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Archive of ‘Fashion’ category

How to Shop Like a Personal Stylist – Casual Outfits for Around the Home

January 7, 2019 / Fashion / 0 comment

To kick off my series on how to shop like a personal stylist, I’m tackling what we wear when on holidays or when you’re at home. Casual outfits for around the home can mean a whole heap of different styles.

For some, sweat pants and a big tee are their go-to outfits. For others, active wear is their outfit of choice. For others, it could be a casual dress, jeans and top or shorts and top.

Today, I’m going to focus on the tee and shorts ensemble. Mainly because I think this is the most common summer around-the-home style of outfit and it’s one that I tend to wear myself. Not that I think everyone dresses like me. But I find this type of outfit comfortable and I’m sure you will too.

I have a number of tees and a few pairs of shorts that I mix between to create my casual outfits for around the home. I own 5 pairs of shorts. Actually six as I just bought a pair from Gorman during the boxing day sales.

My shorts wardrobe includes two pairs of denim shorts, one pair of navy shorts, one pair of black shorts and patterned shorts with pom poms. I wear patterned, stripe and block tees/tanks with a kaftan over top to create my casual outfits for around the home. To get an idea of the outfits I wear, check out my Instagram or head to the Styled by Bec Facebook page.

For the purpose of this post, I’ve chosen three pairs of shorts (the black and navy work the same as do both the denim shorts). I’ve also chosen a patterned tee, stripe tee and block colour tee. Having a plain black and white tee to create different outfits is also crucial for more outfit making.

I’ve also chosen Frankie 4 slides in Peach and Blonde – as they seem to be the slides with the most sizes available. They also add colour to a plain outfit. I love the pop of colour. Either of these slides could be worn with ALL of these outfits. I usually wear my white Birkenstocks as I’ve had these for years. I may need to invest in new slides this year as they are starting to deteriorate from constant wear.

Here are my three basic casual outfits for around the home

Gorman Brushed Flower Tee $99, Katies Cotton Casual Shorts $25 (on sale), Frankie 4 Hilary Blonde Slides $119.97 (on sale)

Gorman Linen Jersey Tank $55.20 (on sale), Decjuba Emma Tropical Print Shorts $34.95 (on sale), Frankie 4 Hilary Peach Slides $119.97 (on sale)

Bohemian Traders Classic Swing Tee in Stripes $59, Jeans West Kirstie Distress Boyfriend Short $30 (on sale), Frankie 4 Hilary Peach Slides $119.97

When it comes to tees, I’m a big fan of Bohemian Traders. I love their swing tees in a large (I’m a 16) because they don’t clinch at the tummy. They also look great tucked in. They also last after a number of washes. I still own my red stripe tee, black and grey block tees which I have had for years.

Bohemian Traders Classic Swing Tee in Black $59, Bohemian Traders Classic Swing Tee in White $59

I also love my Gorman print tees. Again they wash well and I like their shape. (I wear a size 14 in these.) They also add fun to a simple shorts and tee outfit.

When it comes to shorts, I don’t like short shorts. I have the Katies ones which I wear often and the Jeans West denim shorts. I wear my denim shorts uncuffed as I like a longer hem.

With the three pairs of shorts, I have changed the tops to create these combos. On the middle row, I would totally wear the Gorman tee with a the tropical shorts… but for some that may be too much of a pattern clash so I’ve changed it to a white tee.

Don’t be afraid to intermix your prints. Venture into this pattern clash by pairing a stripe tee with a print.

Once you have your casual shorts and tee outfits organised, you can then venture into adding layers. I absolutely LOVE this kimono from Spell Designs, which can also be worn as a dress.

You can make 3 more outfits by adding this extra layer.

Suddenly, your ‘casual outfits for around the home’ wardrobe is complete.

For most, these types of outfits will be worn frequently throughout the week. For others, it may be the outfits to wear on the weekend only or on a beach holiday.

The key to shopping like a personal stylist is choosing less to create more.

I’ve created 13 outfits on this post from 3 pairs of shorts, 5 tees and 1 kimono.

So buying less, but ensuring each piece has a specific purpose and can be worn again with other items is key. You have to get your basics right before you venture into layers and buying pieces that like to stand out on their own.

I hope you’ve enjoyed my first post on how to shop like a personal stylist. I wear these outfits each week so I live by what I’ve shared here.

