This month I had a chance to travel to Andalusia, the southern part of Spain where citrus trees line city streets and parks, Muslim and Christian heritage coexist in the most marvelous ways, tapas is the name of the game and flamenco passion ignites long Mediterranean nights. With a few days spare before my work obligations, I landed with no idea what to expect.  I thought I’d see one or two places, shoot an autumn trends story, then laze by the pool and read some books but an upgrade to a sports car at the airport changed all that. Suddenly I was overwhelmed with wanderlust and ended up changing towns like knickers instead. Olé!

Florals in winter are all the rage. Don’t forget your headband, hair clip or scrunchie (Rebecca Valance dress, Giuseppe Zanotti sandals, Avenue the label hairclip and scrunchie, Karen Walker earrings)

This autumn , beige it out. Any shade of neutral is a go and head to toe looks get bonus points. Layering is a huge trend, so get creative.( Max Mara overcoat, Nique coat, Rama Voyage shirt, Hansen and Gretel pants,Gucci bag, Jennifer Chamandi shoes from Net-a-Porter)

MALAGA: Land here and wonder where all the fancy shops and restaurants are – they’re half an hour’s drive down in Marbella, the beach resort playground. Still give Malaga a chance for the night and hit the Picasso museum (he was born there) then see the palatial fortification of Alcazaba for sunset- the beautiful gardens are something else.

I’m a big believer in leopard print being a neutral necessity and I’m glad designers agree. All animal print is good this season, especially zebra. Layer for impact, it’s never enough (Carla Zampatti coat, Rebecca Valance dress, Maria Farro sandals)

NERJA: Even out of season this bustling beachside town is all tiny old streets,incredible sunrises and sunsets, cute beaches, fresh seafood and clean surf. Rent an apartment to live like a local and check out Maro’s beach and the next two coves around it for the most beautiful swims – the trek by organic farms is worth it

Who says white is only for summer? Parisian designers just showed a plethora of winter whites for autumn 2020 ( Zimmermann dress, Sir The Label pants, Gianvitto Rossi Shoes )

GRANADA: Stay at the old glory of Hotel Alhambra Palace for the best views of the town and the short walk to the UNESCO listed Alhambra palace and fortress. It was one of the most beautiful places I had ever been to. Follow it up with a tajine at one of the many Moroccan restaurants

One shouldered tops and dresses are back, so are lace inserts, pants under dresses, checks, plaid and tartan (Max Mara coat, Christopher Esber dress, Ginger and Smart pants,Antonio Parriego boots)

CORDOBA: Possibly my favourite place of all with it’s gorgeous town, walled mosque with a Christian cathedral inside, the biggest old hammam in Europe, a stunning palace and medina. Check out the flamenco at Arte y Sabores for an unforgettable experience.

It’s all about print- psychadelic,tie dye,floral or all at once? Take your pick. Oversize shoulders are a must and you’re not dressed without a hat (Romance was Born dress, Christian Louboutin boots, vintage hat)

SEVILLE: Oh how I loved this place. Stay at the grand old hotel Alfonzo XII and the majestic Alcazar palace and gardens are just two blocks away. The city hums with it’s own beat and horse drawn carriages lining the streets add a romantic feel

Self shot using a Nikon camera
This story appeared on Vogue.com.au here!
 

Snowflakes softly falling, novelty reindeer sweater, eggnog, a roaring fire, making a snowman…wait what? This is not an Australian Christmas! It’s more like prawns on the barbie, swim in the ocean, schvitzing in the heat and flitting from family to friends’ events because it's not like we are getting stuck in a blizzard for three days. We don’t celebrate like other countries do, so of course our wardrobe isn’t going to be a one size fits all either. Unencumbered by the cold, blessed by the warm breezes with no coat or beany in sight, I’ve compiled a list of 6 dresses that are perfect accompaniments to every activity you may have this holiday.

FORMAL CHRISTMAS EVE

I was born in Europe so a big, fancy, ott dinner is a must. Along with going so extravagant on food that I have leftovers till the New Year ( I’m eagerly awaiting you turkey sandwiches), I always dress up in something beautiful. This year I have slotted this star spangled Leo and Lin dress, Roger Vivier slippers and matching Kismet by Milka star diamond earrings at the top of my wish list.

XMAS BRUNCH WITH FRIENDS:

One last catch up before everyone flies off to see their families so it’s an opportune time to take the festive mood board and deconstruct it. Give the Xmas tree a run for it’s money with this cool Prada dress while making Santa jealous with red hot Christian Louboutin boots and Prada bag

CHRISTMAS DRINKS :

Heading out to a party? It’s time to slip into some Bec & Bridge dark green lamé , grab a Dior saddle bag, put on some Mercedes Castillo mules (from Net-a-Porter) and turn yourself into a disco goddess. Trust me, this dress loves a dance.

