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Claire Hastings

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Ethical Fashion in Australia

Posted on December 6, 2018

Photo by Tochi Onwubiko on Unsplash

When it comes to fashion, sustainability is truly the key word of the decade, and for a good reason. The fast fashion industry is one of the biggest polluters in the world and its impact on the environment is devastating. However, there is a silver lining here – more and more people are becoming aware of the state of our environment and are turning to ethical fashion in order to try and preserve it, which resulted in an increasing number of brands that are hopping on the sustainability train. Prepare to feel optimistic as you read through the list of some Australian labels that exist in this sphere of fashion.

Reformation

Photo by Rebecca Orlov | Orlov Design Co on Unsplash

Reformation is a brand that has always been committed to sustainable fashion. Apart from using deadstock fabric and repurposed vintage clothing to make their designs, they also avoid cotton and opt for more environmentally-conscious fabric options such as Tencel, viscose and Modal. They also have a practice of publishing a quarterly sustainability report to their consumers, which makes them a great ethical brand you can feel good about buying and wearing.

Adidas

Although Adidas is an extremely popular brand in Australia and the rest of the world, not many people are aware of the fact that it’s one of the most ethical fashion brands. Being careful about the impact on our planet while still creating extremely fashionable Adidas sneakers, they are truly leading by example. Fashion designer Stella McCartney has even teamed up with this company in order to create a revamped vegan version of the classic Stan Smith model and support sustainability and cruelty-free fashion.

Spell The Label

Photo by Nazym Jumadilova on Unsplash

Spell is an Australian label that designs beautiful bohemian clothing, but they are also very committed to sustainable fashion. Their plan for 2025 is presented on their website in detail, consisting of the transparency of their supply chain and the use of sustainable fibers, as well as environmentally-friendly dye and printing practices, just to name a few. They are already using ecologically-conscious fabrics, such as Modal and Tencel, but are in the process of incorporating recycled nylon and organic cotton into their production process as well. As far as dyes and prints are concerned, their focus is on the responsible use of water, energy and chemicals.

Bon

Bon originally started with the idea to create an excellent line of staple t-shirts that can be dressed up or dressed down and worn on many occasions for years to come. But apart from their versatility, they also have a strong commitment to sustainability. They use certified organic cotton jersey for all of their t-shirts and sweaters, which is spun, woven and dyed in Australia in a certified, eco-friendly manner. Their leggings are also made from lycra derived from recycled PET bottles, and the lining from unused parts of cotton plants at a factory with near 100% recycling.

KowTow

KowTow is a New Zealand label that makes incredibly chic and wearable staple pieces. They pride themselves in using sustainably sourced materials, while being exceptionally ethical. In an effort to eliminate the slave trade, they also provide certified rights and safety to all of their workers.

KitX

Photo by Coline Haslé on Unsplash

Each KitX collection is full of luxurious, intricately designed pieces that often feature asymmetrical hemlines and unexpected cut-outs. But apart from being highly fashionable, their clothes are also made using eco-friendly and sustainable practices. Their main focus is on the traceability of fibers that go into their fabrics, which is why they only use certified organic, renewable and recycled manmade fibers, as well as non-hazardous working materials. Not only do they put a lot of effort into making sure they don’t damage the environment, but they are also very serious about the fair treatment of their workers.

Well Made Clothes

Although they do produce some clothing items under their own label, Well Made Clothes is less of a brand and more of a hub for sustainable and ethical fashion lovers. They stock a large variety of Australian, as well as global fashion labels that abide by ethical and sustainable practices, meaning you can rest assured the clothes you wear were produced responsibly if you choose to buy them here.

While fashion practices are slowly starting to shift throughout the industry, we, as consumers, are the ultimate creators of change. With that in mind, there has never been a better time to support brands and labels that are leading the way in creating a cleaner and greener future.

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Australia Fashion Week Resort 2018 Trends – by Claire Hastings

Posted on June 14, 2018

Although resort trends and collections don’t bear the same significance as those presented during the spring and fall fashion weeks, they actually have a much bigger commercial significance. Namely, not only are the pieces presented on resort runways more timeless and devoid of the trendiness that often marks the other collections, they actually have a bigger staying power, and not only in our wardrobes but in stores as well. Aside from their more timeless vibe, these are the perfect layering pieces that you can rock both in the hotter as well as the cooler season, due to both the fabric choices that allow for chic layering and the timelessness of the pieces themselves. This is why it’s extremely important to see what these collections have to say, because chances are, they’ll be in our wardrobe arsenal for much longer than pieces from those more coveted lines. Of course, it’s also time to bring the Australian design talent into the spotlight and ultimately make Sydney a fashion capital of the same importance as the rest of them.

