QUEENSLAND'S MOST STYLISH

Very humbling & a lovely nod to Queensland & our style set. Many thanks to Kellie Alderman, Sunday Mail Fashion Editor, & her esteemed judges for including me in this inaugural list of style icons. I feel honoured to be in the company of such an impressive list of people.

TRACEY GILLINDER
Associate Director, HBO+EMTB
An obsession for shoes (from Christian Louboutin heels right down to her Holster Jelly sandals) is soon to be the subject of her debut novel, but it's the well-cut suits that this style-savvy mum really lusts after.

STYLE transcends age, gender and social groups and, while it might be a distant cousin to fashion, it is much more about your connection to the clothes you wear than whose name is written on the label.

Welcome to The Sunday Mail's first-ever list of our style icons. We enlisted a panel of fashion industry aficionados to decide who our most stylish Queenslanders are. The judges are: Damien Woolnough, Suzi Vaughn, Kellie Alderman, Jodie Bache-McLean and Leigh Buchanan.

This list recognises men and women who have great personal style – defined as someone who expresses something individual about themselves through what they wear.

It's also about carrying off something unexpected – like the 24-year-old city corporate finance analyst who regularly mixes bow ties and retro glasses with shorts and makes it work.

There is also the 58-year-old gorgeous grandma who has more than 200 pairs of stockings.

We have included some of Queensland's best-known names, such as pop starlets The Veronicas and former Queensland schoolgirl turned celebrity model Miranda Kerr.

Judge Damien Woolnough said Kerr had "the goods and the perfect accessory in Orlando Bloom – he goes with everything".

There couldn't be a 50 Most Stylish list without a few inclusions from the world of fashion in Brisbane.

From stylists to retailers, designers and models, they have all done something the rest of us aspire to – combined their passion with their jobs. What could be more stylish than the contentment that comes with that?

There is indisputable proof that Queensland has an abundance of style. So much so, that we originally had the luxury of selecting from a list of 100 most stylish.

Read the article online in the Sunday Mail or go to the Gallery for the 50 most stylish images.

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MAKE YOUR OWN... SHOE..?

In the world of MYO who would have thought the day would arrive where you could make your own shoe…?

Shoes of Prey creates bespoke women's shoes, designed by you. Instead of choosing your pizza base or you noodle, as in the fast food MYO; choose the heel, toe, fabric, colour and embellishments.

This site promises their “expert craftsmen then make your shoes to measure, swaddle them in a soft dust bag and crisp new box, and ship them straight to your waiting feet”. These clever Jimmy Choo replicas can be customized by the individual from AUD $300.

What will the shoe Gods think of next?

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IS UGLY THE NEW HOT..?

I’m open to design finesse and creative expression. I dig off-the-wall, outside the box and edgy. I spent years studying interior design for Christ’s sake, my middle name is edgy!

Taking fashion risks is how unknown fashionistas become icons. Think Jackie O, Twiggy and our more modern day muses; Kate Moss or the styling of Patricia Field for The Devil Wears Prada or Sex & The City. The outrageous is precisely how women of fashion befall recognition and if they are tremendously lucky, become elevated to fashion royalty.

Where might Liz Hurley be today if it weren’t for that Versace safety pin dress she nearly wore while gloriously decorating Hugh Grant’s suit?

Are there times when designers have gone too far? I’m with the whole push the boundaries and make the press talk public relations stunt but when the latest collections from fashion houses hit my laptop I was left wondering who was going to wear these things beyond the catwalk?

Has ugly become the new hot?

Overtly chunky heels with almost orthodic like strapping have been pushing the boundaries of attractive for the last few seasons. Despite their somewhat medicinal appearance women clambered to get their hands on the much yearned for Chloe or Stella McCartney versions.

The ankle boot has been beaten to death by every design house from Bottega Veneta to Christian Louboutin and we’ve come out the other end with some specimens of boot resembling the paraffin wax dip we had at our last pedicure.