CHRISTMAS ON THE BEACH:

Having Christmas lunch with the family, then heading to the beach for a dip?  You need a dress that can multitask , so may I suggest this Zimmermann silk number that loves to play with the breeze whilst keeping you as cool as a cucumber. Accessorize with a Lack Of Colour hat, Karen Walker sunglasses and Christian Dior slides for tonal perfection

CHRISTMAS BBQ WITH FRIENDS:

Hanging with your homies this year and just kicking back? You need something cool and chill, yet sexy enough in case that cute guy is there- I feel this Dion Lee baby is your ticket. Pair it with a roomy Cult Gaia bag, Ancient Greek Sandals and a Reliquia initial necklace that will help him remember your name.

PICNIC WITH YOUR LOVE

:Family isn’t on the cards this year but gazing into your boyfriend’s eyes as you eat ham sandwiches and sip champagne is? It doesn’t get more romantic and gorgeous than this fine lace Dior dress. Add a snakeskin print bag by Rejina Pyo ( from Net-a-Porter) for a reference to Eve in the Garden, while keeping it dressed down in Ancient Greek Sandals

Self shot on Nikon D750
This editorial first appeared on vogue.com.au

A few years ago, I decided I didn’t want to turn around when I am older and realize that I have run out of time to see all the places I’ve always wanted to go to, so I decided that I would travel to a couple of bucket list places each year until the day I give up the ghost.

This year, one of those places was Tuscany, the long revered and wistfully imagined Italian countryside. Italy, I have been to plenty,but Tuscany was always a little too far from the action of Rome, Milan or Capri to make a trek to when I was younger. Funny how things change as one gets older- now all I search for is a place where peace can overcome my whirring brain into blissful submission.

First thing to know about Tuscany is that it’s actually quite big. Not perhaps by Australian standards, but it became clear that to see the region you’d have to put aside at least 2 weeks of holiday, not just a long weekend. Winding country roads make for slow driving and that’s exactly how it should be when traversing rolling hills, ancient hamlets and the gold of summer wheat fields. Not that this impressed my 11 year old daughter Coco who wanted to know when we would get to a pool.

Our destination ; Castello Di Vicarello, a romantic boutique hotel set in an old castle run by two brothers passionate about preserving the best artesian techniques and marrying them with the most luxurious 21^stcentury comforts. Boasting their own veggie garden, olive grove and vineyard plus game, wild mushroom and truffle hunting in the fall and spectacular wildflowers in the spring, the hotel also has extensive grounds, dual pools, excellent locally sourced produce, beautiful rooms and well, it’s perfect ok? We didn’t want to leave it’s literally that amazing

I packed light for this trip -just a few dresses, a couple of swimsuits and two pairs of shoes. Travelling light is a change for me but a perfect white dress in summer is non negotiable. This one made me feel like Brigitte Bardot by hugging my curves whilst miraculously giving me an actual cleavage.

( Sir the Label dress, vintage gold medallion necklace worn throughout)

I may be multitasking my clothes but my toiletries bag is well stocked, especially during the summer months when the heat and the sun’s rays become too drying. I always carry some coconut oil for my skin and hair (apply in the shower for ultimate hydration), then I follow it up with the John Masters Organics Blood Orange and Vanilla body Milk. For my face I love Kora Organics Noni Glow Face Oil followed up by the Hop & Cotton The Skinshield zinc protector, however if things get really dire I will do a La Praire Skin Caviar Luxe Sleep Mask to get my skin back to life. My hair becomes brittle without the Damage Remedy Aveda shampoo and conditioner and the Philip Kingsley Elasticizer Coconut Breeze leave in conditioner, and as far as make up; all I really do in the summer is a smidgen of Giorgio Armani’s power fabric foundation, Charlotte Tilbury beach stick in Moon Beach, Clarins Mascara Supra Volume, Shu Uemura eyebrow pencil and a good lip balm like Carla Oates Beauty Fix balm that can also double as an emergency moisturizer .

