Welcome to my Blog.

Welcome to my blog. I live in Sydney and love living on the water but I like to be part of the Global Shopping Experience. My other favourite cities are New York, Paris, Rome,Tokyo & London and I would love to travel more around the World. I like to surround myself with dynamic and energetic people and luxurious things: Pink Champagne Afternoon Tea with Royal Albert Lady Carlyle; Wedgwood and Royal Doulton enhanced by Pale Pink and White Peonies; Yves Delormes Linen; Enjoy Lighting and Glasshouse Perfumed Candles; Crystal cut lamps and a great selection of music. Well cut designer suits, dresses and coats; White Gold Jewellery; Designer SHOES and handbags as well as hats; scarves; gloves; sunglasses; fun Mimco Jewellery accessories and Holster Bling flats are included in my organised pinklily wardrobe. My life must include going to the Theatre; Dancing and Fine Dining. I like to spend time Listening to Music especially Jazz by Diana Krall; Reading my favourite Fashion Magazines, Vogue, Harpers Bazaar and Vanity Fair with a cup of cappuccino at my side; Swimming in the pool; or experiencing Sydney Cafe Life and amazing Restaurants. Must mention how I enjoy spending time with my iMac; being part of a wide world of social media; My Blog; Twitter; Pinterest; Facebook; & chatting on my iPhone. I love challenges, new experiences, expanding my world and learning about great new ideas in design and style. Time spent with creative, people is interesting and exciting. I thrive on discovering new knowledge and enjoy researching and sharing new up to date ideas and media stories in Luxury Living; Style; Design; Fashion; Beauty; Entertainment and Travel . I will be blogging about living a life of luxury and I need to be organised to do all of this. Hope you join me in this journey. Enjoy GJB

Wednesday, 1 February 2012

Accessorise and Extend Your Wardrobe


One Outfit...... Multiple Classic Looks.
My last blog was about My Style Mantra and stepping out with confidence and putting your best foot forward. Two of the fashion icons that I admire in regard to Sophisticated Classical Style are Jacqueline Kennedy and Audrey Hepburn. Camrose and Kross have recreated Jacqueline Kennedy's Jewellery with the exact replica design. They are amazing vintage pieces. The items arrive in a blue velvet hard case boxes with a Manufacturer's certificate and the providence of each piece and the quality is excellent. The prices with our dollar are amazing. This is the warranty details. You can purchase these from Camrose and Kross directly or from TVSNWarranty: All Jacqueline Kennedy pieces come with a Manufacturer's certificate. It is certified that the accompanying fashion accessory contains the mark of, and whose elite design is solely and exclusively manufactured by Camrose & Kross is a rendering of the fashion accessories worn by Jacqueline Bouvier Kennedy First Lady of The United States of America 1961 - 1963. If you are into Jewellery, you have to check out these GORGEOUS pieces. I love pearls and a bit of Bling for evening and brooches are the latest fashionable piece to change up your outfit. I thought that I'd start with the idea of the many faces of a black dress and the jacket, shoes and handbags and then look at how the jewellery changes it up and down. 


I've selected my dress from Saks's website winter sale with upto 70% off at the moment and they have a flat shipping rate to Australia. There are many options available but I've chosen something which is classical and I can wear to multiple different occasions. Haven't got time to go home after work and change? You need a Desk to Dinner Wardrobe.    
                           

Lafayette 148 New York

Lafayette Pleat-Detail Grazia Dress

  • Fold over collar
  • Sleeveless
  • Side zipper
  • Fully lined
  • About 41" from shoulder to hem
  • 55% viscose/45% acetate
  • Dry clean
  • Imported of Italian fabric
Was AUD $465.41 Now AUD $278.44  0433249068294 


Lafayette 148 New York

Leather Cap Sleeve Stretch Wool Dress

A substantial virgin wool design of elite double cloth finished with leather cap sleeves.
  • Leather cap sleeves
  • Front and back Princess seams
  • Slash pockets
  • Concealed back zipper
  • Back vent at hem
  • Fully lined
  • About 24" from natural waist
  • 98% virgin wool/2% elastane
  • Dry clean by leather specialist
  • Imported of Italian fabric 
  • Was AUD $594.69 Now AUD $237.67  0433244597355 


