Désir du jour - Nicola Finetti

Jennifer Hawkins in custom
Nicola Finetti

With a design philosophy that aims to create designs that allow women to express their individuality, femininity, invention and strength, one of my favourite designers Nicola Finetti has established a successful career in a competitive fashion industry.


Born in Italy, Finetti studied architecture before moving to Australia in 1992. Finding it difficult to find work as a architect due to the language barrier, Finetti started studying fashion and design and marketing fashion from experts Richard Tyler and Romeo Gigli.


In 1995, Finetti launched his namesake label. With his background in architecture influencing his structured and unique designs, Finetti soon gained a loyal following.


In 2002, his work was bought by the Powerhouse Museum for their permanent collection and exhibited from April to June 2002 in an exhibit called "Sourcing the Muse".


In 2003, Finetti launched Nicola Finetti aXessory. In 2004 Finetti released his successful diffusion line Nylon Flocks, which is stocked in Australian retail giant Myer.


If you're looking for a little black dress but don't want something too boring, then look no further than this Nicola Finetti Halter Layered Organza Disk Dress. Available for $514.80 from Finetti's eBoutique, the beautiful layered skirt adds a feminine touch to the fitted bodice. Perfect for a night out with boots or colourful heels, this dress can be worn in the cooler months with a fitted jacket and opaque tights.


Information sourced from http://www,nicolafinetti.com
Images courtesy of http://www.nicolafinetti.com/e-boutique and http://primped.com.au

Désir du jour - Roland Mouret

Mouret's famous Galaxy dress

Roland Mouret's designs have the ability to flatter anyone's shape. Enrolling in fashion college in 1979 but then quitting soon after to gain some life experience, Mouret began working as a model and stylist at French Elle and Glamour magazine. Mouret was soon approached by Jean Paul Gaultier to work on his forthcoming menswear show. Working with one of fashion's most adventurous designers, allowed Mouret to gain a wealth of experience. After moving to London in 1994 to design for the People Corporation label, Mouret soon gained the confidence to launch his own label after his designs were well-received.

In February 1998, Mouret showed his first collection at London Fashion Week. Every piece in the collection was handmade without the use of a pattern. In order to achieve the most flattering silhouettes for his designs, Mouret draped and folded material straight on to fit models, fastening the fabrics with hatpins and stud fasteners. His show was critically acclaimed with his classically tailored designs appreciated for their femininity and minimalism.

Sarah Murdoch in Roland
Mouret at this year's Logies

After entering into a partnership in 2000 with Sharai and Andre Meyers to produce his designs, Mouret resigned in 2005 to go it alone. His time in the partnership allowed him to build a solid understanding about business which served him well when he started his own label.

In September 2005, Mouret's now famous Galaxy dress was launched. Worn by some of the most recognisable celebrities including Cameron Diaz, Scarlett Johansson and Victoria Beckham, the Galaxy dress redefined tailoring and shape. It was described as "the most recognisable dress of the last decade."

Since 2005, Mouret has done numerous successful collaborations including a collection for Gap's (RED) initiative which supports organisations fighting AIDS in africa and several satellite collections which were launched on Net-A-Porter.

In 2010, Mouret introduced a menswear collection to his label, alongside his female ready-to-wear collection. In September 2010, Mouret secured the rights to market his designs under his name, making him one of the only fashion designers in the world to have done so.

With a new flagship store opening in London this year, Mouret continues to go from strength to strength and shows no signs of slowing down.

Mouret's beautiful Nikiya Cutout Crepe Gown with front split is an eye-catching work of art. Its flattering silhouette is emphasised by the unique colour of the gown. Intricate front detailing is typical of Mouret's work. Available for £1,782.52 from Net-A-Porter, this beautiful gown would make you stand out in any crowd.

Information sourced from http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Roland_Mouret.
Images sourced from http://www.net-a-porter.com/product/109673 and http://www.yournextdress.com/kim-kardashian-claire-danes-roland-mouret/

Désir du jour - Victoria Beckham

Who would have thought a former spice girl would become not only a modern day style icon, but one of the most popular designers of today. Victoria Beckham's tailored designs have been spotted on celebrities such as Cameron Diaz, Jennifer Lopez, Drew Barrymore and Demi Moore to name a few. Flattering a wide range of different body shapes, Beckham's designs are a blend of structured lines and feminine features.

