Author Archives: gemmamay

7.31.2016

Acler Spring Summer Collection

Although I have so many beautiful things to share with you, I’ve realised it’s been almost a week since my last post! During the day I’ve been busy at work and then of an evening and this weekend I’ve just been laying low. Bunkered down with holiday planning and preparations for my trip overseas in September. I’ve also been busy compiling my packing list. One which already includes a handful pieces from the beautiful new Acler spring summer collection above. A line which focuses on the beauty of fabric, texture and colour, with the perfect combination of dresses and separates for any capsule wardrobe or summer vacation.

When it comes to holiday dressing, the first thing that goes into my suitcase is a dress that gets my heart racing. One which can be worn effortlessly during the day with a pair of flats and then of an evening dressed up with heels for dinner and drinks. The Foley Dress (in the very first image above) is that dress for me. And I’m certain I won’t be going anywhere without it come spring. Other pieces from the collection that no girl should be without; The Foley Silk Top paired with the Arkley Shorts in Black. As well as the Earl Dress in White, The Earl Cami in Golden Olive and the Hurley Skirt in Navy. If you prefer to try before you buy visit your nearest Myer store or to shop the current Acler spring summer collection click here.

Photos are not my own. Source Acler.

7.25.2016

Viktoria and Woods Halycon Collection

My weekends are typically quiet and sometimes punctuated by a spot of online shopping, catch-ups with girlfriends or a little me-time having a mani-pedi or a massage. However after spending my entire Saturday in bed, I woke up bright and early on Sunday with a fairly extensive to-do list and the motivation to cross off as many items as possible.

First, I went to brunch at my new favourite cafe, Ruby’s Diner in Clovelly. Followed by a trip to Westfield Bondi Junction where I spent an hour or so correcting my recent impulse, trend-driven and misguided purchases from Witchery and Seed. I also paid a visit to COS. I have become quite the fan of this international chain-store since they set up shop here in Australia. Who are best known for their clean lines, relaxed shapes and neutral shades.

I ended my day at The Intersection in Paddington, which would have to be my favourite shopping precinct in Sydney. Writing a to-do list ensures that I only go to the shops I need to, and browsing online beforehand ensures I already have in mind what I’m after and don’t take too long to make decisions in-store. So I already knew that I would only be visiting a handful of stores at most.

I’ve been after a new fragrance for a little while now. Looking for something which would evoke spring time memories and summer feels even on the coldest of winter days. So I popped into Mecca where I spent an hour or so selecting a beautiful new fragrance, as well as some new candles for my home (more about that later).

My last stop for the day before returning home exhausted, was the Viktoria and Woods boutique. I have been admiring their new Halycon Spring collection (pictured above) since it launched a few weeks ago and couldn’t wait to see it up close. The range, which hinges of on the concepts of intelligent layering, ultra-luxe textures and subtly striking details, is one of their best to date.

The items on my shopping list; The Blessing Full Sleeve Crew in Grey Marle . Academy Trench in Black . Rival Skinny Denim Jeans . Drake Harem Pant in Black and a pair of white Lacoste Sneakers which I intend to wear with everything! To view the new Viktoria and Woods Halycon Spring Collection and shop for yourself, click here.

Photos are not my own. Source Viktoria and Woods.

7.21.2016

Stevie May Eclipse Spring Collection

It has been one of those days and weeks for me. One filled with irrational thoughts of leaving swiftly. Escaping the pressure, as well as my constant fear of failure and lack of accomplishment. Then I realised that I just needed a moment to myself to gather my thoughts. So on my lunch break today, I did the next best thing. I decided to take some time out and find some solace. I finally caught up on my emails and spent my break browsing through new season look-books from some of my favourite labels. Compiling a list of items for my imaginary dream closet, purchased with my imaginary dream budget!

The beautiful collection above from Stevie May caught my eye, with its easy elegance worn with free-spirited femininity. Staying true to the labels refined yet whimsical aesthetic, the Eclipse Spring collection consists of relaxed and romantic silhouettes. Including dresses, long skirts, over-sized tops and rompers. Injected with a neutral colour palette of dusty pinks, blues, white and black. And set alongside vintage inspired florals, ruffles, lace, sequin and denim.

