COVET ISSUE 10

SUMMER FEB/APR

ISSUE 10

NADIA COPPOLINO Paris Wells

BENTO

AURELIO COSTARELLA

Daniel Alexander

Matteo Bruno

Beach house by Camilla Lingerie Competition (SEE INSIDE)

k i s s c h a c e y. c o m

CONTENTS

Nadia Coppolino

10.

Nathan Paul Swim Wear

18.

Aurelio Costarella

22.

California Dreaming

26.

Bento

36.

Beach House by Camilla

42.

Moon tide Swim Wear

50.

If Look Could Kill

54.

Lingerie Boutique Competition

62.

Santini Shoes

64.

Andrew Chiodo

66.

Matteo Bruno

70.

Paris Wells

92.

What Am I Going to Wear Today

114.

businesstyle.gr

GMK

w w w.gmk- exclusive.com | info@gmk- excl us i ve. co m

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

VANESSA TESTA VANESSA@COVETMAGAZINE.COM.AU

DIRECTOR

ANTHONY LICURIA ANTHONY@COVETMAGAZINE.COM.AU

FASHION EDITOR

CATHERINE CICCONE CATHERINE@COVETMAGAZINE.COM.AU

CONTRIBUTORS

CATHERINE CICCONE LAURA BLASETTI VANESSA TESTA ALAA LULU HASANEIN REBECCA KNIGHT SNJEZANA BOBIC CATHERINE CICCONE MANDY CHANG NESRENE BARAKAT OLIVIA PAJER LAURA BLASETTI NATALIE LACY

HAIR & MAKE-UP ALEXANDRIA WELSH SHILEY GUPTA

PHOTOGRAPHY

ANTHONY LICURIA - APL PHOTOGRAPHY 0411 806 447 - WWW.APLPHOTOGRAPHY.COM.AU FOR ADVERTISING, PLEASE CONTACT ANTHONY LICURIA

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR and culture. We have an impressive line up including exclusive interviews

Happy New Year to you all from the team at COVET MAGAZINE. We trust you’ve had a wonderful start to 2012 and have been enjoying the Summer holidays as much as we have!

with high-end designer Aurelio Costarella, Australian stylist Sophia Banks-Coloma, talented musician Paris Wells, and much more!

We are very excited to announce that with the release of this issue, we have reached double figures! Our tenth edition of COVET is all about the season we love the most, Summer!

Style icon Nadia Coppolino graces our cover this issue and we get a sneak peak into the life of a WAG in the fast lane.

We are showcasing gorgeous swimwear and summer fashion collections for both men and women. Designers such as Nathan Paul, new Aussie board-shorts brand Venroy and owner of Santini Shoes have leant their time to enlighten us with the tricks of the trade to prepare you for a sizzling Summer!

Director of COVET and photographer, Anthony Licuria, travelled to Los Angeles to shoot the stunning Californian model, Alexander Rodriguez.

We also review Melbourne’s finest eateries for refreshing and tasty treats, coffee and thirst quenching cocktails at exquisite Melbourne bars, to help you get the most out of Summer 2012!

COVET Social Media guru, Olivia Pajer, spent some time in Tokyo and she shares with us her experience of Tokyo’s celebrated fashion

What I’m Coveting!

Nia 24 Sun Damage Prevention Sunscreen SPF 30 This new product is a Summer musthave, it is a broad-spectrum sunscreen that will keep you protected against the harsh rays of the Australian sun. It contains chamomile, vitamin E and niacin for a younger-looking complexion.

Revlon Grow Luscious Plumping Waterproof Mascara Perfect solution to prevent raccoon eyes in the heat of summer, if Jessica Biel loves it – so do we!

We hope you enjoy the read! Happy Summer!

Wayne by Wayne Cooper ‘Naomi’ east west tote in White This bag exudes Summer! You can easily fit all your essentials in this Wayne Cooper crisp white tote, it’s the perfect accessory to take you from day to night!

Nadia Co Photography: Anthony Licuria Model: Nadia Coppolino Hair & Make up: Shiley Gupta 10

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Tell us a bit about your childhood – what did you love to do and what did you dream of for the future? How have those experiences shaped you today?

My childhood was very chilled and happy, I spent a lot of time outside running around with my brother and sister - we would always try to get down to the coast as much as possible.

I was really into sports when I was younger and very much a tomboy. I lived in my Adidas trackies, embarrassing when I look back now! I think my childhood experiences have shaped me to always be active, not take things in life too seriously - everything works out in the end.

By Nesrene Barakat

oppolino

You work in the fashion and beauty industry. How did you first become involved with this sort of work?

As a young child I was heavily involved in sports, but in my late teens I became really interested in fashion and events and I became obsessed with buying every single fashion magazine (to Mum’s dismay). I studied a Bachelor of Business majoring in events at La Trobe University and I also volunteered at many fashion events through my four years at uni. I really enjoyed the marketing and advertising aspects of the course so I knew that was the area I wanted to work in but I also knew that fashion had to be a big part of my job. So I’m very lucky to be working as an Account manager at Marie Claire and InStyle. I get to work with some |

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really talented and creative people and every day is different.

It’s obvious that you are a fashion icon, particularly from the stunning, emerald Julie Simonelli gown you wore at the Brownlow. What is the one item in your wardrobe you could never live without?

I don’t know if I would go as far as to say I’m a style icon but I do have a really big passion for fashion. Everything about it excites me, from new designer collections/collaborations to fashion blogs. I instantly know what I like when it comes to fashion. So it’s great when you get the opportunity to have a hands-on role with designing, like with my green dress.

In my wardrobe I love statement pieces; I can’t get far without my big Bally handbag. I think a good handbag dresses up any outfit.

With your hair and make-up always so immaculate, what styling tips can you share with us?

My hair is really dry and never gets oily; I think that’s why it sits in place. I think it’s important to use good quality hair care, so I use Aveda or Kevin Murphy and use Cristalli serum on my ends.

For the face I think it’s important you use active products and I use Vitamin C and Vitamin A - amazing! I only use Georgio Armani

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foundation as it’s so silky and light. I love dewy face, and Armani gives you the best dewy face! I also team that with YSL concealer around the eyes - it’s great for bags but also works as a great illuminator for the eyebrow and temple area. Most importantly, H20 and lots of it!

a

If you could choose one designer in the world to dress you, who would it be and why?

It would depend on the occasion but Balmain and Elie Saab are my favourites. I am leaning towards Sabb because he uses the most amazing detailed fabrics and drapes them beautifully on the female body. His designs are truly stunning and one of a kind.

How would you describe your style, and where is your favourite place to shop for it?

My style is very mixed and I can’t really say that I fit into one specific look. So many of the different eras, like the 60’s or 70’s, give me inspiration every day. I like structured minimalist clothes that I can dress up with amazing accessories.

On the weekends I am more edgy so I throw together different looks - anything goes!

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Other times I tend to be more sophisticated and classic and my favourite places to shop are all the little boutiques around Prahran.

Scanlan & Theodore never disappoints with its classic cuts, Green with Envy has a great range of Australian designers, American Apparel and Mossman carry a great range of staples and for the online option I go for ASOS.

In the midst of summer and the silly season, what is currently your favourite outfit to enjoy an evening of drinks with friends?

Hmm, it’s really hard to pick just one outfit but I have been giving my loose Sass & bide singlets a whirl this summer. They mix and match so well with everything and my blue Dion Lee pants work with them perfectly.

What are your future aspirations for career and family?

I am very focused on my career right now but I would also love a big family in the future. I think sometimes it hard for women to have both but that would be my long term goal.

Would you describe yourself as a traveller and adventurer, or are you more of a homebody?

I am definitely the adventurer, I love trying anything once, and I get bored easily if I’m at home for too long.

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Who do you look to for inspiration, both professionally and in your personal life?

I look to people around me for inspiration. I admire women who have worked hard and are passionate about their job.

I am so lucky to work for Marie Claire and InStyle, as I am surrounded by an amazing calibre of people who drive me to succeed on both a creative and business level. My mum is also one of the most inspirational people I know.

We all have our guilty pleasures, so what sorts of things do you indulge in when you feel like treating yourself?

My day-to-day routine is quite hectic so my guilty pleasure is not having to think and having nowhere I have to be. Also, munching on white choc raspberry bullets while watching some bad reality TV show!

What are you coveting right now?

I am coveting an amazing lavish beach house on the Amalfi Coast with my new crystalembroidered Balmain jacket, as well as an endless supply of money so I can fly all my friends and family over to enjoy it with me.

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COVET journalist Laura Blasetti speaks with with Australian swimwear designer and owner of label Nathan Paul swimwear.

Nathan, tell us a bit about yourself and where you’ve come from.

I was born and raised in Melbourne, Australia.

I was educated at both Melbourne Grammar and Geelong Grammar; from there, the list grows (laughs).

How long have you been in the swimwear business?

I have been in the swimwear business for three years and I launched my first collection in 2009. However, I have been working in the rag trade for around five years now.

What inspired you to become a swimwear designer?

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I have always had an eye for aesthetics. To me, swimwear is an area of fashion that allows the potential to showcase Australia beach culture and what our country represents on an international scale.

What’s the best part of your job?

There are many aspects of my job that I would describe as the ‘best part.’ Having the freedom to express my creative desires is something I enjoy very much. I also enjoy travelling; being a designer can take you to places both locally and across the globe. This is something I never take for granted and I am very fortunate to have the opportunity to do.

Describe what inspired your latest collection, “McCallum”.

The inspiration behind my ‘McCallum Collection’ came about in a 1970’s residence in Brighton, located along Melbourne’s innercity coastline. The house has been beautifully kept in theme from a bygone era of the 1970’s. The cool tones throughout the house had a major affect on the colour palette for the collection. Located in McCallum Street in

by Laura Blasetti

Brighton, I thought it was a natural fitting that I named my collection, McCallum!

If you could describe the collection in three words, what would they be?

Bold, cool, and avant-garde!

What trends stand out for you this season?

Many major designers have been using hot tone colours this season. Bright greens, blues and oranges have had a huge impact this summer.

Do you have any rules when it comes to swimwear? Any do’s and don’ts?

No, I don’t think there should be rules when it comes to freedom of expression in the design of swimwear. However, I do strongly believe it is important to ensure that the product is produced ethically, correctly and always made from good quality materials.

What are your Australian summer

beach essentials?

Swimwear, a beach towel, sunscreen, a hat, a ball, plenty of water, and a boat!

