Sneak Peak: Chanel 2014

For those of you who are as obsessed with Chanel as much as I am, here is a little sneak peak into what is in store for the luxury brand in 2014.

Plenty of colours, an abundance of textures, and a variation in materials (did somebody say pearl shoulder straps?)

Chanel is constantly trying to reinvent their signature bags, so that the hardcore Chanel fans that own the classic bags can add to their collection. Karl has chosen a much more edgier look for the 2014 range, which will appeal to the younger market.

What do you think of the collection? Will you be adding a 2014 piece to your handbag family? Tell me what you think on Instagram by tagging @jspstyling

Summer locks

Summer is just around the corner, and now is the perfect time to make a hair change.

For me, I normally tend to go the opposite of the trends where I go darker in Summer, and lighter in Winter; but this year I decided it's time to get my beach look on!
 
Let's look at our favourite celeb sisters that have recently turned to the light side.

I think that Khloe wins the battle of the blondes, as she started with balayage and has gradually built up to this colour. Sorry Kim!

Tips for going blonde:

-Take a picture of the colour that you want to achieve. This will allow your hairdresser to see your vision, and will act as a guide. Your hairdresser will also be able to tell you whether this will be a realistic look or not, so best to take a few options.

-Patience! This is the hardest for me when it comes to my hair, as I want to see a noticeable change after my first visit to the salon (who else gets disappointed if their friends/family don't notice that you've changed your hair?!). However, for your hair to remain healthy (and at the same length) it will ideally take around 3 appointments with your hairdresser to go from very dark to light hair. Trust me, I have wanted to do this all in one-go, where I have gone from black hair to blonde (or should I say orangey yellow) with long hair that all broke off to a short bob (and not to mention 10 hours in the chair!). Learn from my mistake, and trust your hairdresser on this one.

-Use a good quality hair conditioner once a week to help the ends remain strong and healthy (run this through your hair at the start of the shower, and don't rinse out until the end of the shower - ultimately the longer you leave it in your hair the better). I recommend K-Pak from Joico.

-When using any styling tools (whether this be a straightener or curler) be sure to use a heat protectant in your hair beforehand. At the moment I am using Miracle Treatment from Eleven Australia.

-Where appropriate (be guided by your hairdresser) try to stretch out your colour appointments. Now when I say stretch out, I don't mean take a leaf out of Shakira's book in the early 2000's and rock the massive regrowth (and yes, regrowth does differ from balayage), as my hairdresser has recommended that I come in every 8 weeks, rather than every 6 weeks to give my hair a rest from the bleach. She also recommends visiting the salon half way through appointments (eg. around the week 4 mark) to get a toner put through your hair. This is to ensure that your hair is still a beautiful blonde, without any brassiness.

Are you going lighter this summer? Tag me in a photo of your blonde locks on Instagram @jspstyling

American Music Awards 2013

The AMA's red carpet is more rock 'n roll, than formal couture. A-list celebs get the opportunity to let their hair down, and take some fashion risks at this awards show.

The 2 main trends for this year's AMA's were monochrome (aka black and white - my favourite colour palette), and flesh flashing (and in some cases, too much of it..).

Kendall Jenner is my pick from the bunch - the colour, the clutch, the statement neck, hair down and red lip. Watch out Kim, Kendall's right on your fashion tail.

Copy Cat

I know how much you all love this post, so here are a few of the Copy Cat items that I've found for you today.

First, one of the biggest trends loved by the younger females are designer inspired slogan tees. Lets take this one from Camilla & Marc for $79.95. Pair it next to it's $20 Supre doppleganger, and you will see very little difference (other than the $59.95 price saving!).

Secondly, featured on the gorgeous Jesinta Campbell, the Willow choker. This little number retails for $195; whereas, the cheaper version that I tracked down from Sportsgirl is only $19.95. Only a saving of $175.05 - no biggy!

If you have an item that you want to find a cheaper alternative to send me an email at jspstyling@gmail.com or tag me on Instagram @jspstyling

Happy shopping!

5 minutes with: Jessica Balyck from Balyck jewellery

I am so excited to launch the newest section of my blog "5 minutes with". To kick this off, we are starting with my favourite fashion category - jewellery!