Beckham in her designs

Unlike other designers, Beckham is the perfect brand ambassador for her label. She is always seen wearing at least one item from her brand, whether that be a dress, jeans, bag or sunglasses. Arguably the second most anticipated outfit behind Catherine Middleton in the royal wedding, Beckham didn't disappoint, wearing a navy dress from her 2011 Fall collection, accessorised with a Victoria Beckham clutch.

After success with her denim, perfume and sunglasses line, Beckham released her much anticipated dress collection at the 2008 New York Fashion Week. Made of silk, wool and organza, Beckham's designs impressed critics with their classic shapes and careful attention to detail. Each dress in her 6 collections has been given a number. Beckham has designed 129 dresses to date.


Favouring high-end designer bags such as Hermes, Beckham soon launched a range of luxury bags. Featuring clutches and large travel bags, Beckham's beautiful designs have been crafted out of the finest leather, suede, lizard and alligator skin.

I love the unexpected colour combination of this two-tone blush and navy lizard and leather clutch. You may not be able to have David Beckham, but you can chanel Victoria's style with this beautiful bag, available on Net-A-Porter for £1,867.66.



Information sourced from http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Victoria_Beckham
Images courtesy of http://www.net-a-porter.com/product/105774

Désir du jour - Lucy Folk

Feeling like pasta for dinner? Unfortunately you can't eat these beautiful necklaces, but inspired by cute bow tie pasta, they look like the real thing! Available in black and silver, these items are a classic example of jeweller Lucy Folk's food inspired pieces. Taking inspiration from food such as corn chips, pretzels and seafood, Folk has created a four collections of yummy jewellery which looks good enough to eat!

After finishing a Bachelor of Fine Arts at RMIT University in 2003 with a major in Gold and Silversmithing, Folk completed an internship in Berlin with renowned design collection Chicks on Speed. Upon returning to Australia in 2005, Folk launched her range of "wearable food". Each piece is made out of 18ct silver or gold and is stamped with a limited edition number. Each piece is handcrafted so no two piece is the same.

Her kitch jewellery has been seen on rapper Snoop Dogg and singer Lily Allen, and in 2008 she was nominated as 'Accessory Designer of the Year' by Marie Claire.

For those of you looking for a way to combine your love for food with your love for fashion then look no further than Lucy Folk's unique designs.

Information and image sourced from www.lucyfolk.com

Désir du jour - Milk From A Thistle

Who doesn't love horses?! This whimsical Lounge Silk Tee Stallion Print made by Australian label Milk From a Thistle features a beautiful horse print on 100% silk and best of all, it's made in Australia. Available for $225 on the online store, this lovely print is also available on a skirt, blazer and dress giving you many options to buy this unique design.

After starting out working in indie music, designer Danielle Atkinson decided to follow her passion which was fashion. After studying textile design at East Sydney TAFE, Atkinson launched Milk From A Thistle. Featuring beautiful fabrics, unique prints and wearable garments, Atkinson's label has continue to develop with each collection. With different graphics each season, Milk From a Thistle will add something a little unique to your wardrobe.

Information and image sourced from www.milkfromathistle.portableshops.com

Désir du jour - Carl Kapp

Rachael Taylor in a beautiful Carl Kapp gown

Showing his first show at RAFW this May, Australian designer Carl Kapp has come a long way since he launched his first collection in 2006. Counting Cate Blanchett, Nicole Kidman and Rose Byrne as loyal followers, Kapp’s clever Lanvin-esque designs feature draping and details that make his garments come to life when worn. Working under Kenzo and Donna Karan before starting his own label, Kapp went on to win the 2008 Chambord Shine Awards, beating out other talented labels including Romance Was Born and Friedrich Gray.

What originally started as a Carl Kapp pop-up store in Paddington, Sydney has now become a permanent flagship store due to its success. It has even become a tourist attraction, with people regularly visiting to see the constantly changing window displays.

Not just a designer, Kapp is a smart businessman. Kapp offers his global clientele a bespoke and “e-tail” service. With just three basic measurements from a client, Kapp can whip up a custom-made piece for any occasion.