What are you coveting right now?

Tomoko Nakamichi – the artistic master of Japanese Pattern Cutting. Revolutionary and inspiring - Google it! Enough said!

What do you crave, desire and indulge?

I am craving a Jaguar 1970, 8C, e-type convertible!

I desire to take my label to the Global market!

And I like to indulge in food and wine!

What’s next for Nathan Paul Swimwear?

Coming up next is my new collection, ‘Day of the Dead.’ My inspiration has been drawn from everything that is colour! |

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Photographer: Frances Andrijich 22

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By Alaa Lulu Hasanein

Covet Magazine speaks exclusively with reputable designer AURELIO COSTARELLA a man who embodies elegance, quality and statement through his designs for men and women.

When did you realise you were interested in fashion and in designing?

When I was ten I created a halter neck top on my Mum’s old Singer sewing machine for the girl next door. At nineteen I was creating ‘Buffalo Gal’ clothing while studying Architecture. In 1983 at the age of twenty I dropped out of university and opened my first store Crème Soda.

How did your first big break come about?

I have had many achievements in my life that have aided my journey and survival in this industry. The ‘biggest break’ was, and still is, that people purchase my garments and have done so for all these years.

How long have you worked in the industry?

Twenty-eight years! The Aurelio Costarella signature label was launched at Mercedes Benz Fashion Week, Sydney in 2000.

You have recently worked on the film, Big Mamma’s Boy. Tell us about your involvement, have you worked on other films? Will you be getting more involved in these types of projects?

BMB was my first film project. I became involved when costumer Gail Pether approached me with Director Franco Di Chiera to provide the wardrobe for Holly Valance in the film. Whilst I’ve not worked on film before, I have designed for Ballet and Opera over the years. Costume is an area I would like to explore further should the opportunity arise.

What motivates you?

Being inspired motivates me – examining vintage finds, listening to their stories, letting the memories unfold. Legendary Hollywood starlets and pieces of music have also influenced |

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my work. Light has become a common theme in many of my collections over the past five years.

Owens, Dior, Song for the Mute and Julius are among my favourite menswear designers. It’s an expensive habit.

What lesson do you consider the most important in the fashion industry?

What do you believe every woman must have in her wardrobe?

You don’t need to be ‘fad-driven’ to be fashion forward. Quality fabrics, clever pattern work and classic styling stand the test of time. Above all, be true to yourself.

I think my label appeals to a woman who wants to stand out in the crowd for all the right reasons. One who can appreciate beautiful fabric, detail and quality. This season, the must have is an Ostrich feather jacket and metallic leather pants.

What has been your most important life lesson?

To be humble.

In your experience, how do you believe Australian designers differ to European or American?

Australian buyers are generally far more cautious. We have always sold our ‘special’ runway pieces in the US and European markets. Aussie buyers are much safer with their buying.

What’s

on

the

agenda

for

2012?

We will be showcasing Winter 2012 at LOreal Melbourne Fashion Festival in March and Summer 12/13 at Mercedes Benz Australian Fashion Week, Sydney in May. In 2011 we built a strong following and loyal celebrity clientele.

Naya Rivera (Glee), Nicole Scherzinger, Dannii Minogue, Tina Arena, Kim Kardashian, Sarah Michelle Geller and Fergie all chose to adorn the label. In 2012 we intend to expand on this with the help of our LA agents Chic Little Devil.

Which of your collections/runway shows have been most significant, and why?

What are you coveting right now?

In regards to shows its a draw between meeting Cate Blanchett backstage at my debut, 2000 RAFW show and the Daily Telegraph UK voting the 2009 NYFW show in its top 10. On top of this, I am blessed that I have a wonderful team around me that have been instrumental in my success. This is a constant highlight and encouragement for me to continue in this rollercoaster life I have chosen to live.

What do you crave, desire and indulge in?

Where do you spend most of your time living, and how has that inspired your creativity?

Perth has been my base for my entire career.

While I spend much of my time travelling (around half of the year) to promote the Aurelio Costarella brand, Perth still remains home.

This is where I do all of my creative work, the isolation breeds a unique creative perspective.

How would you describe your personal style?

Contemporary with a dark urban edge.

Distressed tank, tailored jacket, skinny black jeans and boots. Boris Bidjan Saberi, Rick 24

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My Audi A5 Cabriolet, there’s nothing like riding around with the roof off on hot summer day in Perth.

I LOVE food, eating good fresh, wholesome produce is my passion. I eat very well and I am very conscious of what I put into my body.

Aurelio Costarella Winter 2012 collection in store February 2012.

Aurelio Costarella winter 2012 palette and forms are derived from the ever-changing and mystical winter skyscape. Clouds darken across the sun casting shadows and a colour play of rich metallics of gold, bronze and silver. Contrast is the forecast- Masculine cuts play back with feminine highlights - a storm of control and chaos. Leather tuxedo jackets teamed back with feathered tango skirts, billowy gowns awash in environmental print and colour, embellishments strewn across shoulder detail, draped accents cinch in the waists and cowls of silk whirlwind around the body.

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Califo m a e Dr

Photographer: Anthony Licuria (APL PHOTOGRAPHY) Model: Alexander F. Rodriguez (from WILHELMINA LA & MIAMI) 26

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ornia g n i m |

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INST

Autumn/Winter 2012

TORES NOW

www.amuk.com.au

[b

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bento ]

By Catherine Ciccone

After a stint as a banker, the talented Samantha Hardman decided to try her hand at fashion design and alas Bento was born.

Samantha chats with COVET about her exciting new label.

Why did you get into fashion? Has it always been something that interests you?

I guess it’s always been a really big passion of mine. A lot of women in particular say that they’re into fashion because what they really mean is that they like shopping. For me, I really enjoy fashion from the artistic point of view but also I really like the social implications of fashion. Even though we’re well beyond the era of what you wear designating your [social] class … I think what we wear now really communicates where we want to be in society and how we want to be seen. But also I really enjoy the emotional connection people have with clothes. Women obsess over their wedding dress, or develop an emotional bond with what they wore on a particular day … People don’t connect like that with other things in their life.

‘Bento’ is a unique name for a label. How did you come up with it?

When I was working in my previous job I used to have this daydream about going away in the middle of the night to get away from my job with my husband. I used to play a game about what I’d take with me and … it was always about what was in my wardrobe. Bento was literally about the Bento box. That kind of really carefully curated, everything you could possibly need in just seven or so items.

Tell us more about the philosophy behind Bento. What are your goals?

The philosophy is very much about that sort of timeless, effortless, really high quality, luxury pieces that don’t date and that are not very now. We’ve had a lot of magazines for example requesting midi-skirts recently but we don’t do them just because they may be very in now but in a year they’ll be very this [current] season. A lot of what we do is about that sort of transseasonal, transcending fads and trends.

On a business level, it’s more about creating a brand and the brand is about wearability for a customer. The goal is to have Bento be a label about the person who wears it not about its ideal of a person … It’s more about the concept of having something that is beautiful and timeless. Goal wise, I’d love to stock overseas which is something we’ve started to look into.

We will eventually go into menswear … I think the Bento philosophy and style translates well into menswear.

Explain the signature aesthetic of your line ‘Bento’.

The aesthetic is really about wearability.

Something that isn’t of a particular trend, that is a staple in your wardrobe, that is a really luxurious item in terms of the quality. Also we don’t produce in large quantities it’s all made |

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locally. It’s really about that as an aesthetic translated across multiple pieces.

What about the sizing? Explain how you make Bento accessible to a broad spectrum of women.

We do sizes 6-16, which is a size 1-6 in our sizing.

It is very much pieces that are going to look good on different body shapes. I think it’s quite easy to just produce for a particularly small size range ... but I do think that there are things out there that look amazing on wide range of body sizes and shapes. A good example is that for this summer [collection] I really wanted to do a jumpsuit but couldn’t work out how to make it look good on both ends of that spectrum.

I think things should be able to look equally good on a size 6 as they do on a 16 and I just couldn’t work out a way to [do that].

Tell us about the current Spring/Summer collection. What inspired you?

Last year I went on a trip to Europe and my husband took me to see Madame Butterfly, the opera, in Verona in the open-air coliseum.

It [Madam Butterfly] is a real East meets West story. It’s got a lot of traditional Japanese tailoring like the Geisha kimonos, the colours and the fluidity in the pieces and then you have the military, which is quite structured. So that’s what I’ve taken into the collection. The draping and the quite loose aesthetic coming from the Japanese element and the structured element to the military angle as well.

What fabrics do you prefer for your line?

I look for fabrics that are going to be easy to care for. It can be frustrating when you get something really beautiful that you can only dry clean. As of next season, everything that we make can be washed or hand washed. I actually haven’t put ‘Dry Clean Only’ on any of the care tags. For one thing the environmental impact but two just for the ongoing costs [of having an item dry-cleaned].

We also look a lot at the environmental impact of the fabric we use. I have used cotton but it’s Australian cotton … We use bamboo as 38

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an alternative and also our wool jersey are all made in Australia. The wool gets milled in Australia and dyed here as well, so it keeps the supply chain quite geographically tight and that is something else we look at just from an environmental impact point of view.

In winter we used a lot of wool jersey and leathers that are a by-product of the meat industry. So the leathers are really imperfect and a bit rough but I actually like that because I like that the whole animal was used. We used silk quite a lot. I’m starting to look into what’s called Ahimsa silk, which is ethically made.

All of your garments are made in Melbourne. How important is it to you that your garments are made on Australian soil?

It is important that it is made locally for a couple of reasons. We have really strict worker laws here. The OH&S laws, the wages people are paid, the time off they get and all sorts of other things whereas in other countries I can’t control this in the same way. Also by producing locally we’re supporting the Australian economy. Not just on a retail level but on a manufacturing level. Also, if something goes wrong or I want to go and check on something I can actually just go and see it.

Most women are becoming more and more fashion savvy and are looking for transitional pieces. Which garments from Bento would you suggest are the perfect pieces for summer but can also be worn throughout the year?

A lot of what we do is actually about being able to have things that are worn between seasons.

We rely a lot on layering and being able to build pieces up so that you can wear them throughout the year. A good example is the silk kaftan that we’ve done in Spring/Summer. You can wear that over your swimsuit, you can put a slip underneath and wear it as a dress and belt it, you can wear it in winter with boots and tights with a jumper underneath it. You can get a lot of different looks out of it and it can see you through multiple seasons rather than just being something that is good for only three months of the year. |

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Which are your favourite garments from the current collection?