I love that the slow food movement originated in Italy – it is in Tuscany that you really notice how amazing ingredients equal incredible food. One of my favourite moments was eating wild boar pappardelle and artisanal copper stamped corzetti pasta with nettle, along with good chianti and a sunset dip in the pool ( Matteau swim)

It was hard leaving heaven but on our way back to Rome, we visited many beautiful villages and towns such as the incredible Pitigliano, Montepulciano and Cortona as well as Terme Di Saturnia, where warm healing mineral rich water bursts out of the ground in a waterfall seeping into a series of natural pools. Book dinner at the Ristorante Due Cippi or Bacco E Cerere for one last hit of Tuscany food porn. ( Zimmerman bikini, Prada sunglasses from Sunglass hut )

With thanks to Castello Di Vicarello and my daughter Coco

A COMPLETE GUIDE TO BEACHES, RESTAURANTS + THINGS TO SEE AND DO

I debated writing this story as I really didn't want any more people to go to the island I have been taking my annual summer vacation on for the last 14 years and yet all my squirrelling away was foiled with the release of Mamma Mia 2 

Even though the island portrayed in the movie pretends to be set in Greece, it is really the island of Vis, a place far away from mainland Croatia in the indigo of the Adriatic sea scented by pine and wild flowering herbs. So how could anyone have kept something so magical a secret for so long?

Exploring a monastery in Thomas Puttick

Even though it was under siege throughout history, the 20th century saw the Yugoslav army seal the island off to the public in order to expand the military bases so it sank into obscurity for decades. Yet even with the fall of Yugoslavia, tourist invasion never came due to distance, as people tend to seek immediate gratification or flashier, more famous islands.

Catching up on books at Srebrna beach in Zimmermann

Stay
There are two harbour towns on the island. Vis town is the main port but do stay a 20 minute walk away in Kut, a 16th century stone cobbled hamlet where flowering capers climb walls, grandmas sell wine out of their basement and kids run the streets unsupervised. It’s as Adriatic as it used to be yet trendy restaurants and bars now dot the streets too. On the other side of the island there is Komiza, an old fisherman town where men still repair their nets by hand, streets drop off into the ocean and sunset swims are a must. The rest of the island is dotted with tiny villages, vineyards and beautiful little coves. Choose to stay somewhere central for convenience or secluded for privacy but do book soon as accommodation on the island is scarce, often booking out a whole year in advance. Try Airbnb for some incredible holiday rentals or a boutique hotel like San Giorgio.

Village lunching in a Matin Studio dress

Do
Take a speedboat or sailboat around the island starting with a skip to the islet of Biševo to see the Blue Grotto, then continue on to the majestic beach of Stiniva, followed by a visit to the Green Cave and lunch on the islet of Budikovac. Alternatively, hire a scooter and head into the green inner belly for a vineyard hop and beach cove discovery. There is also a tour of the abandoned military complex tunnels available for the adventurous.

Swimming in a Massimo Dutti shirt, Matteau swim bikini and White Story shorts

Eat

In Vis, Pojoda serves old school specialties, Villa Kaliopa is set in a beautiful garden, Konoba Lola has cocktails, a pretty yard and modernised favourites, Buffet Vis is all about the freshest seafood in an simple setting and Karijola is a pizza night favourite.

In Komiza, Jastozeria had a famous scene in Mamma Mia and that said table now has a special plaque but the lobster dishes haven’t changed. Konoba Bako is perfect for date night, so make sure you book a seaside table in advance and visit just before sunset. Restaurant Hum has yummy favourites and Fabrika is great for a burger or breakfast.

If you are inland or at the coves visit Gušti Poja, Aerodrom Gostionica, Roki’s Tavern Peruka at Stiniva, Konoba Senko, the restaurant on Budikovac and Stončica for lunch. Make sure you order ahead and do try the peka, lamb or octopus slow cooked under an iron bell inside a fire oven.

 Dinner at the table featured in the movie wearing Zimmermann and Stuart Weitzman

Drink:

Vis isn’t much of a party island like it’s flashier cousins but it does have some fun. My favourite is Lambik bar for a relaxed evening drink, or head to the centuries old Fort George for a late night DJ boosted boogie. Komiza sometimes has parties at Kamenica beach but I prefer to sample the unique native plavac mali red from the many wine bars and konobas instead
This story appeared on Vogue.com.au here!

Fashion Week only swings around once a year in Australia so come May everyone in the industry is lining up their outfits, pillaging pr agencies, last minute online shopping, loaning from friends and otherwise spending solid quality time in front of the mirror.

Dear reader; I wanted to be one of these people but I was doing the MBFWA review story for vogue.com.au in the lead up and hence was too overwhelmed with existing loans,countless emails and shoot production to think street style.When Monday came around and I had no outfit, I sent some emails and my assistant to pick up a few things from a couple of ravaged pr offices that now looked like supermarkets before Hurricane Irma hit ; barren and sparse.

First world problems these may be but one needs to get through the week clothed and my preference is a tad more fabric than what Bella Hadid wears on the Cannes red carpet 😉

Even though many Australian heavyweights didn't show this year, there were many highlights to the week so I decided to do a little photo diary - I want you to see all the fun that was to be had ! Sadly, I'm not posting all the shows I went to- some of them I just didn't get great pictures at - sometimes the lights are too low and the models move too fast.

