Suitcase Packing Ninja

I have learned the art of suitcase packing so that I can get 5 weeks of clothes into one medium size suitcase...with room for purchases!

I am a suitcase packing ninja.

Kiki

What are my chances?

This looks like flying in style to me.

What are my chances of getting an upgrade, about a million to one roughly?

I just checked my flight details and I'm going to be sitting in cattle-class for 27 hours! O...M....G!!!

Kiki

Outliers

These animal print shoes are so awesome! How much fun would it be to wander around leaving these footprints in your wake?

Kiki

PS...this post is dedicated to my 'little' brother.

A bit of skin

Am I a prude? Am I the only person who doesn't like to see bra straps?

I think a bit of shoulder (or back) is very sexy, but I just don't like the look of a bra strap. It's not at all sexy and ruins a perfectly good bit of skin, and looks a bit 'cheap and nasty'.

I have really warmed to the see-through blouse with a lovely bra...is that different? Maybe not. Maybe I am a bit old school and will relax somewhat on my upcoming trip to the fashon capitol of the world!

Kiki

Bellini Cocktail

Created sometime in the thirties by Giuseppe Cipriani, he christened his white peach cocktail "the Bellini" (after Giovanni Bellini, the fifteenth century Venetian painter) in 1948. 

Made with Prosecco instead of Champagne, it is nevertheless widely regarded as the best Champagne cocktail in the world. When making a Bellini, everything (the glasses, Prosecco and white peach puree) should be as cold as possible. The general rule is to use one part white peach puree to three parts Prosecco.

Use fresh frozen white peach puree when you can, but when making your own puree, never use a food processor because it aerates the fruit. (Maurice Graham Henry often uses a cheese shredder, shredding the peaches and using a strainer to collect the maximum amount of juice.) Add a bit of sugar or some simple syrup if the puree is too tart or a tad sour. And absolutely never use yellow peaches to make a Bellini.

I am soooo looking forward to sipping on one (or two maybe) of these very soon!

Kiki

Five

Women with style express themselves and their personality through their clothing choices and have these 5 things in common.

1. They are in tune with their body shape and know what to enhance and what to disguise.

2. There is a thread of consistency running through their choices in terms of shape, texture and colour palette.

3. They buy well and keep their clothes in good condition.

4. The look is comfortable and relaxed (no swollen feet stuffed into too-high, too-tight stilletos).

5. They never look as though they are trying too hard.

Kiki

Canadian Tuxedo

I think this is the first Canadian Tuxedo (aka denin on denim) that actually looks good!

Kiki

Just a little bit nervous.

I have come to the realisation that I am just a little bit nervous about my upcoming maiden voyage to Italy. At first, when I started analysing my apprehension I thought it was because it's my first time there and I don't know my way around...and then there's the language! I took Italian language lessons for a few months last year but I have completely forgotten everything I learned.

Then I started thinking about what I will pack, how much do I want to lug around the country, and how much space do I want to allow for purchases? Baggage allowance is limited on the flights I've booked so I've decided to take only one smallish suitcase. If I need...I can always mail stuff home.

So, with that decision made the next one is much harder...what to take?

I've been reading a lot of blogs lately and looking at photos of what people are wearing OS and I'm really getting worried. So many people look awesome ALL THE TIME. How on earth am I going to look great all the time on a very limited wardrobe, even while sightseeing? And the very important rule...how not to look like a tacky tourist?

The pressure is on!

Kiki

I had a hankering today...

I had a hankering for creme brule today. I've never actually eaten it before so I wasn't sure what I was in for. I've had a little taste now and again, but not a whole one myself so who knew if I even liked it? Strange I know, I'm not sure what came over me. Sometimes you just have to go with it!

So, I went out and bought myslf a blow torch and the rest of the ingredients and gave it a go. It was surprisingly simple actually, and I'm pretty proud of the outcome if I do say so myself. The only problem was the lack of butane, and I don't recommend trying to make do with the oven grill!

Kiki

Winter Style

Sometimes it is so cold outside that all you care about is keeping warm....from memory that is approximately -28.5 degrees celcius!

In sunny Queensland that kind of cold just doesn't happen (thank goodness) but there are days like today (Canadians don't laugh) where it's pretty darn cold. I think it dipped to 7 this morning, and it didn't reach 20 until atleast 10am!