Choosing a favourite piece is like choosing a favourite child! I love the Louis V-necks. They’re our signature piece because you can really layer stuff [with them] because the V is quite deep … I’ve seen quite a few different looks out of that piece and I’ll always love it and we’ll always produce it. I really like the denim. The denim is all Japanese denim that is made on vintage loom, so they can’t make a lot of it. It isn’t as immediately forgiving but it will mould to your body over time and it kind of becomes yours in a way that other denim doesn’t. I’m a really big fan of those! Also our denim shorts.

Could you give our readers some advice on dressing for their body type?

I think it’s about working out what your best features are and working towards accentuating them. So even if you’re not a model sized 6 and 5 feet 10, doesn’t mean you can’t look just as good. A lot of women that are a size 12, 14 or 16 still have a really small waist so you can dress to highlight that.

If you’ve got a great back then you can wear things with detail on the back or a low cut back. I think too often women work towards things that are in fashion that they like rather than things that work well on them. I think that’s something that takes quite a long time to refine in your own mind [in terms of] what looks good on you rather than what looks good in pictures.

Complete the following sentences: This summer I will be … eating too much at Christmas. I married into a large Anglo-Indian family so Christmas is this Indian banquet of traditional foods that is all cooked from scratch.

Then we’re going to Malaysia for Chinese New Year.

My top five travel essentials include: …

Something to entertain yourself. There’s nothing like a good book. I like anything to block out sounds, so earplugs and noise-cancelling headphones are wonderful. When you’re going on long haul flights I like to take a wrap, 40

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something you can cozy up with on the plane because I secretly believe that I am part lizard as I’ve got really cold blood and I’m cold all the time. And when travelling you always need something to make you feel a bit cleaner such as rose water that you can spritz on yourself.

Something you can throw over no matter the time of year and that’s part of the reason why I created our denim jacket. It’s about having a layer to keep the cold out. It’s about having an extra layer that you can add or remove to adjust to the temperature.

My favourite summer destination is …

Asia. It’s really great all year round. Last year summer in Paris was incredible too.

In five years I hope to be … replicating the Bento model in other countries and living in New York. http://thisisbento.com/

Beach Hous The ever-lovely Camilla Franks took time to chat with me about her new diffusion line, Beach House by Camilla.

Congratulations on your new diffusion range! Tell us a little bit about what inspired you to create the “Beach House

by Camilla” collection.

Basically I came about designing Beach House

by Camilla purely [because of] feedback from the consumers and the demand from David Jones. It wasn’t part of the plan for this year but because of the request from David Jones and the want from our consumers, I went ahead and did it two years before I was supposed to. But that’s okay! You’ve got to be reactive 42

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to what the market wants. People wanted pieces number one that were washable, [that were] fantastic travel accessories that you could throw in your suitcase and off you go.

A lot of my clients wanted something that wasn’t so precious in some ways because a lot of my main range garments are all silk, hand beaded and embellished which are dry clean only. They wanted something they could throw straight over their bathers on their beach holiday and not have to worry so much about it.

You’ll see with my designs, they’re still pretty much beach designs. The silhouettes are kaftans, drawstring dresses [and] ponchos. So still very much beachwear. Not so much ready to wear and still remaining with all the digital prints featuring tropical flowers and animal

se by Camilla

By Catherine Ciccone

prints and unique graphics which is indicative to my holiday. It really is supposed to create that feeling of wanting to go on a holiday.

So I’ve labeled them after the Bahamas, the Greek Islands, the Caribbean.

The price range goes from $99 to around $299 and that’s a little bit of a capsule on what Beach House is all about!

What kinds of garments can women expect to see from this new collection?

Basically kaftans, drawstring dresses, mini dresses, ponchos, blouses, harem pants and I’ve also done monochromatic oversized T-shirts. It’s a fantastic silhouette. They’re really oversized. I’ve [kept] to what is resort wear.

What is so different about this diffusion line compared to what you’ve done in the past?

It’s really about people wanting beach resort, pool and bar wear without looking so OTT. You do feel like the Queen of Sheba when you’re wearing my garments, so it’s just more pulled back and relaxed and minimalistic look for the Camilla brand.

Which are your favourite pieces from the collection?

I can’t get out of the T’s at the moment. I love them.

Many women struggle to find clothing that complements their body shape. Do |

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you take this into consideration when designing?

that more relaxed feel. We always keep in mind our customer.

Absolutely. Our philosophy behind the label is that every woman has the right to feel beautiful no matter what age, shape or size.

When you look at all the different silhouettes that we do, we’ve got such a large market.

What fabrics have you chosen to work with?

We’ve got the yummy mummy’s we dress [as well as] the pregnant women and the more voluptuous women. So we really cater to all these sizes.

When I’m designing a collection, I really always keep that in mind. So a slightly slimmer silhouette for the more petite girls, the shorter hemlines for the younger girl and the more voluminous for the women that like to have 44

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I always got requests for durability. I’ve gone in to beautiful cotton voile, habutai, viscose crepe, modal and polycrepes … the hand feel is just really soft. I wanted it to feel like in summer when you try on beautiful white cotton, it’s just so refreshing. It’s just like jumping into new white cotton sheets. That clean, crisp feeling and that’s what I wanted it to reflect.

You’ve appeared on Project Runway twice. How exciting was it for you to be selected as a guest judge?

It’s always fun getting out of the office and being asked to do guest judging on Project Runway. They’re a delightful team to work with. I’ve been working with them for a couple of years and it’s definitely an honour and something that I’m very proud of. It just makes all the hard work worthwhile. You kind of get stuck in the stress of running a fashion label and to be acknowledged as one of Australia’s leading designers through Project Runway is something to be proud of.

This summer I will be vacationing at … Oh it’s TBC at the moment! But I think it’s going to be Cabo San Lucas and Peru but we haven’t really finished [planning] the trip at the moment.

My top travel essentials include … A Camilla drawstring dress because you can wear it in about 11 different ways and I like the versatility of it. Napoleon’s auto pilot lipstick because it’s so hydrating and I travel so much. The Camilla scarf because I’m always having bad hair days and a good book!

Complete the following sentences:

My number one New Years resolution is … to open a Camilla boutique internationally.

The best thing about summer is … sun, fabulous cocktails, sailing with my fiancé, fresh seafood (I’m a seafood addict by the way!) and my outdoor activities.

Right now I’m coveting … the Solar Angel cape from a previous collection. www.camilla.com.au |

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www.net-a-porter.com

2. Sunglasses Tod’s $550 1800 030 077 3. Bag

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YSL

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ine Ciccone

4.

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4. Hat Seafolly $49.95 1300 130 715 5. Sunglasses Tod’s $550 1800 030 077 6. Bikini

Seafolly

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1300 130 715 |

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MOONTIDE WIMWEAR

By Catherine Ciccone Global Marketing Director of the iconic Australian Moontide Swimwear, David Crosgrove, chats exclusively with COVET about summer trends, dressing for your body type at the beach and of course the gorgeous selection of bathers offered at Moontide Swimwear.

Moontide Swimwear is an iconic swimwear label. What is the mission of the brand?

ranges cater for all women, sizes range from an A cup push up to a G cup power mesh control garment.

The current Spring/Summer 2011/12 ‘Pocahontas’ collection includes eight different stories. Tell us a little bit about what they stand for and the inspiration behind them.

Is it important that Moontide Swimwear caters to a wide range of women?

We obviously look at market trends but also try to keep one step ahead! As Moontide is sold worldwide we also need to cater for many different skin tones and figure types, combining all of this is a big challenge! Colour blocking, Tribal, Military, Glamour and Romance are all on trend this season and we’ve tried to incorporate our new cup sized ranges into these themes.

Yes it’s very important to us that we cater for women of all ages, shapes and sizes. This is why we have been concentrating on developing our new molded cup size ranges. These new

We travel the globe looking for new ideas but always take a nostalgia trip back into our 30-year archive; best selling stories from our heritage always re-emerge

Our mission is to create beautiful silhouettes that will flatter and help women to find their beach confidence!

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Any favourites collection?

from

the

current

I have many favorites from our current collection it’s very hard to pick one! I think if pushed it would be either Passion flower, Prism or Pocahontas. They are all so completely different but show what Moontide is all about, beautiful contemporary prints, cutting edge design and silhouettes that are created to flatter.

Talk us through the fabric choices for Moontide Swimwear.

We use only the finest fabrics available. Our first consideration will always be the quality of the fabric and whether or not it will achieve the high level of performance our customers expect. We carry out independent testing on all fabrics to ensure the highest level of quality and durability. Our soft handle touch fabrics are now part of our heritage.

International model Teresa Moore was selected to be the face of the current campaign. What is it about Teresa that makes her the perfect spokesperson for Moontide Swimwear?

Teresa is not only beautiful on the outside but also beautiful within! Teresa is such a lovely, generous person and the consummate professional. Working with Teresa was a joy and a lot of fun! Teresa embodies the spirit of Moontide and her inner beauty really shines through in her work!

Choosing the right swimsuit can often be difficult. Can you give COVET readers a little advice on choosing the right swimsuit for their body type?

The first thing to remember is there are very few perfect bodies out there and everyone can suffer from a lack of beach confidence! Most people are drawn to their favorite colour, so go for it. Wearing your favorite colour will make you feel great immediately! If you have an area of concern, try to emphasise another asset! If you’re small on top try fringes, ruffles or frills, a

push up will enhance and only you can wear bandeau’s well! If you’re bigger on top, go for a cup-sized garment, get measured because wearing the correct size is the best thing you can do! You will be comfortable, have great support and your posture will improve. If you have short legs or torso, avoid skirted pants and boy shorts, go for vertical stripes or try a printed top and solid bottom both will lengthen the body. Long bodies can go mad with embellishments, frills and ruffles at the hips and bust. Boy shorts and skirted pants will draw the eye into the centre of the body. If you have a bit of a tummy, try high empire belted styles to clinch your waist, maybe a Tankini with power mesh control. For a bigger booty try pants that sit lower on the hips, avoid small prints, try to emphasise your top half with ruffles or frills.

What advice can you give women regarding dressing for the beach?

Always wear the correct size and style for your figure type! There is nothing worse than badly fitting swimwear. It will reduce your beach confidence and ruin your day at the beach or worse still, could ruin your holiday.

Tell us about current beachwear trends.

