has sparked a lot of attention both at home and internationally. Her designs are modern and stylish and it’s obvious why they are proving to be such a sensation!

So with recent involvement in the PFW and Broome Cup 2012 and the upcoming Perth Fashion Festival in September, it would be an understatement to say Jessica Bratich’s is one busy woman!

Despite her hectic work schedule and exciting personal ventures, Jessica has taken the time to be a part of Stylewa’s ‘Influencing Faces of Style’ and we are lucky enough to find out more about this inspiring individual……….

Stylewa; Jessica, after achieving a Bachelor in Communications and a minor in marketing you went onto complete a cert IV in fashion at Central Tafe – what inspired you to create your own leather goods collection?

JB: I have always liked to be creative and worked in fashion retail and wholesale for many years and I was at a point where I retired from karate and I was looking for a new challenge. I felt like I struggled to find handbags I liked thought that is something I could do. It has certainly provided challenges along the way but I always love to be learning and I am very goal orientated and this seemed like something I could do on my own and from home working my own schedule (which seems to be getting more and more hectic haha)

Stylewa; There are many handbag designers using cheap materials but still want to pin the big price tags – why was it important to you to use quality leather in your range?

JB: Quality is important to me as I want to keep my customer happy and I work with my manufacturers as I go always trying to improve the quality. Cost of production of leather goods is a lot higher than I thought it would be but that’s more so because I don’t mass produce. It’s a very exclusive range and there are limited numbers of each style.

Stylewa; What has been your style inspiration for your SS 12/13 collection?

JB: I was inspired by different elements such as zippers, buckles and studs along with diagonal lines. I also knew I wanted bright colours and to create pieces that will pop! Nothing better than a bright summer piece to make your outfit!

Stylewa; How would you define your own style?

JB: My style is very mixed I like very edgy pieces like those from label Zhivago, clean, chic, power pieces from labels like Betty Tran and beautiful elegant pieces from Ae’lkemi. I don’t like to say I have a certain style I like to mix it up and I love to support WA designers. I have had to alter my style a bit at the moment being pregnant and am loving Asos online for maternity wear you don’t want to spend a fortune while your pregnant as the clothes don’t seem to last very long and Asos is so affordable.

Stylewa; In September you are making your mark at the Fashion Palette in New York – are you pinching yourself that your range is about to be exposed globally to fashionista’s, retailers, celebs and media? 

JB: Yes I still can’t believe it. It’s all happened so quickly! It’s very surreal. From only launching my 2nd collection at Perth Fashion Week to having my pieces on a New York runway is major! A little scary at the same time but I think sometime you just have to roll with the punches and take a chance. Everything happens for a reason!

Stylewa; How did the opportunity to attend the Fashion Palette in New York come about?

JB: I was actually overseas and I had got a few calls from a number I didn’t know so I sent a text asking who it was. It was Betty Tran so I gave her a call. She told me that she had been selected for the Fashion Palette and asked me if I was interested in collaborating with her. I remembered Betty’s collection from Perth Fashion Week and it was one of the stand outs to me. I had about a day or two to decide and I remember getting off the phone in shock. I discussed it with the hubby and he agreed it would be such an amazing opportunity and that I had to do it.

Stylewa; Where will we find Jessica Bratich in 5 years time?

JB: In 5 years time I would like to see JB being stocked in boutiques around Australia and also overseas. I would to see my bags on the arms of celebrities and JB to be well known brand that people love. At the moment I am happy to take things as they come and make the most of opportunities that come my way and most importantly enjoy the ride!

I just know that in 5 years time we’ll be seeing Jessica Bratich’s stylish leather goods on the arms of beautiful people everywhere!
Jessica Bratich, thank you for your time with Stylewa…… We look forward to watching your exciting journey!

Stylewa x

(to find your gorgeous Jessica Bratich piece head to; www.jessicabratich.com/)

Costarella rocks East Perth for a day!

From years gone by – I know never to sleep in on the day of a Costarella sale!
This year was definitely no exception!! With doors opening at 9am the floods of fashionable people sorted through the racks on a mission to find their hot item (or 10 items).

The racks were stocked with sizes from zero up and everyone seemed to be walking out with gorgeous garments and a smile from ear to ear!
The more I looked, the more I wanted to try on and so I happily spent a good hour or so in change room bliss trying to decide what I can leave in the store!!
I would have stayed longer if I didn’t hear someone mention the words ‘parking inspectors’…………oh no!! Panic set in and the thought of paying East Perth shire the money I was about to use for a dress was mortifying.

