Hot new trend: Blue Eyeshadow

Where I come from, everybody is jumping on the Eyeshadow Bandwagon. Every kind you could imagine: matte, cream, powder, sticks, slicked (etc), and the colours! Oh the colours! A rainbow of one's wildest dreams. But one colour in particular seems to be dominating the shadow scene: blue. Light blue, dark blue, shiny, peppered and all that jazz!

My mother is currently studying naturopathy, which has resulted in an extreme domestic chemical detox. Basically what this means is a surge of undesirable knowledge of the real ingredients in cosmetics. But don't worry, I won't panic any of you with those details right now. I just felt like complaining about this annoyingly incovenient situation. Lol.
But I will say that one particular cosmetic ingredient, Coaltar, is quite hazardous and is the base of alot of blue eyeshadows. I'm pretty sure I'm allergic to this ingredient (but even if I wasn't, I'm sure I wouldn't be "allowed" to use any product which contains it), so that means I'm denied the simple pleasure of going to a beauty store, harmlessly trying on eyeshadows and purchasing my favourite.Instead, I've been researching "safe" brands. This is similar to eco-fashion shopping. Scared at first (big change; thoughts of plain jane, or just plain ugly products), but after a little while, the thought of doing your skin, and the environment, a favour gets the better of you.

Larenim Mineral Makeup -- eye colour collection.

Jane Iredale Mineral Cosmetics -- Triple Eyeshadows: Truly Denim.

But if you really just can't bear the thought of eco-cosmetic type products, then your old favourites have some truly beautiful blues, too:

1. Bobbi Brown -- Midnight Metallics.
2. Laura Mercier -- Blue Sky Colour Quad.
3. M.A.C. -- Starflash Eye Shadow.

Well, I think I've thoroughly exhausted the topic of blue eyeshadow by now, no?
Hope I've helped, even if it's just a little bit.
Oh and please don't forget to cast you vote(s) in this month's poll on the right hand side of the page.

Catch.

Romany

[photos courtesy of larenim.com, janeiredale.com, bobbibrowncosmetics.com, lauramercier.com and maccosmetics.com.au]

Style in expected places...

Sometimes, style icons come out of nowhere. And sometimes, they have always been there and yet no one really notices them until they're thrust into the spotlight. And such is the case with the stars of Gossip Girl, touted the Sex and the City of this generation (with regards to its impact on the young-adult fashion industry). Blake Lively (who plays Serena Van der Woodsen), as far as I'm concerned, could be on her way to becoming a true style queen, but thus far hasn't particularly impressed me with her safe (aka boring), California-girl fashion efforts. Don't get me wrong, I'm sure she's a lovely girl, but when it comes to style, Leighton Meester (who plays Blair Waldorf) is the real star.

Leighton is incredibly beautiful and knows how to work the red carpet.
This look on the right, Pencey mini-dress with matching while heels, is possibly one of my favourite red-carpet outfits ever.

Leighton may not always get it right (who does?), but this is not what defines a style icon. A style icon (or an icon of any kind, really) is someone who takes risks no matter the consequences. And it's this confidence that gives them that 'wow' factor, meaning a wrong step is nearly impossible.
It may be too early to tell whether or not Leightoon Meester is a full-blown style icon in-the-making, but one thing's for sure: as her star continues to rise, her style cred will surely rise with it.

Many of you noted that one of the things you would like to see more of on this blog was magazine editorial coverage. Recently I came across a particularly dazzling, little photoshoot from this month's Russh magazine, which I thought beautiful enough to share with my equally beautiful readers. Enjoy!

Oh and please don't forget to cast you vote(s) in this month's poll on the right hand side of the page.
Catch.

Romany

[photos courtesy of people.com, leightonmeester.us, gettyimages.com and myspace.com/russhmagazine]

Redefining statement jewellery

Boy, those Arulpragasam sisters sure make political objection cool.
We all know M.I.A. (the British singer's 2007 album Kala is currently pulling big numbers on my iPod). Now meet her big sister, Kali, the creative brain behind jewellery label Super Fertile. The brand recently released its new collection called Tourism, an aesthetically pleasing advertisement for the 'undesirable' locations of the world. The collection features a range of gold and silver neck-pieces displaying the positive aspects of war-torn regions.