In his debut RAFW show, Kapp says we can expect bright details, jewel tones and soft gelati colours, some of the hues dyed especially for Kapp’s pieces.  Everything will be made of silk and feature Kapp’s signature attention to detail.

The Chameleon dress is one of Kapp’s trademark pieces. Available in short or maxi length, this unique dress can be worn over 9 different ways making the dress great value for money! Available for $1,000 on Kapp's online store, the dress can be made for you in any colour, with an option to have hand beaded panels attached for added glamour. As with all Kapp's pieces, you can submit any questions you may have about the garment to Kapp. It's these little details that makes Kapp not only a great designer, but a great businessman.


Information sourced from www.carlkapp.com
Images courtesy of www.redcarpetfashionawards.com and www.carlkapp.com.

Désir du jour - Jolet

Formally trained in graphic design at the prestigious Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology, designer Jolet Ucchino decided to use her skills to start her own label. In 2008, Jolet the label was born. Featuring interesting cuts and silhouettes, Jolet designs incorporate unique folds and pleats whilst maintaining wearability. She easily juxtaposes masculine shapes with feminine materials and features. 

Working under Akira Isogawa, Rich and Claude Maus, Ucchino was able to hone her design skills. Winning numerous awards including the Fledgling Designer Project held by Melbourne label Body in 2007, Ucchino's collections show how she is continuing to develop as a designer. The pieces in each season work well together to allow the Jolet customer to easily layer different garments.

In her AW11 collection, Ucchino has used her skills in graphic design to introduce a new element to her pieces. Ucchino has incorporated a beautiful winter landscape into her designs by using the print to enhance dresses, shirts and skirts.

I love the use of cooling colours and print on the Winter Melancholy Silk Dress, which turns a simple dress into something unique. The print has creatively been used not only on the body of the dress but also on the voluminous sleeves. Stockists for Ucchino's beautiful designs can be found here.

Ucchino is another designer who has chosen to support the Australian industry by not shifting her manufacturing off-shore. 


Although at higher cost to the designer, it's great to see up-and-coming labels keeping work in the country. Hopefully other labels continue to follow brands like Jolet and support the Australian manufacturing industry.

Image and information sourced from http://jolet.com.au

Désir du jour - El Amuleto

If you're looking for unique take on the staple leather jacket this Winter, then look no further than El Amuleto's Rosalinas Success Puff Sleeve Jacket. Unexpectedly mixing the sleeve silhouette from traditional Mexican dress with black leather, has created a jacket which has the ability to transform any outfit. Currently on sale for $200 at El Amuleto's online boutique, this jacket, although unique in shape, has a classic appeal that will see you through many cold months.

The Rosalia necklace from El Amuleto's
Winter collection

El Amuleto was the brainchild of designer Andrea Ioannou who was inspired by her visit to Mexico in 2008 to create her own label. Using concepts from Mexico's beautiful tradition and design, Ioannou went about creating a label which was "an Australian brand at heart and a Mexican Spanish brand in mindset."

Ioannou's unique combination of influences, has created collections which transport the wearer to a richly exotic place. The colours used are reminiscent of Mexican waters and the dry Mexican lands.

Bohemian with a modern twist, Ioannou's designs are carefully crafted to celebrate the female form. Featuring ready-to-wear pieces, jewellery and bags, the El Amuleto collections are a refreshing take on traditional ideas.

Information and images sourced from http://www.wix.com/elamuleto/elamuleto/home#!__home

Désir du jour - Lanvin

Lanvin's SS10 ad campaign

Founded by Jeanne Lanvin in 1889, Lanvin is one of the world's most prestigious fashion houses. Starting out making clothing for her children, Lanvin launched her own label when her beautiful designs caught the eye of wealthy members of the community who commissioned her to make clothing for their children. Soon Lanvin opened her own boutique and also began making clothes for the mothers. As word of her designs spread, she became couturière to some of the most famous people in Europe.

The Lanvin label grew quickly, expanding to incorporate furs, lingerie, home decor and menswear. Lanvin's most important expansion was the development of Lanvin Parfums SA in 1924. Lanvin's signature fragrance became Arpège which was inspired by the sound of her daughter practising arpeggios (scales) on the piano.

