the challenge

Spring is officially in the air and with it comes some pretty important events on the Australian fashion calendar.  We've just seen Melbourne's Spring Fashion Week and as I type the Perth Fashion Festival is underway.  Melbourne's Spring Racing Carnival is certainly a reason to head to the shops and discover what is on offer.  But for Year 12 students (and their teachers!), Spring is also about graduation ceremonies, dinners and a whole raft of other events associated with the end of the school year.

For those young ladies about to graduate from the clutches of High School, the challenge of what to wear to these functions can be a difficult one.  Many seek something youthful and fashionable, but understand that this is not the occasion for leather mini-skirts and mid-drift tops. How to meet the modesty criteria without looking like you are swathed in your mother's hand-me-downs can be a difficult task. 

So, in an effort to help all the wonderful young ladies I am lucky enough to teach this year, I have searched around and come up with a few options for those seeking something stylish that won't make daddy blush.



ted baker

I adore this Ted Baker dress.  Its has a vintage feel thanks to its cinched waist and full skirt.  The floral print gives it quite a prim feel, but that is offset by the sweetheart neckline.  The book-a-holic in me loves the fact that the print resembles pages torn from an old-style botanical guide.

country road

This 'Spliced Dress' from Country Road is a clean, modern look that is available in two colourways.  I like its simplicity and subtlety.  I also love the potential in a piece that could be so easily dressed-up or dressed-down.


cue

Cue's 'Spiked Orchid' dress has a fitted bodice and is made of contrasting panels of sateen, satin and georgette.  Featuring a full skirt and details such as pleated sleeves, this number is slightly avant garde thanks to the print and the combination of fabrics.

morrison

Morrison is one of my favourite brands.  The label originated in Freemantle, WA and all garments are still designed and produced in Australia.  Designs are organic and evoke a classic simplicity and effortless elegance.  The 'Maddie' shift dress is a timeless and beautiful piece.  Wear with a stunning pair of shoes and minimal accessories.

leona edmiston

For some 50s inspired glamour you can't go past Leona Edmiston.  The 'Hazel' shirt dress features a full pleated skirt and fitted 3/4 sleeves.  No need for much in the way of accessories - let the gorgeous ikat print be the statement.

thurley

And just because I'm kind of obsessed by Thurley at the moment and because lace is experiencing a massive comeback, my final suggestion is the 'Lady Lace' dress.  Made from fine French lace, this exquisite and very ladylike design features a full skirt accentuated by layers of featherweight tulle.  Perfect for a twenty-first century fairytale princess.     

5 reasons i love penny mccarthy

penny mccarthy, associate fashion editor vogue australia

I officially have a super-sized crush on Penny McCarthy, Associate Fashion Editor of Vogue Australia.  I should let you know that I develop crushes on random people quite easily and for no apparent reason, however in this case there are some pretty good reasons.

Reason one:

"Fashion doesn't have to be expensive to be fabulous." 

Sitting at the Vogue Australia Style Workshop at Chadstone the Fashion Capital yesterday,  I was acutely aware of my mortgage, kids' private school fees and all those other lovely little costs that relentlessly eat away at my savings account.  And so, I was totally thrilled to hear Ms McCarthy share these words of wisdom.  In fact, lots of what was on show were totally affordable ways of updating your wardrobe.

windsor smith pixie black/gold studs $159.95

Reason two:

"Tailoring is the backbone of your wardrobe."

I am a girl who likes her tailoring.  I am a firm believer that unless one has been blessed with the body of a supermodel, which unfortunately I have not (thanks mum and dad!) good tailoring is vital.  Tailoring can help give you shape and lend your outfit a touch of elegance.  This rule of thumb was clear in the 'City Luxe' trend on show.



portmans jacket, witchery skirt, coach bag

 

escada jacket, saba dress, clavin klein shoes, coach bag



arthur galan dress, portmans jacket, wittner shoes, cue bag, david lawrence cuff, diva necklace

 Reason three:

"When mixing prints, keep within the same colour palette."

You would have to be living in a cave to not be aware that prints are on trend this season.  However, despite the claim that there are no rules when it comes to fashion, the reality is, if you want to avoid looking like one of the Von Trapp children who has had their latest outfit made from hideous old curtains, BE CAREFUL.  The right use of prints can be amazing, gorgeous, inspiring.  The wrong use can cause onlookers to fall into an uncontrolable seizure.


country road pants, emporio armani shirt, wittner shoes, mimco bag

 

lisa ho jacket and pants, wittner shoes, coach bag, mimco bangle



witchery jacket, shirt and skirt, wittner shoes, coach bag

 Reason four:

"Break it up - put your own stamp on it."

Best. Advice. Ever.

Reason five:

Thurley

Enough said.

armani exchange jacket, thurley pants, withery tank, mimco necklace and bag

thurley jacket and pant, witchery top, windsor smith shoes, max alex vnder head piece

thurley jacket and skirt, windsor smith shoes, mimco bag

thurley jacket and pants, emporio armani shirt, armani exchange necklace