"The media only reveals the negative, so when you Google 'Iraq' you only get American soldiers with guns and rubble. This is not Iraq! Iraq has culture, music, fashion, sports and great architecture. And so, I magically removed the guns, tanks and violence from the picture so that my jewellery acts as tourism posters dipped in 24ct gold or silver -- becoming instant precious treasures."
-- Kali Arulpragasam

"I feel blessed I can say what I want. I feel it will be a wasted opportunity to create more skulls and wings in the world, rather than make something that can actually make a difference...
I wanted the message to be more important, and I wanted it to be kicking around for hundreds of years. I liked the idea of people digging up my jewels 500 years from now, with the pieces still communicating a beautiful message."

"The reaction I'm getting has been a big surprise, but it's a collection that seems to have hit every type of person from politicians to artists and fashion people.

I have been flooded with messages from Colombian girls and boys to Haiti footballers to Middle Eastern bloggers and Sri Lankan women just thanking me for acknowledging them."

Personally, I think the collection (visually, as well as the message behind them) is gorgeous. Even if one doesn't wear them, hanging the jewels as decorative ornaments around the house would suffice.

Catch.

Romany

[photos courtesy of superfertile.com]

Australians at their best...

I've been meaning to blog about one of these amazing aspects of the Australian arts industry for a long time now. But the right opportunity never presented itself. And then coincidence of all coincidences, I happened to stumble upon (a.k.a. watch. Lol.) the movie Moulin Rouge! this morning and inspiration struck! The opportunity has finally presented itself, alongside another amazing aspect of the Australian arts industry: a fashion label by the name of Wheels & Dollbaby.

Moulin Rouge!

Seven years ago, Baz Luhrmann released his most phenomenal movie to date, Moulin Rouge. I fell in love, and that love has lasted (though it waned, I'll admit) all the way up until today when I rediscovered what a truly incredible filmmaker Mr. Luhrmann really is. Several months after the movie's release, Harper's Bazaar Australia decided to dedicate a large portion (including the cover) to the movie and its stars. An issue for which the team won an award. I remember this issue as the still photos used were almost as mesmorising as the actual film.

Harper's Bazaar Australia coverage
Stunning, aren't they?

I'm writing about this because I think it's important to spread the word about Australian talent. Whether it be filmmakers (e.g. Baz Luhrmann), magazine editors (e.g. Harper's Bazaar team) or just about anything else you can think of, we've got some real beauties just waiting to burst onto the scene and show the world what they've got.

Wheels & Dollbaby

At this point in time, I have three Australian fashion labels that top my list of all-time favourites. Alannah Hill. Alex Perry. And Wheels and Dollbaby. In essence, they're very similar brands: ultra feminine and internationally recognised and loved. As soon as I can afford to pay $150 for a t-shirt, Wheels and Dollbaby will be my everyday-wear label of choice.

Is this not the hottest body-con dress you've ever seen?
Am I the only one who feels inspired to go to the gym and work my ass off (literally. Lol.) right now? A dress like this can be quite unforgiving in the flattery department, if worn without caution.

Much more to come on the very best of Australian talent.
Oh and please don't forget to cast you vote(s) in this month's poll on the right hand side of the page.

Catch.

Romany

[photos courtesy of nicolekidmanunited.invisionzone.com, imdb.com 1 and 2 and wheelsanddollbaby.com]

Venus Rising

Exactly 21 days ago, Demelza Revely was crowned Australia's Next Top Model (a perfect demonstration of the crazy world we live in). Don't worry, this is not going to be a full-on AusNTM post (I get the feeling all you readers might be sick of those? Lol.) -- but a few weeks before the show ended, the contestants posed for an Oyster Magazine photo shoot. The issue has hit the stands and the girls are featured in all their seemingly-awkward (in true Oyster Magazine style), beach-surrounded glory. All except for two: Alyce Crawford and Demelza Revely. Don't ask me why these two (especially Demelza, the winner of the series) were rejected from the issue, I'm as clueless as the next person. But I personally think it could be their karma coming back to bite them both on the bum.

