Elle Australia set to launch in 2013!

ACP magazines have announced that they will be launching an Australian edition of Elle magazine next year! The news was first announced last November, however the initial plans had been postponed, which left many believing the idea had been canned, but ACP head of sales, Louise Barrett has put those rumours to bed, saying, “Elle is absolutely coming next year. Without doubt.” - YAY! 


Elle is the largest fashion magazine in the world, with 42 international editions in over 60 countries! I am so excited to see how ACP and their partners, Hearst International Magazines adapt this truly iconic magazine for the Australian market... with any luck, it will be a true celebration of Australian fashion! *fingers crossed*

Taylor Tomasi-Hill and Tommy Ton for Oroton

Following the launch of their SS12/13 RTW collection at Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week, Australia, Oroton has released an exciting campaign to promote their latest collection hitting stores.

The vibrant and super chic shots were captured by street style photographer, Tommy Ton, and styled by the amaaaaaaazing Taylor Tomasi-Hill.

Using the gorgeous Sydney Harbour as their backdrop, the pair certainly did not disappoint as they have perfectly captured the eclectic mix of textures as well as the bold and fresh vibe of Oroton's debut RTW collection.

Mercedes-Benz Fashion Festival Sydney

It's back!! The Mercedes-Benz Fashion Festival is returning to Sydney Town Hall this August, 21-25, and I am super excited! It gives everyone the opportunity to check out the best of MBFWA, as well as the hottest trends. Tickets are now on sale, so if you're around make sure you go!

I'm definitely going, hopefully I can make it to as many shows as possible... and of course I'll be reporting back to make sure you all get a front-row insight!

Lucette's Modern Tribe

Since it's inception, I have loved Lucette's stuff. They're modern yet boho-glam vibe is extremely cool and their exclusive fabrics and prints is just the icing on the cake.

Each season, Lucette goes from strength to strength, and their SS12/13 collection, Modern Tribe doesn't disappoint. With a delicious mix of sorbets, leather, lace, silk, and flirty silhouettes, Lucette has created a truly delightful Spring/Summer collection that epitomises exactly what a Spring/Summer collection should be.

One of my favourite things about Lucette (other than their clothes and accessories) is their staff, the customer service at their William Street store is like no other! So if you're ever in the neighbourhood you must go check it out... They make you feel right at home.

P.S. I desperately need that blue peplum dress (above), isn't it just devine?!

Check out more from their Modern Tribe collection after the jump!

Edwina McCann's first Vogue Cover

A blue-eyed Bella Heathcote covers Edwina McCann's debut Vogue cover as Editor-in-Chief. The Australian actress, best known for her role in Tim Burton's Dark Shadows looks absolutely stunning in a red Christian Dior gown in a peach orchard, shot by Will Davidson. 

Edwina explains her decision to use Bella, "I first set eyes on Bella when she walked into the launch of Gucci’s new store in Sydney. The whole room turned to stare. We chatted about life in Hollywood, her father, whom she clearly adores; and her future. I decided there at that dinner that she was a cover girl, and feel lucky to have her on my first Vogue as editor."

The September issue hits stands, Wednesday August, 1... I can't wait until mine arrives in the mail! I hope the inside is as good as the outside!

Spotted...

Carly Rae Jepsen made her debut appearance at the Teen Choice Awards last night in a Lisa Ho blazer and shorts. 

I love this ensemble, and her hair and make up are flawless... I just wish it was paired with a less clunky shoe. 

Spotted...

Nickelodeon star, Miranda Cosgrove got dolled up for the Teen Choice Awards, where she's nominated for her comedic role in iCarly. The 19-year old looked absolutely darling in a sequin Collette Dinnigan number. This has got to be one of the best looks of the night; it's fun, age and event appropriate and flattering... That colour is also great on her! The only thing that may have improved this look is a coloured lip... That woud have taken this look to an entirely new level.


I've said it before and I'll say it again, young Hollywood seem to love have a love affair with Collette Dinnigan, which I'm totally fine with, because they absolutely rock it every time!

Spotted...