    What are my options to wear this in as many different ways as possible? Still going for the Classical Style.
    1. I can add a short jacket in black. Long sleeved or a 3/4 sleeve may be more versatile
    2. Pop it with a short colour jacket 
    3. Wear it with a full length trench for more of a work look
    4. Wear it with a stylish well cut coat in black or cream for a classical look. 
    5. I can add the black Mary Jane shoe for work 
    6. Match it with black patent high heel or again pop it with colour or glitter for evening
    7. Take it down a notch and tone it down with a patent black or coloured flat ballet pump
    8. Bring in the neutral tones in a flat, a kitten heel or a high heel depending on the occasion
    9. Bring in the Red shoe again in a flat, a kitten heel or a high heel depending on the occasion
    10. The GREEN colour of the season addition is also a possibility
    11. Add the classical no fuss handbag, tote, iPad case, or an evening coloured or glitter clutch depending on the occasion
    12. Change the hairstyle to an up style for a more formal occasion
    13. Add a hair decoration. Maybe a hairband for Lunch
    14. Black opaques or skin coloured stockings
    15. French Nail Polish or a Colour
    16. An appropriate perfume for evening Chanel No 5

    Jackie Kennedy style – Fashion trends she had set 
    • Sleeveless A-line dresses; 
    • A good French suit to the middle of the knee with three-quarter sleeves on the jacket. The quality of the material is very important. 
    • Dresses of Valentino and Givenchy; 
    • White jeans. She liked the combination of beltless white jeans with a black turtleneck, never tucked in, but pulled down over the hips; 
    • Hermes scarves; 
    • Dark sunglasses. Once she was no longer a political wife, Jackie almost did not take the dark glasses off. She admitted that sunglasses gave her the opportunity to watch people. 
    • Pearl necklaces; 
    • Jewelry from Van Cleef & Arpels.
    Now for the Jacqueline Kennedy jewellery to extend this outfit even further.
    Like all girls, Jacqueline Kennedy had many formal and informal functions to attend and planning ahead was essential. I think that this is one of the secrets of looking your best. 

    Office Look - Classical, no fuss, Gold necklace, gold bracelet, gold earrings, gold or pearl ring.
    •  Jackie's Signature Link Design Necklace ($149) is a richly-textured piece that is the very definition of glamour!
    •  Comprised of 36 distinct scalloped elements plated in 24ct gold, interlaced with 39 brilliant stations of 4 Swarovski Crystals each, this necklace was a centrepiece when worn by Jackie and helped define her style
    •  The necklace is secured through parrot clasp with extension
    •  Necklace measures approx 42cm in length with 8cm extension
    •  Necklace width is approx 17mm 
    Consider the neckline when choosing the necklace.

     BANGLES ARE A MUST THIS SEASON
    Jackies Signature Link Bracelet ($99.50) has the same luxuriously complex personality as the necklace and was one of Jackie's most often worn pieces
    •  It has 16 distinct 24ct gold plated scalloped elements and carries 72 Swarovski crystals in between
    •  The bracelet is secured through box and tongue clasp
    •  Bracelet measures approx 19.5cm and is approx 15mm in width 


     There are 47 bracelets to choose from in the collection.
    If you like the layer look wear them in any combination.


    • Jackie had a lovely series of bangles ($99.50) she acquired over the years. Here, is a rendering of four of Jackie's favourite designs in one set
    • While each bangle can stand alone, Jackie usually wore them stacked together
    • Each bangle is 24ct gold plated. The set includes one highly polished bangle with 8 Swarovski crystals, a filigree bangle, a rope design bangle and a bangle with a wrapped design
    •  The width of the bangles is approx 4mm to 6mm
    • The approximate length of the bangles is 19.5cm 


