Fruit in a Box

A-ok.

2012-02-09T21:53:00.001+08:00

I've always avoided A-line skirts, believing the extra volume would make my lower half appear bigger then it was. Turns out that not only is my pear shape ideally suited to their proportions, they are far more comfortable than my favoured pencil/tulip shapes (and far easier to walk in - no more penguin shuffle when I need to get somewhere fast). These three pretties are no longer available online, but are still in store.

Fine stripe full sateen skirt, Portmans

Ladybow textured skirt, Portmans

'Minnie' polka dot full skirt, Review

Note - Even though I followed the care instructions when washing the polka dot skirt, the black did run a little, which was something I didn't expect from a Review item. But because it's perfect in every other way, I couldn't bring myself to return it.

Daily Outfit - 4/1/12

2012-01-21T09:58:00.000+08:00

Paper bag mini skirt: Portmans

Black tee: Bonds

Boots: Sandler

Really late posting this one, but we've just moved house and haven't had internet for a week. As for the new place...Ants! Bad mobile coverage! Evaporative air conditioning! And still the best rental we've had in years. P.S Dear Train, this has been a long time coming. You're dropped. I've been seeing your cousin, Bus, for almost a week now and I've never been happier.

Daily Outfit - 25/12/11

2011-12-26T14:17:00.001+08:00

THE INSPIRATION

Karen Walker Fall RTW 2011

THE OUTFIT

Grey tee: Bonds
Mustard pleated midi skirt: River Island
Belt & wedges: Target

Hope you had a happy Christmas and wishing you a fun filled New Year! xo

Daily Outfit - 16/12/11

2011-12-17T15:18:00.000+08:00

Pleated maxi skirt: Paper Scissors

Black tee: Bonds

Black flats: Target

Necklace: Diva

Daily Outfit - 15/12/11

2011-12-17T15:16:00.000+08:00

Black tee: Bonds

Boots: Myer

Skirt: Boutique in Subiaco

Daily Outfit - 11/12/11

2011-12-17T15:13:00.000+08:00

Anchor print midi skirt: ebay

Grey tee: Bonds

Cream flats: Target

Daily Outfit - 27/11/11

2011-11-27T11:16:00.000+08:00

Skirt: Vintage, etsy
Cardigan: Sportsgirl
Heels: Target

Worn to a wedding at the Scented Gardens at the South Perth foreshore and then a picnic at the Zoo.

Daily Outfit - 23/11/11

2011-11-27T11:12:00.000+08:00

Skirt: Vintage, etsy

Cotton shirt: Target

Espadrilles: Betts

Daily Outfit - 20/11/11

2011-11-20T18:52:00.002+08:00

Cropped denim shirt: Forever New

Zebra print maxi: ebay

Espadrilles: Betts

Daily Outfit - 12/11/11

2011-11-12T20:39:00.000+08:00

Like boleros and coloured ballet flats before them, pleated midi skirts are my latest obsession. Just can't. Get. Enough. The pleats skim over trouble spots and the typically elastic waists forgive minor weight fluctuations. This leopard print midi was down from $45 to $30 at Target.

Daily Outfit - 29/10/11

2011-10-29T19:58:00.001+08:00

Floral dress: Cotton On

Denim shirt: Myer

Daily Outfit - 15/10/11

2011-10-15T23:49:00.000+08:00

Red paper bag mini: Portmans

Striped tee: Katies

Boots: Wittner

Daily Outfit - 8/10/11

2011-10-08T19:08:00.000+08:00

Leopard print shirts: Lola vs Harper

Denim shirt: Miss Shop

Boots: Wittner

Daily Outfit - 5/10/11

2011-10-05T18:52:00.000+08:00

Striped tee: Review

Peplum skirt: Review

Silver necklace: Myer

Lace bib necklace: Lovisa

I bought the black bib to wear with the top today, not realising I already had the perfect necklace for it at home.

Daily Outfit - 2/10/11

2011-10-02T19:14:00.001+08:00

Striped tee: Katies

Denim shorts: Chicabooti

Crocheted cardigan: Sportsgirl

Flats: Target

Daily outfit - 1/10/11

2011-10-02T19:11:00.000+08:00

Striped tee: Katies

Pleated midi skirt: Dangerfield

Heels: Florsheim

Belt: Portmans

Tulip skirt & faux suede heels.

2011-09-26T19:44:00.001+08:00

Skirt: Tokito

Top: Bardot

Heels: Target

Charm necklace: Lovisa

Belted floral blazer.

2011-09-25T10:56:00.000+08:00

Blazer: Paper Scissors

Shorts: Chicabooti

Belt: Dangerfield

Booties: Target

Portmans striped dress.

2011-09-25T10:47:00.000+08:00

Crocheted cardie.