Alexandra Girdwood.
Runner-up

Caris Eves
3rd Runner-up

Caris is now with Chadwick Models

A signature Oyster Magazine landscape shot.
As far as photography is concerned, this magazine is leaps and bounds above the rest.

Samantha Downie
2nd Runner-up
Sam is now with Priscillas Models

In other news, Britney Spears made a surprise appearance at the Generation Rescue Event, hosted by Jenny McCarthy and Jim Carey, over the weekend. Britney looked fabulous in her LBD -- this is a real turning point for her. Hopefully this is an indication of the new leaf Britney has turned over this year, and I look forward to seeing her get her life back together.


Catch.

Romany

[photos courtesy of oystermag.com and popsugar.com]

Yes -- Duck, Duck, Goose is a perfect comparison

Tagging always renders me utterly hopeless. I love being tagged (it's such a compliment), and I love tagging others (though I wish I could legitimately tag everyone so no one felt left out) so don't let my uselessness put you off. Lol.
This time around, I've been tagged by 4 people, though with two different TAG's to consider.

Number 1.

I was tagged absolutely ages ago by lovely Fashion Ivy. The rules are posted at the beginning. At the end of the post, the player tags 6 people and posts their names, then goes to their blog and
leave a comment, letting them know they’ve been tagged and asking them to read your blog. Let the person who tagged you know when you’ve
posted your answer.

1) What was I doing 10 years ago?
My mum (as well as every other woman in the world) would be getting excited about a cool new show called "Sex and the City", but I wouldn't care because listening to Hanson, the Spice Girls and the Backstreet Boys would be enough to keep me happy.

2) What are 5 things on my to-do list today?
a) major in-house clean up
b) think of excuses for not doing my homework ("I was cleaning all weekend and didn't have time")
c) read through and answer blog comments
d) resist the sugary treats mum has just brought home, in keeping with my Perfect Skin Challenge
e) purge my iTunes of 'litter music'

3) Snacks I enjoy
. Bread (every kind, except white)
. Pecans
. Green apples
. Hot chips

4) Places I've Lived
Australia...Yes, that's all.

5) Things I'd do if I were a billionaire.
- Buy my parents a mansion
- Donate a large sum to environmental research (as well as other worthy charitable causes)
- Go on a little shopping spree
- Take my mum on an overseas trip
- Buy an environmentaly-friendly car
- Buy a house in London

6) People I want to know more about
- The new French exchange student at school.
- Britney Spears (what is really going on in her head?)
- Bloggers!

7) Your turn...
- A Mad Tea Party With Alis
- Couturee Yourself
- Fashionyou
- Discotheque Confusion
- lookbook

Number 2

I was tagged by 3 lovely ladies by the names of A dreamer, Coco and Sunniva.
The Rules: list 7 songs you are into right now. No matter what the genre, whether they have words, or even if they're not any good, but they must be songs you're really enjoying now, shaping your Summer (or Winter as it is for me). Post these instructions in your blog along with your 7 songs. Then tag 7 other people to see what they're listening to.

Fascination -- Alphabeat
I heard this song once, a little while ago and didn't stop thinking about it until it was on my iPod a few days later. Now it is my most played, and I can confidently say, my most favourite song ever.

Teardrop -- Massive Attack
This one has been shaping my whole year, really. I don't think anyone could listen to this and not love it. Great for chillin', or hanging out with a special someone.

Knights of Cydonia -- Muse
My brother may have it on constant rotation with his Guitar Hero obsession, but that only increases the love affair. I love listening to this and scremaing the lyrics in an empty house, whilst it rains outside.

Gravity's Rainbow -- The Klaxons
I don't actually think they released this one, but they definitely should have. Absolutely great fr dancing to.

When I Grow Up -- The Pussycat Dolls
Total guilty pleasure! I love this song so much, even though I have less than zero respect for the band. It just makes me want to dance!

Yeah Yeah -- Bodyrox
I don't know anything about this song, this band or even where I got it from. My iPod started playing it when I was 'shuffling' once and I haven't looked back since.

Played A Live -- Safri Duo
I've actually had this song for two years, but I only recently started listening to it religiously. A really great rave song.

