Style ME inspired...

Five shots that are inspiring my sense of style this week....


Metallic eye looks with long, lush eyelashes

Simple messy, woven hairdo and winged eyeliner

Bright accessories to add emphasis to an outfit

Slightly structured, messy hair

Zoro-B in Black from Betts


What is inspiring your style currently? All of mine are somewhat edgy with a hint of structure and brights! Kooklah Xx

Re-Invent Yourself...Style..

I find, like most people, I can often be unhappy about change. But this year I have been trying as much as possible to push myself out of my comfort zones in all areas of my life. This also includes my own style, I have tried new things- from accessories, to makeup to clothes, am currently pulling apart my wardrobe to get rid of items I no longer want or need and revamping my personal style.

I am currently favouring the use of a basic, almost minimalistic style using simple pieces which together create an impact. For example, one of these looks I am currently favouring is the use of:

• A blazer
• Tapered jeans or resin denim (coated denim which looks like leather)
• Embellished or detailed shoes (flats or heels)
• A flowy blouse or top

Using this simple formula I add accessories like necklaces, earrings, rings, bangles and clutches as I feel. This look is really very simple to go from day to night, either by vamping up an element of makeup or changing my hairdo but also from going from flats to heels, simple accessories to statement accessories. To start, the basics (pictures primarily sourced from current and past collections of Portmans, Forever New, Dotti, Just Jeans, Betts and ZU Shoes):




 

The colour and type of accessories you use will be dependant on the colours, fabrics and cuts used for your basic items. I favour my blazer in black, and dark denim or resin coated denim (usually come in gray or black) with shirts in any colour, most often something bright- white, pink, orange, patterned. I then use shoes that will blend or contrast including the use of glitter, textures or embellishment.

Using the outfit above, here are some accessories which add some glamour (from Equip Acessories).

 These accessories use the tonings of the outfit and complement whilst also drawing attention. I would use only two to three of these in order to achieve a minimalist look.

For example the ring, filigree drop earrings and the Ruby & Kit envelope clutch.

Using this look allows for simple and or more complex makeup and hair styles to be used (some examples are included below) but this is the time to have fun, use messy/bed hair, bold eye makeup red lips, have an intricate up do paired with barely there makeup. An outift like this becomes a canvas (albeit a well put together one) for you to explore with and add individual touches to.

What looks are you favouring? What looks would you like me to write about?

Kooklah, Xx

Inspire Me Monday

Some days just need a bit more spark. Something to lift the spirits, keep the mind focused on the plans and dreams yet to come. Give you a secret smile that will have others captivated and wondering what you are thinking about. So here goes, my list of five things that are inspiring me at the start of this week, something to make Monday not-so-blue.

Smelling of daisies...

 I have long wanted to own a bottle of 'Daisy' by Marc Jacobs, one of my friends once bought it a few years ago and I have always loved the smell. It is so fresh, light, girly. Perfect. I finally own it :)

Fashion in Colour...

The last few days I have been drawn to this colour combination (see below) and I crafting an outfit in it. I love the clean, fresh, minimalist and summery feel that using white, gold and turquoise acheives, it is also effortlessly stylish. Makes me feel like I should be sunning on the Greek Islands or sipping Sangria in Italy looking at good-looking Italian men. One of my summer style picks for sure!

Travel Inspiration...

We all know the story of Romeo and Juliet, lovers igniting a war between families, by William Shakespeare. This balcony in Verona, Italy is the balcony used as inspiration for that very story. Due to this, I have always wanted to spend a few days in Verona, looking up to that balcony and imagining Juliet looking down, to see the wall of love letters and to write my own.

A Light Laugh, or Two...

My brother and I are watching Seinfeld, in order. We have seen nearly every episode previously but not in the order they were first screened or released. It has become one of my favourite past-times and we are halfway through (goal is to finish it this year). Kramer-the hilarious, scattered and intriguing neighbour of Jerry is a brilliant creation whose madness sometimes makes your mind marvel.

Shoe-spiration...

I was shopping the other day and found a fabulous pair of shoes at one of my favourite shops ZU. They are called 'Sunrise' -white lace with silver sparkle, 14.5cm heel and 5.5cm platform which elongates my legs. They are beautiful shoes, a work of art. I am considering wearing them in Vegas.

