The Fashion Patriot: 2012

Tuesday, 18 December 2012

WE HAVE A NEW HOME!

Monday, 19 November 2012

thefashionpatriot.com is now LIVE!

I am very pleased to announce that thefashionpatriot.com is now LIVE!! I have been working hard to get this launched by the end of the year, and the day has finally arrived (yay!) :)

Please make sure you continue to follow TFP at our new home: thefashionpatriot.com

Samira xx

Monday, 12 November 2012

Designer Spotlight: Olivia Howard (Olive & Finn)

I first met Olivia Howard a couple of weeks ago at The PR Department's Olive & Finn press showing, and I was absolutely obsessed with her passion for the clothes she was stocking, and her knowledge of fabrics and cuts. As you all know I am a massive stickler for good quality fabrics and natural fibres, as well as well made clothes, and this was one of the many things Olivia and I had in common.

Her aim of creating an intimate online boutique has been extremely well executed, with a simple and clean format, you legitimately feel you are browsing the racks at your favourite boutique with the click of a mouse.

With an incredible range of pants, shorts, skirts, dresses, bags and jewellery, and affordable prices, Olive & Finn is fast becoming one of my favourite online stores.

Be sure to check out my interview with Olivia (below), and the Olive & Finn store ASAP!

All the stars have come out to play in Frankfurt today for the MTV Europe Music Awards 2012. Best Song nominee and winner, Carly Rae Jepsen chose a beautiful metallic Johanna Johnson gown for the red carpet. Now, this dress is gorgeous, but this look is so wrong. The hair would have been so much better pulled back into a high pony, or a low bun... and the dress has not been tailored properly, it's too long and too big around Carly's bust. Tailoring is EVERYTHING! Getting the fit of a dress right takes it to the next level. It's a shame because this dress is really beautiful, but it's just a case of the wrong dress on the wrong girl, and bad styling.

I do, however, like the pop of the blood red lip and nails.

Thursday, 1 November 2012

Spotted...

Former bad-girl, Kelly Osbourne wowed last night at the Cosmopolitan Ultimate Women of the Year Awards in a floral Zimmermann dress. This dress is simply stunning! The colour and the fabric is gorgeous, and it fits Kelly beautifully! Kelly walked away with the Ultimate Style Award, and deservedly so... After losing a reported 30kg, and cleaning up her act, Kelly rivals most other A-Listers on the red carpet these days.

As you can probably tell, I am a sucker for a good makeover story, haha!

Wednesday, 24 October 2012

Spotted...

Oh my gosh! I have no words. The love I have for this Scanlan and Theodore red lace gown is like no other... It is just goooooooorgeous! Yummy mummy, Nicole Richie stepped out at QVC's FFANY Shoes on Sale event in this show stopper on Monday night... I don't even need to look at what the others were wearing, whoever wears this is best dressed in my eyes, seriously, this dress cannot be beat!

FYI you may recognise this dress from Being Lara Bingle... Bingle tried this beauty on in their Melbourne store, it also looked fab on her... I hope she bought it!

Monday, 22 October 2012

Sunglass Hut's pop-up Floating Store

Sunglass Hut's Global Ambassador, Georgia May Jagger is heading Down Under to launch the return of Sunglass Hut's Floating Store from November 15 - 18, 2012.

The Floating Store will be dropping anchor in Darling Harbour, where customers will be able to try and buy exclusive styles including the Dolce & Gabbana Sicilian Baroque Collection; a precious pair of 21 carat Tiffany & Co. sunglasses adorned with yellow diamonds and, for the first time in Australia, Tory Burch Sunglasses. Australian Sunglass Hut customers will be the first to try and buy these looks as they will be unavailable anywhere else until February 2013!!

While shopping you can enjoy a 360 degree water views, natural ocean breeze, as well as the alfresco shaded lounges while soaking up the sounds of lapping water and the beats playing courtesy of the on deck DJ!

The world’s best Sunglass Hut associates will be flown in from around the globe to provide expert styling advice and exceptional service to customers.