2011-09-18T19:33:00.003+08:00

Rust denim shorts: Paper Scissors

Cardigan: Sportsgirl

Elk necklace: Lovisa

Stump ring: Dangerfield

Image courtesy of erayo.com

Vintage Houndstooth.

2011-09-16T22:42:00.001+08:00

Pencil skirt: Off the Wall

Military style sheer blouse: Barkins

Leopard Pussybow Blouse.

2011-09-16T22:39:00.000+08:00

Leopard pussybow silk blouse: Bardot via ebay

Ruffled pencil skirt: Target

Leopard Blazer.

2011-09-16T22:34:00.002+08:00

Blazer: Dotti

Shorts: Chicabooti

Boots: Myer

Latest Purchases.

2011-07-30T12:56:00.000+08:00

Portmans

Dotti

Kinky Cozies: Most creative use of leftover wool. Ever.

2011-05-03T21:49:00.000+08:00

So I was innocently trawling etsy for finger puppets - nothing unusual there - and stumbled across this tiny gem. I feel I should be appalled but she's just so damn adorable! I mean look at those tiny little knitted boobies!

Believe it or not, this is one of the tamer creations in the Kinky Cozies store. See the whole cheeky range here.

Bardot Quilted Leather Jacket.

2011-05-03T06:02:00.001+08:00

Buttery soft leather, quilted panels and a black shearling collar (I weary of cream) make this the biker jacket of my dreams. I visit it instore daily for a surreptitious stroking.

10% off and free shipping if you purchase it online.

Winter shorts.

2011-04-25T23:15:00.002+08:00

distressed denim shorts: chicabooti
batwing mesh top: temt
studded belt: portmans
boots: williams

I'll take the dogs, you keep the Mercedes.

2010-10-10T17:19:00.002+08:00

New Booties/shooties/whatev: ebay

Snake print skirt: Barkins

Blazer: Roads

Hair: Loreal Casting Creme Gloss #415 (Iced Chocolate)

I've blogged this outfit before, but not with these shoes. I'd all but given up finding oxford-style booties in my size. They're not leather so I don't expect them to last long, which sucks as they are super comfortable.

Day and Night.

2010-10-03T11:40:00.001+08:00

Jeans: Jeans West. I ordered them online in extra long, and they arrived unhemmed so I could take them up to the perfect length.

Black batwing spangly top: Tempt

White silk boyfriend blazer: Forever New

Birdcage necklace & snake print scarf: Indulge Clothing

You and I were meant to be together.

2010-10-01T15:32:00.000+08:00

I fell in love with this Cooper St Feathered Mini after trying it on instore, but couldn't bring myself to shell out $100 for it. I cyberstalked it for months waiting for it to go on sale, but when it finally did my size was no longer available. Undeterred, I started a watch on ebay and within two weeks scored one new for $40.

It's obscenely short, even for a mini, so I'll be pairing mine with tights.

Hit or Miss?

2010-09-29T20:59:00.001+08:00

Yeah...let's go with miss. I wasn't digging this combo as much as I thought I would. It was just too warm for a scarf and boots. I also had to contend with the niggling thought that I looked like a daytime hooker.

Leopard print ruched sleeve tee: Bardot

Red pencil skirt: Review

Lace scarf: Indulge Clothing

The Spring Vibe.

2010-09-28T20:23:00.002+08:00

Lace tiered skirt: Portmans

Snake print silk scarf: Indulge Clothing

If the weekend's weather was any indication, tights season is drawing to a close here in the Southern Hemisphere. This does not fill me with joy. I refuse to pay somebody for a pedicure and a leg wax when I can do them myself; but for someone of my calibre of laziness, bodily maintenance requiring me to bend at the waist is almost more trouble than it's worth.

Latest acquisitions.

2010-09-27T11:22:00.002+08:00

Birdcage necklace and snake print scarf both from Indulge Clothing Mt Lawley.

The scarf is a perfect match for a handbag I already own. Boy, I love when that happens.

Stripes and florals.

2010-09-15T18:59:00.000+08:00

Floral tulip skirt: DFO Melbourne

Striped tee: Sussan

Lace scarf: Tiny boutique in Mt Lawley I can't recall the name of...all I know is that I will be returning on Saturday to clean the place out. With my credit card, mind, not bolt cutters and an enormous sack.

You say опьяненный like it's a bad thing.

2010-09-12T17:14:00.002+08:00

White anglaise dress: Bardot

Blazer: Portmans

Matryoshka necklace: Gift from my sister

As a teenager I was occasionally told I looked Russian. My mother was born in Germany, so I put it down to looking either nondescriptly European or just incredibly natural with a bottle of vodka in my hand. Then it came to light my biological grandfather was Russian.

I don't really have much interest in exploring my Russian roots, although it's a handy explanation for my love of Matryoshka and potatoes.