Disclosure: There are affiliate links on this post. Should you choose to purchase an item, I will receive a small commission at no extra cost.

Statement Christmas Earrings

November 20, 2018 / Fashion / 1 Comment

Statement Christmas Earrings are one of my favourite accessories to wear at Christmas.

Truth be told, I love any statement earrings. Much to my dad’s delight! HAHA! I have quite the collection as I have tassel or pom pom earrings to go with most of my outfits.

I have to admit though, statement Christmas earrings are a delight. They add fun to any outfit and may be one of my favourite statements to wear.

I love the creativity of the artisans and handcrafters that have used care to make their earrings.

Who wouldn’t want gingerbread or candy canes hanging from their ear lobes? I think they are super cute.

Hello Robbo Gingerbread Neutral Dangle Earrings $35

Craftanoon Designs My Julia Candy Cane Dangles $59.00

And those Faux Tortoise Shell Christmas Trees? I am absolutely adding these to cart! They are the perfect adornment to a little black dress.

Each to Own Deck Yourself Triple Drops $52.00

I have a some fab laser cut reindeer earrings that I love to wear at Christmas. Mind the none-makeup selfie I took so you could see these beauties for yourself.

Etsy is my go to for a huge range of gorgeous handmade designs. Here are just some locally made statement Christmas earrings to consider this Christmas.

1. Oscar and Matilda Christmas Tree Festive Earrings $24.95

2. LLL Designs by Amanda Rudolph The Red Nose Reindeer Earrings $25

3. Alicia Rose Holly Drop Earrings $10.00

4. Christmas Marie Designs Elf Stud Earrings $20.00

5. Pink Marshmallow Christmas Pom Pom Earrings $25.00

6. Poppy Lane Bam Bam Drops Peachy Keen (Pre-order) $39.00

7. Beetwomey Emmy Drop Earrings in Black Tassels $40

These earrings are for those that want something Christmasy, but can be worn all year round. The above design from Poppy Lane Designs could also be worn all year round.

Instead of buying a new dress this Christmas, why not buy a pair of statement Christmas earrings instead?

Disclosure: There are affiliate links on this post. Should you choose to purchase an item, I will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Wearing Terrazzo – A Gold Speckle Necklace For Simple Dressing

November 10, 2018 / Fashion / 0 comment

If you read my blog, The Plumbette, you will know that I’m not a huge fan of Terrazzo.

But what often trends in interiors, can also make a stamp in fashion and accessories.

Accessories have always been my favourite way to add a little pizzazz to an outfit. I love big and bold – so anything that makes a statement is most likely in my accessories collection.

As you know, I love pom poms and tassels. Much to my dad’s delight! HAHA. He always has a dig at me when I have ‘hairy things’ dangling from my ears.

While my love for bold and bright will never wane, I have started to crave more intricate pieces to wear with my dresses.

Sometimes a simple necklace with a pendant is all that I need.

I like simple necklaces to have a point of difference too. Which is why I loved this Black and Gold Specks Necklace by 5mm Paper, made in Portugal. It has a terrazzo look about it which I unusually like!

The necklace is part of a curation of pieces from European designers who sell their wares on CROWDYHOUSE. The mission of CROWDYHOUSE is to showcase unique local designers’ work to the world.

The black and specks necklace is a piece I can wear with a black dress. A white shirt. Anything really. The pendant adds a bit of sparkle to a simple outfit.

If you are on the look out for unique pieces that have been handcrafted, why not support the designer and purchase their wares from CROWDYHOUSE? If you have family or friends that reside overseas, this could be a great option as shipping is worldwide.

Keep an eye out for a giveaway of one of these necklaces on The Plumbette.

Do you like bold and bright accessories, or simple and intricate? Would you wear terrazzo accessories?

Disclosure: I was gifted this necklace for the purpose of this review and it has been written in accordance with my disclosure policy. All opinions are my own.

What Does ‘Dress Cocktail’ Mean?

November 6, 2018 / Fashion / 0 comment

Have you ever been invited to an event, read the dress code and thought ‘what does dress cocktail mean?’

The uncertainty about dress codes is a real thing and even I recently had to consider what was meant by ‘cocktail’.

Now cocktail generally means semi-formal which means a shorter hemline dress is acceptable with heels and a clutch. A pant suit and jump suit are also acceptable.