Now as for who I'm going to tag, I have to admit, almost every blog I have visited in recent weeks has featured this tag. So here's the deal: anyone who hasn't already done this tag, I am officially tagging you. I don't care how many bloggers that is (whoops, minor rule breach), but if this tag is new to you, then I want you to tell us all about your 7 Summer Songs!

Catch.

Romany

Fall 2008 Couture

Ah, couture. The reason for my existence. As much as I would love nothing more than to gush on and on about Fall 08 Haute Couture, I'm supposed to be getting ready for a night out (though my attire will consist, regrettably, of brands much less inspiring than couture, I'm afraid). But as a little addition, I've included the starlets I would most like to see each creation on. Feel free to express your agreement or disagreement as you wish.
So here, purely for your enjoyment, I present the designers of today showing the rest of 'em how it's done.

Elie Saab

(left) Rihanna -- Rihanna's glamour-with-a-punky-edge style would compliment this gown to perfection.
(middle) Iman -- the model looks a little but like Iman, so that's the first one that came to mind.
(right) Keira Knightley -- Keira's pale skin and ethereal beauty would only add to that of this gorgeous creation.

(left) Scarlett Johansson -- the bodice is similar to those ScarJo has worn in the past, so it would be a very organic pairing.
(right) The obligatory Elie Saab wedding dress. I can't really see this on anyone, right now...

Valentino

(far left) Uma Thurman -- Uma can do white like no other, and her style seems to have evolved from flowing gowns to fitted suits. It makes sense, as far as I'm concerned.
(left) Angelina Jolie -- tell me you don't agree with that one.
(right) Nicole Richie -- can't explain this. I just see it...
(far right) Anne Hathaway -- red compliments Anne's porcelain skin, and the fit seems as if it would flatter her shape.

Armani Prive

(left) Leighton Meester -- this classic dress would suit Leighton's classic style wonderfully.
(middle) Charlize Theron -- the strapless bodice would show off Charlize's amazing toned shoulders.
(right) Kate Hudson -- I'm sure Kate has worn something similar before. First thing that came to mind, again.

Chanel

Hmm. These are all quite similar. I can see Ashlee Simpson-Wentz, Lauren Conrad, Katie Holmes and Ashley Olsen all fighting over them.

Christian Dior

(left) I can see this as more as an elaborate pool-side outfit. In which case, I'll throw myself in with this one. Lol.
(middle) Rachel McAdams -- random, right? Lol. Light blue seems to compliment Rachel's skin tone, so it's seems right.
(right) Dita Von Teese -- this is so glamorously gothic, only Dita could get away with that.

I can see Beyonce being brave enough to don this to an event.

Christian Lacroix

(left) Demi Moore -- Demi is the queen of Red Carpet Black. It makes so much sense it's ridiculous. Lol.
(right) Penelope Cruz -- I can't wait to see Penelope give this a go at next year's Oscars. Fingers crossed...

Wow, that took longer than I thought it would. Now I'm going to be late. Lol!
And now for the interesting part: what do you think? Did I get it right? Or oh so wrong?

Catch.

Romany

[photos courtesy of style.com]

Making a comeback...?

Mischa Barton. These are two words which almost always cause an irrationally strong reaction in most fashion lovers, whether it be positive or negative.
Cast your mind back to the time between 2003 - 2006...The OC period I like to call it. Little Mischa was the reigning fashion queen of this era, and whether you wanted to or not, you saw her everywhere. Usually looking fabulous. And then, as quickly as it had started, the hype around her faltered (Marissa being killed off of The OC played a fairly large part in Mischa's de-throning, I believe). And slowly but surely, so did her style, in my eyes.
Let's take a little trip down Memory Lane, shall we?

Ladies and gentleman, I present to you, the Queen...

Mischa's style evolves from commercially trendy to endearingly eclectic. She becomes a worldwide style icon, with David Jones Australia hiring her as the face of their Summer launch.

With her character's presence no longer included in the OC, Mischa's star slowly begins to fall. Unfortunately, her sense of fashion ever-so-slightly descends with her...

Mischa has fired her stylist, and is no longer everywhere.
Unfortunately, it gets worse...

An all-time fashion low on Mischa's record.
2008, so far, seems to be her worst year. Or is it...?