What are women wearing overseas?

One of the big trends overseas is to wear mismatching garments or to mix similar prints that have a different base colour. It’s all about clash!

Do you have any chic cover-up ideas for ladies out there who are self-conscious about exposing too much skin at the beach or pool?

Go for a mesh or semi transparent kaftan, shirt or sarong. They are light and floaty but not too heavy and will provide enough coverage to boost your beach confidence.

Stockist: 1300 005 834 / www.moontide.com.au

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IF LOOKS COULD KILL. Photographer: Anthony Licuria (APL PHOTOGRAPHY) Model: Antonella Aloisio (from Scene Model Management) Make-up & Hair by:Alexandria Welsh 54

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SANTINI STOP AND SHOP Nothing makes a shopping quest more enjoyable then when you know you can find what you need in one place. When talking shoes, Santini is a girl’s one stop shop! For the latest trends, hottest styles and (this season in particular) coolest colors, Santini has it all. Hold on to your handbags ladies, the price tags are affordable too! COVET speaks to Santini owner Adam Muscatel about hunting down the latest trends for Spring/ Summer 2011-12.

This season, Adam says without a doubt what stood out across the board, not only in shoes but also in clothing and accessories, was pop colour. Travelling across three continents on his buying trip – the USA, Asia and Europe, Adam was confident that this trend was unanimously 64

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global. Colour blocking had taken the fashion world by storm!

For the trend and money conscious fashionista out there, Santini is very affordable and accessible. No need for a new wardrobe, just add a pop of colour to your already fabulous wardrobe with a new pair of shoes, and you are set!

At Santini there are a variety of core colours in the S/S range to suit everyone’s taste. From yellow to orange, red to fuschia, a splash of emerald and teal and a whole lot of purple and cobalt, Santini have the spectrum covered!

Check out the Cobalt “Sight” wedges ($80.00)

by Verali and you will see what the fuss is about.

SHO E S P THIS SUMMER!

by Laura Blasetti

When it comes to styling Adam says, “high chunky platforms and wedges are key style trends for the season.” He notes there has been a definite shift “from thinner heel styles to much thicker and blockier heels.”

This trend direction is staying strong for next Autumn/Winter.

When discussing texture, Adam says there is a large focus on suede this season.

The gorgeous textured leather effect translates well in all styles and colours, is comfortable to wear and looks fantastic on your feet!

We love the ‘Mayfair’ purple suede pumps ($130.00) by Siren.

late October 2011; the chain is now accessible Australia-wide and even internationally. There are over twenty brands available, including some COVET classic favorites such as Tony Bianco, Diavolina and Siren. With the re-launch of the site some new brands have been added too, Soul Princess, EOS and Boston Babe, to name a few.

At COVET we can’t wait to ‘Spring into Summer with Santini.’ We are craving colour, desiring chunky wedges and heels; and with such affordable prices, we will definitely be indulging in a few new pairs of gorgeous shoes for our wardrobes! Check out the latest styles at www. santini.com.au.

Santini’s new e-commerce store went live in |

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a N D R E W C H Io D O Andrew Chiodo may not be a familiar name for many people but that is, ironically, the intention of the man who created the brand. Those in the know will have had exclusive access to some truly unique labels originating from Australia, Japan, and Europe.

Sitting down with Chiodo over a morning coffee it soon becomes obvious this is a man who takes his work seriously. Managing his time between the recently opened Chiodo store in Sydney and his original Melbourne city space, the retail entrepreneur is all business.

It has been a long journey for the designer who moved from his home town of Adelaide to Melbourne in 1985, building his product, knowledge, and expertise of fashion for over ten years before opening his first store. “I did it on my own with a lot of hard work”, said Chiodo.

Appreciating the challenge of selling to a different market, Chiodo is happy about the progress of the new Potts Point store. Although the stock is mostly similar, effort was made to incorporate more casual attire to suit the lifestyle and people from a city that sees more sun than rain. The layout is recognisable, with the main difference being a slightly more intimate space.

Chiodo started with an image of creating unique shirts and a style that is easily distinguishable among others in its class. “Loved clothing, but wanted to show my personal style in what I designed and produced”, Chiodo said of his earlier stages. The designer has used this motivation as a key force to develop his alternative attitude to retail.

The demand for distinctive quality pieces remains strong as the sector is saturated with predictable

REDEsIGNING rETAIL

by Alaa Lulu Hasanein

high-end names. Chiodo directly sources samples from international designers a few times a year by heading to Italy, France, and Japan to handpick what he believes to be innovative garments. The Japanese market is “fantastic for retail” because their “merchandise is amazing”. Comme des Garcons, Junya Watanabe, and Les Ateliers Ruby are just some of the labels that customers can expect to indulge in. “I really like Japanese aesthetic. I have probably been very influenced by the culture”, said Chiodo. That is not surprising considering he travels to Japan no less than six times a year. With the constant evolution of fashion, Chiodo has managed to stay fresh and modern as he combines the urban attitude of Melbourne with edgy Japanese mystic and classic Italian flair.

A career that spans over 21 years has epitomised what many big name brands hope to achieve, an approach to style that is entirely about clothes and

creativity. “Keep moving” is the most important lesson Chiodo credits to his longevity in the industry. The lack of originality in the retail world is the inspiration behind the eclectic mix available at Chiodo’s stores. Having the passion to remain individualistic where trends are often promoted has highlighted the essential ingredient required to last.

Fans can expect great ventures in the future as Chiodo looks at displaying art works through exhibitions at his stores, encouraging the union between art and fashion in yet another display of nonconventional vision.

Store locations and opening hours can be found on the Chiodo website.

For more information, check out http://www.chiodo.net.au/. |

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MATTEO

BRUNO ART IN PRODUCTION

by Alaa Lulu Hasanein Matteo Bruno may be new to Melbourne, but five years after his arrival the young Perth native is enjoying the results of hard work and endless vision. In an industry where the finished product can often take many years to complete and a path that some people consider too unpredictable to rely on, Bruno has used ‘success’ as the force to keep him motivated.

As a film producer, it is Bruno’s responsibility to oversee and present a film project to allimportant partners while maintaining the honesty, voice, and vision of the film. Initially accepting some financial risk by using his own money, particularly during the pre-production phase, it takes true belief in oneself to undertake such a career.

Bruno began his quest by steadily working on films that he believes are significant in their meaning. “Much of what I do is following through on commitments I’ve made. It’s an initial instinct that informs which projects to pursue, and then it’s a case of seeing it through,” he said. He produced his first feature 70

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film Corroboree at the age of 25, screening at both the Toronto and Berlin International Film Festivals. “Producing is the ultimate form of creative business and it’s this combination which attracts me so much to what I do,” Bruno said.

This launched the first of many short and feature films, such as Blind Company and Songs in the Key of Death, to receive recognition and awards for their quality, inspiration, and notable character portrayals.

Diversifying his scope with the documentary Photography Hijacked, Bruno recently brought to life the book Hijacked as he explored the journey of photographers from Australia and America.

Highlighting his commitment to promoting art and imagination through different mediums, the film focused on each artist representing a distinctive approach of looking at photography.

Catching up with Bruno in his elegantly designed home in the heart of Melbourne provides a glimpse of a creative mind that transcends to his personal life.

The grandeur of the building is humbled with warm tones used to achieve peace and serenity in a busy city.

It provides both a perfect space for clear thinking and intimate dinner parties with friends.

Working mostly out of his Fitzroy office on trendy Gertrude Street, Bruno often spends countless hours finetuning the filming that has become his life ambition. It becomes understandable that a bed with a kitchenette has been set up to make the space a little more comfortable. “Sometimes I spend days, even up to a week, living there when I’m working on a project,” he said. He also brings Hero, his beloved dog which he rescued from the pound, along on these journeys for company.

“He’s my best friend,” Bruno said affectionately.

Bruno’s attempt of a commercial production in the depiction of classic Italian-Australian interactions in Big Mamma’s Boy left movie-goers laughing at the reality of the story. Starring Holly Valance and comedian Frank Lotito, it confirmed Bruno’s ability to understand and deliver work that has a local, cultural relevance.

From making powerful independent films and documentaries to those with commercial success has shown not only the range he incorporates to reach a variety of viewers, but the impact it can have on emerging Australian talent and film.

It is not surprising that this producer has also embarked upon a cooking adventure considering nothing gets him “more emotional than food.” Drawing on his Italian heritage, Bruno combined his two passions by creating the highly successful eight part Food/Travel series, Stefano’s Cooking Paradiso, for the Lifestyle Food channel. The show has viewers tuning in regularly to watch the making of authentic rustic Italian cuisines.

Fans can expect more projects from Bruno; “In five years time I’d like to be in a position to be able to green light a film without too much trouble. I want to be producing big films for an international audience and be able to market those films around the world,” he said. For now, though, he is currently developing the family film, The Boy in the Sky, and is in production of the second season of Stefano’s Cooking Paradiso that will be shot in Melbourne and Italy in early 2012. For more information about Bruno’s films and future ventures, check out http://www.valarcfilms.com.

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Daniel Alexander COUTURE

By Snjezana Bobic & Catherine Ciccone

Congratulations on your success!

What has life been like for you since Mercedes Benz Fashion Week?

Thank you! Oh it’s been so hectic ever since Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week. It’s been a huge relief that this year’s showcase at fashion week proved to be such a huge success. I pushed myself this time around to produce a collection that was a step up from all my previous years. A real focus on drama and glamour is evident in all the couture garments. The morning following my show, we received national coverage in the media. It was so surreal. The phone was ringing off the hook!

Aside from the publicity that followed the fashion show left, right and centre, I’ve also had to manage a triple move. My personal residence, the studio and the retail store has now been consolidated in the one space at 39 Berwick Street, Fortitude Valley. The Daniel Alexander Fashion Gallery provides our clients the real couture experience, a space where they are able to get up close and personal to the garments. They’re able to touch the fabric

and see how it drapes on the mannequin, rather than just hanging off a hanger in a retail setting. Now that we’re all settled, I’m looking to share this beautiful space with the public and establish it as a creative hub. We already have the fashion gallery being utilised as a place for corporate and private functions, as well as a venue for photo shoots.

Tell COVET readers a little bit about your career in fashion.

I had always sketched as a child, which was when my first little dress book was born. This book became a reality not long after. I virtually pulled down metres and metres of my parents’ sheer curtains that hung around the house to recreate my fantasy dresses.