The problem was, this event was going to be held at the Hilton and it was an awards night. Usually awards nights in the construction industry are formal, gala or black tie occasions – requiring a full length dress/gown, heels and a clutch.

But some perceive cocktail to mean formal and vice versa.

Unless the event is a very formal event the issue is not what you wear, but how you pull it off. What I mean by this is how the dress is accessorized and elevated to suit the occasion.

I decided to meet somewhere in the middle and bought this gorgeous off the shoulder dress from City Chic.

Dress by City Chic Rippled Love Dress $169.95

I love City Chic for their cocktail and formal gowns. I’m in an xs which is a 14. If you are in the size 6-14 range, check out Review, Cue, Veronika Maine, Portmans and Little Party Dress.

For curvy girls like myself, City Chic, Little Party Dress, Gorman and Birdsnest will have cocktail and formal options available.

The rule of thumb when the dress code is ‘dress cocktail’, is a dress or even skirt that is above or just below the knee with heels and a clutch. A maxi dress that is not floor length can also be acceptable.

Here are some cocktail dresses that are bang on the dress code. These dresses are perfect for weddings and events where the dress code is cocktail.

City Chic Black Gracie Dress $179.95

Alannah Hill Lady in Lace Dress $299

Review Puerto Rico Dress in Red $319

Little Party Dress Royal Purple Floral Dress $69.95

City Chic Sweet Love Dress $179.95

Gorman Claire Embellished Dress $229

My black dress is a classic that can be worn to both a cocktail or formal occasion. All that needs to be changed up are the accessories and the way I have my hair.

A little tip as well when getting ready for an occasion like this, I got my makeup done at Malouf Pharmacies. I got my makeup done where I could purchase the products as part of the fee. It’s around this time of year I replace or run out of my makeup so it was perfect timing to get my makeup done and replenish my supply.

I also timed it well to get my hair re-coloured and curled that morning so it would be ready that night.

Have ever been confused about what dress cocktail means? Do you have any hacks for getting ready for a big night?

Disclosure: There are affiliate links on this post. Should you choose to purchase, I will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.

I Don’t Buy Skirts… But I Bought a New Skirt For Summer

October 27, 2018 / Fashion / 0 comment

It’s been a long time between posts here on Styled by Bec, mainly because my outfit sharing has gone on the backburner while juggling family and work life.

Having a well curated wardrobe has meant I have been re-wearing outfits you’ve seen on here or Instagram before.

I find I do fall into a rut at times when I’m busy, wearing the same outfits, but it’s one less decision I have to make in my day. And the purpose of having a well organized wardrobe is having outfits that make it easy to get dressed in the morning. We should be re-wearing the same clothes and not giving a hoot if we repeat the same outfit time and time again.

But I do love a new dress, and I have had had my eye on two dresses at Gorman. With their 20% off sale I thought I’d head in store to try the dresses on. One can never have too many dresses.

I was glad I tried them on because I felt a bit meh with them. They looked great – but the green dress wasn’t as vibrant in life as it was in the pictures.

Spot on Sadie Dress

And the Geo Pop Flower Dress is similar to another dress I have from Gorman. I’m wary of the length and shape of the skirt as it inflates like a balloon when the wind blows. I have shown off my granny undies to diners at the Carindale Hotel while crossing the road to work while wearing the dress.

Geo Pop Flower Dress

And then I thought what about a skirt?

I have so many t-shirts that I’d love to wear with something other than jeans and shorts.

As soon as I tried the skirt on, I had outfit combos popping into my head. This skirt was going to breathe new life into my tees. It was a no brainer purchase.

Here are I am wearing the skirt with a Sussan spot top I love, but don’t wear often enough. The whole outfit works well with my Frankie 4 sandals and Rare Rabbit yellow necklace.

Wearing Gorman Geo Pop Flower Skirt

It’s a mix of patterns that work together. I have a red tee and black tee I can wear with the skirt too. I even have a spot blouse I can wear with the skirt for when I need to corporate it up for work.

And this is how I shop these days. Always considering how a new piece will work in with my existing wardrobe. This skirt is a different purchase for me. I own 3 skirts in my wardrobe so this will make a great addition and will allow me to wear more of my wardrobe this summer. I was also thinking how well my red leather jacket will go when I wear it in winter. The possibilities are endless!