The store will be open to the public at the following times:

Thursday 15th November, Darling Harbour: 10am – 10pm

Friday 16th November, Darling Harbour: 10am – 10pm

Saturday 17th November, Darling Harbour: 10am – 12am

Sunday 18th November, Darling Harbour: 10am – 6pm

Ten percent of all profits from the floating store will be donated to OneSight, a leading global vision care charity sponsored by Luxottica. So not only is this an awesome event, it is also supporting a great cause!

As if this doesn't sound like the coolest thing in the world!?! Sunglasses are a MUST this season, and Sunglass Hut has the most incredible range, to suit a variety of tastes and budgets... So make sure you check it out!

Wednesday, 17 October 2012

Spotted...

Sarah Hyland is definitely finding her fashion groove when it comes to red carpet events. The Modern Family beauty has killed it at her recent red carpet appearances, and her look at Nylon's October Issue event was no exception... from head to toe, this look is absolute perfection! The insanely amazing skirt she is wearing, which I need in my wardrobe immediately is by Zimmermann! Styling is key in pulling off this ensemble, which could have looked a little too mature if it weren't for that hair and make up which edges this whole look up, as well as that mirrored fabric of the skirt... SEN.SAY.SHUN.AL!

davidjones.com.au gets a makeover!

Finally!! Landmark department store, David Jones has launched their new website, fully equipped with an online store and FREE shipping until December 14, 2012.

The new site is fantastic! It's uber chic and easy to use, allowing you to shop by designer, category and style and further refine your results by colour, size, price and lifestyle.

I love how David Jones is finally embracing the internet and online media, and are using it well!

Now David Jones is ~~Was.Is~~.Always open... Wooo! *insert celebratory dance here*

P.S. be sure to check out the David Jones blog, http://blog.davidjones.com.au, it's very cool, with Vogue Australia editor, Edwina McCann posting her fashion do's and don'ts regularly.

Spotted...

Lea Michele, the star of one my favourite shows (... yes, I am a massive Gleek), stepped out on Monday night for the 2012 ELLE "Women in Hollywood" Celebration in Beverly Hills.

The 26 year old, New York native hammed it up in a sheer number by Zimmermann. Now, let's be real, not everyone could pull this look off, but Lea Michele oozes confidence and divatude, so this totally works. She could werk a brown paper bag, that's how much she owns her looks... she never lets the dress wear her. I wish I could rock this dress... But I just don't think it's ever going to happen unfortunately.

I'm sure this look is going to have the critics torn... So tell me, do you love it or hate it?!

Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week, Australia 2013

This morning, MBFWA organisers ended the months of speculation surrounding the venue and dates of the much anticipated 2013 MBFWA.

IMG Fashion has confirmed that MBFWA will be brought forward to April 8-12, 2013. This decision has been made after months of consultation and deliberation with designers, media, agents, buyers and trade groups to ensure there are fewer clashes with the international buying season, which saw Josh Goot and Dion Lee cancel their respective shows at this year's MBFWA.

It has also been confirmed, that after 10 major venues were researched, the 2013 MBFWA will be held at Carriageworks (the former Eveleigh rail yards) in Sydney. The move ensures that the boutique showcase, Premiere will also run for the duration of MBFWA.

I seriously believe that 2013's MBFWA will be the biggest and best we've seen. Carriageworks is such a terrific venue, and the earlier timing will ensure that all talent can be involved. The move will also allow for enhanced social media and live streaming options, which we all know in this day and age is imperative, and would make my job a hell of a lot easier :)

I am SO excited... Bring on April 2013 I say!!

Monday, 15 October 2012

Spotted...

The Fashion Patriot is definitely being inundated with Kim Kardashian posts... but you've gotta hand it to her, the girl looks good in Aussie labels and it's always amazing to see international celebs supporting Australian designers :)

Kanye's leading lady was spotted heading to dinner with her sisters in Miami, in an ivory/biege ensemble, top off with a metallic camilla & marc blazer. I think this look is extremely cool, one of my favourite trends is wearing all one colour in different textures and Kimmy has nailed it!

Friday, 12 October 2012

Spotted...