DAY 1: Camilla & Marc started off the week with a bang, all cool tailoring, oversized jackets, shoulder pads, ruffles, off the shoulder dresses and skirts over pants. There were so many things to love here, all I can say is: send separates guys!

The Camilla & Marc stage was this amazing outback-ey looking set that every single person tried to get a photo in after the show. Here's me, semi soaked still cause it was pouring outside, elbowing my way to a quiet corner with the help of Yan Yan Chan who took these photos for me (thanks Jan ; )).

Wearing Rebecca Valance skirt and bustier, Balmain Top, La Perla bra, Gucci bag, Zimmermann shoes and a vintage Versace jacket

DAY 2 :Monday was a busy day, so what better way to start it but by wearing head to toe pink and matching it to a double shot flat white in a Dion Lee Vittoria cup ? Wearing Dion Lee top and pants, Michael Lo Sordo jacket, Fendi bag, Charlotte Olympia shoes, Balenciaga earring and vintage Balenciaga sunglasses

I loved the Bianca Spender show; all oversized, feminine suits and flowing, sensual silks. Well tailored and flattering with a sustainable bend, I can't wait to wear some of those slinky silk dresses over wide legged pants

En route to the Alice McCall show  (Alice Mccall pants, Ginger and Smart top, Gucci shoes, YSL bag and Matteau bikini top )

If Alice Mccall had a girl she were making clothes for it would be a fun party girl with vintage sensibilities. Some of her dresses and shorts used to be so short they'd make my eyes water ( cause I didn't have the guts to expose so much of my pins ) so I'm loving how some of the hemlines are longer this season and there are amazing maxi gowns in the fray too. Lace detailing and lamé dresses never hurt the party girl either, let's face it

My mates Mikey & Toby over at Double Rainbow did an amazing job growing their hawaiian shirt label into a veritable style reference of their own. This show was pure festival summer incarnated with mesh tops, prints galore, tracksuit combos, clever t-shirts and beach shorts we all need once the heatwave hits. Big love to Sarah Starkey who styled this show to perfection, within the restricted confines of the Landsdowne hotel non the less.

It was 9 pm when the Double Rainbuu show finished so I rushed to the intimate dinner Michael Lo Sordo was hosting at the city institution that is Bambini Trust. I had to make a swift change into a Michael Lo Sordo look in the car, across the road from a packed bus stop which was as hilariously awkward as you can imagine. The girls and I were all Lo Sordo brides that night- Sunny Vandervelde took this fun snap of us in front of the restaurant before we all settled to a gorgeous candlelit dinner. Thanks Michael and MCM pr for this wonderful night!

DAY 3 When you're dressed so farshion but you wish you were wearing a bikini and diving in!

Wearing Undone Project pants, Jill Sander t-shirt from Net-a-Porter, Zimmermann shoes, Dinosaur designs earrings and bracelet, From St Xavier clutch and Double Rainbuu x Le Specs sunglasses 

The Emilia Wickstead x Matches Fashion was a pure delight. Not only was it held at the spectacular Wylie's baths which I'd never been to before but the weather was incredible, the clothes lovely, the atmosphere magical, the champagne cold and the appetisers delicious. Can every show be like this? I wanted to twirl in these pretty dresses and dive into some long gone Riviera pool whilst wearing a pink swim cap. This show evoked so many feels that I escaped through a portal to another time. When the show finished, I still didn't want to leave because the reality was wonderful too.

Snakeskin, lamé, 70s, gingham, sheer...the Hansen & Gretel show had all the trends. All I can say is: I'm coming for you head to toe snakeskin print, don't even bother hiding cause I'll find you!

I had some time to rush home and get changed for the Romance Was born show ( wearing Romance Was Born, Gianvitto Rossi from Net-a-porter shoes, Reliquia earrings )

Hello lamé, hello slinky goddesses, hello prints, ruffles and the joy of seeing creativity unbridled - Romance Was Born show is always such an unmissable event on the week's calendar. This year, the underbelly of Hubert's was transformed into a Parisian salon where models twirled between tables and enchanted us with ruffles, lace and batwings.