Minimalism comes from Melbourne

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It’s no secret that, in Australia, Melbourne does wonders with black and their own version of minimalism. Hence, the appearance of amazing minimal pieces comes as no surprise, and we’re particularly fond of the all-black sandal collection presented by A. Amery. There were classic flat slides, T-bar gladiators as well as crisscross style sandals that wrap at the ankle. They are every minimalist’s dream summer shoe, and we have no doubt that fashionistas from the Northern Hemisphere will jump at the opportunity to snag them, particularly if they’re tired of the platform crocks and other ugly shoes.

Away from the body

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The oversized and modest fashion trends have been ruling the runways for quite some time now, but we haven’t seen anyone execute the trend in the way that Akira Isogawa has. In the ‘resort spirit’, stripes were present, but unlike in other resort collections all over the world, they weren’t full of ‘sunshine and rainbow hues’. Instead, Isogawa brought dark shades of blue, gray, red, and then a bit of white for good measure and a bit of brightness. The designs are also like nothing we’ve seen so far. The dresses are not made to be fitted, but in an almost deconstructed way with interesting and mild layers, and we particularly love the asymmetrical moment on the sleeves which is both whimsical and bold.

When pastel met minimal

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One wouldn’t normally associate colors with minimalism, but Bianca Spender did such a wonderful job that it left us completely in awe. There were some traditionally minimalistic pieces such as breathtaking and extraordinary black jumpsuits as well as Australian signature white dresses, but a pop of color caught us off guard, particularly in the form of the royal blue sharp and minimal suit. However, the real surprise was the meshing of minimal yet intricate design with gentle pastel hues. Spender made it quite clear that minimalism certainly doesn’t have to be devoid of color, bold or gentle, and we have a sneaking suspicion that even the die-hard minimalists will be tempted by dresses like these.

The best of athleisure

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Well, when it comes to Double Rainbouu, the runway was full of, well, everything. From ironic T-shirt logos that had tabloid newspapers’ names instead of the actual brand, to surfer shorts, hoodies, chunky dad sneakers and prints for days. The only thing missing was a great Fendi bag and the over-the-top athleisure mission would have been complete. We can’t say with certainty whether this is paying homage to athleisure or the beach vibes – perhaps it’s taking athleisure to new levels or places – like the beach. Black and simple one-piece swimsuits did make an appearance, accompanied by a murky kimono-looking shirt, which is completely unexpected from the boho and color-loving Aussies, but perhaps it’s time to shelf the boho for a while and move on to something else.

True resort

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Leave it up to the likes of Ginger & Smart to bring us the resort every real classically stylish vacationer or simple summer-breeziness lover craves. Aside from the whimsical dresses made out of flower petals (which one could easily rock to a classy evening event), the rest of the looks were simply stunning and worthy of the French Riviera. Color-block dresses with a hint of tulle, sharp lines in gorgeous dusty blue shades, classic striped resort sundresses – this is what we’ve been craving. You can almost feel the delicate and breathable fabrics that will look stunning in the warm summer wind, and among all resort collections, this is the one we predict will be the most coveted one.

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Winter Fashion Guide – by Claire Hastings

Posted on January 20, 2018

Winter is a tough fashion customer that is very hard to please. You want to remain stylish as ever, be able to finish work and head out for drinks without having to go home and change before heading out again, and accomplish all of that without freezing. There are of course holidays with family to take into account and all the appropriate outfits to plan, and let us not forget about all those parties and perhaps even quick holiday getaways. Indeed, winter is tricky to maneuver, but that’s why we’re here. To make outfit planning easier so your style never has to give up in the face of harsh weather and multiple events and special occasions.

Photo by Frank Flores on Unsplash

Casual Saturday’s
The probability that there are people who don’t live for those wonderful strolls on Saturday afternoons is incredibly low. We all long for that time when the work week is behind us and Monday seems so far away. The perfect outfit for hopping around the town has to consist of a great pair of straight leg, dark-wash jeans that hug your body just right, a cozy turtleneck sweater (so you don’t have to bother with a scarf), a grey coat and a great crossbody bag that leaves the hands free to hold those takeaway coffees or snapping photos. Of course, even casual Saturdays deserve an extra dose of chic, and that can be best accomplished with an amazing pair of embroidered ankle boots that have the ability to elevate any given outfit, but are still comfy enough to spend an entire afternoon in.