After a quick dash to the meter, I was back in and walking out with my 2 gorgeous pieces  –  thankyou Costarella!

Aurelio Costarella’s warehouse sale – 9am-6pm Today (Thurs 23 August) – – There is still time to head in and be a part of the vibe!! But if you do miss out – remember to set your alarm for the next one – it’s worth it! x

Perth Fashion Festival Launch 21.8.2012

Hold on to your hats fashionistas – you are about to be hurled through a crazy month of fashion in Perth (and you’re going to love every minute!!).

The Perth Fashion Festival held its 2012 launch yesterday where the who’s who of the fashion world rubbed shoulders while models paraded a gorgeous array of colour – showing off what’s in store for SS 12/13 collections.

The PFF website also went live into cyberspace yesterday where the full line up of designers and events were listed. Whilst it was a long, much-anticipated wait for the website to show off its wares – it was definitely worth the wait!!

The line up is amazing this year and includes; Ae’lkemi, Alushia Sanchia, Ange-Lang, Anna Excell, Beso Beso, Betty Tran, Bikini Atoll, Breathless, Catini Designs, Cebiche, Daniella Caputi, Empire Rose, Flannel, Gail Sorronda, Garth Cook, Gypsea, House of Wilde, Kim Barton, Kuwaii, Limedrop, Lisa Marjanovich, Little Gracie, Martini+Coz, Monster Alphabets, Morrison, Neleh +Heath, Nikki Loueza, On a Whim, One Fell Swoop, Peppermint Milk, Raspberry +Pop, Shona Joy, Steph Audino, The Butcher and the Crow, Tindale, Wild Horses and Zsadar.

The events are set to be the most spectacular ever and will be held throughout the city and Northbridge. The locations for this years events will utilize the very best of what Perth has to offer and with the amazing line up of designers, some internationally recognized stylists and the experience of event organizers – you are in store for a real treat!!
Find the full line up of events here;  http://www.perthfashionfestival.com.au/events

Perth Fashion Festival is now in its 14th year and every year I get more and more excited about it coming around…… it’s like a week of Christmas!
The event calendar is like my form guide and I sit and work out the week and how I can attend as many events as I possibly can around other commitments.
Why do I love it so much?
1. It is a feast for the creative eye with the best of our Australian designers showing off their latest work.
2. It attracts the most beautifully spirited crowd who are there to get their fix of the fashion world whilst enjoying the buzz of fashion, music, artists, media, photographers and more.
3. It is my excuse to put on something special and enjoy time with friends.
4. It is my excuse to get my hands on an amazing outfit or two (just in time for the Spring Racing Carnival)!!

So make sure you put the week of 19-25 September on your calendar and stay tuned to Stylewa for all things style from the PFF!!

Enjoy!

Stylewa x

STM Front Row

Ricarda, one of WA’s leading retailers will feature in parades which kick off the first of a series of fashion events, held at Bistro Felix in Subiaco.

STM Front Row will showcase and support fashion from local retailers whilst providing an evening of glamour and delectable food and wine. The series of dinners will be held on the first Thursday of every month so make sure it is marked on the calendar of you and your dinner dates!

When: September 6
Time: 7-9pm
Where: Bistro Felix, Subiaco
Tickets: 9388 3077 or www.bistrofelix.com.au

An Evening with Flannel

The latest glamorous collection from Flannel is inspired by the 1920’s and features silks, lace, floral prints, feathers and sequins. The clothing inspires the modern woman to dress to the occasion whilst remaining comfortable and classic!

So with 1920’s being the inspiration and the upcoming Perth Fashion Festival being the event, Flannel is set to star at a spectacular evening on September 24 at Hackett Hall.

The mood of the evening will be somewhat different to anything experienced during the Festival in years gone by, with poised models showing off the 2012/13 collection in the candlelit setting. Former Vogue stylist Meg Gray will assist in producing such a grand event where guests will enjoy a sumptuous 3 course meal accompanied by French champagne.

So put ‘An Evening with Flannel’ in your diaries and be sure to get your tickets to avoid disappointment!

Date:  24 September
Time:  7pm
Cost: $250 (&bf)
Dress: Fabulously!
Tickets: Foxtix (perthfashionfestival.com.au)