What has inspired the start to your week? Kooklah Xx

Revlon Nail Enamel Trial...

Last week, a friend who I work with and I decided we would try the new addition to Revlon 's nail polish line called Revlon ColourStay Longwear Nail Enamel. This nail polish is a gel based type of enamel designed to last longer with less chips and cracks then regular nail polish. The creators have adapted the concept of Shellac (a gel like nail polish) which lasts for 2-3 weeks and created a retail version that can be done at home. I first saw the enamel advertised in Australian Cleo.

When applying the enamel it was quite thick and gluggy and was actually more difficult to apply then what I had first anticipated. I felt almost like I did the first time I had applied nail polish as a little girl, clumsy and awkward... It was due to the consistency of the enamel and how you not only had to use strokes to apply it but also to smooth it before it began to dry. I found using a base coat created a smoother surface to apply to, I then applied 2-3 coats of enamel and finished with a top coat to protect and increase shine.

Waiting for it to dry it was quite thick, looking like gel or acrylic nails, but once it dried it was flat, the colour deep and perfectly painted-plus great shine! Here is how they looked day one:

Bold Sangria (#260)

So the first day was pretty chilled, I had a day off round home, the next two days I worked 12hour shifts at work as an emergency nurse, both were full on and hectic, I certainly wasn't gentle or protective of my hands and nails. The next day I was spring cleaning and moving furniture around, followed by 2-3 days of days off with little manual labour and lots of hanging out at my friend's.
Here is how they looked after all of that:

Result: Pretty happy, they lasted perfectly (no chips, cracks, scratches) through two full on 12hour nursing shifts, moving furniture the next day (one or two chips happened) and a further three days. The Revlon Colourstay Longwear Nail Enamel lasted three times longer than regular nail polish. Verdict: Keeper. Worth the money, especially if you don't have alot of wear and tear to your nails.


Two friends of mine have also trialled the nail enamel and here is what they had to say:
A used Saucy (a red/gold colour) and said-
"I just got the brand new 'Saucy', and it's lasted a week... even with me at work for four days, ripping open boxes and stuff and getting my hands jammed in a really really strong magnet, they lasted and barely chipped at all. I'm really impressed. :) "

J used Passionate Pink (bright/hot pink) and said-
"I found it interesting to apply, really gluggy. Nice finish. They have lasted pretty well for 5-6 days. They were all good until I used exit mould [day 5] followed by another 12hour shift. Not too bad"

Have you used this enamel? If so, what are your thoughts?

Kooklah Xx
(If there are any other topics, aspects, products of beauty/accessories/styling that you would like me to review, please leave a comment or email me: kooklahstyle@gmail.com )

Inspire Me Monday...

Hi lovely readers! I love sharing this post of all the things inspiring me at the start of a week.
Sometimes you need something to make Monday not so blue.
Here are five things that have grabbed my interest and are sparking the start of my week....

WANDERLUST- let's go on a journey...

People have always told me that once you go overseas, the travel bug gets you. I already have it... All I can think of are ways to get out of here and go explore another land. And so it is....

Only as old as you feel...

I love this picture below, the two elderly people going about their day, their spirits inside are young, dancing, joyful. Though we get older with time passing on, we can still have a free, fun seeking spirit.

Sparkle* up the Ordinary...

I love some sparkle, and especially if you can add it to a piece from everyday life.

Team Tartan

Ever since I was a little girl with my tartan dress I have loved the pattern. These days I have a much beloved vintage jacket that is tartan and would love to master these nails one day....

A Blast from the Past

Lately I have started to re-watch Veronica Mars, I used to love it when I was a teenager and it first aired. Her quick wit and super sleuthing powers, all mastered whilst in school. Plus the main character's own mystery which drives most waking hours had me hooked.

What is inspiring your week? Kooklah Xx

Hint of Glamour- #2

So many of you liked the first Hint of Glamour post I wrote that I decided to make it a regular post series.

The focus today is, one of my favourite celebrities, Lauren Conrad (yes-I have Lauren fever!).