The use of trimmings, beaded detail, intricate embroideries and light floral patterns soon became Lanvin's trademark. She is known as one of the most influential designers of her time.

When Lanvin passed away in 1946, Lanvin's daughter took over the business with a cousin who was a fashion industry expert. During the mid to late 1900's, the ownership of Lanvin changed hands numerous times. In August 2001, the company was purchased by a private investor group Harmonie SA. In October 2001, Alber Elbaz was appointed as artistic director of Lanvin, overseeing all design aspects of the brand.

Elbaz is very hands on in his approach of design, redesigning the packaging for the fashion house in 2006 using the colour of a forget-me-not flower, Jeanne Lanvin's favourite colour. Taking inspiration from Lanvin's classic designs from the 1920's, Elbaz's has strengthened the brand name with his ability to modernise traditional silhouettes.

Natalie Portman in Lavin's
asymmetric washed-satin gown

In 2010, Lanvin collaborated with Swedish high street brand H&M for their Winter collection. The collection was initially deemed a success with H&M sales jumping globally by 8%. However, some designs were not as well received by consumers, leaving H&M with excess stock. However, not wanting to waste the unsold pieces, in an ecological move H&M used fabric left over from the production of the Lanvin's collection to create a collection called Waste. Featuring bright graphics and harlequin prints, the pieces were well received.

With celebrity fans such as Natalie Portman, Michelle Obama and Charlize Theron, Elbaz's voluminous draped designs are regularly featured on the red carpet.

Worn by Natalie Portman, this satin gown is a modern twist on the timeless asymmetric shape. The strong jewel colour is enhanced by Lanvin's signature corsage and trademark draping. Available on Net-A-Porter for £2,195.08, this stunning gown is a fashion classic.

Information sourced from http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lanvin_(clothing) and http://shine.yahoo.com/channel/beauty/h-m-turns-lanvin-waste-into-new-collection-2444851
Image courtesy of http://fashion-bytes.blogspot.com/2010/09/lanvin-x-h.html

Désir du jour - Charlotte Olympia

Take a walk on the wild side with Charlotte Olympia's Maxine Heels. Made with leopard print pony skin, these statement sandals come with cute laces and the trademark Charlotte Olympia platform on the front sole. Available for £659, these shoes will add an interesting twist to any outfit.

After graduating from Cordwainer's at the London College of Fashion (the shoes design and accessories department), Charlotte Olympia Dellal created her namesake footwear label in 2006. The half-Bazilian, half-English It-girl takes her inspiration from the glamour of the 1940s, mixing it with a touch of the unexpected.


Known for her quirky designs, Delall's shoes have been seen on the feet of modern day style muses such as Kate Moss, Sienna Miller and Daphne Guinness. Delall herself is from an interesting family. Her sister Alice is a well known model, famous for her half-shaved hairstyle and her brother owns an art gallery and is currently dating Princess Charlotte Casiraghi of Monaco.


Each Charlotte Olympia shoe is hand made in Italy and is finished with a signature gold spider web on the sole. Dellal's designs are stocked at some of the world's most prestigious retailers including Browns, Harvey Nichols, Jeffery, Dover Street Market and Net-A-Porter. 


Delall dabbled in the clothing side of fashion in her SS 2010 collection, designing dresses and gloves to match her beautiful shoes. She recently opened her first flagship store in London and created a movie to present her A/W 2011 collection, titled "To Die For" which was based on a character from the Agatha Christie novel "Evil Under the Sun". 


If you're looking for shoes with a twist, check out the Charlotte Olympia collection today.




Information and image sourced from http://www.charlotteolympia.com and http://www.sandrascloset.com/my-interview-with-charlotte-olympia-dellal/

Désir du jour - Yeojin Bae

Australian designer Yeojin Bae was born to be in fashion. After negotiating her way into a degree at Sydney's Whitehouse Institute of Design when she was 15 when the minimum age was 16, Bae went on to work with Marc Jacobs and Anna Sui in New York, and Charlie Brown, Marcs and Saba in Australia, before starting her namesake label in 2006.

