Micky. In. The. Van

Peeps... if you follow my Facebook page Shopping On A Shoestring, you will already be aware of how much I love The Estelle Store.  Well the owner, Estelle Michaelides, has gone one step better and has started her own fashion label, Micky In The Van.  Proudly designed and made in Melbourne, Australia.

A few weeks ago, on a Tuesday night, 16 October, I was extremely fortunate to be invited to the Micky In The Van VIP Media launch, to view the clothing range.  And what can I say?  The fabrics, textures, prints and colours are amazing.  So much so, that I walked away with three pieces from the collection.

What did I buy?  The tangerine Mia-Peplum Jacket, $109, and tanks in Boho Gypsy & Black Poppy, both $59.  What else could I have brought?  The entire collection really!  The Micky In The Van slouch pants have been running out the door for $69.  So popular, they have made Oyster Magazine's 'Top 15 Printed Pants' feature!  And a 'signature' of the Micky In The Van label are antlers (as pictured) which feature on the Crop Bomber Jacket, available for $95 and oh so cute.

So what's next for this designer label?  I can happily report that Estelle is working on a few new pieces and I was lucky enough to see some samples of potential fabric she is planning to use.  If she does indeed use the fabric she showed me to create a new version of the fabulous slouch pant, I do know one thing is for sure ...they will be making their way into my wardrobe too!

The Estelle Store is located at 382 Smith Street, Collingwood, Melbourne, Australia, and the Micky In The Van collection ranges from $59 to $109 (which if you ask me, is an absolute steal for designer clothing).  Orders can be made online or via the telephone and postage is free.  Yes, that's correct ...FREE.

Oh Micky In The Van ...how you complete me!  Love love LOVE xx

What's coming up in AVON...

Hi, my name is Annie and it's been a quite some time since my last blog confession...

AND during my recent hiatus, I have been doing some extensive research on Avon (Australia & New Zealand).  Yes, that's right AVON!  In a previous post I highlighted the ways in which Avon are now also becoming a young and funky brand, stocking many things that would appeal to many more generations.

For example, Avon are selling an exclusive line of Kardashian Kollection wallets and handbags.  Impressive!

Celebrity endorsement is now coming from Reese Witherspoon and Fergie (from the Black Eyed Peas).  Also impressive!

And coming up (or currently for some), Avon are selling French Connection - FCUK - watches in Campaign 9!  What the?

Now who thought Avon was only for the grey rinse set?

With so many to love now at Avon, what is a girl to do?  Become an Avon representative!

So what are some of the incredible deals on offer at the moment?

With Mother's Day fastly approaching, Kardashian Kollection wallets will be on sale from $19.99 (campaign 10).  FCUK watches will be available to purchase for $69.99 (campaign 9).  ANEW Emulsions night cream will be on sale for $19.99 - an amazing saving as regular price is $59.99 (campaigns 8 & 9).  And gorgeous homewares including NEW monochrome cushion cover set of 2 on sale for $24.99 (WellBeing brochure 9-10).

And that's just the tip of the ice-berg!  For a closer look at what Avon has to offer, view some of their brochures here online - http://www.avon.com.au/PRSuite/latest_ebrochure.page

And if you want to order anything, let me know.  I may just be able to help you!!! ;)

Rubi Shoes

Rubi Shoes... where have you been all my life?  The sister of Cotton On clothing, these shoes are super cute and dare I say, super comfy!

Here are a few of my favourites...

Left:

Eliza Heel in Zinfandel Multi - $49.95

Natasha Heel in Leopard print - $49.95

Ester Wedge in Forrest Micro - $39.95

Right:

Leyton Wedge in Burnt Orange - $39.95

Swanny Heel in Limoges Micro - $49.95

Sarah Heel in Black/Cream - $49.95

All these AH-MAY-ZING heel are under $50 and there are oh so many more to choose from.

AND if you get in quick (being today, 29 February 2012) you can get free shipping on all orders over $50, using the code FREESHIP on checkout.  The best part about Rubi Shoes and Cotton On clothing is they are all on the one website (Kids, Men, Body and Typo included) - http://www.cottonon.com.au/

Also check out while you are there "CO. by Cotton On" which is an exclusive clothing range for online purchase only.

So what are you waiting for?  Check out Rubi & Cotton On instore or take a peak online.  LOVE xx

 

Your Inner Animal...

Animal print is going to be HUGE this Autumn/Winter 2012 - shoes, accessories, clothing, you name it - the zebra, leopard, snake print are a must!