My career in fashion launched when I entered the Australian Fashion Design Awards in the open category at the age of 17. I entered the competition with my friend Kelli Lloyd of Talulah, and she ended up winning that year!

After finishing school I kept my own label but started working for other companies including |

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CEO Sydney and Gucci under the direction of Tom Ford.

I returned to Brisbane after a few years, designing for the boutique Always Habit whilst looking for the right venue to open up a retail store, which ended up being at TCB in Fortitude Valley. Over the years I’ve changed retail premises a number of times, looking for the right space for the brand. I am so pleased to say that I have now found the perfect space.

The new location at Berwick Street is a home for everything that comes under the Daniel Alexander Couture umbrella and is exactly the showroom I envisioned for the label.

Do you think it’s important to create designs that can be customized for the everyday woman?

Yes I think it is important, that’s basically what I do. We deal with models on a regular basis for fashion shows and photo shoots but at the same time our clients are everyday women.

This is why I turned to couture, not everyone has the same body shape and so you have to customise each design to flatter a client’s body.

I don’t sell dresses. I make them.

What makes your style so different from everyone else?

The problem with Australian designers is that we’re too laid back. I admit I’m the first one to put on pajamas when I get home, but the issue at heart is when people are going out. They’re not dressing up enough these days. I always tell my male clients that T-shirts are for jogging and shopping, whilst collared shirts are for going out and dinners out. My female clients love the glamour found in all my pieces, it’s something unique to Brisbane and right across the country.

You have recently opened a new store to give you more space for your creations, how does it make you feel?

It’s not a store as such. It’s a fashion hub.

Aside from the double height ceiling fashion gallery, clients are able to have a sneak peek at the cutting room where all the magic starts.

We have fittings rooms the size of a Fortitude Valley apartment, yes it’s luxurious but it’s not over the top enough to overwhelm the client.

There’s an Andy Warhol-esque vibe to this

space, it’s a disheveled building but filled with beautiful pieces.

It’s very satisfying to hear clients now saying they find coming here very exciting. We have our couturier working in the cutting room onsite ready for any questions they may have at the fittings. I believe it’s all about the experience. I’m bringing a bit of Paris couture to Brisbane.

What inspires you as a designer?

All of my fashion week collections have been inspired by films, but are rebranded to create my own unique twist on things. Last year’s collection was based upon My Fair Lady, and so was called ‘My Fair Danny”. This year I sought inspiration from Joan Crawford in Mommie Dearest, thus the name “Danny Dearest”.

Whilst the collections are based on films, there is certainly also a general love of drama and glamour that translates into my designs.

Is there a particular fashion house you aspired to be like or any designer whose work you find particularly inspiring?

In terms of international designers, I look up to John Galliano. Having worked at Gucci when it was under the creative direction of Tom Ford, I have definitely been inspired by Tom Ford.

Jonathan Ward, now executive designer at R.M.Williams, has always been someone that I look up to and seek advice from.

You cater for both men and women, what prompted that decision?

I originally only designed menswear, which was all that was sold when I first opened my retail store. Later on I released a ladies range, which became very popular. Women take a lot more risk than men in the fashion stakes I think, which made it easier in one sense. Some guys dress very over the top. But personally I think even a single pocket-handkerchief in a jacket, something so simple, looks so smart and stylish.

Your bridal collection is stunning. What, in your opinion, is the ultimate in bridal chic?

Thank you. Big, puffy dresses are something I don’t recommend for a bride on her wedding

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day. We don’t do many of those at Daniel Alexander Couture. I think any other silhouette is chic. The cupcake dress is the only way a girl can go wrong on her wedding day. Our dresses are very structured with a beautiful shape, along with dramatic trains and veils and embellishments.

of my collections at the Panache Inner Circle event “All to Do with Style”. Watching the video of the event now, it’s fantastic to see that the clothes I designed five years ago are still wearable and stylish to this day.

What are some fashion tips you can give to the ladies or gents when it comes to finding their own look?

Men in white suits with white shoes, please don’t! Girls in flats, heels are so much more glamorous and add to any outfit. There are many that are stuck in a monochromatic wardrobe, and others just find colour blocking an intimidating trend to adopt. I’ve been educating my clients that colour blocking is great. It adds fun to your day. Two bold colours matched together worn with confidence will have you a fashion aficionado in no time.

The best piece of advice I can give is to experiment. I think a lot of people fail by not giving different options a try. You won’t know until you’ve seen it on your actual body.

Fashion is meant to be fun! People forget it’s okay to take a risk sometimes. When you’re next getting ready for a night out on the town, why not try something different? Wear a really cool broach, a bright handkerchief, a silk skinny tie?

Having said that, some items are going to be more of a miss than a hit. I used to wear the craziest things when I was younger and [now I] look back and cringe! Classic dressing is very important to me and that’s what I promote to our clients. We recently showcased all five

What would you consider to be a major fashion faux pas?

Can you give us a little sneak peek as to what’s in store for you in the future?

We’re definitely growing. It’s exciting times for the business! We’re planning on doing an overseas trip sometime next year.

The business is also looking into wholesaling with two new labels, which will be launched next season. Currently under wraps but stay

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OSC &W

Paloma Hatami speaks with COVET about the launch of her new Camberwell Boutique.

Tell us about what inspired you to open your own boutiques.

The fact that I loved fashion, even as a child. I used to save up for six months for a top that I liked. I love dressing women. That’s why I did it.

How did you come up with the name Oscar & Wild?

That’s a very interesting question. Two things.

I love Oscar Wilde, the writer, and I also had a fish called Oscar and he was quite a big fish. He was a mascot for the shop but unfortunately he [died]. He used to come up to the tank and I used to pat its head and feed it. My sister actually came up with the name because of the fish and because I love Oscar Wilde.

Have you always been interested in fashion?

Always. Since I was a child.

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You worked previously as an Intellectual Property lawyer. What enticed you to move into the fashion industry?

The reason I became a lawyer was because I believed in doing good for people and unfortunately that is not what the law is about these days. I was quite disheartened by the industry … I’ve always loved fashion, so I just pursued what I loved. Little by little I built up my business. I worked part-time as a lawyer to support myself. So that’s what inspired me unfortunately or fortunately!

You stock a wide variety of Australian designers as well as prominent international labels. What is it about these brands that you love?

With the labels I look at three things. I look at the cut, I look at the quality and I look at whether I, as a consumer, would like to wear that and pay for that item. It’s very easy to buy an item that costs $2,000 that looks fantastic but getting a balance between quality, cut and price is a very difficult thing to do. When I look at items I take that into consideration. I always

CAR WILD

By Catherine Ciccone

try everything on, which takes double the time and makes things harder but I do it because I want to make sure that when the item arrives at the store, it is perfect. We also go through a rigorous process of trying on everything again when it arrives to make sure everything is perfect. If something is not right, we send it back. If the supplier doesn’t take it back, I won’t put it on the floor full price … in good conscience I won’t sell it at full price.

Which brands would you say are your favourites?

That’s difficult because brands change so much season to season. A brand that I may love may be a winter brand, so they do very good things for winter but not summer or they may do the same things over and over again and you get bored with it after two years.

The brands that I find consistent are Italian brands, like Anna Rita N and Patrizia Pepe.

They’re always perfect. Their cuts are perfect, they’re quality is perfect, they’re always innovative and every time somebody puts a dress on, it looks amazing on them, so I tend to

find that it’s always a pleasure looking at those labels even though we do about 120 labels across the three stores.

Can you tell COVET readers about the range of items found at Oscar & Wild as well as their price points?

We do shoes because we want to dress women from head to toe. Women [often] don’t have time to go to a different store to find shoes or a jacket. When I look at a dress I always keep in mind what is going on top of it. That’s why I look at other ranges to match things back together but not matchy-matchy. We also do handbags, fascinators and jewelry. So it’s a one-stop shop.

The price range can be anywhere from $89.95 for a T-shirt to $2,000 for a dress. Now those are very few and far in between. You can usually buy a dress for $700-$800. With Missoni and Alex Perry, the couture pieces, you’re going up in the price bracket but that’s probably maybe 2 per cent of our buying.

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Both boutiques are stunning and unique in their décor. What kind of environment did you wish to create for your clients?

I wanted to create first and foremost a warm environment so that people immediately feel comfortable when they come in and I hope that I do that with the colour and the lighting that I’ve created. The lighting is very important.

The staff however is the most important component. The staff all have my principles, which are always treat a customer, no matter how much they spend, the same. Always treat them with respect and I think that comes through.

Some might say that opening a boutique is a risky venture during this period. Are you concerned about the current retail crisis, especially since many customers are doing their shopping online?

Interestingly, we’ve found that customers are spending more. Customers are buying the more expensive stuff first and our cheaper stock is staying on the floor. Even J Brand, people can buy them cheaper online but they’re buying them from us.

Something to keep in mind is that every time you buy something online, you’re cutting out people’s livelihoods here in Australia. We’re keeping people employed, we’re paying super, we’re keeping the industry going, and we’re buying Australian labels, all of which I think is incredibly important.

What I always say is, “when the going gets tough the tough get going”. So better service, better product, and I tell my staff all of the time, we’re in a ship together and so we’ve got to paddle together and we have to keep the fort and not get disheartened when we have a bad day because the next day will be a good day. So that’s how we cope with the negative press, which does have an impact on people’s psyche.

What sets your boutique apart from the others?

I’m not sure how to answer that because it sounds a little conceited to say my boutique is better or worse. I just like my boutique to be a warm environment for customers to come and get great service and good product. It’s a Middle Eastern thing. A guest is more important 84

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to us. So we give the best food to the guest, we give the best service to the guest, even if we’re hungry we go hungry and give it to the guest. I tend to feel the same way with my boutiques.

I want that to be where people come and they get the best of everything – service, product and attention – over and above everyone else.

Tell us about your charitable endeavors.

I set aside 10% of our profits every year and donate them to causes and individuals both here in Australia, and overseas (in Indonesia and Iran). In Indonesia, I support a family – I gave the father money to buy a car and set up a tourist business and he’s now doing very well.

We’re supporting the education of the two girls [his children]. In Iran, we support families and pay for their living expenses.

In Australia, I support the WWF, the Motor Neuron Association (as my step-father passed away last year from motor neuron disease), as well as other charitable organisations that I really believe in. I think it’s really important to give back.

What is your stance on fur?