Clockwise from left: Jessica Gomez, Yan Yan Chan, Anna Plunket and Luke Sales with a performer,model holding the RWB book, yummy dinner ,Isabella Manfredi dancing on tabletops

As if the beautiful clothes weren't enough, guests were presented with a delicious 3 course sit down dinner and drag queen singers that ravished the captive audience with vintage hits. The night also served as a launch for RWB's incredible retrospective book - if you love fashion, buy this book as it's sure to be iconic ( and whilst you're page turning, play a little find Tanja game- there are a few pictures in there from my modelling days ) The fun didn't stop there- after the show, some of us stayed on for a nightcap and danced on tabletops ( i'm looking at you Isabella Manfredi ; ))

DAY4: One of the highlights was the Christopher Esber show today, with it's impeccable detailing and painstakingly beautiful beaded knits. I wanted so many items from this show. Worn as a look , these were strong pieces but equally important; any one of them would elevate plain old t-shirts or jeans to new heights. I also had a deadline today so I spent most of my day just editing : (

Wearing Zimmermann pants, Michael Lo Sordo top, Gucci Belt, Byfar x Net-a-Porter sandals, YSL bag from Net-a-Porter, vintage necklaces and jacket, Reliquia earrings

Day5: Nothing like the joy of arriving to the Ten Pieces show at Icebergs and finding my girl Lindy Klim was seated next to me. Love an early morning catch up! ( Wearing vintage top, Fendi sunglasses, Lindy wearing Rama Voyage and Dion Lee)

Maurice Terzini and his partner Lucy did such a great job with this collection. Modern, fresh,androgynous and wearable, the clothes were as cool as the show was fast paced and to the point, a bit like mr Terzini himself. Bonus points for casting some of the coolest characters around who promptly started a dance off on the balcony when the show ended.
The evening saw the ethereal Akira show and the tribal inspired Camilla show, followed by Russh magazine's dance party extravaganza ..needless to say the weekend in bed was heaven sent!

Thanks so much to all the designers, models, hair and make up artists, pr and my fellow journalist and bloggers for making this MBFWA such a hoot

Go big or go home
For the ultimate date-night outfit, choose a backless rose strewn maxi dress then throw on an oversized cardigan and a sparkly low heel, because this season elegance is all about comfort.

(Gucci dress, shoes and cardigan, Begum Khan earrings and Dior Double Rouge lipstick in Poison Purple.)

Beauty note: Hourglass Vanish Seamless Finish foundation, Charlotte Tilbury Filmstar Bronze and Glow, Shu Uemura Brow Sword and Gigi Hadid for Maybelline Fiber Mascara worn throughout. 

Photographed by Alice Wesley-Smith
Assisted by Eleni George
This post appeared on Vogue.com.au here!

Walking past opal digging equipment in a Zimmermann dress, Hermes hat, Aquazurra sandals, Jordan Askill heart and diamond pave ring, Ole Lynggaard pearl and diamond ring, Cartier Love bracelet worn throughout.

As the days get longer and warmer I start shedding layers like an overexcited snake after hibernation. Summer is my favourite time of the year because it’s so easy; no need to think about umbrellas, overcoats or waterproof boots – all I need is a few dresses, hats, sunglasses and sandals and I’m ready for any occasion.

I travelled to Coober Pedy in outback Australia to shoot this story and escape the still chilly shores of Sydney. What a treat to shoot somewhere so remote and beautiful. I was struck by the vast horizons, Aboriginal sacred land and gorgeous sunsets whilst I donned some of the stand out trends of 2017.

Summer calls for colour

Above : Welcome summer in exuberant shades of yellows; my bet is on sunflower, ochre, buttercup and gold. A wide brimmed hat and pretty jewellery is a must.

A bumbag is a bag for any occasion

This season, the practical and long-maligned accessory is having its time in the sun after reaching ironic cool status. Wear with anything from jeans to gowns for that on trend je ne sais qui.

Exploring the mysterious Moon Plains in a Rachel Gilbert gown, Miu Miu bag, Prada earrings and necklace worn backward.

Invest in simple staples

My perfect summer day look is always a mixture of linen in neutrals and browns and amazing accessories.

Hanging out with emus by the Dog Fence in a Nice Martin playsuit, Hermès bag and Chaine d’Ancre punk bracelet, Dior sunglasses, Akubra hat from Strand Hatters and Seed slip ons.

Accessorise wisely

If you must do heels in summer, this season choose from a variety of kitten heels and low block-heeled mules. A structured white bag goes with a wide variety of summer looks, whilst shirting works day or night.

Bathing in the outback sunset while wearing a Prada bag, dress and heels.

This story originally appeared on vogue.com.au here!

One of the best things about summer is being able to wear dresses. As a tomboy, I missed out on the joys of frocks as a kid, so doggedly determined was I that they were the foul epitome of ponce and oppression.  Yet once I found myself in the late 20s all I wanted was to feel feminine and pretty. So now, my first port when choosing a summer outfit is a beautiful dress.