Photo by Pete Bellis on Unsplash

High-style Office Attire
One of the best things to strut down this year’s runways is the plaid trend. Plaid has always been associated with professionalism, but unlike the ‘work uniforms’ of yore, designers made it their goal to create plaid-patterned garments that contain the perfect mix of playfulness and office appropriateness. This month put those high-rise pants (Tome) in a pungent yellow plaid pattern to work. You can mix them with a classic black button-down or a simple blouse and a fitted blazer and what you get is an outfit that looks amazing in office light but that can easily be taken for drinks afterwards.

Photo by Pete Bellis on Unsplash

A Quick Getaway
If you live in the part of the world where January means low temps and gloomy skies, the holidays might just be the perfect time to make a break for it and head somewhere warm and breezy. Of course, for this venture, you’ll need to turn up the heat in your suitcase as well, and aside from the pastel swimsuits that will be dominating next summer, make sure you pack only the finest designer resort wear – beach kaftans, luxurious robes, large hats and stylish beach totes. Going away gives you a chance to put your best summer look forward and escape the cold reality if even just for a long weekend.

Photo by Eduard Militaru on Unsplash

If, on the other hand, you’re the type who spends holidays with family, that requires an entirely different attire. Now, there are two ways to go about this. If you have the kind of family who nurtures the tradition of wearing ugly sweaters – well, you will have to go shopping for one. Regular jeans will do the job for the rest of the outfit and as far as the sweater goes, well, there are virtually hundreds of them so just take your pick and if it has to be ugly at least wear it ironically. The other way is of course, the classy way, and this year the chicest family-time appropriate outfit has to be a dark floral dress. As the floral trend has experienced a rebirth of a sort and thanks to the murkier shades it’s no longer reserved for summers only, a long-sleeve long floral dress will look wonderful on those family portraits.

Photo by Arthur Yao on Unsplash

My Girl Wants To Party All The Time
If you don’t go to at least one wild party, it’s like the holidays never happened. Now, for several years the traditional winter party uniform has been a glittery sequin dress in every shade possible. Now things are a tad more subtle so instead of going out full disco-ball mode, opt for something slightly more understated and chicer. You can still get your glam on, but choose your battles. The best way to go is with a gorgeous white or black lace dress, (the cut is up to you) and complete the look with a gorgeous silver or gold sequin blazer. Add some glitter on the eyes, and put that red lipstick to use. You’re ready to be the classiest dancing queen there is.

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The Biggest Beach Trends from International Fashion Weeks

Posted on November 5, 2017

Now that summer’s officially over, we can sit back and think about the things that were the trendiest on the beach, and we can definitely try to speculate about the things that will be huge next summer. Seeing fashion runways being transformed into beaches and checking out all the amazing outfits and combinations out there gives us many ideas about the way we want to look next summer. Let’s take a quick look at the most important beach trends this year, that will definitely make an appearance come the next one as well:

Photo by Ana Pavlyuk on Unsplash

1. Swimwear
According to Funkshion (Fashion Week Miami Beach) – the simpler the swimming suit, the better. Having a swimming suit that’s not of a pastel colour was kind of unpopular this year, since the rocking colours were beige, navy blue and white. Things won’t change in the following year either – Issa di Mar’s and Liliana Montoya’s swim collection for the following year also incorporate these colours, with both the one-piece retro and the classic two-piece swimming suit being pulled off, but with a twist. Don’t be surprised if you see someone wearing a two-piece corset-like swimming suit, it’s so much in.

Photo by Jessica Bristow on Unsplash

2. Bags
Woven beach bags have made a comeback this year – and we’re not only talking about the beach. If you have seen a girl rocking one to and from work, she might have been a fashion guru. Taking the very elegant Eugenia Kim Flavia or any bag from Frances Valentine to the beach will surely catch everyone’s attention. Moreover, light, woven backpacks were also dominant on the sandy beaches, and it’s definitely a trend that will be very popular in the following year, as well.

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3. Accessories
You can never go to the beach without being properly accessorized. Having good-quality sunglasses, nice, summer-inspired necklaces and bracelets is something that never goes out of style. According to Elle, one of the most important accessories this year were printed kaftans and cover-ups. If you happened to choose one that’s cheerful and elegant, going without any extra accessories was totally forgivable. Moreover, choosing a nice summer-themed phone case, and nice foot-bracelets can also do the trick.