White blazer #2.

2010-09-11T00:13:00.002+08:00

White cotton blazer: Portmans, $15 ebay score

Jeans: Lee, Jeans West

Snakeskin pumps: Target

Hair by Billy at House of Ernest

I loved Billy. I want Billy to come and live with me. And all I would ask in exchange for free board, free food and unlimited treadmill access would be a daily blowdry.

Looks aren't everything.

2010-09-08T20:19:00.001+08:00

K so I know these heels aren't exactly sexy, but boy are they comfy! I wore them for nine hours in the office, keeping them on to run errands at lunch and again this evening while chasing down a taxi after one too many G&T's and I tell you, my feet would normally be on fire right now but they are totally sweet. A big drunken thumbs up to you, Easy Steps!

In my defense...it was raining, too.

2010-09-07T20:03:00.001+08:00

I know I'm standing here like a mannequin - only slightly less animated - but in my defense these last couple of days at work have drained my life force and I can't bring myself to pose. But it doesn't matter because nothing can detract from the beauty of this blazer.

White silk boyfriend blazer: Forever New

Snake print tulip skirt: Barkins

Necklace: Myer

Leopard and lace.

2010-09-06T19:23:00.001+08:00

Leopard print cardigan: Jacqui E

Lace scarf: Boutique in Mt Lawley

Peplum skirt: Review

For those too lazy to pass the salt.

2010-09-05T07:37:00.001+08:00

Striped cardigan & skinny moto jeans: Sportsgirl

Zebra tee: Target

Boots: Ebay

Woke up insanely early for a Saturday and spent the morning meandering along the Mt Lawley cafe strip. The gift shops along Beaufort are overflowing treasure troves of kitsch, and it's virtually impossible to walk out of one empty-handed. I picked up these wind-up robot salt and pepper shakers at Ware for a friend but I just might keep them for myself.

Lunch and coffee were followed up with a stack of glossy magazines and an afternoon nap. Tonight the plan is banana smoothies and a Big Bang Theory marathon. I am such a geek.

Lust Have - Florsheim suede and patent red pumps.

2010-08-29T17:29:00.004+08:00

Oh, the joy! I had no idea Florsheim even stocked 42's. I snagged these beauties instore but they're also available online.

Latest acquisitions.

2010-08-27T21:36:00.003+08:00

Silk dress: Basque

Blazer: Portmans

Boots: Williams

Dress available here.

Striped blazer & biker skinnies: Sportsgirl

The versatility of stripes.

2010-08-21T18:44:00.005+08:00

Striped tee: Katies

Black blazer: Portmans

Red skirt: Review

Skinny jeans, Lee Riders: Jeans West

Birthday pressie to myself.

2010-07-18T08:20:00.002+08:00

Ladakh 'Night Warrior' dress: Live

Denim jacket: Op-shop

Boots: Williams

Worn to my birthday lunch at Sienna's Mt Lawley. I've been hunting for a pretty patterned tunic in shades of pink for a couple of months now. None of the current floral prints appealed, and when I saw this dress online I knew it was perfect. My only complaint? Being rayon, it creases terribly.

Outfit of supreme comfort.

2010-07-05T18:19:00.003+08:00

Green leather jacket: Queen Victoria Market, Melbourne

Beanie: Queen Victoria Market, Melbourne

Black tunic: Jeans West

Skinnies: Op-shop

Worn on my first - and last - day of freedom before I start the new job. I dropped off some stuff at the old office, had a coffee with friends and then spent the arvo wandering around the city. Cost per wear, I've got the jacket down to $60 per outing.

Ch-ch-changes.

2010-07-04T10:49:00.000+08:00

Snake print skirt: Barkins

Black blazer: Portman

Necklace: Myer

Heels: Target

Worn on my last day in my current job and to farewell drinks at Tiger Lils. I'm excited about earning some decent $ but going to really miss working with two of my closest friends.

It's like a valance...for your clothes.

2010-06-30T19:25:00.003+08:00

Cardigan: Valley Girl

Black brocade peplum skirt: Review, 50% off

I know I posted this cardi recently, but when I dressed this morning I couldn't envisage a better match for my new peplum skirt. LOVING THIS TREND. Peplums are so flattering! I am going to sew one on everything I own.

A touch of whimsy.

2010-06-28T20:51:00.001+08:00

Skirt: Cue

Jacket: Op-shop

Shirt: Portmans

Polka dot tights: Columbine, Myer
Flower pin: Target

Booty skirt...almost.

2010-06-24T19:25:00.005+08:00

Polkadot cardigan: Valley Girl

Black pencil skirt: Cue, 30% off

Turtleneck: Target

Fishnets: Target

Polkadot cardigan.