For the second installment of my collaboration with Havaianas,here are some summer dresses I'm loving now ..
70s redux is always in fashion during summer and maxi dresses are my favourite. I love this airy, knitted number as much for it's daytime, beach appeal as for it's nighttime backless allure.

Pair it with matching leather accessories ( Havaianas You Riviera thongs in Sand Grey , Hansel and Gretel dress, Mon Purse bag, Holly Ryan earrings worn throughout )

A burst of bright lime colour plus pretty shoulder detailing makes this dress a summer favourite, while white accessories provide suitable pop

( Havaianas Freedom Cream Thongs, Ginger and Smart dress, Versace bag, Le Specs sunglasses )

Choose cinched up ruffles in feather light silk paired with toughed up thongs and tassels for a look that is a blend of boho and rock chick

( SL Crystal SW Black Thongs, Zimmermann dress, Jerome Dreyfuss bag )

Photographed by : Alice Wesley-Smith

What does a girl do when given the chance to attend New York Fashion Week? Well, pack a suitcase full of spring trends and jump on the plane of course!

The weather was beautifully temperate, Australian designers rocked NYC catwalks, many Manhattan cocktails were drunk and beautiful dinners with friends accompamied by quite a bit of dancing took place — to give you an idea.
Here, I've pulled together three trends I loved wearing while in New York.

( Zimmermann playsuit, Chloe x Net-a-porter sunglasses, Gucci Bag, Alice McCall jacket and JYJewels earrings)

Playsuits

Playsuits are a favourite come warm weather for their cute yet practical versatility. Floral prints are always in, come spring, but throw on a big fluffy coat and a pair of oversized sunglasses and you have a 70s redux outfit that is somewhere between rockstar and disco diva. Lay on the glitz this season.

( Trelise Cooper coat, Double Rainbuu sweater, vintage skirt and Balenziaga mules)

Colour blocking
Colour blocking is back in a big way for spring, so choose primary colours for maximum impact. Big, feathery coats, oversized sweaters and pencil skirts are also a current trend. Try a kitten heel mule for ultimate comfort.

(Tanja wears vest by Tome, Elley flares, YSL bag and sunglasses)

Suiting

Suiting is one of those trends that will never age, but this season it’s de rigueur, or required. Choose from oversized, slouchy to form fitting and feminine, long suits a lá dresses, or vests as tops.

Shot by: India Hartford in New York
read the original story up on the newly relaunched vogue.com.au here!

Spring is awakening in the depths of the Antipodean countries like a shy deciduous leaf bud, magnetic fullness of the sun tingling it's roots outward with a promise of warmth . Just as the golden rays of summer dim in the North by a minute at first, then two are added to days here and just like that, the light changes and daylight after 5pm starts again. Oh sweet daylight life after 17 o'clock! I have missed you!

Ok, ok, I must disclose, and many of you would know if you follow my instagram, in fact I slightly cheated and spent 3 weeks in my birth country of Croatia in July enjoying a hiatus from blog life, each day filled with sun, swimming , cooking and watching my daughter pull out an array of various sea urchins out of the sea for inspection before throwing them back , wide eyed, each time, as if it were a miracle. Which, indeed it is, as is anything we really look at with unclouded, curious eyes. Everything around us is a wonder, a dream within a dream, and a dear friend of mine tells me each time he sees me : "Tanja, all you touch and all you see is all your life will ever be!", quoting of course Pink Floyd's Breathe. And he is right. If anything I'm realising more and more with each day of being alive, it would be how much more I can open my eyes,  how many more ways there are to see, to touch, to taste, to smell, to understand , breathe, love, embrace. It truly is all about perception of our experience, what we allow ourselves to compute once we peer past the programs we run in our heads as defaults.

Take next season's curious mix of burgundy, maroon, pink and mauve shades for example. Not just because they are your ticket to one of 2016/2017 's hottest fashion trends but also because they are a conundrum of simultaneously being sweet as spring berries, punchy and spicy as heavy Malbec wine and other non simile laden , simple adjectives such as understated, feminine, elegant and earthy. For my third collaboration with Thomas Sabo, I picked out my favourite jewellery pieces from the new collections for three different personalities, then mixed them in with lustful new season examples of marooney, pink camellia goodness . My Moon, after all is in Gemini, so personalities I know!Above: Unleash your inner punk but switch the Christian symbolism with ancient Egyptian. For example, did you know that some speculate an Ankh was a symbol for a primitive energy transformer? It may sound like a conspiracy theory but the mere whiff of magic excites me, as do winged goddesses on necklaces and the sheen of silver

  Wearing: Ring, bracelet, earrings and necklace by Thomas Sabo, bralette by Agent Provocateur, vintage leather pants, Dorateymur mules, Oroton bag, Dion Lee coat 

Fine jewellery looks best layered and the new triangle collection is no exception. Add a scarab for extra wondering tribal goddess vibes

Wearing: Thomas Sabo bracelets, necklaces and rings, dress by Dion Lee

As the sun sets any self respecting bohemian will reach for her plunging maxi dress - for what else could be more perfect for displaying rows of her protective amulets? Or maybe they are her swan caller charms?