If I am completely honest, I am a teensy bit emberrassed about how soft I've become. I love to rug up in snuggly jumpers, jackets, scarves and gloves but sadly I don't get much opportunity any more. If I did need to wear lots of winter clothes, they'd look like these.

Kiki

Black and White

I am a huge fan of black and white. It is clean and crisp and always flattering.

There really is nothing tricky about putting together a black and white ensemble, and so easy to add a tiny bit of fun colour (if the occasion permits). You really must consider your complexion though as white near the face can wash some people out a little. If you're at risk of this, add a necklace or lower neckline to move the white away or break it up a bit.

I've never worn white stockings as I worry about it thickening my less than gazelle-like legs, but this lady has lovely lean legs and it looks great. I wonder if darker stockings wouldn't look as good and therefore ruin this look? And I adore the gloves, they add a bit of glamour to a really lovely outfit.

Kiki

Glasgow Style

How awesome are these two fellows?

Nothin' better than an old guy in a skirt;)

Kiki

Smokey Cat Eye

The smokey cat eye is my favourite look lately, and surprisingly simple to create.

If you need a little help like I did, there are some great youtube tutorials to walk you through it.

Kiki

White brogues anyone?

You know I love shoes, often the quirkier the better...so you know I don't shy away from a bit of foot focus, but white brogues are pretty full on!

These are growing on me, certainly only a summer shoe, but with these tailored shorts or a sun dress I think they're pretty cute. Maybe next year...

Kiki

Amouage Honour

I have recently discovered, and totally fallen in love with Amouage Honour Woman Eau de Parfum. This beautiful scent is not your 'run of the mill' perfume, it's made with the most wonderful flowers and oils. It's Olfactive Family is Woody Oriental so not for everyone, but you may love one of the many others created by the House of Amouage.

Amouage was founded 25 years ago by His Highness Sayyid Hamad bin Hamoud al bu Said on the request of His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said, the ruler of the Sultanate of Oman.  Amouage was created with the intention of giving the fine perfumes as gifts to the Sultan's honoured guests, purported to reflect the cultural heritage and traditions present in Oman. Restoring artistry to perfumery by creating the most beautiful and evocatively fragrant scents possible. Amouage sources the highest quality ingredients from Oman - the rarest frankincense from Dhofar in the south of the country and the rarest rose of all, the rock rose harvested high up in the mountains of the Jebel Akhdar range towering over the Sultanate's beautiful capital, Muscat.

Honour Woman is a white floral fragrance inspired by the tragic Madame Butterfly. In honour of truth and beauty, her poetic love and sorrow echo eternally.

Head Notes - Coriander, Pepper, Rhubarb Heart Notes - Carnation, Gardenia, Jasmine, Lily of the Valley, Tuberose Base Notes - Leather, Vetiver, Amber, Frankincense, Opopanax

Ask for a sample at DJ's (for my Aussie friends).

Kiki

I really really want one!

I am not a rev-head but I just can't seem to shake a little crush I have formed on the Fiat 500.

How cute is this little car? I am yet to take one for a test drive because I'm scared that I will fall even deeper in love if I sit in it...smell that new car scent...feel the firm new seats under me...zip through the traffic like a crazy Italian...

Kiki

An Ode To Can

There's a four lettered word
As offensive as any
It holds back the flow
Puts a stop to the many.

You can't climb that mountain
You can't cross the sea
You can't become anything you want to be.

He can't hit a century
They can't find a cure.
She can't think about leaving
or searching for more.

Because can't is a word with a habit of stopping
The ebb and flow of ideas
It keeps dropping itself where we know
in our hearts it's not needed.
And saying "don't go"
when we could have succeeded.

But those four little letters
That end with a T
They can change in an instant
When shortened to three.

We can take off the T
We can do it today
We can move forward not back
We can find our own way.

We can build we can run
We can follow the sun
We can push we can pull
We can say I'm someone
Who refuses to believe
That life can't be better
With the removal of one
Insignificant letter.

Kiki

Coloured Jeans

I have been dragged kicking and screaming into the coloured jeans fad but am now a true convert. I love them.

I started with a tan pair late last year, then there was a lovely white pair last Christmas, and my most recent are a cheap and cheerful pair of red ones. Orange has recently caught my eye and I've tried a few pairs on, but I am just not sure how long it's going to last. I am worried about buying another pair only to wear them a few times before that dreaded realisation that your fav pair of jeans are just not cool!