2010-06-23T15:18:00.003+08:00

Snapped up this adorable Alannah Hillesque cardigan at lunch today. It feels a lot softer and nicer than you'd expect for the $24.95 price tag and fits like a dream. Also available in pink! Buy it here.

New plaid skirt.

2010-06-21T21:15:00.000+08:00

Plaid tulip skirt: Loot's closing down sale. Boo!

Blazer: Op-shop

Ceramic pin: etsy

Boots: ebay

Nude blazer.

2010-06-19T10:02:00.001+08:00

Satin blazer: Jacqui E, 75% off

Black lace top: Harbourtown

Jeans: Op-shop

Snakeskin pumps: Target

Shipping from the UK has been amazing lately...our new (second hand) camera arrived in a week! This blazer is my favourite item at the moment, I usually shy away from nude tones as they make me look ill but as long as I wear plenty of bright lipstick I can pull this baby off.

New red skirt.

2010-06-10T11:53:00.014+08:00

Red pencil skirt: Review

Zebra print top: Target
Black blazer: Op-shop

Fishnets: Myer

Heels: Sandler

I recently swore off pencil skirts after realising a tulip shape is far more flattering on me. This one snuck in to my wardrobe last week but it's a pencil/tulip hybrid, which makes it okay.

I broke our camera! Dropping it on pavement with the lens open will do that, apparently. Anthony found a replacement on ebay for $40, with an extra battery included. No more outfit pics until it arrives, though!

2010-06-01T23:53:00.000+08:00

Hi all, just a quick note to say I'm in the process of changing the blog to invitation only. Blogger won't let me automatically invite everyone who is already a follower, only add peeps that are already in my contact list...and there aren't any, because I didn't know I had one. So if you would like to keep viewing my stuff please drop me a line at fruitinabox@live.com.au and I'll send you an invite via email. xo

Super skinnies.

2010-05-28T20:16:00.010+08:00

Super Skinny biker jeans: Just Jeans

White ruffled shirt: Portmans

Black jacket: Op-shop

Houndstooth scarf: Queen Vic. Market

I may not have been able to bend over, or feel anything below my waist today, but I don't care. These jeans were worth it.

Banana & Licorice.

2010-05-28T13:21:00.006+08:00

Skirt: Portmans

Cardigan: Cotton On

Houndstooth scarf: Queen Vic. Market

It's been over two months since my last haircut, and boy does it show. Not in this pic, obviously - I've cropped to protect your delicate sensibilities - but trust me, the layers are out of control. Because I'm growing it I'm keeping iron usage to a minimum, which isn't helping any in the style stakes. But a bit of suffering now is worth having healthy, shiny hair later, right?

Illnessed.

2010-05-20T11:30:00.005+08:00

Grey cardigan: DFO Melbourne

Grey pinstripe skirt: Barkins

Black top: Target

Boots: ebay

Bah, I'm sick! Love the start of Winter but hate the inevitable head cold. Wrapping up in a scarf and a fluffy cardigan is the next best thing to being in a doona cocoon.

Twofer.

2010-05-15T21:52:00.010+08:00

I'm a bit strapped for time at the moment so I've included both yesterday's and today's outfits in one post. Are you sitting down? Clutching something sturdy and preferably bolted to the desk? Then behold: The Apple Green Leather Jacket (of Gorgeousness!)

I was finally brave enough to wear it out today and risk exposure to the elements. I've only ever worn PVC and expected to get sweaty and overheated within the first ten minutes but I was super comfortable all day. Who knew leather garments breathe? And conform to the curves of your body rather than strain against them?

The jeans are new, Jeans West are having a 40% off sale storewide so I picked up these and another pair in a darker wash. They're supposed to be flares and although they're cut wider than bootleg, they're still not nearly flared enough for my liking.

Houndstooth print shift with angled shoulders: Portmans, 30% off.

I love this dress, the cut is amazing. I need to get some polo/turtle necks to layer underneath it before the real cold weather hits.

New cardie.

2010-05-13T10:25:00.004+08:00

Leopard print cardigan: Jacqui E

Black turtleneck: Target

Pinstripe tulip skirt: Barkins

Micronet tights: Myer

Boots: ebay

War and Peace.

2010-05-11T12:09:00.006+08:00

Braided cardigan: Southern Cross Station, Melbourne

(Just to clarify, I bought it from a shop and didn't find it discarded in a train carriage.)

Floral skirt: DFO somewhere in Melbourne CBD.

Lurving the trend of mixing florals with stripes and military inspired pieces.

I had a successful shopping trip on Friday night and struck a few essentials off my list. As predicted I found them in Portmans and Jacqui E, but the transactions were painless as everything I loved was on sale.

Floral tulip skirt #2.

2010-05-06T15:26:00.004+08:00

This is the twin of the skirt I wore in my last post.

Dressing for work has become a challenge now that my basics no longer fit. I'm currently without a white button up shirt, knee length black skirt, black trousers, or a black shift dress.

