AIN'T NO SUNSHINE

There's been an unbelievable amount of rain here on Australia's eastern coast over the last week. For the first time in my life, I'm considering buying a pair of wet weather boots. Wellingtons, gumboots, whatever you may call them, here is my pick of the bunch, both from Hunter.

The overall look (I am hoping to achieve), which I refer to as 'hunting weekend at the manor house', is pictured below. I came across this image on the Hunter website (originally published in ES Magazine). Must find a patched sweater like the one worn by the gentleman on the left. Any ideas on where I can find one?

WELCOME TO THE JUNGLE

  (Jigsaw Faux Fur Stole; Jigsaw Leopard Tote; Witchery Pleat Detail Skirt;  Witchery Angel Flats)

In my book, animal prints will beat florals any day. Above are a few of my current favourites. The faux fur stole is an absolute steal; the perfect ladylike tote; a skirt in snake print - the latest craze; leopard print flats - the perfect accompaniment to skinny jeans.

TAILORED

 (image: chadburrys.blogspot.com)

Chadburry, a Swedish maker of tailored shirts, does a fantastic range for both men and women. You will love the mix of fabrics, colours, prints and buttons - that shouldn't work when combined, but somehow they come together perfectly on each shirt.

SHRAPNEL

The Deadly Ponies Mr Zebra Shrapnel. Stop your spare change from accumulating in your wallet and store it in this fun coin purse instead.

(image: Deadly Ponies)

PAGES

As an avid reader, I have always dreamt of having a library in my house. A cross between what you would find in an old English manor house and at Hogwarts! Comfy leather chairs, oil paintings, floor lamps and Gothic art. What else would the perfect library need?
Floor to ceiling shelves, plenty of age old leather bound tomes, a sliding ladder, and, of course, a secret passageway (you never know when you might need to make a quick getaway).

 photos 1, 2, & 3: www.architecturaldigest.com; photo 4: www.idesignarch.com

SPOTS, STRIPES & GREEN

Like the purple Kookai clutch, these green pants worn by Heidi Middleton, half of the Sass and Bide duo, will inject a shot of colour to a monochromatic wardrobe. Such a clever mix of texture and print!

(Photo: blog.sassandbide.com)

I just love this look and had to put together my own version:

1. Humble Beginnings Pant, www.sassandbide.com
2. Zig Zag Print Sleeveless Shirt, www.riverisland.com
3. Silver Glitter Belt, www.zara.com
4. Jean-Michel Cazabat Fish Scale Ivanka Pumps, www.bluefly.com
5. Oil Feather Jacket, www.topshop.com

FRENCH CONNECTION

I came across these fabulous photos in the French Connection Spring/Summer 2011 Lookbook. Not sure where they were shot, but they have me thinking of Cuba.

Photos: French Connection

SALE SEASON

If you look carefully, you can find some amazing deals at this time of the year. For example, these French Connection Platform Court Shoes have been seriously reduced. They would make the perfect addition to your work wardrobe. Get in quick!

Photo: French Connection

HARD OF EARRING

I think it might be worthwhile getting my ears pierced just so I can wear these Feather Skull Drop or Triangle Stud earrings. Why don't clip-ons look this good?

Photos: Topshop

THE EVOLUTION STORE

The Evolution Store has just joined the race to become my favourite retailer. Considering my interest in fossils, anthropology and skull themed decorator pieces, I can't believe I hadn't even heard about this place until a couple of days ago! My brother may be heading to New York in a couple of months time - wonder if he will have room in his suitcase to bring back a few gifts for me? 

Water Buffalo Horn Bookends - Bubalus bubalis
Lucy Poster
Fruit Bat - Cynopterus Species
Italian Marble Coaster - D'Orbigny Fish
African Deer
Mounted Hippo

Photos: The Evolution Store

IT ALSO COMES IN ORANGE

My wardrobe is primarily black, but the bright colours in all the stores have converted me. My absolute favourite item is this purple Snake Fold Over Clutch, from Kookai. It also comes in orange, but I think the purple one is for me.

And, whilst we're on the topic of black vs brights, does anyone do it better than these two?

Photos: Kookai, question-air.blogspot.com