There are so many possible outfits or looks from Lauren that I could use for this post, but I am going to focus on two aspects in particular- the long-sleeved shift dress and low ponytail. Both are simple but elegant looks, which when used in combination offer a chic and classic look. This look is perfect for brunch with the girls, shopping or family parties but can also be glam for birthdays or nights out. Below I have included a few different outfits from Lauren using atleast one of these aspects. Lauren's low ponytail is often wavy, which adds a fun vibe whereas a straight, sleek low ponytail is perfect for work or to help achieve a minimalistic look (Click here for a fantastic blog on minimalism).

Lauren Look One: The Hills Season 6 (and series) Finale Party

Mid-rise ponytail, streamlined slightly volumised

height at the front teamed with loose waves.
This hairdo is fun and party perfect.

The dress is fitted without been too tight (allowing easy

movement), the green matches Lauren's eyes and pops

against her hair and skin tone. Nude pumps perfectly complete

the outfit. This is an outfit which easily goes from day to night









Lauren Look Two: Lauren Clothing Line Launch at Kohl's

Love! This look takes a glam and edgy ensemble
and combines the sleek hairdo with a perfect smokey eye.
The result is effortlessly chic, brilliant for a night out!

This is a trend I am planning on really trying out this winter!

Let me know what you think, do you like this look? Do you have a favourite 'Lauren Look?'

Would love to hear from you,

Kooklah Xx

Anticipation for Beauty..

As anyone who knows me or reads my blogs would know, one of my favourite celebrities is Lauren Conrad. She is one of my icons- for style, beauty and etiquette. Very classy.

I have a hardcopy of 'Style', Lauren's first book on tips, tricks, hits and misses, it is a great guide to sorting out what your own individual style is as well as providing fantastic ideas to try. I am eagerly awaiting the release of another guide called 'Beauty' (see below for the cover). Anyone who watched 'The Hills' will be greatly anticipating 'Beauty' as well- the winged tip eyeliner, perfect (and SENSATIONAL) waved hair, red lips, smooth skin, defined eyebrows and updos for nights out.

Lauren has also stated that she will be including her less then fine moments, which I think is really commendable, it means that she recognises that style and beauty are constantly changing, you learn and grow with your individual tastes and learn from mistakes. I know I definitely have made many, but they have enabled me to improve.. mostly it is just looking back that you notice it-looking at photos and cringing. Below are a few style or beauty misses I have been guilty of over the years:

*  Blue eyeshadow- not in a blended, coloured smokey eye way but in year 8 I LOVED wearing bright blue eyeshadow, with everything. I thought I rocked it... at the time.
*  Just below the knee ugg-boots.. Yep I grew up (in high school), with that trend. Me and my best friend had a matching latte coloured pair with fur/wool at the top of the boot and shoelaces that tied up the side of the boot. Oh dear.
*  Overaccessorising- when I was younger it was multiple bracelets, a necklace, earrings.. Coco Chanel was right, less is more. Or using a eye-catching statement piece that is bold and requires no other
* Tights as pants. Now (unless I am in the comfort of my own home), I use tights paired with dresses, oversized shirts/jumpers where the garment come to atleast mid thigh.

I do not regret any of these as they have all gotten me to the style I have now, I'm not saying it is perfect but I am definitely better at putting together an outfit and often get friends asking for advice or assistance.

I cannot wait to add this book to my collection of style, beauty and fashion guides, lookbooks and how-tos. I use them to learn more about these areas, dicover new tricks or perfect a skill. Coming up in a couple of posts time I am going to be talking about Nina Garcia, currently working at Marie Claire in America as 'Fashion Director', who has some fabulous style tips-which she has released four books about!

Do you have a fashion guide/book/guru who inspires your style and/or the way you achieve it? If so, who and why?

Kooklah Xx

Inspire Me Monday

Inspire me Monday-that time of the week again (missed last week due to some personal stuff but this post should more than make up for it). Sometimes you need something to make Monday not so blue. Five things that have grabbed my interest and are sparking the start of my week....

Shoe-spiration

"Give a girl the right shoes and she can conquer the world" Marilyn Monroe... These shoes are amazing, a clever take from Jimmy Choo on the gladiator sandal by turning them into classy heels with a touch of glitter, for all you Aussies, click here for an amazing discount from the Manolo Blahnik Australian Outlet.