I've been op-shopping a lot but all I've managed to score is a black blazer that is cut well but looks odd unbuttoned, has sleeves that are slightly too short for me and started smelling funny after I washed it.

Even more disappointing, faithful Target has dropped the ball. I've kept a close eye on their officewear this season and found quality and fit to be at an all time low. I may have to fork out a bit more cash and get what I need from Portmans or Jacqui E.

Spoils of Wear.

2010-04-29T16:38:00.006+08:00

I scored this gorgeous floral tulip skirt - with pockets! - outlet shopping in Melbourne. I also bought it in pink. And I know I promised a picture of the Apple Green Leather Coat of Gorgeousness...and it's coming, just as soon as I get home while it's still light enough to take a pic without flash. Because, you know, the flash might prematurely age the leather. I haven't worn it out of the house yet in case I accidentally brush up against something scratchy.

The End of Freedom.

2010-04-24T10:54:00.007+08:00

I shot this outfit a few weeks ago but never got around to posting it. I think I wore it to watch DVDs at a mate's house.

I return to work on Tuesday. I intended to do some writing over this three week break, but aside from our four frenzied days in Melbourne all I've done is sleep, read and eat Banana Paddlepops. I'm so lazy I disgust myself.

Dinner with friends.

2010-04-21T21:58:00.005+08:00

Maxi: Barkins

Denim jacket: David Lawrence, Op-shop

Beanie: Queen Victoria Market

Bag: Strandbags

Anchor necklace: Ebay

I had no idea there was a Wagamama's in Subiaco. Apparently it's been there for years. I had the Teriyaki Salmon, and it was magnificent.

Also, I may never style my hair again. Pulling on a hat is saving me a good twenty minutes in the mornings.

Melbourne Mini-break.

2010-04-19T09:38:00.004+08:00

Beanie: Table 8 clearance

Vest with brass look anchor buttons: Harbourtown

Striped tee: Sussan

Skinnies: Op-shop

Flat boots: Target

Worn to the Spandau Ballet concert last night at the Sandalford Winery. They were incredible, as were support acts Tears for Fears and Jack Jones. The beanie wasn't so much a fashion statement as a convenient way to disguise the craptastic hair I was rocking from just having stepped off an aeroplane.

Anthony and I spent the last four days in Melbourne. It was our first visit and we loved it. I would move there in a heartbeat!

While planning the trip I compiled a list of must-see places; DFO, Harbourtown, the Queen Victoria Market and mega op-shop Savers in Footscray, and we managed to fit them all in. I scored some great bargains, including the apple green leather jacket of my dreams. Pics to follow!

Nuthin fancy.

2010-04-07T18:24:00.005+08:00

My new fave jeans and top, worn to a nice cafe lunch in the hills and then shopping with my mum and husband.

Lady of Leisure.

2010-04-06T10:46:00.016+08:00

Skinny jeans: Op-shop

Military vest: Crossroads

Boots: Williams

I'm on holidays! I got my fill of DVDs, glossy magazines and midday naps over the Easter weekend, so I'm looking forward to spending the next three weeks productively; gardening, cooking, overhauling my wardrobe and writing are all on the agenda.

And I don't know if you noticed but checkit, I'm not wearing an oversized top to hide my hips and bottom! I'm 400g away from goal and feeling positive about maintaining my weight, even though it will mean counting WW points every day for the rest of my life. It's a big hairy pain in the ass, but it's the only thing that works for me.

Calm before the storm.

2010-03-31T18:38:00.014+08:00

Snake print skirt: Barkins

Short sleeved blazer: Roads

Snakeskin belt: Portmans

Everyone got their booby traps in place?

Bargain Skirt.

2010-03-24T19:13:00.009+08:00

I had quite a few compliments on the 'classiness' of my skirt today. Mwah hah hah! Not only is it a Supre skirt (anyone who lives in Oz will appreciate the irony) but it's a second hand Supre skirt!! Best three dollar purchase ever. It falls really nicely and creates curves where I want them.

Snaffled.

2010-03-13T21:42:00.014+08:00

Snakeskin print tulip mini for $16.95, reduced from $39.95. Available now at Barkins online!

I'm not supposed to be buying clothes yet... but the size I bought is a teensy bit snug so it should be a perfect fit eventually.

Ho Hum.

2010-03-09T20:40:00.010+08:00

Dress: Op-shop

Cropped white jacket: Valley Girl

Nude pumps: Target

My outfit options are severely limited right now. This dress is something like 95% spandex so it fits just as well - if not better - than it did four kilograms ago, although it does draw attention to the flatness of my ass. Why can't we choose where we lose weight? I want it off my face, upper arms, thighs and calves. Instead it comes off my ass and boobs.

Verdant.