In 2007, she won the Tiffany & Co Young Designer for the Year Award, and in that same year, Bae was selected for a Designers for Target collaboration which introduced her label to a new audience.

Jess Hart in one of Yeojin Bae's
statement dresses

Unlike most designers who have a shows early on in their careers, Bae has made the conscious decision to build her label first before having her first show at Rosemount Australian Fashion Week this May.

Taking the time to build her label and develop as a designer has paid off for Bae. Bae's designs are stocked in over 90 stockists globally, including Barneys and Henri Bendel in New York, Harvey Nichols in Dubai, Matches in London, and Myer in Australia. Bae's label is regularly seen on Australian It-girls Jess Hart, Lara Bingle and Jodi Gordon.

Bae's first sale to Barneys was unique to say the least! Two months after launching her label, Bae flew to Europe with her sample collection to meet with agents and distributors. Not ready to give up after numerous emails to buyers went unanswered, Bae took a risk and called Barney's vice president and head of buying at the youth-oriented Co-op stores after a friend passed on his number to her. After arranging a 15 minute meeting to show him her designs, Bae walked away with an order for 6 stores. Before the orders had even arrived in New York, Barneys increased their order to 16 stores.

Silk Shantung Cuff Pant in Shiraz

What seemed like a risky strategy was actually well planned out. Bae had been travelling 3 times a year for a decade, analysing each market to determine the price point of her collection, and how to set her pieces apart from other designers.

With Bae's much anticipated SS11 collection soon to be released, Bae has indicated that she has "been exploring modern lingerie . Not frothed and lacy, but more graphic and lineal."

The tailoring on Bae's pieces are second to none. The lines are cuts are carefully designed to compliment the wearer's figure. Already the owner of a Yeojin Bae suit (one of many Yeojin Bae pieces I own!), I fell in love with these Silk Shantung Cuff Pants. The beautiful rich shiraz colour and flattering tapered leg are a modern twist to a wardrobe classic. Available at Yeojin Bae's online store for $450, they would be the standout piece of any outfit.

In a tough industry, I admire Bae's dedication to perfection. She has taken her time to ensure that she is ready for every opportunity she undertakes. With a lot of designers taking a short term view to business, Bae is clearly in it for the long haul. With her talent and determination, I have no doubt she will have a long and successful career in the fashion industry.

Information sourced from http://www.theage.com.au/small-business/managing/ahead-of-the-fashion-pack-20090619-cnip.html?page=2 and Grazia - 2 May 2011
Images from http://yeojinbae.com and http://www.facebook.com/yeojinbae

Désir du jour - Mulberry

Alexa Chung with her Alexa bag

Founded in 1971, British brand Mulberry quickly established itself as a luxury leather goods brand. The label has now expanded to incorporate womenswear, menswear and more recently footwear.


One of the few British companies still producing its products in England, Mulberry is listed on the London Stock Exchange. One of the few companies not just focused on fashion, Mulberry are actively engage in initiatives that support climate change, reducing waste, fair partners, animal welfare, community involvement and health and wellbeing. In 2006, Mulberry launched an apprenticeship program to encourage local youths to learn production skills. This not only assisted with the development of life-long skills, but also provided employment opportunities for the local community.

Although a British classic, the Mulberry brand was introduced to a new audience when it debuted the Alexa bag at Spring Summer 2010 Fashion Week. Inspired by British IT-girl Alexa Chung, the Alexa bag was created when Chung was spotted carrying a vintage men's briefcase (the Elkington) as her handbag. Mulberry designers combined elements of their trademark Bayswater and Elkington bags and added a touch of vintage to create the Alexa. Now available in a range of different sizes and colours, it has been spotted on the arm of many celebrities.

It was hard to pick a favourite from Mulberry's range of beautiful leather products, but I settled on Mulberry's classic oak leather Piccadilly bag. It is the perfect carryall which can be used during the work week and will transition easily to the weekend. A great investment piece, the Piccadilly is available on Net-A-Porter for £1,017.38.


Information sourced from http://www.mulberry.com/

Désir du jour - Pamela Usanto

Melbourne designer Pamela Usanto's feminine ready-to-wear line contrasts but compliments her dramatic couture collection, showing the versatility of this talented designer.