I might just save my pennies for my holiday ;)

Kiki

Gelato Style

You may know that I'm going on my very first trip to Italy soon, and one of the many things I'm looking forward to is...you guessed it...GELATO!

I really love icecream, but rumour has it that until you've tasted italian icecream (aka gelato), you haven't lived. Really? I cannot imagine how it could get any better.

To date, i.e. before my first italian icecream, my favourite flavour is chocolate. Is that boring? Will I come back a changed woman? Will I fall in love with a new flavour? I've heard pistachio is to die for, and pear sounds intriguing, maybe caffe or some other crazy Italian flavour will take my fancy?

Kiki

Hair Extensions

So...what's your opinion on hair extensions?

I have seen some serious shockers lately, as I'm sure you have. If you look closely at the crown of the head you can often spot the evidence, and it's not pretty. A couple of times I actually saw the clip barely hanging on to the hair...yikes!

I have fine hair, and not a lot of it so I have to work hard and use a lot of products to get close to the look I want. I have always coveted long, luscious locks and now (if I could bring myself to spend the money) I too could have Jennifer Aniston or Megan Fox hair! Nothing else...just the hair.

Maybe one day, or maybe hair extensions will go out of style by the time I muster up the courage.

Kiki

Hermes Scarf

My wonderful husband bought me a beautiful Hermes scarf which I love, but it wasn't getting much wear which made me very sad :(

Until I discovered a great way of tying it to my handbag. Doesn't this look gorgeous?

Now I get to wear it every day, and it totally glams up my bag. Happy days!

Kiki

Sunny Style

Do you love sunnies? Do you have one pair for all occasions or are you a bit more like Bono and never seem to wear the same pair twice?

I am only just starting to realise sunglasses are a great fashion accessory, and they can really complete a 'look'. Of course there are the usual sports ones for cycling or fishing (not really my cup of tea but apparently the polarised lenses really help) but who knew that there are also a whole plethora of styles, shapes, colours and sizes?

I really like these cat eye shaped ones although I find it quite difficult to find ones that suit me. When the top doesn't go to my eyebrows it looks silly, and my nose is quite narrow so they often slide own, and I look like a perv in the mirrored ones...

Personal challenge: buy a pair of funky sunnies under $20 this week that I love.

Kiki

Aging with Style

Can an 'older' fellow be just as cool as a young, hip guy?

I say ABSOLUTELY...this gentleman looks great and has a certain something that can only come with life experience. He looks so comfortable in his own skin that you just can't help but love it.

Do you feel free-er to do, be, look, act...as you have aged? I sure have become much more confident as my birthdays have passed and I wouldn't trade that for youth that's for sure!

Kiki

Irregular Choice

OMG, I have just discovered Irregular Choice...a totally awesome online shop for the funkiest shoes, handbags and accessories.

These little beauties are called Flick Flack and I love them. They are so much fun, not too high and are only 65 euros...happy days!

Have a look at the website and tell me you don't love them too!

Kiki

Cardigan Style

I have a little 'thing' about a man in a cardi. Some people, my hubby included, think they're not very manly, but I totally disagree. A nice cardi like the one in this photo is well fitted, a lovely inviting colour and oh so sexy.

Keep in mind that not all men can pull it off quite as well as McDreamy here, but I reckon every man should give it a red hot go!

Kiki

Sum of the parts

I would never wear a shirt that wasn't ironed or properly tucked in. I can't imagine wearing elastic waisted trousers now I'm an adult. The glittery plastic handbag is bordering on tacky...but I just can't stop staring at this photo.

How does this happen? How can all the separate parts be so bad, but together are totally awesome?

If you know the answer I would love to hear your theory.

Kiki

What You Don't See

I've been thinking about lingerie lately (probably not the only one eh boys?) and the things that others don't see that complete an ensemble. I always feel that little bit more 'together' or 'styled' when the entire outfit matches. You know that feeling when you're wearing a great dress or trousers or whatever but YOU know that underneath is a pair of 2004 grannie panties? They're so old you can't even remember the original colour? The elastic is virtually non-existant and you would be so emberrassed if anyone ever saw them...you know what I'm talking about!

A girl needs great lingerie, even if it's only one or two sets. Over the years I have learned the value and lift (pun intended) it gives me when I wear it. Even though no one can see it (except the one I share my bedroom with) it feels and looks great, it completes an outfit.