    You could achieve this look with 9k, 14k or 18k  Gold jewellery and achieve the same look depending on your budget. The idea is to invest in various options and build several stories around each dress in your wardrobe so the budget is a factor as all as the total look. If you are playing down the dress, then bring the focus to the accessories. A simple gold chain will not be enough to bring the focus to the jewellery, but you could layer several different length chains as the focal point or Pop the look with the earrings as a statement.  If you choose 2 of the above options, the perhaps a plain gold stud for the day or smaller pearl earrings ($44.50). Amazing price for a piece of history. This was a lovely set of earrings that Jackie wore with her hair up or down, these were among her favourites, especially during the early years of JFKs presidency. These earrings are clip-on and feature rhodium plating with simulated Mabe pearls and are accented with stunning Swarovski crystals. 
    Approximate dimensions: Diameter 23mm 

    You could wear a single strand pearl necklace without going over the top. Matching bracelet is also available.
    This Classic Simulated Single Pearl Strand Necklace ($79.50) features knotted silken cords and ivory cream-coloured Czech glass, hand-painted pearls
      


    •  The necklace is secured through box clasp
    •  The necklace is approx 53cm
    •  The width is approx 8mm
    •  Click the More Images link underneath the image to see Jackie wearing this piece!
    The art deco clasp boasts beautiful Swarovski crystals and speaks of the elegance of times past.
    Camrose & Kross With unmatched quality, Jackie's Triple Strand Pearl Bracelet is a timeless complement for any occasion. The 81 ivory-cream colored European faux pearls, are 6mm in diameter. The platinum-plated art deco clasp has 14 perfect Swarovski® Austrian crystals. Length is 8 inches.($69.95)
    If you want to step it up with a pearl earring to give you that evening look then tone down the necklace and the bracelet to something more delicate. These earrings will be show stoppers. 
    One of Jackies most famous earrings, the Simulated Pearl Floral Earrings ($99.50) are a testament to her classic taste! Jackie wore these earrings everywhere, and to such interesting affairs
    •  She wore to a party in her honour in 1967, thrown by the Italian Ambassador to the United States. The ambassador presented Jackie with her own limited edition copy of the Popes Oratio Dominica
    •  Jackie treasured the earrings her whole life and even loaned them to her daughter Caroline, who wore them during her own wedding. Jackie later gave the earrings as an heirloom gift to her daughter Caroline
    •  Just like the originals, this rendering is plated in 24ct gold and has the same two sets of removable, hand-painted, faux pearl drops in white and black
    •  The studs feature Swarovski crystals
    •  The dual floral leaf design features gorgeous Cubic Zirconia
    •  The earrings are accented with stunning Swarovski crystals
    •  Earrings are secured using a post and disc fitting
    •  The earrings measure approx 35mm in height and 20mm in width 

    Wear the 3 strand Pearl necklace to a special Lunch or dinner or a cocktail party. Love this piece! Want the Classical Look. The 3 Strand Pearl Necklace is gorgeous.
    The finest reproduction of the legendary faux-pearl necklace. Hand knotted silken cords carry 158 ivory cream-colored Czechoslovakian glass hand-painted pearls . The platinum-plated art deco clasp, with 14 Swarovski® Austrian crystals, speaks of the elegance of times past. All Camrose & Kross jewelry is presented in a beautiful steel case covered in soft velour and satin. Inner length is 17 inches, outer length is 20 inches. Also available in a larger 20 inch, inner strand and 23 inch outer strand.
    SKU# PR-01from Camrose and Kross ($119.95)



    Going for a jacket to wear on a colder morning like today in Sydney? Pick up the black jacket with a pin or often referred to as brooches. If you want to complement the pearl earrings, this is a classical 2 piece pearl set. You could wear them separately or as a set on the top left corner of a dress or on a black velvet choker.