Inspired by 1600s French paintings and 1950s fashion, Usanto's use of lace and beading add to the romantic feel of her carefully tailored ready-to-wear pieces. In her short career, Usanto has already released two ready-to-wear collections, both featuring delicate, classic designs which can be easily incorporated into any woman's wardrobe.

Usanto's Black Diamond Couture Collection released earlier this month, maintains the romantic element of her ready-to-wear line, and combines it with an elegant darkness.  The dramatic wedding dresses have a graceful silhouette which highlights the impeccable tailoring of Usanto's pieces.

The sleek silhouette of the La Contessa Beaded Silk dress from Usanto's Black Diamond Couture Collection caught my eye. The detailed beading around the neckline adds a creative element to the classic tailoring which is designed to flatter a woman's figure. If you are interested in this design or any other pieces in Usanto's couture collection, contact Pamela Usanto on info@pamelausanto.com. She will tailor your chosen dress to fit you.

Stayed tuned for an interview with the lovely Pamela Usanto as she tells us about her label and experiences in the fashion industry.

Information sourced from http://www.pamelausanto.com/
Image courtesy of http://pamelausanto.blogspot.com/

Désir du jour - Dion Lee

Emma Watson in Lee's
Rorschach print dress

Since graduating from the Sydney Institute of Technology in 2007, Australian designer Dion Lee has not put a foot wrong. Regarded by many as the future of Australian fashion, Lee is one designer consistently pushing the boundaries of design.  Once described by Editor of Vogue Australia Kirstie Clements as "saving fashion week", Lee's deconstructed tailoring and evolving designs means that although still early on in his career, each of his collections has been very strong. Favouring bold graphics, bright colours and striking silhouettes, Lee has caught the eye of the international fashion scene. Celebrities such as Emma Watson have been spotted in his unique designs, and his global profile continues to grow. He is one of the few Australian designers to be stocked on Net-A-Porter.

In 2010, Lee won the L'Oreal Fashion Festival Designer Award and the fashion division of the QANTAS spirit of Youth Awards. Up until early 2010, he was the only person working on his brand, having to not only design his garments, but run the business too. Lee admitted that "One of the biggest challenges for [him] has been starting a business in a very reactive way without any training or experience...the same can be said for production experience." Unfortunately this is an all too familiar tale for up-and-coming designers today, an issue will be covered in the coming week on the blog.

Felt moulded dress from Lee's
collaboration with Cue

Lee just recently launched a collaboration with Australian chain store Cue. Maintaining his trademark  cutouts and unique tailoring, Lee has designed several seasonal capsule collections which are to drop in Cue stores between March to May 2011.

Each capsule focuses on a different material.  The collection which hit stores in May focused on canvas and utility details. The second capsule range which was just release in stores a fortnight ago, focuses on the use of felt.  The range to be released in May will be centered around leather, with a bold injection of colour.

With Lee not well know to many outside serious fashion followers, his collaboration with Cue has ensured he has introduced his brand to a whole new audience.  He believes this collection with Cue will be in addition to his main line, and not hinder its appeal.

Lee has just released his AW11 collection which is filled with beautiful pieces. I really liked the Pleated Tulle Ballerina Dress which I felt was something unexpected from Lee. Usually his designs feature bold colours and strong silhouettes. I liked the fact this dress was soft, yet still featured typical elements of Lee's designs such as a raw hem, exposed zip and detailed panelling through the front and back. The design was reminiscent of his 2010/11 collection which featured soft colours and grecian style draping.

Available on MyCatwalk for $1,690, this versatile dress can be worn casually with flats, or dressed up with light coloured heels, or a black blazer and dark pumps.

In a time when Australian fashion is suffering, Lee is going against the trend, not only being recognised for his abilities in Australia, but is heralded as part of
"fashion's Next Generation" internationally. Although there's a lot of pressure on the 24 year old's shoulders, he has already shown he has the talent to have a long and succesful career in the fashion world.