I have recently discovered an amazing Aussie jewellery designer, Jessica Balyck who makes one-off hand-made creations, using a mix of materials.

Jessica started Balyck jewellery in 2010. Since then, her designs have been seen on celebs such as Danni Minogue and Prinnie Stevens.

Next month, Jessica is launching her very own website in conjunction with her new White Lion collection.

We caught up with Jessica, to speak all things Balyck.

I would describe my style as
Today I would have to say a structured classic look....but maybe you should ask me again tomorrow ;)

I can't leave the house without my
Prada Saffiano in cameo. It fits and compliments everything.

If I could raid one celebs wardrobe it would be
Selma Hayek. With a husband like François-Henri Pinault why wouldn't you want to be in her wardrobe for a day?!

If I could only wear one piece of jewellery for the day it would be 
Is it bias if I say my own label? Oh well I just can't help myself. It would have to be the Linked Lion rings in antique silver.

The one celeb I would love to see wearing Balyck jewellery is
Rihanna - she's just so much fun, and pushes the boundaries of fashion.

When it comes to jewellery "more is more" or "more is less"
It really depends on what mood you're in. I'm a firm believer on dressing according to how you feel on the day, without restrictions (seeing that society places enough as it is); so fashion is freedom. If you're feeling runway ready, or clean and classic adorn yourself based on that.

My all time favourite Balyck piece is

The Lion Head two tone cuff. It's how the new collection came about, so I have a special love affair with that design.

The best thing about having my own jewellery line is
I always used to struggle to find that one 'special piece' to make or break an outfit, so now between the one-off designs or my collection pieces, I'm never left short on something when going out.

Can you give us any sneak peak into what is in store for Balyck jewellery in 2014? 
For the ever changing world and ever changing society I will give you some ever changing designs..

Jessica is giving you all a chance to win one of her beautiful hand-made pieces (valued at $220). The winner will be drawn on Instagram on 12th December.
You can follow Jessica and Balyck jewellery on Instagram @balyckjewellery

Here are my favourite Balyck designs (including the White Lion hand-piece that 1 lucky competition winner will win). Massive hint to my family and friends, I would be happy with any of these 4 for Christmas.

Copy Cat: Mania Mania

You could pay $320 for this Mania Mania necklace:

Or you could get the Copy Cat version from Sportsgirl for $24.95.

It is the $295.05 question...

Christmas gift ideas: $200 and below

Christmas is supposed to be a time of happiness and joy, however many of us associate this holiday period with stress and chaotic shopping centres.

If you know what to buy, you can start early, and even online - however, a lot of people just don't know where to start. Well, that's where I jump in!

As your Christmas genie I have come up with 2 items for each price point from $10 - $200 which range from beauty, accessories, home, and beachware.

So start taking notes, because your Christmas list is about to get a whole lot easier!

$200 and under
Kicking off our highest price point with two ultimate beauty products.

The first, a Napoleon Perdis contour kit (which I can confirm from personal experience - is AMAZING). Featuring a mirrored compact, highlighter and contour duo, with a brush for each. This duo will lift and brighten, as well as slim and sculpt your face. RRP $149.

Next, the exclusive MAC Stroke of Midnight lip and cheek bag (in coral). This pack includes a lipstick, lipglass, powdered blush, mirror, brush - all in its very own make-up bag. RRP $125. HUGE value (especially when compared to the Napoleon contour kit).

$100 and under
Being practical never looked this good.

For years we have been buying Mimco baby bags, and using them as an overnight bag (yes, slugging baby matts, milk bottle compartments and all). Finally, Mimco have listened to our demands, and have created some patterned over night bags. Cue 'The Weekender' for only $99.95.

Down under, we are lucky enough to celebrate Christmas in the sun! Well now not only can we use this amazing hat as a resourceful way of finding shade, but we can look like our favourite celeb all at the same time. Seen on Lara Bingle, Nadia Fairfax and SFB, you too can rock this look for only $99.

$90 and under
The next pair will have you seeing stars.

The best accessory on a female, is said to be their smile. But what is a smile without a gorgeous shiny lip? This MAC pack gives you a Creme D'Nude lipstick, Boldly Bare lip pencil and a Softly Lip lipglass - all in nude tones, to help you create a kissable lip. The pack which includes a make-up bag is available for $89.