One of my favourite British models, Rosie Huntington-Whiteley was out in LA during the week with her mum and some friends. The Transformers' babe looked incredible in a blue stylestalker dress. Rosie has incomparable style, and always looks so well put together. Love this look... Not that I think I would ever be able to get away with it... But hey! A girl can dream, can't she?!

Sunday, 7 October 2012

Spotted...

After returning from her trip to Australia, Kim Kardashian was spotted in Miami, shopping with her family. The Keeping Up with the Kardashians star kept things stylish in a black peplum number by Finders Keepers. This is such a good look on Kim, it's simple but really works with what her mumma gave her. Love.

Friday, 28 September 2012

Spotted...

After her trip to the Land Down Under, Kim Kardashian arrived in Los Angeles in style, wearing head to toe sass & bide.

Seriously... who looks that chic after a 17+ hour plane ride? Not me, that's for sure!

Monday, 24 September 2012

My 2012 Emmy Picks!

I loooooove Award Season, the fashion hits and misses keep me entertained for hours! The Emmys marked the start of the 2012 Award Season, and it certainly did not disappoint! The red carpet was filled with fashion faux-pas as well as a tonne of deliciousness... Here are my top 10 picks from this year's Emmys (in no particular order)

Girls star, Allison Williams channels her inner glamazon in this emerald gown by Oscar de la Renta

Revenge is one of my fave shows, and I love this J. Mendel dress on Emily VanCamp!

Jinnfer Goodwin is a dark horse when it comes to the red carpet, she always knocks it out of the ball park and this incredible Monique Lhuillier dress is a perfect example of that.

January Jones, for me, is generally a bit of a disappointment when it comes to red carpets, but this Zac Posen dress is KILLER! I am just not a huge fan of that hair... But the dress is so sick I can look past the hair...

Oh ~~Elaine~~ Julia Louis-Dreyfus! This Vera Wang dress is everything; the fit, the colour, the sapphire earrings, the train... That's how you do effortless glam everyone, take note!

I am obsessed with this chartreuse colour this season and Julie Bowen works the trend in this show-stopping Monique Lhuillier strapless gown

I'm sorry, but how does a 12 year old become so chic? Kiernan Shipka is always impeccably dress and I am in love with this Zac Posen look! It is just perfect for her and the Emmys.

If you wear this colour, you are more than likely to end up in my top 10 picks, I cannot say no to this colour, and this Monique Lhuillier gown looks phenomenal on Padma Lakshmi; it's simple but speaks volumes!

Like January Jones, Tina Fey is more often than not a red carpet mess, but today was an entirely different story. This Vivienne Westwood dress is simply stunning! I live for that plum colour and it fits her like a glove.... And would you just look at her body?! It's insane! She gets my most improved award for sure!

Jessica Lange is probably the coolest 63 year old on the planet! This J. Mendel dress isn't anything entirely special (except for the fact it's that colour) but Jessica just rocks it! She proves sunnies on the red carpet isn't just for men. Love her!

Sunday, 23 September 2012

Spotted...

90210 star, Shenae Grimes was out on Friday night celebrating at EW's Pre-Emmy Party. The 22-year old kept it simple in a black lace dress by Stylestalker. This dress is young and flirty and perfect for Shenae and the event! However, I do wish she wore a coloured lip, I think it would have taken this look to an entirely different place.

Friday, 21 September 2012

Spotted...

Kim Kardashian has officially ditched the monokhrome whilst promoting her weight loss supplement, Quick Trim in Australia. The bootylicious babe flaunted her curves in a dress by Michael Lo Sordo in Melbourne today. This dress is sick! I just gotta have it! I am seriously having a major digital print moment right now.

Thursday, 20 September 2012

Spotted...

The Queen of Reality TV, Kim Kardashian is currently Down Under promoting weight-loss supplement, Quick Trim. The brunette bombshell was spotted out and about in Melbourne killing it in a Josh Goot ensemble.

I have to say, I am totally digging Kim's style evolution... she's looking uber chic and sophisticated and this look is no exception! Mind you, it's hard to go wrong in Goot... his latest collection in particular is off the chain!

Monday, 17 September 2012

Spotted...