Wearing : Thomas Sabo rings and pendant necklaces, Zimmermann dress

photographed by Alice Wesley- Smith

“There is only one success in life - to be able to spend your life in your own way.”

It’s funny; this sentence perfectly encapsulates the fact that our lives are so much a direct part of our creative direction; thoughts, feelings, conditioning, expectations and the search of what we perceive as love, happiness and prosperity. To ask ourselves what we truly want out of our journey requires a readiness to strip all the onion layers and embrace a zen like bird’s eye view over the whole, not just the momentarily needs and wants of today. Sometimes these snippets of clarity come to us easily and effortlessly, at other times, akin to diamonds, they come through crushing pressure and pain that forces us to re-evaluate the motives that drive us.

When I look back on my journey on this Earth, it becomes evident that it has been a steady stream of peaks and valleys that has perpetuated my personal growth. As in most people’s lives, crushing defeat and sadnesses are superimposed with moments of pure joy and hope, both ultimately driving us to question ourselves and the world around us for clues to our personal happiness. It is not only the alchemy and transmutation of negatives or the allowance and acceptance of positives that are each of our most difficult quests but also our willingness to wrangle the reins and establish ourselves as the chosen architects of our reality by becoming aware of our thoughts and actions.

I always feel lucky to meet people who enjoy the same things as I do and have a similar aesthetic ( probably because I love talking to people about all the shades of our shared perceptions ) but I feel extra blessed to know humans with whom I click so much that even spending exorbitant amounts of time together goes by in a hilarious flash. Sometimes , an extra bonus is that these are individuals that I can create with and in doing so, weave a shared vision into the fabric of reality. My best friend, who also happens to be a photographer and videographer ( and serial M.E.L collaborator) Alice Wesley-Smith is one of those people. During fashion shoots at special locations we both felt that pictures can sometimes be too one dimensional, not allowing for the full ambiance of the experience before us and so the idea for this video was born; we wanted to conceive not only how amazing fashion is by showing the swoosh of a beautiful dress but also the magic mood of perfect light falling on us and beauty of nature before us. After all fashion and travel are complimentary bedfellows and producing this idea would selfishly allow us to invest into a shared need to travel and document the things we love.

For our first video, we chose the unforgettable Australiana of the One & Only Wolgan Valley resort; because where else can you feel dwarfed by orange cliffs and fragrant eucalyptus whilst watching kangaroos play fight in pure luxury? This place is one I hold a soft spot for because it feels like a world away from anywhere; the quiet and the simple opulence are incredibly relaxing while the eco credentials are impressive to say the least. This video encapsulates my perfect trip to Wolgan Valley, complete with horse riding, remote picnicking and swimming in the  private villa pool at dusk whilst wearing some gorgeous clothes tailored to all occasions. I hope you enjoy our labour of love! x

In order of appearance:
Picnic: Zimmermann top, Rachel Gilbert skirt, Akubra hat, Tiffany & Co smile necklace
Hotel room: Camilla & Marc leather tights, vintage jacket, Massimo Dutti shirt, Gucci slippers, Cartier Watch, Mania Mania rings
Horse riding : Levis jeans, Gucci belt, Ryder t-shirt, Coach coat, Akubra hat, Cartier watch, RM Williams boots
Sunset : Lover dress, RM Williams x Dion Lee boots, Akubra hat
Pool: Zimmermann full cover swimsuit

A breton striped t-shirt is always on trend; either as a low key basic, rock ‘n’ roll staple or sailor-esque addition. Whereas a pinstriped shirt always works tucked into a suit for the workday or loose and oversize on the weekend. This spring/summer, stripes were all over the catwalks in a myriad of variations, but to me stripes always represent being on a vacation– whether at a resort or holiday house, stripes add a cheeky yet elegant touch to any look.
Above:A pinstripe shirt is always a good idea – keep it unbuttoned on holidays, a nod to riviera chic. Or keep your cool in a wide legged pant, the perfect getaway cover up. (Massimo Dutti shirt,Zimmermann lace shorts, Thomas Saboo anklet )

There is nothing like a backless maxi for warm spring afternoons – this one pairs stripes and florals, yet looks suprisingly minimalistic. (Ruby Sees All dress)

Forget all you knew about playsuits – the new crop features soft upscale tailoring and clean lines. (Zimmermann playsuit, Nomadic State of Mind rope sandals & Ray Ban sunglasses)

Raffia is always a good choice for holidays – this stripey combo works well with straw and navy (Shona Joy skirt and bralette, Kate Sylvester jacket, Lack of Colors hat & Chloe wedges)

Navy is one of my favourite colours. Not only is it chic, elegant and less severe than black, but it suits every skintone and hair colour. Best of all, navy comes into fashion so regularly, some would argue that like leopard print , it is a mainstay and therefore never out of fashion. In my eyes, this spells go forth and invest !