I am not usually one who would wear an all over animal print but I absolutely adore this leopard mid length wrap dress by Indigo which is currently on sale at Velvet Fox for $129.50.  Wrap dresses are extremely flattering to all body types and this particular number would look HOT with knee high boots, whether you choose black or brown, leather or suede.  Alternatively, wear with your favourite ballet flat for a casual ensemble to do the school drop off and pick up. Or team with a killer heel for the office and Friday night drinks! 

Add this fabulous House of Harlow 1960 Sun Cocktail Ring in smoke, also on sale at Velvet Fox for $60, to make a fashion statement!  I already have this gorgeous ring in my collection and it is to die-for!

While you're surfing the Velvet Fox site, check out a few other items like the Fluxus Roman Dress in a zebra print (only extra small available) on sale for $64.50 and the One Teaspoon Hidden Fortune Romper in black and dark pink leopard print (only size 8 available) on sale for $75.  Only 1 left of each, so if you love it, grab it.  They are both HOT!

But another item that I'm completely in love with is the One Teapsoon Surrender Leopard Kimono, pictured left, on sale at Velvet Fox for $125.  There is only a size 14 available and unfortunately not my size :(.  The long kimono is so on trend that if this is your size, get on it!  An AH-MAY-ZING piece that will add the WOW to any basic outfit.  Love love LOVE!

So get into Velvet Fox to channel your inner animal... you may find a few more things while you're there that tickle your fancy too.  xx



Raine & Humble

Ohhhhh it has been awhile since I have blogged and for the longest time I have been meaning to write about Raine & Humble - stockists of beautiful interior homewares and furnishings.

"Raine & Humble brings your home a blend of classical antiquity and innovative modernity.   The dynamic and continually evolving Raine and Humble collections sets current fashions while maintaining timeless style.  Raine & Humble products are designed to be aesthetically pleasing, functional and unique.  Their décor and furnishings incorporate whimsical patterns, intertwined with classic European style."

And the best bit... you won't max out your credit card when you visit the store!  Located in Hall Street, Moonee Ponds and also at the South Melbourne Market, Raine & Humble offers gorgeous trinkets, accessories, clothing and well-priced furniture - from fidge magnets to covered bedheads, from soaps to rattan furniture, from cushions to wall hangings.  I have recently purchased a new kitchen apron (yes, I've joined the Stepford Wives club!), and matching peg bag, ironing board cover and large door stop for my laundry.  Adding a touch of class, cuteness and femininity to a otherwise forgotten room (because let's face it - we all try to forget about the washing piling up in the laundry!).

At Christmas time, I also purchased 2 small glass cake stands and beautifully designed paper cupcake trays to make gifts for my son's kindergarten teachers.  Simple and elegant.

With such an array of goodies in their shops, there is no doubt that you will come out with something.  The only question will be how big or small your item will be!  Raine & Humble is very much worth a peak and I can't wait to have another look as I always discover something new!

LOVE xx

Knock Knock... AVON calling!

Well, who would have thought!  AVON is selling Kardashian Kollection handbags and wallets.  Yes, that's right, AVON is not just for the middle aged to elderly dowdy woman that people have for years perceived to be AVON's target demographic!  It is now for the hip, fashion conscious woman about town, who places importance on high quality beauty products and accessories.  And being a current user of their products, I have to say that I am more than impressed.

AVON now has Reece Witherspoon as their covergirl to promote their products; have a minerals make-up range called Smooth Minerals (which I have to say that I use and adore); sell groovy costume jewellery plus clothing and shoes; now promote a 'well being' catalogue which includes kitchenware and fitness goodies, selling 'Curves' products; and have on offer a multitude of children's games, toys, books and educational resources.

If you don't believe me, take a look at AVON's current campaign! 

A-MAY-ZING!

Other products on my 'favourites' list are AVON's Glazewear lipgloss (because let's face, we all need a great gloss in our handbags and this lipgloss is beautiful to wear and beautiful to look at), a new AVON Baby range which is paediatrician tested and a new perfume line 'Outspoken Intense' by Fergie from Black Eyed Peas.

So there's no dowdiness here!  And there's even some stuff in there for the blokes!

LOVE IT!  x

Shopping Tip!

Shopping on a shoestring is about being more clever when we shop!  It's about taking advantage of store offers and store cards.

Recently, I added three new beautiful items to my clothing and accessories collection.  And all... for FREE!