2010-02-26T15:45:00.008+08:00

Peacock print maxi : Valley Girl

Green cropped cardigan: Temt

Some of you know I used to be a lot bigger. At my heaviest I weighed 92kg and wore a size 18-20, but after rediscovering the joy of swimming four years ago I whittled away enough fat to squeeze my ass into a pair of size 12 jeans. I’ve stayed the same size since and although I've been much happier with my body, I always felt I wasn't done. I made a decision at the end of last year - my thirtieth - that I was going to finish what I'd started. I was going to lose those last few kilos to create the best body I've ever had, and there would be no toasted cheese sandwich or hot chip tempting enough to derail me.

I've lost four kilos since, with three more to go until I hit my goal - 65kg and a size 10. At 179cm tall this will give me a nice & healthy BMI of 20. My husband doesn't think I should lose any more weight but I just know that my body will look better once I lose the last of the flab and reveal the muscles are (theoretically) lurking underneath. It's been slow going but I'm reassuring myself that the slower the loss the better - I don't want to contend with loose skin.

I don't plan to buy any new clothes until I'm at goal, so I'll be posting less frequently. But if you have a blogroll and I'm on it - please don't delete me. I'll be back! :)

Rachael vs. The Boutique of Crapness, Round Two.

2010-02-24T12:46:00.009+08:00

The good news - I received a refund on the dress with the dodgy hem. The bad news - it took a formal complaint lodged with the Department of Consumer and Employment Protection and mediation by one of their case workers to get it.

Directing a personal attack at the staff and manager of the boutique would be pointless and petty so I'll leave it at this - if you live in Perth, do yourself a favour and steer clear of Divine Fashion in Belmont Forum.

Flashing your grandparents is not cool.

2010-02-21T18:37:00.009+08:00

Peacock print maxi dress: Valley Girl

White cardigan: Op-shop

Flats: Target

Bangles: Target

Necklace: Diva

Worn to lunch at my grandparents. I don't have the kind of rack that can safely hold up a strapless dress, so I was relieved to make it through the afternoon without exposing myself.

Ich Bin Nicht Ein Roboter (I Am A Lion)

2010-02-18T10:49:00.009+08:00

Satin shirt: Portmans

Black trousers: Sportsgirl

Vest: Target

Caught Josh Earl and Die Roten Punkte at the Perth Festival this week. Although DRP were good I preferred Josh's act - as Australia's only librarian-comedian his humour was right up my alley, and his song "Grammar Nazi Punks" had me in stitches.

Check out his myspace page here.

Smiling on the inside...really.

2010-02-15T19:11:00.005+08:00

Dress: Target, shortened from maxi length

Cardigan: Portmans, Boots: ebay

Shapewear: Target

I've worn control underwear for so long my husband thinks I was born with seams. I wear them with absolutely everything, even loose fitting dresses. Mostly because I'm scared they'll blow up...and better the world sees the miracle of engineering that is Dr Rey Shapewear than my wobbly bits.

Just Another Sunday.

2010-02-14T18:27:00.011+08:00

Peacock print tunic: Crossroads

Jeans: Op-shop

Bangle: Amway

No $100 bouquet of roses, overpriced chocolate hearts or fancy dinner to post about today - Anthony and I don't celebrate Valentine's Day.

I wore this yesterday to get my hair cut and go op-shopping with a friend who is back in Australia for good after spending the last few years cold, isolated and miserable in Manchester. Her Irish born husband was granted a spousal visa and will join her in five weeks.

Feeling my age.

2010-02-05T19:19:00.005+08:00

Spangly batwing top: Temt

Flared jeans: Op-shop

Strappy flats: Target

Every time I walk into Temt I feel like a granny - it's a store for young'uns and the average age of their shoppers is 14 - but occasionally I'll find something that makes wading through the boob tubes and floral rompers worthwhile.

Why would I want to see men dancing in spandex?

2010-02-01T18:49:00.014+08:00

Purple blouse: Portmans

Grey pencil skirt I bought months ago but haven't been able to fit into until today: Jacqui E

Today I bought tickets to see Spandau Ballet in concert in April, and I am extraordinarily excited about it. My husband...not so much. He knew I was buying the tickets and rung me from work to say he couldn't go because he had seen an ear, throat & nose specialist during his lunch break and was told he had tinnitus. When I didn't buy that he rung back to say he couldn't go because he was scared it might turn him gay, and did I really want to take the risk?

Rachael vs. The Boutique of Crapness, Round One.

2010-01-29T19:40:00.022+08:00

White jacket: Valley Girl

Flared jeans: Op-shop

Strappy flats: Target

Beads: Target

I am gropeable right now. A local retailer I bought an $80 dress from yesterday has refused to give me a refund even though it has a significant manufacturing fault. The assistant manager I spoke to could not offer me an exchange as the dress was no longer in stock. She refused to even discuss a refund, and said my only options were store credit or a repair. The repair would involve shortening the dress by two inches, which is not an option. She wouldn't let me speak to the manager directly, who was on leave.