This season, in keeping with the 70s theme, there are ways to wear navy that will keep it current and on trend. Ofcourse, navy always looks great with white or black but have you tried it with tan, orange or camel ?

Above :Pop your navy with some 70s orange hued shearling, round sunglasses and gold for an instant seasonal update ( Zimmermann jumpsuit, Coach jacket, Sunday Somewhere sunglasses, Tiffany T bracelet, Cartier bracelet

Try navy in a bell sleaved jumpsuit with some tan accessories ( Zimmermann jumpsuit, A-esque bag, Topshop platforms)

Jump on the bell sleeved and fluted skirt bandwagon – it’s all the rage this season ( Ellery top, Sportsmax skirt, Aquazurra sandals from Net-a-porter )

Keeping it simple : turtlenecks and maxi skirts are a match made in fashion heaven ( Zimermann turtleneck, Michael Lo Sordo skirt, Mode collective sandals

View the rest of the story on vogue.com.au here!
Photographed by Alice Wesley Smith

Once upon a time, when I was a teenager, I was a goth (4 lyf ) and I would never, in a million years wear white - the thought of that would be as repelling as listening to love songs after midnight, wearing Stan Smith sneakers, gold jewellery or any kind of pretty thing..and God forbid enjoying being happy or taking off my black, steel capped Dr Martens.

Dear reader; I betrayed my 14 year old self - I now not only love cheesy songs after midnight ( I even sing along ), but I own a box fresh pair of Stan Smiths, so white that my eyes hurt just looking at them, and I pretty much exclusively wear gold jewellery. I strive for being perpetually sun kissed and there is nothing I enjoy more than the feeling of being  happy. So, this week's look of the day may be the polar opposite to my youth, but it's hard denying the joys of current fashion: the return of the babydoll dress, white lace with beautiful rivet details, gleaming gold accents and pleated suede sandals. It may be getting chilly here in Australia , but throw on a vintage or faux fur and this look is ready any party...

Wearing: Zimmermann dress, Gianvito Rossi heels, Mania Mania necklace and knuckle ring, Heart of Bone skull ring, Cartier Love Bracelet , Pink Lou Lou shell bracelet and Tiffany T bracelet and Smile necklace

Shooting this editorial the other day in the last days of Autumn - sun still warm on the skin, dappled glow on the water, sand under my toes, music drifting from an open window - had me wishing I was somewhere dancing into the sunset. Morocco, Cuba, India, Mexico - anywhere I could feel like Yves'(Saint Laurent's) muse LouLou de la Falaise -bohemian, wild and free. What better way to catch the rhythm than with a swaying long dress, this season's parennial favorite. Some of my favorite dresses this season are long, unhinged, unexpectedly detailed and timelessly beautiful .

On the other side of the proportional spectrum this season sit the mini bags - tiny and cute they are the antidote and the perfect match to their flowing counterparts  - enough for a credit card, phone, keys and a lipstick , they come to free us from the restraints of the world so we can dance long into the night unburdened from the clunkiness of the world. With a long practical strap in an on trend tan shade, this little Dakota bag from Coach has been my favourite over Fashion Week and beyond. Perfectly happy with flares, maxi dresses or tulip skirts , it's an all around overachiever. Just as at home on sunny Ibiza isles come August as it is going to be worn with fluffy jackets and suede trenches over Sydney's winter. Who needs a full sized wallet anyway?

Accessorize your maxi with some leopard - it is a neutral after all! (Kate Sylvester dress, vintage jacket, Coach bag, Gianvitto Rossi sandals)

Asymmetric lace and long sunny days 4eva (Zimmermann dress, Coach bag )

Add a gold toned statement jewellery piece to fast forward your 70s to the present ( Amber Sceats ear cuff )

One of this season's best trends is a backless dress.. uncovering one of the sexiest parts of a woman's body while demurely covering the front ( Ellery dress, Coach bag )

And when the rains come, be ready for them with some gumboots masquerading as riding boots ( Givenchy rain boots ) ( Tiffany T bracelet and Cartier Love bracelet worn throughout )

Photographed by Alice Wesley-Smith