And what is the perfect lip, without the perfect bling accessory. Grace and Scarper's silver star, on a fine chain (as seen on Rozalia Russian) is back-in-stock for $89.

$80 and under
This dynamic duo are perfect for any handbag.

Mimco are known for their signature pouch, but this Christmas sees an old favourite have a new twist. Revamp your old pouch, with this sleek mini envelope. RRP $79.95.

Not big enough or loud enough for you? Well the Sparks Fly Clutch has you covered! RRP $79.95.

$70 and under
Beauty not your thing - the next 2 finds will be right up your alley.

The holidays are all about sleep-ins, and what a better way to sleep in with the cutest Peter Alexander bow set. You will never want to get out of bed! RRP $69.90.

Arm candy your thing? Say hello to these easy to wear bracelets from Mimco for only $69.95, available in a multitude of colours.

$60 and under
Beach babes - bring it on.

Some girls are just so hard to buy for! Just when you thought, surely she is running out of ideas, I present to you a monochrome beach towel from Country Road. Being at the beach never looked so good. RRP $59.95.

You don't have to go to the beach, to look like a babe. NARS eye, lip and cheek palette is the perfect way to bring out your beauty. Featuring a blush, bronzer, lip gloss, and 3 eye shadows; beauty never looked so easy! RRP $59.

$50 and under

If these items were at school, they would definitely be the 'popular' kids.

Most homes you enter would be filled with fragranced candles, and let's face it, we all love a good smelling room. Just in time for Christmas, Glasshouse have put together a trio pack of their top smelling candles - Tahaa (my ultimate favourite!), Montego Bay, and Rio de Janeiro. RRP $49.95.

Stop it - you're making me blush! Nars is renowned for both their cheek colours, and their cheeky blush names. This adults only palette, retails for $49.

$40 and under
We are just under the half-way mark; maybe your loved ones would enjoy the next two finds.

Christmas is all about making memories, and what better way to relive these memories, than in Country Road's 4-set white frames. Whether it's a cheeky selfie, or a photo-bombed group shot, display it around the house for only $39.95

Camilla may be the Kaftan Queen, but Cotton On is the price King. Throw this baby over your 'kinis at the beach for only $34.95.
 
$30 and under
We are now getting to the finer details.

Dress your nails up with OPI's two favourite colours (both worn by WAG Bec Judd). This pack retails for $30 - nailed it!

Often neglected in Summer in lieu of a tan, lather up your body with Glasshouse creme. Why stop at your hands, when you can have your whole body smell like a vanilla thickshake. RRP $24.95.

$20 and under
Perfect for those 'Secret Santas'.

What a cute way to tzuj your Christmas tree. Mimco have never introduced a tree ornament into their collection, but I know this year I will be stocking up. With their signature bow, you will have the most trendiest tree in your street. RRP $19.95.

Possibly the most world-renowned eye lash curlers have just gotten better (is that even possible?). Guaranteed to leave you with no eye injuries, this perfect Shu Uemura make-up tool will you have your eye lashes curled quicker than you can say 'Kardashian'. RRP at the new price of $20.

$10 and under
Gifts on a budget.

These two are all with thanks to Model Co. Forget the novelty bobble-heads and snow-globes this Christmas, with one of the most affordable make-up cases and Kabuki brushes going around. Shop now for $9 and $10, respectively. You can keep the change..

With only 37 days remaining until Christmas, I hope you were able to add even one of my gift ideas to your list. Happy shopping!

Let me know your thoughts on this Christmas edition blog on Instagram @jspstyling

Copy cat: Cotton On

This past year Cotton On has undergone an extreme makeover. The designs of their clothes have gone from basics, to more on trend designs; cover a range of apparel such as swimwear, sleepwear, lingerie, ladies, men, children, shoes, accessories and more. They have also recently collaborated with Australian model and former WAG, Lara Bingle, to reignite their brand with the youth market.

Here are a few copy cat designer duds, that have been recreated by Cotton On.