During my mad dash to secure the perfect Christmas gifts for all, I noticed that Sussan had an offer of 'Spend $100 and get $25 gift card FREE'.  My mum had already requested that Santa bring her a gift voucher from said store... and I was in need of a gift for my mother-in-law too!  Result : gift vouchers all round!  So now I am the proud owner of this beautiful Sussan Gold Cuff, $24.95, which I was able to grab instore with my free voucher!

Witchery have a number of different offers for those who sign up to become a Loyalty Card Member.  The Loyalty Card is FREE and enables you to get an additional 5% off sale items at any time, instore or online.  It also rewards you when you shop online for the first time - a $20 reward which goes onto your Loyalty Card like a credit.  So as I was away from the Boxing Day sales, taking it easy in the country instead, my passion for a bargain didn't dwindle.  SO, trusty laptop in hand, I made a purchase. 

For my custom, I not only received the $20 reward, but also an additional $20.  Total - $40.  As with many of these offers, there is an expiry date (so make sure you program this into the memory bank).  My Witchery reward enabled me to purchase this Stripe Slouch tee, on sale for $39.95 and these Global Beaded Hoop earrings, on sale for $7.95.  And don't forget, I then got the additional 5% discount.  So ok, I did have to put in $2.  But it was only TWO DOLLARS!!!

So bottom line, it pays to take advantage of store offers and loyalty programs.  You would be amazed at the advantages that can come your way.  Other cards to consider: 'Fly Buys' (I managed to use the points last year to buy my youngest Christmas gifts) and 'Woolworths Everyday Rewards' (which we have linked to our Qantas Frequent Flyer program).  And really... why shouldn't we be rewarded?  ;)

The Pencil Skirt @ Sussan

I have mentioned in an earlier post how much I love the Midi skirt.  A longer hemline... a classic look!  Now Sussan have added this to their current season stock.  And these skirts are simply beautiful to wear too.

The Stripe Ponte pencil skirt in black, left, is available for $79.95 and is 75% viscose, 20% nylon and 5% elastane.  The classic slimline mid length is an easy skirt to dress up or down, wear with flip flops or heels.  Having tried on this skirt, the best bit is that it doesn't ride up when you walk.  Major plus!

The plain Ponte pencil skirt, right, is available in block red or block black and is available for $69.95.  This skirt is made from the same material blend as it's stripe cousin and would suit many shapes and sizes - because let's face it, we all come in different packaging!  The block colour helps to de-emphasis some of our 'wider' features!!

Whichever skirt you choose to become a wardrobe staple, it will be one you can wear in all seasons, for work or play.  LOVE!  xx


Pilgrim - made & designed in Australia!

Like most of the fashion stores at the moment, Pilgrim are also having a sale.  But the difference with Pilgrim... the majority of their clothes are made and designed in Australia!  And we LOVE that!  Here are a few of my picks from their online sale - all currently season, all on trend.

I have mentioned in a few previous posts how much I have loved a kimono style jacket for this season and this one is no exception.  The Pilgrim 'Happy Jacket', left, is on sale now for $59.95 and is simply divine in this red floral print.  Stunning over a simple boyfriend or straight leg blue jean or wear with a singlet, black skinny leg jean, heels and gold statement jewellery for an evening out on the town.

If you are looking for a blazer to throw to ward off the chill, you can't go past this Pilgrim 'Liquid Blazer', above right, in apricot.  The boyfriend style jacket is on sale for $64.95 and has stripe detail on the cuffs.  Very cute, very chic!

The Prue Pleat Pant in black, left, is the perfect alternative to a jean.  The pleated peg style looks super comfy whilst at the same time a pant that can be worn leisurely or dress up for Saturday night cocktails!  Priced at only $24.95, they are a massive bargain.

But what I adore, is the 'Block Me with Colour' dress in mocha, above right.  There is something about this dress that is channelling my inner Wonder Woman!  A steal at $44.95, it features a strapeless sweetheart necklace with gold, snakeskin belt (which is detachable).  What's not to love I say?

So if you have any of your Christmas gift money leftover, do yourself a favour and take a look at Pilgrim's sale.  With absolutely crazy reductions, you're bound to find something you will want.  <3

Interior White!

A favourite way of mine to decorate my house is to use white furnishings as the major base colour and add hints of colour to bring the room alive.

Ezibuy have a great range of goods which can help you do just this - lamp shades, ornaments, wall hangings, linen and even furniture!