    A classic example of Jackie's elegant and refined taste, this brooch was one of Jackie's staples during the White House years. In fact, here she is wearing the pin set during a meeting of the Fine Arts Committee of her famous White House restoration. Jackie marshaled an army of connoisseurs, historians and consultants to perfect her restoration. Here she directs a meeting of the art committee, discussing acquisitions and restorations of oil paintings for the new White House. The Brooch Set boasts cabochon faux-pearls and gold plating($69.95).
    I like all things butterflies and I choose various accessories to bring in this element of who I am. Maybe you have a particular liking for a particular design. There are currently 26 pin designs.
    The Green Element in earrings for evening. ($64.95)
    Jackie found the romance of emeralds irresistible. After wearing the necklace and the matching earrings to the inaugural gala, she had a matching bracelet made (all available on this website). Camrose & Kross presents emerald-colored Swarovski crystals prong-set in a delicately patterned chain of pure sterling silver plated in 24k gold. The earrings are simply stunning and go from formal to informal with a removable pendant! They also feature four unique marquise cut CZs. 1 1/4 inch high with pendant. 
    The Good news is that you'll have these accessories forever. You can always substitute the black dress for another black dress and these will still work to change up the outfit for a Classical sophisticated Style for any occasion. Start with the the LBD and match it back.
    Enjoy GJB!


    Sunday, 29 January 2012

    Style Mantra



    Improvisation? Rehearsal? or Performance?
    My background is theatre and I love a bit of Drama in my life. Having said that if one is to try to work out one's style, you could just step out and see how an outfit works or maybe you have to empty your wardrobe and try every combination until you come up with the perfect outfit?You are "on show'' in front of the world and there will be reviews either publicly voiced or just whispered. It can be confronting and you need to be confident in your choices. In improvising one has to ask the 4W's.
    Who am I ? Where am I? When am I there? Why am I there? Connecting this to Style Mantra is an easy transition. Is this my Style Mantra or somebody else's? What is my image that I wish to project?Where will I be wearing this outfit - to work, out with colleagues, friends, family, casual or special event?When is the event -day/night, weekday/weekend? everyday/ VIP event?Why am I going to this event?Work commitment? Family Obligation? Fun? To be Seen or complimented?
    All of this sounds like a lot of preparation, work and reflection and it is. There are endless lists to consider and it is all HIGH MAINTENANCE. A capsule wardrobe is essential, imagination and a good understanding of style, colour and composition as well as a sense of making your own stamp on your personal style. You need to decide to be true to yourself. I love reading fashion magazines and looking at all the latest collections but I have to remember that these are just ideas and springboards to help me to create MY PERSONAL LOOK which makes me feel good when I "Step Out".
    Of course one has to eat, drink and sleep well. A good diet is imperative if you want to have good skin.
    Exercise is also paramount as part of a healthy regime. 

                                                          STEP1
    1. SKINCARE Use the best skincare for my skin. Cleanse, exfoliate, moisturise morning and night and Mask twice a week. This is up to you to decide which range is in your price bracket and best for your skin type. I think that all girls want to have fresh radiant skin. This is the ARESTALINE range that I find suits my skin. I use the cream cleanser in the morning and the gel at night to remove makeup. Prep 8 is an exfoliator which you do not rinse off and it is great for reducing any enlarged pores. the eventones does at it says and keeps the natural colour balance. Follow with the cream and the serum. Reshape8 helps to tone the neck and the body. Hand Exfoliator and Cream is most important.

    STEP 2
    2. FRAGRANCES Decide on my wardrobe range of fragrances.
     Find out which fragrances suit you. I love oriental fragrances. Choose a body moisturiser which you like. I like to layer my fragrances, body wash (NO SOAP), body moisturising cream and finally Eau de Parfum. My original favourite was Dioressence and then they discontinued it. I also like Chanel No 5 and Guerlain Samsara and Shalimar. I have a tray of my favourites and my choice changes with my mood, whim or the occasion. Remember this defines "Who" you are. Decide if you like floral, oriental, woody or fresh notes. Wear a fragrance every day and carry a purse spray.
                             
    STEP 3
    3. MANICURE and PEDICURE                                                          This is a personal choice but I like to have a French Acrylic on my nails and a dark colour on my toes. I'm into the purples but I love to play with the OPI app. If I ask for a gel topcoat over my French acrylics, then I can have a colour for a special occasion and when I remove that colour, the French is still glossy underneath. The Leighton Denny Range has some great French colours.                                    


    STEP 4
    4. WATER 
    Drink water everyday. 8 glasses if possible.
    Carry a water bottle.