Only when I rang a second time to request the full name and email address of the manager (which she wouldn't give me) and to advise her I would be contacting the Department of Consumer and Employment Protection did the manager herself contact my husband and agree to look at the dress.

Having worked in retail, the very idea of refusing to refund a customer for a faulty item is unfathomable to me. I'm taking the dress in next week, and heaven help this woman if I don't walk out of there with my money.

Who Likes To Rock The Party?

2010-01-26T21:14:00.013+08:00

Zebra print maxi: ebay, Cardigan: Portmans, Strappy flats: Target

Happy Australia Day to all my Aussie readers!

In spite of the Skyworks alcohol ban on the Perth foreshore, from my vantage point on a friend's balcony it sure sounded like folks were having fun down there! I'd love to know what percentage of the workforce calls in sick tomorrow.

CBF in the CBD.

2010-01-19T18:17:00.015+08:00

You've asked why I haven't been posting. Well, two of you have asked and one of you is my sister, but anyhoo - here's why. I've been wearing trousers a lot. I throw them on when I've overslept, laddered my last pair of stockings, forgotten to do laundry, my feet are too sore for heels, I can't bring myself to shave my legs, or I just can't be bothered thinking about what to wear. I don't feel stylish in trousers. I feel...functional. See?

Black shirt: Gifted, Grey pinstripe trousers: Sportsgirl, Beads: Target

Nothing to see here. You're regretting asking for an update now, aren't you? This post took eight minutes of my life to write and twenty seconds of yours to read - time none of us will get back - and for what? A big fat dose of 'meh', that's what.

I think you should both go stand in a corner and think about what you've done.

Back to the grind.

2010-01-04T19:31:00.010+08:00

White cropped jacket: Valley Girl, Black pencil skirt: Valley Girl, Zebra ring: Christmas gift from a friend, Nude patterned fishnets: Myer

A simple outfit, but I dug the details so I thought I'd share. It took about twenty shots of my legs to get one that didn't look mildly pornographic.

Happy New Year!

2009-12-31T22:05:00.014+08:00

Pink skirt: Cue
White singlet: Cotton On

Jacket: Portmans

Fishnets: Target

Necklace: Dotti

I hope you all had a wonderful Christmas and New Year's Eve! Technically my NYE has another two hours left in it, but I have no plans to stay up until midnight, new decade or no.

Return to cooler temps.

2009-12-16T18:54:00.006+08:00

I hope it lasts.

Shift dress: Target
Boots:ebay

Maxi #4.

2009-12-11T19:19:00.013+08:00

Retro print maxi dress: etsy

Cardigan: Cotton On

You may have noticed it isn't hemmed; it was before I bought it but the seller very kindly unpicked it to give me a bit of extra length. The fabric rolls up a little which kind of annoys me, so I'll probably rehem it at some stage.

I had a lot of guys staring at my chest today, which I found amusing, as there really isn't much there to perv on.

I wore fishnets all day and caught nothing but stares.

2009-11-12T18:56:00.011+08:00

Why I plan to wear fishnets at the office ALL summer:

1) The open weave keeps legs cool

2) They have a slimming, sculpting effect

3) Reduced visibility of lazy razor work

4) I enjoy the irony of being told they are too sexy for the office although I'm revealing less flesh than my bare-legged counterparts.

The maxi dress of awkwardness.

2009-10-16T18:47:00.009+08:00

Maxi dress: Target
Cardigan: Portmans
Flats: Target

Love, love, love the fit and cut and print on this dress, but I don't like where the hem sits. If only it was an inch longer! I may shorten it to knee length.

Deadly treadly.

2009-10-15T13:33:00.009+08:00

We just bought a second hand treadmill on ebay! I am extraordinarily excited. We pick it up on Saturday. I hope it doesn't suck.

I've had an exercise bike for years which I still use, but I want to run. I tried running at night with my husband under cover of darkness (that way no strangers got to witness my red face, lack of grace and slowly spreading damp spots) but I want the freedom of being able to run by myself, whenever I want, dressed how I like.

I don't want to get too much smaller than I am now but I would like to firm up. It's possible I already have some nice muscleage going on - I lifted light weights for a bit and I do a lot of incidental walking and stair climbing - but I can't tell because of the layer of flab covering them.

My plan is to walk/run at least twenty minutes a night, increasing the ratio of running to walking each time.

Marvellous Monday.

2009-10-12T18:35:00.007+08:00

Pencil skirt: Op-shop
Black shirt: Gifted

Belt: Target
Necklace: Gifted
Boots: ebay

I have nothing much to say at the moment...how dull! Busy with work, projects, and...life in general. Dressing has been less creative and more functional.