The white Madeleine Mirror, left, on sale now at Ezibuy for $59 is perfect to add to your wall, with a small table underneath, such as the Venice side table, $129.99.  Add on this the Ruby Vase, $17, and the Large Owl Vase, $21.99.  A perfect little hall table ensemble or dressing table for the boudoir!

In the bedroom, on your walls add the Flower Oil Painting, $109.99, whilst covering your bed in the Tilly Duvet Cover Set, which is on sale and starts from $74.99.  The Tilly collection also has the European pillow cases & scatter cushion available. Also add the Bedroom Ottoman, as pictured with the duvet set, on sale for $239.  There is also available the Bedroom Bench Seat, which is also on sale for $69.  Gorgeous, simple and pretty!  LOVE xx

Summer Fun... Kaftans & Maxi's

Just now, I was flicking through this week's Australian "Woman's Day" and spied a fashion piece titled 'Under the Tuscan Sun'.  Now that summer is here in full swing, and we are all still in Christmas holiday mode, many of us are lounging by the pool or down at the beach - and this season has seen the return of the Kaftan and Maxi dress as the after sun cover-up!

In the "Woman's Day" article, it featured one particular design that made me stand up and take notice - the Eb & Ive Long Designer Kaftan (or maxi dress).  Which, after further investigation, I discovered can be worn in 4 different ways.  How good is that?  And with a price tag of only $79.95!

The dress is 'one size fits all' and can be worn strapless, halter, over one shoulder or straps over both shoulders.  A very versatile number to pack for your holiday in the tropics or just for a weekend on the coast.  Personally, I think the dress is simply gorgeous to even wear about town in the summer sun.

This Eb & Ive Long Designer Kaftan can be purchased via the "Shop Til You Drop" magazine eBoutique.  However, it is also available in sea green from Sequins and Sands for $59.95 - as pictured right.  Absolutely divine!

Eb & Ive is a beautiful Australian label who also feature absolutely stunning designer bangles, rings, hair pins, necklaces, hats and bags and scarves.  For more information, check out their website - http://www.ebandive.com.au/.  You can also find them on Facebook.

LOVE xx

Orange, orange, orange...

Happy New Year and welcome ...to the scorching hot weather that has finally graced us!  I don't want to scare away the sun, because believe me I'm extremely happy to see it, but a teeny weeny little bit less on the mercury would have been fine!  But alas, now that summer is in full swing, it's time to get out those summer threads and get ready for those balmy nights!  One of the hottest (pardon the pun) colours for the beginning of 2012 is orange... or others may prefer to refer to it as tangarine.  It's a colour that shouts 'SUMMER' and is a block colour that is right on fashion trend at the moment.

With all the post-Christmas sales still in our favourite stores and on our favourite online sites, NOW is a perfect time to grab a little...or a lot... of orange for your wardrobe.  I absolutely adore this Bardot Paradise Kimono Cardigan which is made from 100% silk and on sale at the moment for $50.  There appears to be only one size left online, so if it is not the size you are looking for, I would be contacting Bardot Customer Service quick smart to see where it is instore.  The kimono has been a divine accessory this season to wear with absolutely everything.  Wear with jeans and racer back singlet or wear over a LBD - the possibilities are endless and no doubt can be worn with something already in your closet.

Witchery have an A-MAY-ZING sale on right now... with so many current season stock to wreak havoc with your purse!  This Ruffle Layer Camisole is simply gorgeous and available, on sale, for $89.95.  It would look perfect, again, with so many things in the back of your cupboard.  A black maxi or midi skirt, a pair of boyfriend jeans or a cute tailored knee length short.  Dress is up with some chunky gold jewellery for an evening dinner or dress down with your favourite flip flops or sandals for brunch.  Made from 65% cotton and 35% silk, it is a key summer item which gives that POP of bold colour whilst remaining feminine with ruffles and v-neckline.

But if you are only looking to add a little bit of colour, why not try a little orange on your feet!  This strappy flat sandal with double buckle, right, named 'Turner' from Novo Shoes are a quintessential flat to adorn your feet.  Available for $59.95 (this is the full price cost), they are extremely cute and fun.  Or Tony Bianco's 'Cooper' peep toe platform heel in Melon Suede, left, is on sale for $90 and is a spectacular heel to dress up your jeans or your evening dress.  Or perhaps a great way to add some summer colour to your work ensemble!  So with the warm weather here, add a bit of orange to your life!