    STEP 5
    5. SLEEP
    Enjoy a bubble bath and light a Glasshouse Candle. Light up my room with Enjoy Lighting Candles. Enjoy my favourite music on my Bose Dock. Read my favourite magazines. Read a novel rather than watch TV. This was a great article on Oprah about what to consider in order to sleep well. Try to get 6-8 hours sleep per night.                                                                                                                       






             

    STEP 6
    6. EAT Fish, Fruit and Vegetables
    Buy fresh sashimi, fish and vegetables every week at the Sydney Fish Markets. Maybe chicken occasionally. I enjoy a fruit shake every morning to give me the energy I need. 
    Exercise is important but it is often overlooked. 
    I need to swim more in 2012.


    STEP 7
    7. BE ORGANISED
     Calendars on my computer and iPhone.
     Check my emails and messages regularly.
     Have all my wardrobe organised- Seasons, colours, occasions. It has to be a useable accessible wardrobe. Accessories all stored in a useful, functional way. I will try to wear all of my shoes and this should be easy if they are all stored in clear, labelled shoe boxes. Have all my makeup and brushes organised in Lock and Lock. Large 8 litre Cosmetic case often on special at $29.50 on TVSN.
    Minamalise my take out makeup kit so that my handbag is not too heavy.                                                           

     Pinklily hangtastic hangers, clear slip covers, clear shoe boxes and drawer organisers. Organise my earrings in a Pinklily Jewellery Organisers.                        
                                                            
     STEP 8            
     8. CULL REGULARLY
     A month before every season, cull without any emotional attachment. If I haven't worn it and I really don't like it, give it away to charity.

     STEP 9.
     9. PLAN MY WARDROBE WEEK - I can't just wait until the day.
     Love this Kate Spade range of iPhone and iPad covers. 
     I chose this black and white spot with a hard case Pink surround.
     Make sure that I have all of my makeup supplies 
     Make sure that I do not run out of anything.
     Clean my makeup brushes regularly.

     Make sure that everything is laundered, pressed and available.

     Allocate time to put a story together. Enjoy this creative process.

     I do this in my head, but you could lay it out on the bed.

     I don't want to have a wardrobe dilemma in a morning.

     Do I need to go to the cobblers? 

     Shoes are IMPORTANT!! 
     "A lady should always be well heeled".
     Do I need to go to the Dry Cleaners or the tailors?
     Do I need to make an appointment at Toni & Guy Hairdressers? Book ahead.
     Cut? Colour? Treatment?                              
     Do I have the right accessories to complete a look?
     What do I need to change/extend an outfit? AM to PM                                
     Can I cater for a change of seasons? 
     4 Seasons a day in Sydney?
     Do I have any formal occasions to attend?
     Lunch? Dinner? Afternoon Tea at The Victoria TeaRoom?
     Maybe a tick list would be helpful for so many questions.

             
    STEP 10                                                                         
    10. LOOK MY BEST
    Remember My Mantra. 
    Always look my best.
    Feel good about myself. 
    Have regular health checks.
    Be confident and HAPPY about my choices.  
    SMILE. CELEBRATE.
    Let my eyes sparkle.
    COMMUNICATE. Stay in touch with friends.
    ENJOY my day!


    STEP 11 
    11. SHARE MY LIFE
    Remember to share my life with others 
    Be thankful.


    It was necessary to spend some honest soul searching time before I could begin to write. I procrastinated for several weeks. Facing the truth about who one is and who one would like to aspire to be is a huge ask. It is certainly a process of self analysis ad I hope that it will encourage you to think about the 4 W's. Improvise and rehearse until you feel that you are ready for a "performance". A good actor is one that is believable and credible and is welcomed by the audience. Similarly, a person will shine if they feel happy and confident about their choices in life.
    Show people who you are and get out there and live. 
    Look good, feel great, feel like each day is a new adventure and show the world the real you. I know that the only way to enjoy my life is to feel that I am organised enough so that I can enjoy life to the fullest. There are so many cliches which I could have used but the one I like the best is - Step out and put your best face forward.
    What's your Style Mantra?
    Enjoy GJB215



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