Kiki

Rockin' 70's Style

Gorgeous swimsuit model Kate Upton rocks 70's style with amazing burnt orange accessories that beautifully match her colouring. I just adore the hat and bag, so simple yet truly glorious!

Kiki

What my Mom taught me about style...

1. put your 'face on' before leaving the house

2. heels are a must, especially for the vertically challenged

3. dresses and skirts are good for hiding big hips and flattering small waists

4. accessories really make an outfit...but don't OVER accessorise (that's just tacky)

5. signature perfumes are lovely but sometimes it's nice to try new ones

6. painted nails are feminine and sexy

7. children shouldn't wear black

8. poise and grace can come in small packages

9. you must have a few classic pieces in your wardrobe

10. style is about being an individual, not following a fad

11. take pride in yourself.


Thank you Mom, you are a beautiful lady.

Kiki

Hauntingly Beautiful

Sometimes I see a photo that makes me smile and shed an irrational tear both at the same time.

This image conjures up so many wonderful memories of my childhood with white winters as a very strong feature in my life. But also throws in a mystical figure adorned in exotic fabrics and the most amazing umbrella of flowers that captures every little girl's imagination.

Kiki

Lipstick Effect

The lipstick effect is the theory that when facing an economic crisis consumers will be more willing to buy less costly luxury goods. Instead of buying expensive fur coats, for example, people will buy expensive lipstick.

It has been rumored that lipstick sales doubled after the 9/11 attacks on the USA. In a New York Times article published May 1, 2008, Leonard Lauder is quoted as saying that he noted his company's sales of lipstick rose after the terrorist attacks. He did not claim they doubled.

The underlying assumption is that consumers will buy luxury goods even if there is a crisis. When consumer trust in the economy is dwindling, consumers will buy goods that have less impact on their available funds. Outside the cosmetics market, consumers could be tempted by expensive beer or smaller, less costly gadgets.

I have actually bought a few new lippies lately...yikes!

Kiki

It's Official

There are certain times in a lady's life that she really couldn't give a 'rats' about style, and sadly today is one of them. I tried really hard to find a funny picture or some light-hearted amusing anecdote to try to pick myself up and feel a little cheer...clearly I failed.

It's official, I am sick. I have a cold.

Of course no one has ever had a cold this bad before, and I can't do anything for myself, and it's even worse than the dreaded man-flu. There is a new strain going around for sure...the rare and very dangerous 'Kiki Cold'.

aaaahhh-choooo

Not Boring Brown

Brown is tough to wear, but this dress is so lovely I just had to share it.

Kiki

Power Panties

I admit I don't actually own Spanx but I am seriously thinking about getting me some. What a great product to give you a little lift (pun intended) or tighten up those wobbly bits to make you look and feel awesome!

I see they make them for men too.

Kiki

Bicycle Wine Rack

This brilliant little idea has me thinking about getting back into cycling!

Kiki

Very Mini

How does a girl actually sit down when wearing a skirt this short?

I went out last weekend with the girls and I was totally amazed by the length of skirts. I admit some of these girls are great looking, have awesome legs, tight little tushies and can totally work it...but yikes!

Kiki

Pet Style

Does your pampered pooch or coddled cat have style? Do they love dressing up and prancing around, showing off their duds? I think it's pretty cute and often quite amusing, especially when they look really pissed off.

My little dog Bella loves her knitted jumper when it's cool in the mornings but I've never been brave enough to go wild. Have you? Send me a photo...

Kiki

To Ink...Or Not To Ink?

So, am I getting old or are there way more tattoos out there than ever before?

I am not sure how I feel about it...it's not the stereotypical bikie bloke with 'Mum' on his arm anymore either it's everyone! Young (really really young), old, men, women, all designs and any body part.

Is this more noticeable because summer is just ending and people don't wear much here when it's hot or is it the same the world over?

Am I the last 'clean-skin'?

Kiki

It has to go!

For a woman that usually oozes style (and grace - in spite of her husband) what the hell is she thinking with that scrunchie? Maybe she wears it as a kind of 'middle finger gesture' to....hmmm?...Bill?

Do you have one lurking in the back of your makeup drawer too? If so, resist the temptation to wear it, it's for your own good!

Kiki

Australia's Most Stylish Woman

I am so proud to live in a country that chooses Quentin Bryce, our Governor General who is 70 years old this year as the winner of the Herald Sun 50 Most Stylish Women over models, WAGs, actresses and other young beauties!