Modern Family actress, Sarah Hyland was recognised for her work with The Lopez Foundation at the 6th Annual Power of Youth Event this weekend.

As a kidney disease and transplant survivor, Sarah's role at The Lopez Foundation involves increasing community awareness about kidney disease and organ donation.

She accepted the honour in a gorgeous floral Zimmermann dress. Everything about this look is flawless, the hair and make up are perfection, and I love the bright blue accessories!

Monday, 10 September 2012

SKYY Vodka Cocktails!

As most of you would know (if you follow me on Instagram), I love a good cocktail!

With Spring in the air, and in celebration of Mercedes Benz Fashion Week, New York, MBFW's official sponsor SKYY Vodka has released a collection of cocktails to celebrate the Spring 2013 collections and trends. This MBFW fashion insiders will be treated to four signature SKYY cocktails: Classic, Romantic, Glam, and Progressive. From the Bohemian Classic, embodying a clean, modern aesthetic, to the Futuristic Fashionista, an avant-garde cocktail inspired by the progressiveness of fashion’s most daring designers, each signature SKYY cocktail represents a crucial aspect of the fashion landscape.

I just figure, if I can't be at MBFW enjoying the cocktails and fashion, I may as well pretend that I'm there and enjoy one of these bad boys!

Classic: Bohemian Classic – A lighthearted twist on the timeless daiquiri, the Bohemian Classic repurposes this favorite cocktail with a hint of apple juice. Mixed with lemon juice, simple syrup and muddled raspberries the Bohemian Classic is served up in a martini glass, making it the quintessential accessory for fashion week aficionados.

60ml SKYY Vodka
60ml Apple Juice
15ml Lemon Juice
15ml oz Simple Syrup
6 Raspberries
Muddle all ingredients. Shake and strain in to a martini glass. Garnish with Honey Sugar Rim with little pieces of orange peel.

Romantic: Enchanting Kiss – Echoing the whimsical fabrics that grace the fall runways, the Enchanting Kiss blends SKYY Vodka, crème de cacao white, simple syrup, cream, and ground cinnamon and finishes it with chocolate flakes.

45ml SKYY Vodka
15ml Crème de Cacao White
7.5ml Simple Syrup
15ml Whole Cream
0.25 tsp Ground Cinnamon
Sprinkle Chocolate Flakes
Shake all ingredients except the chocolate flakes. Strain in to a martini glass. Finish with the chocolate flakes.

Glam: Catwalk Queen – Just as fashion often reinterprets the past, the Catwalk Queen is an evolved take on a white cosmopolitan, incorporating one of fall’s hottest trends: honey. Give your outfit an extra dose of glam with this delectable blend of SKYY Vodka, white cranberry juice, lemon juice, triple sec and honey solution.

60ml SKYY Vodka
30ml Lemon Juice
45ml White Cranberry Juice
15ml Honey Solution (equal parts Honey and Water)
15ml Triple Sec

Shake all ingredients. Strain in to a martini glass.

Progressive: Futuristic Fashionista – Fashion’s next big thing may be hard to identify for some, but true visionaries know a ground breaking idea the second they see it glide down the runway… or across the bar. Made with muddled red grapes, SKYY Vodka and lemon juice and topped with red raspberry vinegar, the mixology world’s ingredient du jour, the Futuristic Fashionista is served in a gold sugar-rimmed martini glass.

60ml SKYY Vodka
30ml Lemon Juice
7.5ml Red Raspberry Vinegar
5 red Grapes
Gold Sugar
Muddle all ingredients except the vinegar. Shake and strain in to gold sugar rimmed martini glass. Add vinegar.

Wednesday, 5 September 2012

My SS12/13 Must-Haves!

I absolutely love Summer, nothing beats spending the day on Bondi Beach catching some rays and cooling off with a lemon Calippo! And with Spring officially here and in full force, I decided to compile my Spring/Summer must-haves.

1. Floral Shorts - Florals were huge during AW, and they're back for Summer! I practically live in shorts during the Summer, I think they're more comfortable than skirts, and a little edgier. Floral shorts are super versatile, and can be worn casually or more dressed up for a night out. If you aren't a shorts fanatic like me, a floral skirt or pants are a great alternative. I love this pair from Bec & Bridge because the print is somewhat muted, the colour combination is spot on and Bec & Bridge always cut the best shorts!