80's revival.

2009-09-30T18:55:00.016+08:00

Cheetah print top: Target

Ankle boots: Williams

Beads: Just Jeans

How many plush sheep died to make your vest?

2009-09-19T18:22:00.009+08:00

What my husband asked me when I got dressed this morning.

Worn into the city to get my hair cut. I feel at least two kilos lighter.

Vest: Valley Girl via Harbourtown ($9.95)

Jeans: Jeans West

Flat ankle boots: Target
Hair: Dani @ Toni & Guy

Zebra print top.

2009-09-09T19:26:00.016+08:00

Zebra print top: Target

Black boucle skirt: Portmans via Harbourtown

(I mention this because it means I got a HUGE discount)

Skinny black snakeskin belt: Portmans via Harboutown

Patterned black pumps: Target

Red handbag: Strandbags

I'm usually too lazy to take detail shots but today I thought I'd show you my red specs (not new, I just don't wear them often) and the varied patterns/textures on my sweet Target pumps.

I know your Tuesdays will never be the same.

2009-09-08T19:36:00.010+08:00

Black bolero: Portmans via Harbourtown
Leopard print cami: Harbourtown
Pencil skirt: Valley Girl
Copper swallow necklace: Gift

I'm only averaging about a post a week these days. Sorry. I've been distracted by something bigger than my wardrobe and as such have been chucking on a no-brainer black suit every morning.

Haiku Tuesday is also on hiatus while I squeeze my creative juices into this other project.

Goodbye, dear friend.

2009-09-01T18:25:00.008+08:00

Yellow t-shirt: Op-shop
Vest: Op-shop
Houndstooth skirt: Op-shop
Beads: Target
Ankle boots: Williams

I'm mourning the end of Winter. I'm not looking forward to the rising temps, increased UV and hayfever that accompany Spring.

Don't be fooled by the grin on my face. Inside, my heart is breaking.

My name is Rachael, and I am a blackoholic.

2009-08-25T20:14:00.008+08:00

Black cardigan: Cotton On

Black pencil skirt: Valley Girl

Faux snakeskin belt: Ice Accessories

Necklace: Amway

Pumps: Target

Because admitting you have a problem is the first step to recovery.

Haiku Tuesday.

2009-08-25T16:36:00.010+08:00

a tray lies empty
its clingfilm shell discarded
my thumbs are stained blue

butter and sugar
how can a union so sweet
end this bitterly?

on the worn carpet
remnants scatter and mingle
with my dignity

"A Dieter's Remorse" - Rachael, 25th August

What I wore to be chastised by a highly trained professional.

2009-08-18T16:35:00.026+08:00

Jeans: Op-shop
Puffy vest: Op-shop
Turtleneck: Target
Flat ankle boots: Target

I booked in for a standard clean and checkup, only to be told that in the four or so months since my last visit I've caused significant damage through grinding. I've been doing everything right since my last lot of fillings - staying away from wine and carbonated drinks, flossing religiously, chewing sugar-free gum between meals and using sensitive toothpaste.

I actually think worrying about the condition of my teeth is the cause of my grinding.

The cardigan of disproportion.

2009-08-12T11:44:00.022+08:00

Floral wrap dress: Op-shop

Green cropped cardi: Valley Girl
Wooden ring: Gift from a friend

Swallow necklace: Gift from grandparents

While dressing this morning I realised I hadn't worn this cardigan all Winter. I always feel a bit odd in cropped cardis, as I think they make me look disproportionate.

Haiku Tuesday - Part 2.

2009-08-11T14:37:00.006+08:00

For those of you who are interested, here is a brief explanation of the haiku in English, courtesy of the fount of all knowledge, Wikipedia;

Haiku in English is a development of the Japanese haiku poetic form in the English language. Contemporary haiku are written in many languages, but most poets outside of Japan are concentrated in the English-speaking countries.

It is impossible to single out any current style, format, or subject matter as definitive. Some of the more common practices in English include:

- Use of three lines of up to 17 syllables;
- Use of a season word (kigo);
- Use of a cut or kire (sometimes indicated by a punctuation mark) to implicitly compare two images.

The typical length of haiku appearing in the main English-language journals is 10–14 syllables and few have a syllabically symmetrical line arrangement such as 5-7-5 or 3-5-3. Some haiku poets are concerned with their haiku being expressed in one breath and the extent to which their haiku focus on "showing" as opposed to "telling".

Personally, I enjoy the challenge of sticking to a 5-7-5 or 3-5-3 arrangement, so all of mine will follow these.

For those who just can't get enough of this darn stuff:

http://www.ahapoetry.com/keirule.htm
http://www.makeliterature.com/forums/your_writing/poetry/haiku/haiku-poems.html