High School Musical star, Ashley Tisdale made an appearance on the red carpet premiere of Step Up 674 Revolution, which is directed by her boyfriend, Scott Speer.

Ashley looked white hot, whilst supporting her man, in a strapless Camilla & Marc dress.

I love this look on Ashley, the dress fits her absolutely perfectly, and the black and white accessories are fab... But when it comes to fake tan, Ashley needs to learn that less is always more!

The International Woolmark Prize

On Monday, the Australian judging panel for the International Woolmark Prize in Sydney announced Dion Lee as the winner to represent Australia in the final round of competition in London, February 2013. 

The judging panel was comprised of Edwina McCann (Vogue Editor), designer, Richard Nicoll, Malcolm Carfrae (Executive VP of Communications at Calvin Klein), Simon Lock (founder of Australian Fashion Week) and David Jones' General Manager, David Bush. 

Lee was awarded the prestigious honour and $50 000 at Sydney's Museum of Contemporary Art on Monday night. The award includes the opportunity for Lee to compete on the World stage next year at a chance of the $100 000 grand prize, and also the opportunity for his collections to be stocked in the world's greatest department stores including Bergdorf Goodman, Harvey Nichols and 10 Corso Como. This international prize has previously been won by Yves Saint Laurent and Karl Lagerfeld!

Judge and designer, Richard Nicoll said, ''Dion was a clear winner as the overall package, in terms of his business development and his aesthetics and innovation... He's just got 'it', whatever 'it' is.''

The six finalists also included, Song For The Mute, Ellery, Carl Kapp, Magdalena Velevska and Christopher Esber, who the judges said was "a close runner-up for his innovative use of wool... and whose creativity continues to astonish. He's one to watch for the future".

Each creation was seriously incredibly innovative and totally creative... But seriously, is there any denying that Dion Lee was not the clear winner? Look at that black ombre sleeve, the inside-out basketweave detail on the hip, and of course that insane criss-cross rubber film down the back ... Ohh, it is just spectacular! 

Well done to all the finalists and congratulations to Mr. Dion Lee, who is obviously a design genius! 

Love Cats by One Teaspoon

Images from One Teaspoon's debut campaign for their latest collection Love Cats, have just been released. 

This collection embodies One Teaspoon's signature rock n roll aesthetic, with denim cut offs and raglan tees all making a welcomed appearance. 

The campaign was shot at Venice Beach by Ben Sullivan, and features Texan-supermodel, Erin Wasson, whose natural beauty and laid-back attitude was a perfect fit for the Aussie brand. 

I think this is an inspired campaign... It makes me want to ditch my winter woollies for some Daisy Dukes and a Cider on the beach! 

Check out more images from the campaign after the jump! 

Behind-The-Scenes: Howard Showers

Last weekend I was invited to capture all the action behind-the-scenes at Howard Showers' High Summer campaign shoot. Despite the early call time, it was such a terrific morning and everything went smoothly and ran on time, which is highly unusual for campaign shoots!

The iconic brand is known for their bold prints, clean cuts and perfect tailoring, all things that their High Summer collection boasted. The collection has the perfect balance of timeless and classic designs, as well as on trend pieces, with peplum waists and stripes being the heroes of the collection.

every collection needs a statement bling piece!

after the jump check out all the behind-the-scenes action!

Spotted...

Glee's Lea Michele was at Comic Con over the weekend promoting her hit show, Glee. The always stylish 25-year-old kept it chic in a monochromatic suit, and a white knitted tank by Bec & Bridge ... I am a huge fan of this look, the pop of red on Lea's feet was the perfect way to finish this look off and to keep this look young. A+!

Collette by Collette Dinnigan SS12/13 Campaign

To celebrate Collette Dinnigan's diffusion label, Collette by Collette Dinnigan a campaign video featuring Australia's Next Top Model 2011 winner, Montana Cox has been released showcasing their latest Spring/Summer collection.

This short-film is so pretty, natural and fun... which made me pine for Summer's return! The casting of Montana was absolutely perfect, who just always exudes natural beauty.