I think it’s important to take a stand against making money from misery. I think it’s really important and to send a message to companies … I don’t want to take any chances anymore [with selling fur in Oscar & Wild]. People should think about the consequences and not blindly buy something and to actually think about where something is coming from and make a conscious decision. For us, we can make a lot of money out of fur, we will sell 100% of stock, but it’s not about that. It’s really about being able to live with yourself. www.oscarandwild.com.au

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Ven Australian designers Sean Venturi and Theo Smallbone are making waves in the fashion world with their label Venroy.

COVET caught up with Sean to talk about the success of their super cool board shorts.

Building our board short collections was just something we both had a lot of passion for growing up and we could only get so far, so we decided the best way to go about expanding was to make our own!

How did the Theo and yourself meet?

Who is your target demographic?

Is there a special meaning behind the name ‘Venroy’?

Ven comes the first part of my last name Venturi - and Roy is Theo’s middle name.

Theo and I have been friends since primary school. It all began in year five through an online fireworks purchase from Canberra.

Our target demographic is 17 to 40 year olds.

We have had plenty of 50 plus guys digging their Venny’s though!

We hear that you have quite a collection of board shorts between the two of you!

Is that part of what prompted you both to start this venture?

The shorts feature interesting prints and a unique style that distinguish them from traditional board shorts. What inspires your designs?

nroy

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It’s very difficult to find a pair of boardies with a print that is not a blatant rip off or a simple stripe print or floral themed. Our prints feature our own unique designs with a focus on texture, such as worn tile prints to wood paneled prints with contrasting waistbands. A true appreciation for colour also bleeds through into our designs giving them a strong personality.

Tell us about the quality of the shorts.

What fabric have you selected for your products?

We use a microfibre peach face polyester shell with nylon lining which feel great against the skin. From our acrylic draw-cord to the polyester thread that we use, our shorts are 100% synthetic and both chlorine and saltwater tested. We have both been the unfortunate owners of too many shorts in the past, which have deteriorated after one or two summers.

Can you explain the digital printing process you use to COVET readers?

Our prints are created via Digital Sublimation printing where ink is bound to our fabric as gas through a heat transfer process; the ink is never in a liquid state. This means that for our prints to fade the fabric has to wear away, giving our shorts a significant life expectancy.

What are your hopes for Venroy in the future?

One of the most satisfying parts of our brand is that our boardies are made with 100% love and care in Australia about half an hour drive from Bondi in Sydney. Our ultimate goal is to continue to make a quality short that for us epitomises the best thing about Australia [the summer] that is truly a homegrown product that Australian guys can be proud of!

Any plans to expand Venroy’s repertoire to garments other than board shorts?

Our first love is board shorts but we do have plans of expanding our line once we feel that we have nailed boardies. Stay tuned!

You’ve already amassed quite a celebrity following. Is that important to you as designers?

A three-week holiday turned into a sixmonth launch for Venroy in the US and we had a really strong response to our shorts.

Commercially over there [in the US] it’s very important, for us as designers. The ultimate satisfaction comes from seeing random people living large in their Venroy’s.

Any special favourites from Venroy’s collection of board shorts?

For me the standouts are our ‘Deckhand’ timber printed short and our ‘Philly the Billy’ burgundy solid short.

How are you planning on spending your summer holidays?

The best thing about our expansion into the Northern Hemisphere has been that we have been able to chase the summer lifestyle but nothing beats an Aussie summer. So work/ beach/harbour/pool/bar in our Venro. www.venroy.com.au

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Photographer: Anthony Licuria (APL PHOTOGRAPHY) Model: Paris Wells Hair & Make up: Shiley Gupta 92

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PA R I S WELLS

BY VANESSA TESTA Covet Magazine speaks exclusively with talented Melbourne musician, Paris Wells.

What are your first memories of taking an interest in music?

I have a faded memory of calling my father when I was young and asking him how to use the record player, as I wanted to put a Pointer Sister record on. Step by step he walked me through, I obeyed his instructions until I had the music on. I was later informed he was in a meeting with some big American clients, but they were impressed that he walked out to help me with my music.

(the original, NOT the festival). It was during a time when record labels had not yet figured out how to manufacture ‘buzz,’ it was a real buzz and we were the catalyst for it. Anyone with something to say could get on the mic, but if you started a fight or got too rowdy then you were not welcome.

How do you find your musical inspiration? Who were your favourite musicians growing up?

Growing up: Paul Simon, Randy Crawford and Joe Cocker. Today: Damon Albarn, Mike Skinner and Fiona Apple. I try and stay in touch with pop culture, and then it finds me. I love learning from other people’s problems, they make me think differently about my own life; and then I try and write about it.

You work in the music industry now, how did you first become involved in this sort of work? What was your first ‘big break’?

You direct, film and produce many of your video clips now – how do you conceptualise your ideas?

I consider my first big break more of an ‘underground break.’ My artist BFF “Monkey” and I had no idea how huge our Friday nights had become at St Jeromes laneway nightclub,

You just have to match the flavour of the song, all sounds have flavours. For example, a Caribbean beat makes you think of frosty fruits and oranges, salmon and blue colours. Just listen carefully and follow your gut. |

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If you could live a day in the life of any musician, who would it be?

I would be Whitney Houston when she played to South Africa in 1994.

What are your future aspirations in both your professional and personal life?

I’ve only just begun the pursuit of happiness in both aspects of my life; what makes me happy will help define how I make decisions.

Happiness is not based on greed; a win doesn’t necessarily lead to happiness. One dream of mine is to tour the world.

What’s your most memorable moment in your career to date?

When I left full time work with my red trolley full of things, I went to cookie and had a martini.

I caught the train home buzzing, knowing I’d made a decision for me.

What’s your latest creation that you’re working on? Can you give us any hints?

The beats will be bigger; I don’t want big booty girls to feel isolated, we have feeling too!

With the music industry so competitive to break into, what advice can you give upcoming musicians?

Don’t be lazy, practise everyday and read. Just because you have a computer doesn’t mean you’re a hit maker, get a mentor and keep going and believe in your dreams.

What are you coveting right now?

I would love to tour the UK and EU. Over thirty dates in one tour, yes please! x

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1. Yves Saint Laurent

Approx. $252

www.matchesfashion.com

2. Paul Smith Shoes

$156.75

www.my-wardrobe.com

3. Lanvin

Approx. $332

www.matchesfashion.com

COVETMAGAZINE.COM.AU

L KICKS

By Catherine Ciccone

4.

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4. Alexander McQueen for PUMA $150 Calibre www.calibre.com.au or Ph: (03) 9826 1288

5. Dolce & Gabanna

$264.96

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Sophia BanksColoma COVET speaks exclusively with Australian born creative director, stylist and designer Sophia Banks-Coloma - labelled “the Aussie Rachel Zoe” and rightly so. Recognised by Forbes as one of its ‘Top Ten Undiscovered Designers’, Harper’s Bazaar labelled Banks a ‘style leader’ twice in one year and Vogue Australia labelled her one of our “top fashion exports”.

What did you want to be growing up?

Did you always know you wanted to work in fashion?

I always wanted to be either a fashion designer or an actor. I began taking drawing classes when I was eight and I would sew with my grandmother. At 15 I dragged my mum, who did not own any Chanel pieces, into a Chanel store in the south of France and made her let me try on a suit. I think from that moment on I knew I had to work in fashion.

by Rebecca Knight

like Vogue Bambini and Fred Bare catalogues!

What do you love about fashion?

I love everything about fashion, it’s wearable art and a chance for self expression!

That’s why I especially love re-inventions – they’re the best!

What is your most memorable career moment so far?

There have been so many, but stand out moments were definitely putting on my own fashion shows and winning Forbes Top Ten Designer on the Rise.

How did you get started in the industry?

I will also always have such great memories of my time on the set of Syrup, the movie I costume designed. We filmed on the streets of New York City where I got to dress Amber Heard, Brittany Snow and Kellan Lutz in some amazing fashion pieces by some of my favourite designers.

I went to FBI Fashion College in Glebe and, from there, I got a job as an assistant designer at Marc’s, where I would also assist on kids shoots for titles

Who is your biggest fashion influence/ inspiration/style icon?

Coco Chanel is a big inspiration of mine as she dared to be different. She was a rule breaker and changed fashion for women, even to this day.

What have you found most difficult?

I think being a working mum, making sure I maintain a good work-life balance by spending quality time with my family at the same time as sustaining a busy working life.

Do you have any favourite designers?

Yes, a million! Right now I’m loving Jonathan Saunders, Celine, Lanvin, Rue du Mail, Alessandra Rich, Erdem, Preen, Stella, Tom Binns and The Row.

Who are your favourite Aussie designers?

Alex Perry, Collette Dinnigan, Josh Goot, Manning Cartell and Nicola Finetti are just a few of my favourite Aussie designers.

How would you describe your personal style?

Different - I always find myself gravitating to something that becomes trendy a year or so later - hence why I got into trending. If too many people are wearing it, I can’t do it!

If you could dress anyone, who would it be and why?

I do like more preppy and classic styles with wild crazy elements, more British I suppose! I love being as wild as possible - drawing on all decades and mixing in elements that clash.

Well the girls in my team would all say Ryan Gosling because they are all in love with him and I do actually love his style!

What advice would you give to up and coming Aussie designers?

But besides all my amazing clients, probably Cate Blanchett, because her talent amazes me!

Send me your clothes! As a designer, former retailer and stylist I think it is really important for designers to break down their collection.

Do you draw on your Aussie roots when you’re designing/styling?

Your collection must have press elements something that will catch a magazine eye, but it also has to be wearable and suitable for retail.

Absolutely! I read Russh and Vogue Australia every month and I keep up to date on all my Australia designers. Australians are wild, free and fun - I love to bring all these elements into my fashion. When styling, I like to dress as many clients as possible in Australian designers like Alex Perry and Colette Dinnigan.

What’s your favourite place to shop in Australia?

There are so many, but I work with, and dress, a lot of my clients in Australian designers Colette Dinnigan, Josh Goot, Emma Mulholland, Manning Cartell, Alex Perry, Nicola Finetti and many more.

What’s next on the cards for you?

Recently I did a shoot for two commercials and dressed Kristen Chenoweth, who is hosting the American Country Awards in Vegas. I’m also styling a cover shoot before heading off to New York to do a movie. Basically, the next couple of months will be filled up with more red carpet styling and more films. Eventually I also plan to launch a line of evening wear.

And finally what are you coveting for this silly season?