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4. Shoes and tops
A girl can never spend too much money on shoes, and the ones for the beach also count. Having good footwear and combining it well with the outfit you’ve chosen for that day is totally an eye-catcher. Long tees that you wear as a dress (preferably a single-coloured one with motivational quotes) were very big this year, so mind these during the summer of 2018 too. When it comes to footwear, you don’t (and you shouldn’t) be wearing stilettos – Victoria Secret’s double-strap beach sandals or the classic and elegant Birkenstock shoes were, and will be, a total must-have the coming summer. If your outfit is on point, you can match these with whatever. It doesn’t leave the impression you were trying too hard and, yet, it looks classy and cute.

Photo by Anna Demianenko on Unsplash

5. Hats
The bigger the hat, the cooler you look. A good hat has always been a must for a day at the beach, and this year, big, straw hats were very dominant. They don’t have to have patterns – Ralph Lauren released a summer 2017 straw hat collection with such amazing colours that we wanted to take all of them home. However, the classic big black summer hat was definitely a hit, and it can never go out of style. 2017 proved it, and so will the following year.

The things that make your beach outfit are not the swimming suit you’re wearing. If you keep it minimalistic yet trendy, there will be so many combinations you can make with the clothes and accessories. A tip for next year: choose a simple, beige or brown swimming suit, and you’ll see that everything can match well with it – even your new, tanned skin.

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Body Alteration: Pros and Cons by Claire Hastings

Posted on April 7, 2017

A personal piece by Claire Hastings, Australia

Body alteration or body modification – these are the two names used to describe a process of changing one’s appearance. For some, it is seen as a form of rebellion, for others it’s pure art, an expression of individuality. The act of altering/changing/modifying one’s appearance has a lot of possibilities, but the most popular ones are piercings, tattoos, and cosmetic procedures. You can alter your body in less drastic ways, too: by applying makeup, dyeing your hair, and working out.

Makeup

It’s enough to spend a brief period of time browsing various makeup video tutorials online to conclude that makeup truly is art. Still, there are those who overdo it and wear too much makeup all the time, which not only makes them look fake, but it also hides their natural beauty. At the end of the day, if you let yourself become obsessed with it, and not let yourself go out sometimes without any makeup on, it will become more like an obligation and less like fun. And our only obligation should be saving our health, and enjoying our lives. So, forget about that boring contouring today, and try out that bold marsala lipstick.

Bikini body

We all want to look good in our bikinis, but lean legs, tight abs, and toned arms don’t just appear overnight. We have to work hard to shape our bodies the way we want. We should do our best to keep our bodies healthy by going to the gym a couple of times a week, eating healthy, and drinking plenty of water. On the other hand, there are those who take it to extremes. I had a period of life when I was obsessed with over every calorie I have eaten during the day and spent hours in the gym without eating properly. After some time I realised that I have endangered my health and turned my life into a hell. A boring hell. So I have decided to stop it, start eating healthy and have some cheat days from time to time. I must say I have a lot more self-aware now than ever.

Cosmetic surgery

There are some things that we cannot change naturally, no matter how hard we want to, like the shape of our face and nose, or the size of our lips. This is where plastic surgery steps in and saves the day. Cosmetic surgery can help you get rid of imperfections that have been bothering you your entire life, and it can also improve your confidence. On the other hand, there are also extreme cases of people becoming addicted to cosmetic surgery: they pursue their dreams but end up with irreparable damage done to their bodies instead. Make sure you do your homework and visit only reputable surgeons or cosmetologists and make sure the consultation is thorough. It’s could be that it’s not your body that needs a quick fix, but your attitude towards it.

Piercings and tattoos

Piercings and tattoos have become commonplace amongst today’s many societies. Seen as a way for people to express themselves and be unique. Since they are not a taboo anymore, people sometimes don’t think too long before deciding they want one or the other. In case they change their minds, it’s easy to remove piercings and let the body heal naturally, but with tattoos, it’s a bit more difficult as they are permanent. My best friend once made the terrible decision to tattoo his girlfriend’s name, so after their nasty breakup, he had to remove it. He travelled across the land to find a reliable tattoo removal option, and opted for tattoo removal in Parramatta, but he was satisfied with the results. This way, he made a fresh start. Luckily, technology and medicine have come a long way; so, today we have different medical and laser tattoo removal options. This way, people can have a fresh canvas.

Whatever your attitude may be concerning body alterations, before you decide to do anything, you should think about it for a while and always act on your beliefs. By today’s standards, we follow what we see on tv and in magazines… following trends, do some research as you could get into trouble or perhaps even regret your decision later on in life. Whatever you decide to do, make sure your choice is right, it’s for you, or postpone making the final decision until you are completely sure that’s what you want.