Mischa shows up at the 10th Annual White Tie and Tiara Ball looking absolutely gorgeous.
Perhaps she's just been going through a rough patch? Whatever the case, I'm perfectly happy to support Mischa as she makes her way back on top of the style ladder.

Which Era of Mischa is your favourite?

On another topic, Lipstick Jungle premiered last night, here in Australia. The verdict? I loved it! I very much prefer it over the ill-fated Cashmere Mafia. I hear it's already in its second season in the US which is wonderful news. Perhaps there is hope yet for SATC-style shows for the high-powered business woman on-the-go?
Oh and please don't forget to cast you vote(s) in this month's poll on the right hand side of the page. I'm trying to get an idea of what readers think of my blog, so any feedback would be wonderful.

Catch.

Romany
[photos courtesy of mischa-b.com]

Take the 'Perfect Skin' challenge!

I don't know about everyone else, but dreams about skin problems (not just blemishes, but rashes and strange deformities, also) are the worst kinds of nightmares, as far as I'm concerned. Am I crazy? Apparently not. Dreams of skin symbolize...

• Your contact with the world and what tactics you use to deal with others. Your strength or vulnerability in feeling the impact of other people, their remarks and actions.

• Feelings about personal failings or some sense of not being as good or acceptable as other people; a feeling that other people see you as unattractive or can see failings in you; shyness; difficulties about facing or being in the company of people.

Now, don't get me wrong, I don't have bad skin. There's room for improvement, sure, but I consider myself very lucky about the skin I'm in. This doesn't stop me from becoming outrageously jealous of those with crystal clear, porcelain skin, though, of course.
But instead of sitting around and wallowing in my own jealousy, I've decided to make my own Perfect Skin Challenge. And what's a challenge without some inspiration, eh?


My mother is studying naturopathy, and has given me a few ways to combat problem skin the all-natural way. It's not so much a challenge, as a guideline, really.
This little guide has been designed especially for my own system (a vegetarian with a weak immune system, and protein deficiency), so when joining me on my challenge feel free to change things to suit your own system. There's no set time, because this is supposed to be a lifestyle change. Simply comment me or send me an email when/if you've started seeing results. The rules are few, but effective:

1. Avoid processed/refined foods.
2. Drink 8 glasses of water a day.
3. Eat lots of raw salad vegetables (especially leafy greens).
4. Drink one specially-made protein shake a week.
5. Eat one handful of almonds or cashews a day (not both, and no more than one handful)
6. Eat three serves of eggs and three serves of yoghurt a week (for protein).
7. No more than two or three pieces of fruit (raw and/or dried) a day.
8. Exercise regularly (open to interpretation -- as much as desired)
9. Three Omega-3 tablets daily* ~ morning
10. One vitamin B tablet daily* ~ morning
11. Two 500mg vitamin C tablets daily* ~ afternoon and after dinner
12. One zinc tablet daily* ~ night

(* tablets vary depending on individual)
I've tried my best to make this look really official. How did I do? Lol.

Feel no obligation at all to join, this is simply something fun that I've embarked upon, and I was looking for anyone who wanted to share my enthusiasm. Lol.
Oh and please don't forget to cast you vote(s) in this month's poll on the right hand side of the page. I'm trying to get an idea of what readers think of my blog, so any feedback would be wonderful.

Catch.

Romany

[photos courtesy of tccandler.com, mtv.com, theinsider.com and rnbmusicandgossipp.blogspot.com]

A very sexy city...

Two weeks ago, I had the pleasure of seeing the much anticipated Sex and the City movie. The verdict? Amazing! So I thought before the hoopla completely dies down (it's already on it's way down) I'd milk the hype for all it's worth.
The one aspect of Sex and the City TV show that was always consistent was the fashion. A trait which was flawlessly carried through to the movie. We all had our favourite outfits. So in honour of the four fabulous ladies of the hour, here are my favourites...

The TV Series

Carrie

Carrie didn't always get it right -- that's for sure. But she was the daring one, of the four. And boy did it pay off.

There will always, always be a special place in my heart for this gorgeous coat that Carrie wore to Miranda's wedding. Possibly my most favourite item of clothing worn by any character throughout the entire series.