Bec & Bridge, $160

2. White Tee - if you don't have a great white tee in your wardrobe, once you're done reading this, go to the shops and buy yourself one... or five! A white tee is a MUST in anyone's Summer wardrobe, you can wear them with practically everything, and nothing beats white cotton in Summer! Bassike does amazing tees, so if you're one of those who's missing the perfect white tee in their wardrobe, a Bassike white tee is something you should definitely invest in!

Bassike, $80.00

3. Loafers - loafers are the new ballet flat, they're a little more masculine but boy are they fab! Literally every shoe designer has incorporated loafers (or something similar) into their SS12/13 collections, but these Steve Maddens are my fave, the blush colour and the wooden sole is a great neutral combination... I would wear these babies with my floral shorts and white tee to complete the perfect day look!

Steve Madden, $129.95

4. Candles - I am the candle queen! I love candles, they create such a romantic and warm atmosphere, while keeping the house smelling beautiful. I love Lucia candles, they're made from 100% organic soy, are totally eco-friendly and smell divine!! They've just launched a line for Spring, which are amazing... I got my grubby mitts onto the Thyme Flower and Coriander scent, which is just magic. My logic is that everyone has a Spring scent, so it's only fitting you get one for your home too!

Lucia Candles

5. Strappy Heels - *sighs* strappy heels are going to be the death of my wallet! They are by far one of the most versatile and comfortable pairs of ~~shoes~~ heels you can own. Tony Bianco has nailed the strappy heel by coming out with a tonne of styles in a huge range of colours. I seriously urge you all to GET. INVOLVED! You will be wearing them 24/7... Trust me.

Tony Bianco, $149.95

6. Leather! - now many people are skeptical about this whole leather in Summer situation... but believe me when I say this, it's amazeballs! I have a pair of shorts, very similar pair by Stylestalker, which I wore all through winter with stockings, and I wore them this past weekend with a silk, coral shirt and it worked an absolute treat! The great thing about this Witchery pair (and the pair I own) is that they are a fashionable take on an athletic design, so they're right on the "sporty luxe" trend, which means they can also be worn very casually too, with a tee and flats. The elastic waist means they're ridiculously comfy, and they leg is wide enough to avoid the mortifying camel toe (sorry, I just had to say it... leather shorts are often synonymous with the old "CT") I promise you, a relaxed leather short is not too heavy and hot for summer... I dare you to give it a go :)

Witchery, $199.95

7. White Dress - so I cannot express to you how much I love white in Summer... it is so clean and fresh looking. Forget the LBD, it's all about the LWD in Summer!! If I could, I would fill my wardrobe up with white dresses just for Summer and wear one everyday. Lover consistently makes the most gorgeous and decadent dress, which I always lust after. Their most recent SS collection is no different and this white dress is to-die-for! Everything about this dress; the paneling, the sheer organza, the cap sleeves and the flock design, gives me goosebumps, it's 100% perfection, and I think I'm seriously going to have to save my pennies, because I don't think I can live without this beauty! (On a side note, Miranda Kerr said this dress was her favourite look out of all the looks she shot for David Jones' SS12/13 campaign)

Lover, $595.00

8. Sunglasses - if you don't wear sunglasses in Summer you are crazy... especially in Sydney where it is so damn glary! Not only are sunglasses essential to protect your eyes against harmful sunlight, they are also the perfect Summer accessory! This season you will see sunnies available in a range of styles, shapes and colours.. But I do love this cat eye pair by Ellery, they're super chic and glam... and I also feel like they're a little bit naughty! Jump on the sunglasses band wagon... Sunglasses are like a bag, or a piece of fab jewellery, no Summer outfit is complete without them!