What’s the best part of your job?

That’s one of the great things about having a blog - I put everything I lust on there!

Some of the best aspects of my job are the chance to work with amazing actors, see amazing fashion, meet some incredible people and travel to many amazing places.

Just now I’m lusting after a particular pair of Louboutin’s, velvet jackets, Alessandra Rich dresses and Brian Atwood green pumps .

I have to say there is nothing quite like being onlocation on a film - it is an amazing experience to collaborate with so many great minds!

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Blissful Massage Therapies

WE SPECIALISE IN: * REMEDIAL MASSAGE * RELAXATION MASSAGE * TRIGGER POINT THERAPY * LYMPHATIC DRAINAGE * SPORTS MASSAGE CALL ANNA ON 0410 457 387

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by Olivia Pajer

#COVE-T-OKYO

Konichiwa! Covet went abroad in October.

Some 10000km away from Melbourne there’s an amazing place on earth called Japan and I was fortunate enough to have had the pleasure of spending 14 days in the futuristic cities that surround Tokyo. As The Vapors once sung, “I think I’m turning Japanese”.

Everything you see in pictures and movies is true. The land of Japan is just as perfect as the postcards represent. Whilst site seeing was fun, shopping got the best of me. I found myself booking an extra 20kgs of luggage for my return flight. A two day trip to Shibuyu had me with arms full of bags from TopShop, Zara, Opening Ceremony, Forever 21 and Berksha. After long days of shopping I’d eat in traditional Japanese teppanyaki restraunts and although the Japanese aren’t fluent in English, their kind and helpful attitude made my trip exciting, educational and interesting.

It was no lie when Gwen Stefani said Harajuku is, “A subculture in a kaleidoscope of fashion”.

The famous Takeshita-dōri Street is a real life catwalk, full of young girls with wild hair, bright clothing and a lot of accessories.

It’s a place where everyone is different and nothing you wear is frowned upon. The shops off street and in underground malls will have you fawning over the dresses with intricate detailing and handmade clothing and accessories that will have you standing out amongst a crowd. I spent a day in Harajuku, so if you’re planning a trip to Japan be sure to

put this in your top five places to visit.

Everyone asks the same question when you get back from a holiday, “What was the highlight of your trip?” For me it was attending Meredes-Benz Fashion Week Tokyo. This is an event that is not open to the public so receiving an invitation was very exciting. I rubbed shoulders with famous bloggers, Bryan Boy and Misha Janette, we spoke with Fashion TV and Ivan from Vogue Brazil and, whilst I didn’t see her, Jennifer Hudson was a guest of honour. Our favourite runway was that of designer Shiho Shiromas’ self titled range ‘Shiroma’. The seasons theme was ETERNAL LIMITEDS, meaning existence itself goes on forever. When Shiho was speaking to the press, she explained that she tries to express the strong presence inside “Vintage in the Future”, and “Future in the Vintage”.

As pictured you can see a lot of her designs embrace draping and swing silhouettes. The use of pale blue dye and geometric patterns were evident in all her garments. Everything was simply gorgeous!

By now you should be googling flights and places to stay in Japan! The culture, fashion, food, bright lights and futuristic city is a place you have to add to your bucket list. For more snaps and stories be sure to catch me on instagram and twitter. @CovetMagazine @OliviaSPM Sayonara! |

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1. Christian Louboutin

Approx. $709.93

www.matchesfashion.com

2. Anya Hindmarch

Approx. $387.90

www.net-a-porter.com

3. PeepToe $139 www.peeptoeshoes.com.au 108

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ment with your‌

tch. .

2.

5.

4. Alexander McQueen

Approx.$880

www.mytheresa.com

5. Christian Dior

$1, 850

(02) 9266 5459 / (03) 9650 5323

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by Mandy Chang

Summer is short, drink coffee or eat dessert first.

Have you ever thought about changing your summer routines? Like replacing cocktails with coffee, beaches with sweet studios, in order to experience a different summer.

Manchester Press Hiding in a blink-and-you-will-miss-it laneway, Manchester Press offers a whole new experience for caffeine lovers. The décor of the café is inspired by the former printing press workshop, with recycled machinerytype furniture and large communal tables with heavy-duty industrial table legs. There are a few eye catching giant-size artworks hanging on the café walls and William Montgomery is the artist/barista behind those amazing artworks.

Apart from the cool interior, there are a few benches outside the café perfect for summer.

As for coffee, Manchester Press uses their custom blend called 8oz. The name of the 110

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blend came from the idea of a standard coffee size. The café is also renowned for its unique coffee art, as the baristas will draw cute happy faces on the coffee.

The menu is simple and features some delicious open bagels with toppings like avocado, feta, mints and cherry tomatoes or smoke salmon with rocket leaves and pine nuts. Apart from bagels, the chef also offers a range of special salads for summer and soups for winter.

Manchester Press is a great place to hide from the bustling city to enjoy a nice cup of coffee and bagels on a summer morning.

Brother Baba Budan Brother Baba Budan, sister of Seven Seeds and Declieu, is located just around the corner from Manchester Press. Warm and cozy with friendly baristas, Brother Baba Budan offers a range of coffee like espresso-based coffee and filter coffee. Seven seeds is the blend that they used for their coffee, full bodied and rich in flavour.

As for black coffee lovers, the café offers

a variety of filter coffee and the “filter of the moment” is Mama Cata Geisha from Panama.

As for summer, Brother Baba Budan also offers delicious and refreshing iced coffees.

The concept of the café with “hanging chairs on the ceiling” came from the owner, Mark Dundon who has a background in fine art.

Apart from the hanging chairs, the tiny-little space also housed a large communal table and a long bench with a few high stools for coffee lovers who like to spend their afternoon catching up with friends or reading books.

If you feel like a treat with your morning coffee, the café offers a variety of pastries, cupcakes and muffins.

If Brother Baba Budan sounds like a summerhang-out café for you, why wait? Make a trip down to the cafe and enjoy the coffee experience.

St Ali Housed in an old industrial warehouse space in a small street running parallel to Clarendon

Street in South Melbourne, St Ali is this summer’s must-check-it-out café. Famous for its specialty coffee, St Ali offers incredible array of coffee from Honduras, Panama, Costa Rica, Colombia and Kenya. They also buy Cup of Excellence coffees at auctions.

Rough-luxe is the way to describe the décor of the café. St Ali has evolved organically from an old warehouse environment. The place itself is spacious furnished with big wooden communal tables and industrial-like furniture and fittings. The café has attracted the young, the old, the hip, the not-so-hip, children and couples, all of whom spend their lazy Sunday enjoying a delicious brunch with an equally delicious coffee.

St Ali also offers a great breakfast and lunch menu. For breakfast try My Mexican Cousin, which is a secret recipe comprising corn fritters, baby spinach, haloumi and kasundi with poached or fried egg. If you’re a bagel lover, you should try Dr.Bielzowki, which is a bagel served with capers, raw Spanish onion, cream cheese, sliced tomato, mini gherkin and hand cut |

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smoked salmon. As for lunch, a few favourites include the Pork Me. A delicious crispy pork belly baguette, with pickled cucumber, carrot, coriander, spinach and wasabi mayonnaise.

The hunter gatherer is another treasure, 250g black angus scotch fillet with roasted baby vegetables salad of beetroot, carrot and kipfler potatoes with harrisa dressing.

Should get your family and friends to check it out this über-cool café.

Crave for macaroons and cakes? Then Luxbite and Burch & Purchese are not to be missed.

Luxbite The two young and creative pastry chefs behind Luxbite are Bernard and Yen. Before opening Luxbite, both Bernard and Yen have worked in a few famous fine-dining establishments including Quay and Pier, Rockpool and Comme.

Inspired by their childhood experiences in Malaysia, Bernard and Yen have managed to create an array of unique macaroons and cakes. As for the concept of the store, it’s a classic combination of black and white décor, comfortable and relaxing.

For macaroons lovers’, Luxbite offers a range of unique flavours such as kaya toast, pandan, peanut butter and jelly, salted caramel, rose and lychee and watermelon yogurt. As for desserts, the most popular is Supersize Love, which is a chocolate macaroon shell with homemade nutella, ganache and hazelnut praline cream or the meringue monster. Apart from the macaroons and desserts, Luxbite also offers breakfast like egg benedicts and vegobites which is poached eggs, garlic roasted field mushrooms, baby spinach, poppy seed roasted pumpkin, roasted vine tomatoes, goat’s cheese, serve with La Madre toast. For lunch, sandwiches like smoked salmon, rocket caper berries and lemon cream or twice cooked pork belly, endive and start anise apple chutney.

Luxbite also does catering for special occasions. With their ever-changing seasonal menu, they can create something special for you to surprise your family and friends. As for 112

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weddings, they replace traditional wedding cakes with macaroons towers.

It is the place that can offer you a unique and unforgettable dessert experience.

Burch & Purchese Ian Burch and Darren Purchese have launched their first Sweet Studio called Burch & Purchese on Chapel Street 7 months ago. The concept of the shop is “Science meets Sweetness”. It is to create a truly unique retail dessert experience taking traditional pastry making techniques and putting their own twist on them using the latest kitchen gadgetry. With a visible kitchen at the back of the shop, customers can get a quick glimpse on process of creating the sweets.

With its pink décor, Burch & Purchese is like a sweet paradise in a fairytale movie.

The biggest seller of Burch & Purchese are the chocolate, mandarin and salted caramel, a creamy ‘Kendari’ 60% chocolate mousse layered over Murray River salted caramel, burnt mandarin cream, St Clements marmalade and aerated chocolate shortbread with chocolate mirror glaze. The coconut, ginger, mint and passion fruit combo is also another best seller of the shop, coconut mousse with passion fruit curd, coconut caviar, passion fruit jelly, salted oat and ginger crumble, white chocolate mint wafer and ginger macaroon finished with a brilliant white chocolate spray. If you like white chocolate, you can try the raspberry, white chocolate, honey and lychee or the wild strawberry, peach and white chocolate.

The Sweet Studio also offers their clients over 300 ingredients on display to create the cakes of their dreams for their special events like birthdays and weddings.

Burch & Purchese is a place for food lovers, families, couples and everyone who has a sweet tooth.

Remember “summer is short, eat desserts first!”