Miranda

Miranda was a working girl, which didn't leave much room for fashion exploration. But when Miranda slipped into her 'No Excuses' on that fateful night, a whole new woman emerged.

Samantha

Samantha's skirt-suit dominated wardrobe didn't usually appeal to me, but there were a few instances when she brought out the big guns. A flowing red caftan and a shocking pink pantsuit -- that's hot.

Charlotte

Ah Charlotte...ever the episcopalian princess. Whether she was preppy, sexy or conservative or even getting married, Charlotte never disappointed.

The Movie

I was shocked at how fast the fashion moved in the Sex and the City movie! One wouldn't have time to admire a dress before the scene was yanking you to a new location (with a new dress). Thank god for photography, no?
The fashion from the Sex and the City movie surpasses all others in recent years (except for the Devil Wears Prada). One of the things I was most happy about was the fact that this was really Miranda's time to shine, fashion-wise. As far as I'm concerned, the feisty red-head was the star of the show (even though her character made some really bad decisions in other areas).

So what did you all think of the SATC movie? Love it? Or hate it?
Please don't forget to cast you vote(s) in this month's poll on the right hand side of the page. I'm trying to get an idea of what readers think of my blog, so any feedback would be wonderful.

Catch.

Romany

[photos courtesy of hbo.com, imdb.com, fashionising.com 1 and 2 and teamsugar.com]

A whole new me...

Lately, I've discovered that my tastes have been changing. That's no big deal, I know, because it happens to everybody. But that's only because an individual isn't really aware of the changes occurring...that's where I come in. No, the changes haven't been dramatic but they have definitely been noticeable and this has really caught me off-guard. E.g. for a long time, I've loved anchovies (yes, I'm a vegetarian, but dear old anchovies were one of the only meat-type foods I just couldn't bring myself to give up) but a couple of months ago I took a bite of one such fish and nearly gagged. Now I can't even stand the sight of the things. An overnight change -- it shook me to my core.
But nowhere have these changes been more apparent than with regards to my aesthetic preferences. E.g. Luella style nanna florals, as I like to call them (see Camilla Belle and Kelly Osbourne, below) have made their way onto my internal must have list -- a thought which would have me laughing had you told me 2 years ago (I've never been big on nanna florals, or florals in general, really). But now I'm scouring the shop-infested streets high and low for something similar to pair with black tights, black heels (or my new tan knee-high boots) and a black cardigan. A dream com true, as far as I'm concerned...

Activities involving fragrances have always been a favourite past-time of mine. So it came as a real shock when I realised just the other day that for years the kind of scent I thought I liked, I didn't really like at all. It all started on Wednesday the 4th (my birthday -- I am now officially the 17 year old writer of The 16 Diaries. Lol.), when I received a tiny little sample of Prada eau de parfum as a present. I thought, I've never really considered Prada as a fragrance to try so I guess now I can. I spritzed it and headed for school. All day long I was continually sniffing my arm to get another hit of the addictively intoxicating scent...I couldn't get enough of it. I looked up the key notes and discovered the fragrance was filled with different kinds of musks. And that's when it hit me -- all my life I tried to convince myself that I was a girlie, floral, overwhelmingly sweet fragrance type of girl; but I realised that I'm addicted to musky fragrances.
Doesn't sound like a big deal, I know, but learning new things about myself that I never thought could be true really turn my world upside down.

both contain elements of musk

Narciso Rodriguez -- possibly my most favourite fragrance of all time is Solar Musk at heart

A few other things I hate which I've recently started loving...

Vogue AUS -- Fantasy Blooms

Florals...Is this not the most clash-y thing you've ever seen? I love it (and I don't know why)!

Agyness Deyn -- outside an Oscar de la Renta show

She used to be the bain of my existence...now I can't get enough of her!
I saw a Burberry ad featuring her, and instantly fell in love with the ad and in love with her look. Quirky and cute...what's not to love?

I know I can't be the only one with developing tastes...what aesthetic preference changes have you been experiencing lately?
Please don't forget to cast you vote(s) in this month's poll on the right hand side of the page. I'm trying to get an idea of what readers think of my blog, so any feedback would be wonderful.

Catch.