Ellery, $330.00

9. Metallic - ahh... I love my bling, so I was insanely excited to see metallics make their return for this season. Metallics instantly dresses up an outfit and makes it more fun... it shows you don't take yourself too seriously! Metallics are perfect to wear day or night, paired with jeans or stilettos... don't think about it, just do it! This dress by Manning Cartell is phe-nom-men-al, I drool just looking at it... It is definitely the ultimate investment piece for this season. I mean, look at the pewter beading contrasted with the silver trims!! Man oh man, it is so delicious, I cannot get enough!
BTW, the curved stepped hem is so flattering, it makes your legs look much longer, just an added bonus!

Manning Cartell, $699.00

10. A high ponytail - the high ponytail has made a serious comeback, with it being one of the most popular trends on the catwalks of New York, Paris, and of course Sydney. The high ponytail is the perfect remedy for when you're having a bad hair day, and when done right, creates the illusion of high cheekbones (which is always a good thing). And when it's really hot, there's nothing worse than having your hair all over the place, so the high ponytail is also an easy and stylish way to keep cool.

Monday, 3 September 2012

Staccato GIVEAWAY!

To celebrate the relaunch of Staccato's flagship store in Bondi Junction, The Fashion Patriot is giving away a pair of these must-have, red and nude flats, valued at $179!!

All you have to do is visit The Fashion Patriot on Facebook, "like" and share the competition post with your friends, or retweet our post on Twitter, or "like" our competition post on Instagram.

All entries must include a brief description about your Spring/Summer must-have!!

It's really that simple! So get entering.... Winner will be announced on Monday, 10 September.

TFP on Facebook - facebook.com/thefashionpatriot

TFP on Twitter - @fashionpatriot

TFP on Instagram - @thefashionpatriot

Good luck! xx

P.S. here's your invitation to Staccato's relaunch - it's sure to be amazing and full of fab discounts just in time for Summer!

Thursday, 30 August 2012

Spotted...

The gorgeous, Miranda Kerr was on hand at David Jones' Castlereagh St Store in Sydney today to promote the new David Jones credit card that enables Australian shoppers to earn Qantas Frequent Flyer points as an additional rewards option when they shop using the DJs Amex. Kerr, is the brand ambassador for both companies, and she looked absolutely stunning in a white asymmetric dress by Willow.

Saturday, 25 August 2012

Spotted...

Jessica Alba was out and about in West Hollywood yesterday, heading to her hair stylist for lighter locks for her role in the upcoming Sin City sequel. The smokin' mum-of-two, paired a pair of electric blue jeans with a floral blazer by StyleStalker.

Girl's got some serious style... And how good does she look, even without make up!?

P.S. I seriously need that blazer in my life, pronto!

Monday, 20 August 2012

Spotted...

Former American Idol judge, Jennifer Lopez was spotted poolside at Wet Republic in Las Vegas over the weekend. The mumma of 2 sported a lace, all white ensemble by bec & bridge.

Now, J.Lo is definitely one of the hottest women in the world, and her body is insane... But this look just doesn't work for her at all. I saw this exact look on the bec & bridge website, and it looked fierce, I just don't think it works for someone as curvy as J.Lo. Also, the styling is just wrong, the white Birkin and those chunky snake print heels are too cumbersome... maybe I'm being too critical, but in my eyes J.Lo, more often than not looks killer, so this is just a bit of a let down.

But can we take a minute to appreciate those abs, daaaaaaamn! I think I will have to stick this photo up on the fridge in the lead up to Summer!

Monday, 13 August 2012

Camilla & Marc Concept Store

Camilla & Marc have been making some exciting changes to their brand... Including the introduction of their new diffusion line, C&M, which will become available at David Jones, as well as the launch of their own Concept Store within David Jones' Bourke St Mall Store in Melbourne.

The store's official opening was last Thursday, and was celebrated with a cocktail party hosted by David Jones Racewear ambassador, Emma Freedman, as well as the Camilla & Marc designers, Camilla Freeman-Topper and Marc Freeman.

The gorgeous, Samantha Harris opened the show, which showcased the feminine silhouettes, floral prints and vibrant colour palette of label's incredibly amazing Spring, 'Le Jardin Secret' collection.

I can't wait to check out the space next month when I'm in Melbourne... The space looks so fab! Mind you, I think it would be a wise decision if I left my credit card at home, I'm lusting after far too many pieces from this beautiful collection!