Manchester Press 8 Rankins Lane Melbourne, VIC 3000 0396004054

Brother Baba Budan 359 Little Bourke Street, Melbourne, VIC 3000 0396060449

St Ali 12-18 Yarra Place, South Melbourne, VIC 3000 0396862990

Luxbite 38 Toorak Road
, South Yarra, VIC 3141 0398675888

Burch & Purchese 647 Chapel Street, South Yarra, VIC 3141 0398277060

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A Day in the Life of a ...

Shoe Designer

By Catherine Ciccone

Head designer of ShoeSales.com.au, Sarah Figgins, regales COVET readers with a typical day in her life as a shoe designer when working in Hong Kong.

October 12th 2010 - 5.00am Wake up stiff, sore and parched, with my head rolled onto passenger seated next to me!

He smiles, I shudder and apologise. Captain announces that we’re landing in Hong Kong in 20 mins. Look up to see if mad dash to the toilet is possible? OCCUPIED sign illuminated and a queue. Great – hold on!

Call home. Arrived safely, it’s early evening chaos at home, kids fighting – ‘I’ll call you later Hon’. Exit Kowloon - quick taxi ride to China Ferry Terminal. Toothless cabbie, smiling and chatty. ‘First time in HK lady?’ ‘No’ I reply ‘I’m here every 6 weeks’, ‘Oh you lucky, lucky’. Think of Kylie Minogue’s song “I should be so lucky”.

What shoes was she wearing in that clip?

5.30am

7.00am

HK airport. Break into a walk, come semi sprint to custom’s counter. I still need a bathroom, but I want to be head of queue.

Phew – quick head count 20 deep in queue; I estimate a 10-minute wait. Through!!

Yes!! Quick-toilet-stop. Great only vacancy is hole in ground. I have to go. Leg squat!

Another queue – ferry ticket. Customs again, 12 minute queue and through.

6.00am Jump the airport express train into Kowloon.

7.20am Boarding the ferry. Outside now and the humidity smacks me in the face. A combination of hunger, tiredness and heat whacks me for a six. Just pull carry case and board. Port is choppy, plank rocking I trip – damn scratch the black suede on new ASTRID wedges – retro |

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and sublime. (I do love a wedge!) Seated at last. Spritz my face with O2 intraceutical, the best. Bit of MAC mascara (can’t live without) and gloss. Thank god I just lopped all my locks, short and spiky looks even better after sleeping on a plane. My Lounge apparel – good outfit choice. It travels well, crushed floaty tunic over tie die leggings and of course my wedges. I would truly kill for a shower!!

9.00am Another queue - 22 minutes exactly. Customs again! Through to exit and there he is – the best driver in China. Employed by the owner of my factory. Mr Chan, he bows and takes my carrycase. Whisks me away to his airconditioned mini van. An hour’s drive to the factory. I want to shut my eyes, no time.

Flick through development notes, get my mind charged and into gear. Focus Sarah!

10.00am My factory. Cool, inviting – my second family waiting for me. Hugs, kisses, friendly exchanges. Presents back and forth. Toilet break – a western toilet, no hole in the ground!

Cool running water, I splash my face. The heat!

‘Green Tea Sarah?’ – ‘yes please’.

10.30am Work!! Sharpen pencils. Sampling. Fabric room. Sample room. Pattern room. Someone sketching while I’m writing. I feel the perspiration dripping down my back. My legs are sliding on the vinyl chair I sit on. The air conditioner whirrs in the background. ‘Another green tea?’ ‘Yes, please’. Miss S collection is nailed. Samples will arrive in two weeks. Fingers crossed it looks amazing!

12.30pm Lunch. The factory is silent, almost eerie.

Workers choose to eat quickly and sleep. I pass through the pattern room, workers asleep at their desks. I pass through the production – all asleep at their workstations. The heat, the stifling humidity is completely draining. We’re off to lunch. The best Chinese in the region.

We gather in the banquet room – it’s cool – air con is at fever pitch. I am blessed with beautiful food. My factory owner spoiling me with chilli shrimps scallops, steamed fish and so many yummy morsels. I sit remisinssing about years ago – when China was a new frontier in the

shoe industry. Factories would try and impress us and order snake, eel and soup with fish eyes. Me, always polite, tasting and saying ‘yes, it’s lovely’ and they would order more. Thank goodness I only work with one beautiful factory these days.

1.30pm Back at the factory. A wave of tiredness rolls through me. Toilet stop! ‘Green tea Sarah?’ ’Yes please’. More designs, more fabrics and scouring in the trim room. Shoo Biz collection takes form. It’s exciting. A season of colour, architectural silhouettes and a sense of femininity. Block heels are superb, the retro wedges and the fabrics / textures. Aaahh (I love what I do).

6.00pm Another green tea. The girls bring out chocolates. What the heck a few won’t hurt – I crave the sugar hit! Only a few more hours to go. A wave of complete tiredness washes over me. Bridal collection. OK focus Sarah – get with the program!! The patent leather sample is breaking. What do we do? Well, source a new leather supplier. Let’s get a new swatch of colours. ‘What do we think of these trims?’ And it goes on …

8.00pm Mr Chan takes my carry case and escorts me out to the mini van. I bid my ‘goodnights’ – I will work with the factory again tomorrow, as we hike to the materials / leather / trim markets.

I hop aboard the van - 40 mins of driving. At least the traffic is minimal. I fight the desire to nod off. Text home. No answer – it’s late.

9.00pm Check in Shangri-La. The staff are always so polite and happy. Their English is broken, but between my broken Mandarin and their English we establish what floor and what my room number is. SHOWER!! Robe. Auto polite kicks in. I look down at my feet they are swollen and pudgy. Yuk. The joys of travel! Bed please!

Room service – the obligatory club sandwich!

Laptop – to sign in or not? Emails? Work from home? Report in? It can wait. I fall asleep, and dream of SHOES. The pursuit of the perfect shoe xx

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“A Bar You Can Trust ”

by Nesrene Barakat

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What kind of venue do you look for on a classy evening out? Style, beauty, and elegance, entwined with exquisite cocktails, attentive service and tasty late-night treats? The Trust Bar meets all of these expectations and more.

Located on Flinders Lane and Market Streets in the Melbourne CBD, this stunning bar is perfect for after work drinks or a catchup with friends. Its opulent high ceilings, majestic columns and elongated marble bar create an ambience that is both modern and sophisticated, yet reflects the history of the building, which was once the old Port Authority building. When restoring it, the owner-manager, David Baccini, found it a challenge to create the type of space that would cater to the target clientele, whilst reflecting its original historical significance. “It was hard work, but the end result is worth it” he maintained proudly, while playing host to the many friends and patrons who frequent the bar.

With friendly, attentive bar staff that go out of their way to serve you, it becomes an easy feat to consume many of the delicious cocktails from the extensive list and barely notice you’ve had them! Ranging from a Tiramisu martini to a Toffee Apple cocktail, or even Baccini’s own “special” creation, you will find yourself wanting to try everything on the menu.

these with the food you order to fight off the evening hunger pangs.

Whether you choose to eat lunch, dinner or just a late-night bar snack, the food options cater to both simple and more adventurous tastes. Try the flavoursome jalapeño and cheddar croquettes or the melt-in-yourmouth slow-roasted pork belly as starters; or for something more substantial, a wild mushroom risotto or a juicy steak. Whatever you choose, it’s guaranteed to please the taste buds. In designing the menu with the chef, Baccini wanted to provide a variety of dishes that he himself loved to eat, influenced by his European background with a few other specialties thrown in. “I am here so much and eat here so frequently that I want high quality, tasty food with enough variation that I won’t get bored with it!” he laughed, adding that he wanted to share this with patrons and know that they experience the same dining experience that he does.

A venue with a lively atmosphere, classy surroundings, after-work drinks, quality food and special functions, The Trust Bar is sure to please anyone who is looking for a stylish place to unwind. What better way to do so than with a cocktail in your hand and some laughs with friends?

The Trust Bar also has a vast range of beer and wine on offer, and you may prefer to sample |

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What make in Melbour

by Julia Vogl

Being a Melbournian is reason for celebration. Last month Melbourne ranked number one for ‘Cultural Capital of Australia’ and it’s no surprise. With the festive season underway, there are many elements of Melbourne to look forward to.

Whether you want an epic adventure or to keep it a little more chilled, there will be something to suit your mood.

But what is it that sets Melbourne apart from the other cities?

Grungy, popular, chic or intimate. Funky, fresh or undiscovered. There are a variety of themes that make up an umbrella of stylish Melbourne nightspots. The Woodlands Hotel on Sydney Road in Coburg is the perfect place to get lost in over summer. Newly opened, the bar and restaurant is positioned in an undeniably upand-coming area, surprising many of its patrons.

Stunning and eclectic interior design make up The Woodlands, along with a magical botanical beer garden out back. Upstairs in the restaurant/

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function room, Mad Hatter inspiration awaits.

It’s a spot that has to be seen to be believed and is a true transformation from its predecessor. www.thewoodlandshotel.com.au The much anticipated re-opening of The Bridge Hotel has finally come. Located on Bridge Road Richmond, the Hotel has seen extensive renovations reaching costs that would knock your socks off. The end result however is worth it to say the least. Adorned with sensational artistic monuments and an array of quirky rooms, the five individually themed bars take you back in time to cobblestone paving and then across to a bar styled as a 1960s diner. Don’t forget to smile when you see the wall of antique cameras! www.thebridgehotel.com.au The Queen Victoria night market conveniently falls under the ‘Twilight market’ phenomenon.

It invites patrons to an evening of different cultures, an array of diverse cuisines, Latin entertainment and Sangria. With the Melbourne weather enhancing, it’s a perfect spot to take friends or a special someone on a Wednesday

es Summer rne night without breaking the bank. www.qvm.com.au The St Kilda Festival is held in February each year on the St Kilda foreshore and engulfs most part of Fitzroy Street. The incredibly popular day religiously becomes the pinnacle of summer for most Melbournians and music fans. This year internationally acclaimed urban group Blue King Brown, Melbourne’s British India and the successfully electro-pop duo Sneaky Sound System will headline. Look out for me in the crowd! www.stkildafestival.com.au/callforentries You don’t have to spend a lot of cash to enjoy yourself here in Melbourne. Some of these experiences can become pricey but don’t forget there are other things you can do. A simple picnic in the Botanical Gardens, a walk around Albert Park Lake or the Tan on a sunny Melbourne day will give you the energy boost you need. Watch out though, at any minute you may need your raincoat!!

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"Melbourne's new bar and club..." www.thekeyclub.com.au

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