1) AJE vs. Cotton On

$440 vs. $49.95
Total saving = $390.05

2) Kenzo vs. Cotton On

$340 vs.$29.95
Total saving = $310.05

3) Chanel vs. Cotton On

 
$580 vs. $19.95
Total saving = $560.05

4) Triangl vs. Cotton On

$86 vs. $39.90 ($19.95 each)
Total saving = $46.10

5) Michael Kors vs. Cotton On

$275 vs. $19.95
Total saving = $255.05

6) House of Harlow vs. Cotton On

$80 vs. $4.95 (for 2)
Total saving = $75.05

Some huge savings, on designer "inspired" pieces. Follow the link to find out where your closest Cotton On store is, or simply buy online. Your wallet can thank me later!

Client stories

Chrisi got in contact with me via my Instagram (@jspstyling) in need of help finding a 21st dress. This was just not any 21st, this was Chrisi's white party 21st that she shares with her triplets.

The party is in February and Chrisi had very few requirements: white, and unique.

Firstly, I LOVE the theme of a white party (one of the very few themes I like!). My second thought is that a whole group of white-wearing 21 year olds would shop in the same places. Because of this, I looked at interstate labels, with very little presence in Melbourne (however, enough presence that I could source the garments for Chrisi - eg. Aje), and secondly higher-end online clothing boutiques (such as Shopbop - no Asos here!).

When it comes to the term 'unique' clients need to understand, that some of these pieces are made-to-order, or are even sourced from overseas - and hence allowing yourself enough time to order the dress, see if you like it, and then make adjustments if necessary, is key.

As Chrisi had not set out any guidelines such as length or budget, I designed a brief that varied in styles.

 

My personal pick for Chrisi: Aje Precious Opal dress in white (featured in black in the brief above).
I have spoken to Aje, who are able to create this garment for Chrisi in white. Aje is based predominantly in Sydney (with a new boutique that has just recently opened up in Brisbane), making it more difficult for other partygoers to readily access. Again, without enlisting a help of a stylist that has a good rapport with a certain company, the label may not agree to create you a garment in a colour that is not already offered. This dress also has a high neck, which is not a common feature of dresses this season - another check! The outfit is fitted, so will show off Chrisi's gorgeous physique (big plus!). And lastly has a large split through the middle, which eliminates this dress from being 'an over-the-top formal gown', making it sexy and edgy.

My styling tips for this particular dress would be a statement ear (in diamonds, to team with the 'white' theme), accompanied by a wrist, a gorgeous pair of heels (that are also comfortable, so that Chrisi can enjoy her 21st), and a clutch. As the dress code is quite strict in terms of colour, we are able to work with different shades of white, textures and even clear accessories.
The styling would also depend on Chrisi's budget, as she may want to reduce costs on accessories whilst splurging on the dress, by using items that she already owns.

Hair for this particular dress should be off the face (perhaps a beautiful big bun) so that you can see the neckline of the dress, and the statement earrings; and makeup should be a dark smokey eye to contrast the white-on-white look.

Chrisi's next step is to choose an outfit (if she cannot find an outfit from this brief, then we will create another edit) that she 100% loves, so that she has no regrets, and if desired work on the all important accessories - my favourite part!

Tips when using a stylist:
Having a client with too little requirements can be difficult, as it gives a lot of space for 'error'. If you don't like a particular cut because of how it sits on your body, or you aren't prepared to pay thousands of dollars for a dress - it is best to let your stylist know in advance.

On the flipside, having a client with too many requirements can be difficult, as it can restrict a lot of options, and can also eliminate the garments that a stylist may think the client wouldn't pick themselves (and surprisingly would like!). An example of this is a mid length white dress, with sequins, one shoulder, tight, must be able to be purchased in Melbourne so that I do not have to pay postage, and in total must cost no more than $50. Now I'm not saying that this can't be done, however, the client must expect that the options will not be as varied and as many, as a client with fewer restrictions.

About electronic briefs
With an electronic brief (most commonly used for clients outside of Melbourne), this is paid for upfront, and includes edits. Meaning, if you choose a style you really like from the brief, I can find you more of that style; or if you found that the garments in your brief differed from your expectations, I can assist in creating a new edit - free of charge. Some clients, once they have secured their garment, will come back for a second brief for accessories. Other clients might have a certain accessory that they want to use, and we work the garment around that. Which ever way you want to create your outfit, we can work with what suits you and your needs.

If you would like a quote on a special event that is coming up, send me an email at jspstyling@gmail.com