Romany

[photos courtesy of net-a-porter.com, joannemercer.com.au, photos.exposay.com, camilla-belle.net, luella.com, polyvore.com, g-ec2.images-amazon.com, teenvogue.com and au.strawberrynet.com 1, 2 and 3]

Rosemount Australian Fashion Week

Don't worry. I'm aware that RAFW was at the end of LAST month, and yes it HAS taken me more than 4 weeks to cover it. It's a pretty lame excuse, I suppose, but in all honesty I haven't had time. Any fashion week coverage is time consuming, of which I'm sure all bloggers are painfully aware, no?
If it's unbelievably extensive RAFW coverage you're looking for, then head over to Style On Track (one of the best fashion blogs out there, as far as I'm concerned). I just thought after so long, I would only blog about my favourite looks from the fashion showcase.

"Follow your heart. As I've said before, it’s about looking forward and working really hard and not taking a moment to think about what’s impossible. You’ve just got to think about what’s possible and be proactive and push into making what you envisage and dream happen. Because I think if you do set your sights on a goal you get there. It’s amazing."
-- Michelle Jank.

"[the Jayson Brunsdon] woman is worldly, sophisticated and has a sense for cinematic drama."
-- Jayson Brunsdon

"Among the red-carpet-ready offerings of floor-scraping gowns (one print resembling crushed violets bringing an early whiff of spring) were sensible trousers perfectly tailored to display less sensible shoes. Ho’s legion of fans will be more than satisfied with a commercial collection sure to set registers ringing, which is familiar music to this designer’s ears."
-- Vogue AUS Damien Woolnough

AusNTM devotees shield your eyes! Unless you're not a fan of reality TV surprises (e.g. the revelation of the final contestants in a televised modelling contest), then stop reading now.
Of course, "the walkers" at RAFW aren't always a give-away when it comes to AusNTM, but judging from the way last year's turned out (Alice and Steph H both walked for Alex Perry, and coincidentally ended up being the final two), I'd say this is more an indication than anything else.
Alexandra wasn't in the Alex Perry show, but she did walk fro Wayne Cooper. Whether this means she IS in the finals but for whatever reason didn't walk for AP, or she was booted from the contest but Wayne Cooper liked her so much he wanted her in his show anyway...I guess we'll just have to find out.

Oh and please don't forget to cast you vote(s) in this month's poll on the right hand side of the page. I'm trying to get an idea of what readers think of my blog, so any feedback would be wonderful!

Catch.

Romany

[photos courtesy of vogue.com.au]

The Dolly Perfumery

I guess it's just that time of year, isn't it? The time when bloggers feel the need to excuse themselves from posting duties for some time, whether it be days or weeks...sometimes months. Hiatus, is the word I believe. I don't like this word. It brings negative connotations as far as I'm concerned. I prefer vacation - that way, everybody benefits (or at least, the refreshing name means everybody thinks they benefit). Now, this isn't just a vocabulary lesson, there is a purpose for me bringing all this up. Exams are in two weeks (so is my birthday! Yay!) and hardcore studying is required, in order for me to pass - immunity from 'exam-ruining anxiety' has never come naturally to me, see. But by no means am I taking a hiatus or even a vacation. I'm just putting it out there that posts will be irregular. There will be a few, I hope, during these next few weeks because, like all bloggers, I just love blogging. Lol. But there must be a line drawn when it comes to schoolwork, I'm afraid.
Anyway, this doesn't mean we can't have a little fun now. I've been meaning to post this for ages so I'm very excited...
A couple of years ago, I was an avid Dolly magazine reader (think the Aussie version of ElleGirl, CosmoGirl, Seventeen etc...but a little less high-end than TeenVogue), and stumbled upon these two cute perfume-personality articles. I loved them both. I thought it was hilarious how they managed to match each perfume to a boy and a girl (you'll see what I mean). In the first article, they got about 20 perfumes and separated them into different teenage girl personalities (this was before 'emo' and 'alterna-punk' etc. hit the scene), and included descriptions of each so the readers could categorize themselves. And in the second article they gathered about 10 or 11 perfumes and separated them into which ones would attract which type of guy (very general and basic categories). I did the math and figured out which group of teenage girl perfumes would attract which group of boys. Of course I had to update the poster girls and boys for each category (Ashlee Simpson ain't exactly a rock chick no more, and I'm afraid Jeremy Sumpter no longer fills the walls of every teen girl's bedroom).
And the results are in...