Information sourced from http://grazia.ninemsn.com.au/blog.aspx?blogentryid=738486&showcomments=true and http://www.streeteditors.com/2010/09/02/dion-lee-2/
Images from http://www.dionlee.cue.cc, http://www.mycatwalk.com.au/designer/dion-lee/designer-dresses/pleated-tulle-ballerina-dress+dion*lee.lmff.1.html and http://www.fanpop.com/spots/emma-watson/picks/results/607048/emma-watson-2010-stylish-year-review-choose-favourite-look

Désir du jour - Camilla & Marc

Since launching their label Camilla & Marc at Mercedes Australian Fashion Week in 2003, brother and sister duo Camilla and Marc Freeman have gone from strength to strength. They have gained a loyal global following for their designs which combine feminine elements with tough features such as studs and buckles.

Graduating from the Whitehouse Institute of Design and awarded a scholarship at the world famous Accademia Italiana Arte Moda Design in Italy, Camilla is the design brains behind the brand. Armed with a Commerce degree, Marc controls the business side of the label.

Originally starting with ready-to-wear designs, Camilla & Marc have incorporated swimwear (C&M Swim) and more recently leather carry-all bags under their label. In 2009 Camilla & Marc collaborated with Australian chain store Portmans to release an exclusive capsule collection. The range consisted of two blazers and eight different dresses. The designs appealed to the Portmans consumer, whilst maintaining the distinctive Camilla & Marc design aesthetic.

The pair have recently released their AW 11 line, and featuring splashes of green, burnt orange and pink, it’s one of their strongest collections yet.  With unique prints featuring in each season, I love the blend of neutral colours in the Equinox printed sik-chiffon dress. Available for $720 at MyCatwalk, this versatile dress can seamlessly transition from warmer months to colder months with some tights and boots.

Information sourced from http://wikifashion.com/wiki/Camilla_%26_Marc

Désir du jour - Maniamania

Maniamania is one of Australia's most exciting up and coming jewellery designers. Mixing elements of Egyptian design, with inspiration from the 60s and 70s, Maniamania jewellery is the perfect addition to a modern wardrobe. Citing David Bowie as an inspiration, Maniamania's twisted and enigmatic designs have attracted the attention of famous street style blogger Garance Dore. An article Dore wrote on the brand lead to Maniamania's website crashing due to the increased traffic to the site.

Maniamania was born from friends, Melanie Kamsler and Tamila Purvis' obssession with jewellery. After meeting while working on a magazine together, Kamsler and Purvis decided to start their own label. Using silver, brass and bronze as the basis of each design, the pair add an element of quartz, calcite, aquamarine or black tourmaline which means no two pieces are the same.

Australian model of the moment, Abbey Lee Kershaw is currently the face of the Maniamania. A big fan of the label, she not only models the new collection, but also stars in film directed by Kamsler and Purvis, with director Barnaby Roper as a homage to their new pieces.

I couldn't go past the Immortals ring in bronze and amazonite. Also available in a range of other materials and stones, the intricate detailing on the ring makes this a statement piece for any outfit. You can buy this lovely ring ($320) and many others at the Maniamania online store.

With the brand gaining more and more recognition everyday, you can expect big things from this Australian duo.

Désir du jour - Hermès

Hermès is one of the most well known fashion houses in the world. Established in France in 1837, the label specializes in leather, ready-to-wear, perfume, lifestyle accessories and luxury goods. Although one of the most successful fashion houses today, Hermès wasn’t always so profitable.

Victoria Beckham's Birkin collection is valued at $2.3 million

With the fluctuating economy and changing consumer demands, the company experienced ups and downs during the 1900s. However, Hermès were able to respond to changes in the market quickly and with smart marketing, were able to ensure the company didn’t go under. Originally starting as a harness workshop, the company graduated into production of leather saddles, which lead to leather bags. Obtaining the exclusive right to use zippers for leather goods and clothing in the early 1900s, Hermès introduced zips to France. The company quickly expanded into producing their now famous silk scarves, which were twice as strong as scarves available at the market at that time. Responding to consumer demand, the company soon introduced ready-to-wear and perfumery into the brand.

One of the first companies to link their products to celebrities (the Kelly bag, named after Grace Kelly and the Birkin bag, named after Jane Birkin), many Hermès products have themselves become fashion legends (Michael Tonello's book Bringing Home The Birkin is a great read). The Birkin bag alone can have a wait list up to six years depending on the type of leather.  The cost of a Birkin bag can reach into five and six figures for larger sizes depending on size, leather and colour.