Kiki

HOT HOT HOT

This is not only an absolutely smokin shot of a pair of lovely legs, but the dress is such a vibrant colour and the heels...yummo!

Kiki

Classic Dots

I love polka dots but have not had much luck with them. The leather jacket and ultra cool hair and expression are awesome with the flowing dot skirt and chunky heels.

Kiki

What to wear...

What runs through your mind when you get dressed in the morning?

Do you simply choose the thing that's clean and ironed, what's on top or within easy reach? Or do you plan your outfit and choose clothes that make you feel good, or what is trendy, or what is expected of you?

Who buys your clothes? Do you prefer one particular style and always seem to wear the same thing, maybe just different colours or fabrics? Or do you experiment with different styles and take notice of what other people wear? Maybe try a new colour or fabric, or even a piece of jewellery, or style of shoe? Or, do you know exactly what you like, what looks good on you and what your preferred style is?

Do you like people to notice you, compliment your look or an article of clothing? Or do you prefer that no one notices you, do you dress so that you don't stand out?

After answering these questions, or at least considering them and taking notice of your gut reaction...are you happy with your style? Did any of these questions stump you or anger you or make you laugh?

Tomorrow morning, when you pick out what you are going to wear...make a real choice...don't do it on auto-pilot.

Kiki

This is not acceptable travel attire!

These pants may be comfortable, they may not crush on those nasty long-haul flights, they may not show dirt easily, and they may be easy to hand wash and dry overnight...but seriously, the only place to wear these is hiking up a mountainside.

Kiki

Gorgeous and Feminine

This is a lovely example of a very feminine style that I just love.

The photo was taken in Paris recently after the Chloe show (sadly I was not the photographer) although I will be 'keeping my eyes peeled' for style and glamour when I go there in summer. Watch this space. Back to this ensemble...focus Kiki!

The pink collar just peeks out from around her neck and wrists, breaking up the navy jumper and hat that she has perfectly matched. The beautiful flowing skirt has a real summer flow to it so it's a bit of a surprise that she's paired it with a dark jumper and felt hat, but it works.

Then I move to the shoes....oh those shoes. They are divine and bring the whole look together perfectly. And that lovely little clutch, I really must get me one of those.

Kiki

Plain White Tee

The plain white tee should be a staple in eveyone's closet...and this beauty shows us exactly how to wear it. It looks crisp and new and must fit well (this does require a good bra ladies!). Pair this with a simple pair of well-cut trousers, jeans or skirt and you've got a look that's a winner every time.

Kiki

Sting Like A Bee

Muhammad Ali was famous not only for his unrivalled prowess in the ring but also for his dark suits, white shirts, narrow ties and buffed shoes. Most people would be more familiar with "dance like a butterfly, sting like a bee" than my favourite of his that goes something like this...

I don't follow fashion so much as try to find clothes that make me look good, because that never goes out of style.

Kiki

Fabulous Little Frock

This is such a great photo, I adore this little frock and the girl is beautiful. But, if you're familiar with the term 'mutton dressed as lamb' I'm sure you'll agree that no matter how much anyone over 20 loves this dress they really should not wear it.

Now don't get me wrong, this was not a snap decision, nor was it an easy one to make. I've been pondering this for a while now, trying to come up with any situation where it would not look ridiculous on a very stylish (if I do say so myself) 40 something woman. I could only come up with three.

1. Halloween Party
2. Square Dance
3. My Bedroom

Kiki

Authentic Style

Does style require authenticity? Can you copy style or does it need to be your own? How do you own a style? Is it finite? What makes it yours? And..what is style beyond the physical? Is it only about someone's physical appearance? I believe that you can get ideas from others about what you like (or what you don't like is just as important)but it is necessary for style to be individual...authentic if you like. Many of us put our own 'spin' on classic looks like Audrey but we would never be able to re-create it...nor should we try. Great style is being stylish rather than having style (a wise friend of mine said this once). What do you think? Kiki

Both Feet

Today I jump in with 'both feet' and take the next step in my journey.

I want to try and capture how I see the world, what style means to me, not fashion, or trends or what's cool....but STYLE. It can't be easily defined and it's so very personal. Sometimes I love it, sometimes I don't like it at all, but I can't deny it, style is the essence of some people's very being.

So, join me in my journey and share style, the good, the bad...and the ugly!

Let the journey begin.

Kiki