Gypsy Chic

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1. If you had enough cash, you'd buy shares in Tree of Life.
2. You love your cowboy boots even more than your best friend.
3. You can't wait to get your P plates so you can organise a road trip down the coast.
4. Your favourite pig-out food is environmentally friendly organic chocolate and you're a committed vegetarian.

Is matched with...

The Sweet Boy
Chris Brown
Don't intimidate him! Sweet guys go for girls who smell nice -- not OTT. Look for a scent that says "I'm girlie" but doesn't scream cutesy. It's all about being feminine.

Rock 'n' Roll

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1. You get ready for a big night out by blaring the Killers and Franz Ferdinand.
2. You wish Paris Hilton would go back to wherever it is she came from and stay there.
3. Your ideal date would be spent in the mosh pit at the Big Day Out.
4. You think black is the new black.
   

Is matched with...

The Party Boy
Brody Jenner
A guy who's got loads of mates, loves to dance and knows how to dress? Sounds like heaven to us! If he's the life of the party, chances are he'll sniff out the outgoing girl who likes to have a good time. So shimmy into your best party frock, spritz yourself with a flirty floral scent, accessorize with your brightest smile and watch Mr Popular come running to the dance floor.

Girlie Glam

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1. You couldn't live without a good lip gloss.
2. You're not sure how you coped before The OC/Gossip Girl/Top Model started.
3. You've had your formal dress planned for months...and it's not till next year!
4. You think a party isn't a party without heels, sleek hair and Beyonce on the stereo.
   

Is matched with...

The Funny Boy
Shia LaBeouf
If he makes you laugh till your face hurts, he's a keeper. And chances are he'll look twice when you walk passed smelling all sweet and lovely. We just know Shia follows his nose...

Pretty Preppy

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1. You're often heard asking, "Who wants to go on a picnic?"
2. You understand the responsibilities that come with being house captain...on the debating team...and a prefect.
3. Your cooking is so good, you'd give the canteen ladies a run for their money.
4. Your wardrobe resembles a Polo Ralph Lauren catalogue.

Is matched with...

The Sporty Boy
Tom Brady
Think Gisele Bundchen snagged the footballer with her looks and talent alone? Nuh-uh...we recky she wowed him with an outdoorsy fragrance. You want a scent that says "I'm easy-going". Ah, love all!

All celebrities and personality descriptions appropriated for 2008 (those hot in 2005 are not all so hot 3 years later).
I laugh every time I read the descriptions - they're so obviously written by a teen girls' mag. Love it!
Which one are you?

Romany

[photos courtesy of myboardingschool.com, slideshow.ivillage.com, leightonmeesterfan.net, people.com 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5, oceanup.typepad.com, time-blog.com, obsessedwithfilm.com, platformlaunchaction.blogspot.com, quorra.ca, any.co.uk, home-gift-products.savingsareon.co.uk and 1clickperfumes.com]

Paris: Le Grand Amour de Ma Vie

Yes, I regrettably admit that I've never been. But it's on the cards, I just know it.
Paris, the most beautiful city in the world (so those of us yet to see for ourselves are told), is full of surprises. Whether it be the Next Big Thing in art, fashion or music and film; a tennis champ who was always seen as the underdog; the construction of a now global, structural icon originally dubbed an "eyesore" (though some still see it that way); or, on a smaller scale, the just-stepped-from-a-photo-shoot gorgeous people strolling the streets of this romantic city.
Kamel, the photographer behind the beautiful street blog Style and the City, gives us the chance to see Paris au naturel. A source of inspiration for us all, I'm sure.
I've compiled a mini-collection called 'This month in Paris...'

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On the topic of all-things-French, I saw a hilarious French film called Le Valet last night (preceded by a truly harrowing film, called Un Secret - it was very well-made, but be warned do not enter the cinema without a packet of tissues).
Le Valet = definitely recommended.
À bientôt!

Romany

[photos courtesy of styleandthecity.com and gossipgirlinsider.com]