Retreat Memories

Mentoring on my old high school's retreat (for the third year), supporting the students through highs and lows they have experienced as well as providing them with tools for the future. Three days. Unbelieveable memories. This was our outdoor thinking spot, a place to go, be still. I am thankful for the people I was lucky enough to meet, the moments shared, the way they have changed my life and made it better... Whenever I am stressed or upset, I will look back on this and breathe. My own little solace, my own piece of heaven.

Words for Thought

The way we think really impact on how we feel, how we act and the kind of life we have. The three days on the retreat really reinforced that to me, especially when the people I was working with kept telling me that they viewed me as positive, determined and supportive... It really showed me that the internal conflict I sometimes put myself through, really is worthless. If I keep my thoughts and outlook positive it should translate to my life.

Notice ME Nails

I love nicely painted nails, and lately I have been really obsessed with brightly coloured nails. They can add a pop of colour to basic or monochrome outfits (including a work uniform if your job allows it). Once I have finished my no shopping challenge, I think I might buy a bottle or two of Revlon's new Colourstay Longwear Nail enamel, in the theme of gelbased nail polish Revlon have released a product that is affordable, long lasting with bright and intense colours. Looking forward to trying it! (colour pictured is Stormy Night)

A Journey to Jane's World

I have always wanted to read the works of Jane Austen, not just the six main novels but also her short stories and works collected after she died. One of my favourite movies is The Jane Austen Book Club (click the link for the trailor). So today I have started 'Pride and Prejudice' so far I am loving it. Have you read any of the novels?

Here's to another week, looking forward to a midweek break when one of my best friends and I are heading to the coast to eat good food, watch dvds, snuggle under bankets and enjoy each others company.

What is inspiring your week? Kooklah Xx....

style icons

I have two main style icons- Audrey Hepburn and Drew Barrymore. They both portray confidence in what they wear and aren’t afraid to take risks with their fashion.

Audrey inspires me because her sense of style was feminine yet practical. She wore hats, pants, detailed beautiful dresses. And of course, made the LBD an iconic piece of clothing, becoming a must have in every girl’s wardrobe. I have atleast five. She also dressed for her shape, in clothes that suited her features which inspires me to no end to dress to suit my individual style and comfort. Plus the lady could wear a hat well, enough said.

Drew inspires me by the way she dresses in many different styles. In the blink of an eye she can go from edgy rock chick to floaty dreamy girly girl clothing. Her clothing choices are always quirky showing alittle bit of her personality. Mostly whatever she wears you can tell she believes it and loves the clothes. She also isn’t afraid to experiment and mix styles- something I also love to do. She is very curvy, which as someone who is also curvy, I find it inspiring that she celebrates her curves with her fashion choices instead of hiding it. In a society where there is sometimes pressure to be thin I am thankful for an icon like Drew, as she said “God gave me working arms and legs, why should I complain about my curves and my body”.

See my post fashion inspiration for a broader look at who inspires my style and why... Who inspires your own style?

Kooklah Xx

Inspire me Monday

Inspire me Monday, because sometimes you need something to make Monday not so blue. Five things that have grabbed my interest and are sparking the start of my week....

(This is a 'co-post' with my personal blog- Kooklah Check it out!!)

Get Lost in the Music- Trial Kennedy, the Final Tour

(One of my favourite indie bands on the Australian Scene, saying goodbye at one last show)

Hairspiration- Braided Topknots

(Such a cute, fun and original take on one of my favourite hairstyle the topknot.

Check out my post on topknots: The Carrie Bradshaw Bun)

Wanderlust- New York City Calling

(Have a trip booked for September in New York City is one of the destinations!

So excited, cannot wait to explore the city I've been dreaming of all these years. Getting butterflies everytime it's mentioned! See this post on NYC as my money saving inspiration)

Look at ME Legs- Embellished Stockings

(A trend full of style, individuality and Sparkle... Click here for more)

Guilty Pleasure Read- Sugar and Spice

(Third novel in the L.A Candy Series by Lauren Conrad)

What is your favourite OR what is giving you inspiration at the start of the week? Check out my personal blog Kooklah, or look me up and follow me on Pinterest. Hope your week started well!


Kooklah Xx