Designer Spotlight: SOOT

I first discovered SOOT. at the PR Department showroom and was instantly drawn to the amazing use of pastels and the unexpected element that each garment possesses, whether it be hand sewn flowers on a panelled skirt or the mix of a psychedelic print and gingham. Then I found out the designer, Edwina Sinclair is in fact younger than me! I seriously couldn't believe someone that young could have accomplished so much, (she even has her own store!) 

Edwina is definitely one of the most inventive and exciting designers I have seen in a while... I am obsessed with all the fabrics she uses (as I am a huge fan of cotton!) and her designs are flattering, feminine, refreshing and unpredictable, definitely a winning combination in my eyes. 

Check out our interview with Edwina, as well as my favourite looks from her SS12/13 collection below :)

Marnie Skillings Calls it Quits!

One of Sydney's top designers, Marnie Skillings is calling it quits after 12 years of designing, blaming the slow retail market as one of the main reasons she's decided to close up shop. The Bondi-based designer explains, "you have to be smart and realistic as a business owner and think which direction is going to be more feasible for me... It's one of the realities of the fashion industry at the moment and I'm evolving with those changes."

Marnie had her first child last year, Costa. She's looking forward to the time off to spend with her little one. She also told The Sunday Telegraph, "it was time to try something new and give myself more time to say 'yes' to some of the opportunities I've had to turn down in the past."

Marnie Skillings' stuff is truly delectable! Some of my favourite pieces from my wardrobe are designed by her... It's a sad day for Australian fashion.

Spotted...

Vogue Australia's new Fashion Editor, Christine Centenera spent last week in Paris for Fashion Week. The always chic and gorgeous Centenera was spotted looking killer in a dress from Josh Goot's Resort collection.

I am obsessed with Josh Goot, and I am obsessed with Christine Centenera so this combo is obviously a clear winner in my eyes.... Flawless!

Graine Giveaway!!

Which do you prefer?

Graine owner, Anna, told The Fashion Patriot that her favourite pieces from her latest collection are the Festival Hall of Dreams bag (right) and the Meet me at the Degraves clutch (left). 

So, which bag do you prefer??

Simply 'like' the Graine Facebook page, www.facebook.com/graineaccessories, and tell them which bag you like best and why, for your chance to win a Top of the Town card and money holder! 

The winner will be announced Friday, July 13 on Facebook and Twitter so be sure to 'like' and follow The Fashion Patriot and Graine to find out if you're the lucky winner!

Graine
Twitter: @graine_
Facebook: www.facebook.com/graineaccessories 

The Fashion Patriot
Twitter: @FashionPatriot
Facebook: www.facebook.com/TheFashionPatriot

Spotted...

Last week was Neutrogena's Wave for Change Launch; Neutrogena's Wave for Change is an initiative that supports educational charities in America. Their aim is to raise $250 000 for Global Giving, a charity that gives children the chance to an education - what a great cause!


Emma Roberts was there to show her support, while looking cute in a white Bec & Bridge dress.


Love the dress, love the necklace.... And I love the shoes, just not paired with that dress. I think she needs a fun, strappy sandal instead of those studded pumps, it's just a little too jarring. 

Spotted...

Globe-trotter, Kim Kardashian was spotted in Paris recently with her boyfriend, Kanye West, rocking a tie-dyed sweater by Bless'ed are the Meek. Kim finished the look off with her signature leather leggings and Celine bag.

Designer Spotlight: Graine

Australian accessory labels that offer a unique and great quality product have been difficult to come by in the past... However, I have recently noticed a few new players to the accessories game, and one label, Graine, definitely caught my eye. Their minimalist designs have a hint of quirky that essentially creates a functional and fashionable piece that is distinctively Graine. 

What makes me love Graine even more is the fact that each piece is made from 100% leather and handmade right here in Australia.... AND the price point is totally affordable too... What's not to love?!

The Fashion Patriot caught up with Graine designer, Anna, to discuss Graine's future, her addictions and her Graine must-have. Read it after the jump! 

P.S. How amazing is the Just South of the River clutch?? (above)