I already have one beautiful piece from this collection; The Solo Dance Maxi Skirt in Black. As well as a very long wish list; Including the Orian Mini Dress in Denim . Orian Top in Denim . Blow Your Mind Mini Dress in a Black and White Print . Before Twelve Long Sleeve MIni Dress in Black . The Jade Midi Dress and The Solo Dance Midi Dress in Black. One half of the collection is available to purchase online now, with additional pieces available in August. To shop the Stevie May Eclipse Collection click here.

Photos are not my own. Source Stevie May.

7.18.2016

The Fifth Label Off The Grid

It’s becoming obvious (to me, anyway) that I seem to be wearing the same kind of things over and over again this winter. That includes just three staples in particular; Slouchy sweaters, cozy cover-ups and skinny jeans. Each in a varying shade of black. There are two very simple reasons for this. First, all of the styles mentioned are fail-safe items that have sufficiently gotten me through the recent chilly mornings and rainy days. Second, I can’t seem to get out of bed in the morning. As a result on a typical day, I have about twenty minutes to get ready and dressed before racing out the door…

Luckily the new collection from The Fifth Label, Off The Grid covers all my current needs and more. With it’s effortless and perfectly curated range of jersey basics, over-sized knitwear and relaxed pant styles in grey, navy and black. It also includes asymmetric shapes, stepped hems and denim details. All of which will easy elevate my current winter wardrobe routine. My favourite pieces from the range; The Burning Colour Shirt in Blue Denim . The Landing Jumper in Grey . City Haze Tee in Grey . Infinity Long Sleeved Top and the Infinity Tank in White. To shop the entire The Fifth Label Off The Grid collection visit the Fashion Bunker here. For all new arrivals from The Fashion Bunker click here.

Photos are not my own. Source The Fifth Label.

7.14.2016

My Alpha-H Skincare Essentials

Skincare has always been important to me, however it literally took years to find the right products that worked specifically with my skin. I went through some stages where products would work and then just weeks later loose their magic. Even resulting in dry skin, un-even skin tone, allergic reactions and breakouts. I actually believed that my skin was just always going to be a bit of mess.

That was until I was recommended the Alpha-H Balancing Cleanser. My skin improved from the first application and unlike other products I had tried in the past, it continued to have a magical effect weeks and months later. That was 4 years ago and I’ve used it every day, twice a day since then. I’ve also added a handful of other Alpha- H products to my daily routine.

There’s no denying that every girl wants beautiful skin, which is why I wanted to share this story. As well tell you the products which have worked for me. They’ve changed my skin for the better and if you haven’t yet found your own perfect skincare routine, I hope that they’ll have the same result for you…

Alpha-H Balancing Cleanser with Aloe Vera. This is a creamy three-in-one cleanser which is rich in Vitamin E and Aloe Vera. It completely removes all of your face and eye make-up whilst helping to correct the skin’s natural pH balance.

Alpha-H Instant Facial. This is a multi-purpose facial spray that helps to reinvigorate the complexion by refining the size of your pores, removing dead cell build-up and softening wrinkles. It also leaves the skin feeling fresher, smoother and firmer.

Alpha-H Liquid Gold. If you only try one product, try Liquid Gold. A skin resurfacing treatment formulated with a low pH delivery system to effectively diminish wrinkles, pigmentation and sun damage.

Alpha-H Liquid Gold Intensive Night Repair Serum. This is a high performance night time anti-wrinkle serum designed for both pre- and post-menopausal skin. Formulated with a combination of powerful age fighting ingredients, it works to visibly plump, firm and sculpt your complexion.

Alpha-H Liquid Laser Concentrate. This is a new addition to my skincare routine, which works to hydrates and firm mature skin. The serum has a light gel texture and is formulated with a low-pH delivery system to minimise signs of ageing. It will also make your skin glow!

Photos are not my own. Source Alpha-H.

My Blonde Closet

An Australian Fashion & Lifestyle Journal By Gemma-Louise May