Not only are Hermès’ bags iconic, but their enamel H bracelets have been seen on the arm of some of the most fashionable women in the world. I couldn’t go past the enamel H bracelet in the iconic Hermès orange. The classic design is timeless and although understated, recognizable by fashion lovers globally. Available through the online Hermès store for $800, this is a piece of jewellery that will never go out of fashion.

Image courtesy of http://www.luxurylaunches.com/celebrities/victoria_beckham_owns_100_hermes_birkin_bags_worth_23_million.php

Information sourced from http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hermès

Désir du jour - Bento

After starting her career in the Banking industry, Bento designer Samantha Hardman knows what working women want. I know first hand how hard it is to find stylish corporate wear which not only is made of great material, but is flattering enough to transition easily from the office to after-work diner and drinks. Bento not only provides versatile, chic workwear, but as an added benefit, all clothes are made in Melbourne! In an industry where most companies have outsourced their manufacturing, Bento is one of the few brands supporting the Australian community. To learn more about brands that manufacture in Australia, read Where Is It Made?

The perfect trans-seasonal outfit, the Georgia knit in berry and Sophie skirt in grey can be worn with nude pumps for warmer months, or with tights and boots when the weather gets cooler. This Is Bento pieces are also easily integrated into your existing wardrobe as their classic design and colour palette means they will never go out of style. Available at Cecylia boutique in Armadale or online at The Dreamery, treat yourself to a new work wardrobe today!

Stay tuned for an interview with lovely Bento designer Samantha Hardman!

Désir du jour - House of Baulch

After working at the creative helm of Mimco for 5 years, designer Kathryn Baulch decided to translate her love for accessories into her own line, House of Baulch. Baulch’s pieces are almost like works of art. Mixing art deco style with an edgy glamour, Baulch’s designs strike that fine balance between being unique and being timeless.

Releasing two collections annually, Baulch’s pieces continue to garner interest in the fashion world, and with her recent accessory and couture show at the L’Oreal Melbourne Fashion Festival her pieces are worth investing in.

It’s always great to have an accessory which can make a boring outfit interesting. This House of Baulch Meros Orb Tortoise Lucite Bag would do just that. At $199.00, this bag is a worthwhile investment as its unique design would guarantee you compliments every time you took it out!


Information sourced from http://houseofbaulch.com/collection/about/
Image courtesy of http://www.enhanceu.com.au/main/virtuemart/141-fashion-categories/163-bags-a-wallets/1285-house-of-baulch-meros-orb-tortoise-lucite-bag

Désir du jour - Alexander McQueen

Alexander McQueen was one of the most fashion forward designers of his generation. Not afraid of pushing boundaries, his designs offered a juxtapose between strength and fragility. Working in fashion houses such as Givenchy and Koki Tatsuno, McQueen soon launched his own self-titled label garnering controversy for his shock tactics and dramatic shows.

Earning the title "l'enfant terrible" and "the hooligan of English fashion" McQueen's collections and shows were never boring. He recreated a shipwreck for his 2003 spring collection, a human chess game for his 2005 spring collection and his 2006 fall show featured a life-sized hologram of supermodel Kate Moss.

McQueen favoured dramatic silhouettes and often used skulls in his designs. His trademark scarf bearing skull prints became a fashion must-have, with celebrities around the world supporting the design in an array of colours. He was a designer who didn't care about social standings, he was just as likely to put a non-traditional model (e.g. double amputee and former Paralympian Aimee Mullins) on the catwalk, as a traditional model.

Today's pick is the Chiffon Bustier Dress as worn by Mila Kunis at the 2011 SAG Awards. The detailed flower watercolour print is both dramatic and soft, with intricate hand stitched small pleats covering the bodice. Available for EUR4,958 on farfetch.com, this stunning dress is the perfect representation of McQueen's design aesthetic.

Tragically passing at age 41 in February 2010, the fashion world was robbed of one of its most talented designers.  His legacy lives on with his namesake label, continuing to be favourite among fashion lovers everywhere.