Animal prints have been climbing all over our bodies and clinging for dear life to our feet for longer than most of us are prepared to admit and then Marc Jacobs added the exclamation mark with horns to the toes of last season’s cow hide ballet flats. An interpretation I found entertaining until security at the airport told me I couldn’t wear them on a Qantas flight I was preparing to board. I must admit, this is the first time my shoes have been classified as lethal weapons!

Enter Balenciaga last season with what I like to call Yeti Chic. If you are curious to see what happens when an Ugg and an ankle boot reproduce you have your answer right here. It is at this point I assume that trying to get Pamela Anderson into some heels as an alternative to her Uggs may be the inspiration behind these? In their defense, I can imagine Mary-Kate Olsen or Kate Moss trudging through New York or Notting Hill respectively donning a pair.

I can only assume the Gridiron WAGS would be the clients of note for Balenciaga’s second fascinating offering last season, with its gridiron uniform likeness, these were available in contrasting black and white or the ever striking primary colours. Was this a mercy design encouraging husbands to become interested in what women are wearing or did somebody get drunk during the USA’s Monday night football and presuppose this would be amusing?

Alexander McQueen was inspired by the notion of Darwin’s The Origin of the Species and these little gems (pictured) were the result. While I completely understand the creative journey and use of amphibian and prehistoric references… paaahlease! I am not wearing twelve inch ankle boots that resemble animal hooves, with or without the bling.

When canvassing the male population on their thoughts concerning the most desirable shoes it is fairly unanimous that orthodic, overly chunky platforms are not sexy, no matter how much they are embellished with jewels, ribbons or butterflies. Evidently, I find by scrutinizing some of the most stylish feet around town, our motivation is not to appeal to the men. Undoubtedly we are looking to appeal to our fellow shoe constituents.

Sassy interpretations of these chunkier trends can be seen in McQueen’s current season stacked platform heart peep, YSL’s platform pump and Prada’s Satin Sandal, all sure to demand a second glance from any passer by. A little bit of ugly (directional, to use the language of our beloved designer folk) can be a good thing. It creates interest and defines us outside the horde, which is precisely why we seek out these must-haves in the first place.

Building a shoe wardrobe can be tricky and if thinking long term investment, wise selection is a must. Too directional and the wearer will be vilified next season for inappropriately repeat offending. Select shrewdly and they can be slipped into the next few seasons virtually unnoticed in their repetition. Sure, they may have to sit a season out but most of the good ones do.

It can be done. We can all learn to introduce a touch of ugly into our wardrobe, as long as it’s done appropriately.

That being said, the only surefire way to get noticed by the fash-pack is to jump into that LBD, sling a Chloe Victoria shoulder bag over that arm and slip on some animal-hoof-chic. Hey, it worked for Liz!

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LIFE IMITATES ART FOR IMELDA

Australian Blogger Matthew Jordon, Imelda – The Despotic Queen of Shoes, will be immortalized by Brisbane based luxury retailer Jean Brown later this month when they present the Imeldific exhibit.

Now for those who are not as savvy in the online world, I do not consider myself a ‘Blogger’, I consider myself someone who writes & publishes some musings on a Blog. The delightful Jordon is the absolute opposite, a dedicated career blogger traveling the world to très chic runway shows & fashion happenings to report on all things shoes.

If you aren’t already following his blog, get your despot on & go to Imelda. If you are one of the lucky few, I’ll see you @ Jean Brown for the launch of this exciting collaboration!

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217 PAIRS FOR ST LOUIS SHOEADDICT

Women get so much press for their addiction or obsession with shoes, it is delightful to see the blokes getting in on the act.

Turner Seline, of Tower Grove East (USA), loves shoes so much he uses an entire bedroom in his 3 bedroom St Louis apartment to house his collection.

Seline, 25, became enamored with basketball shoes in high school and has since graduated to own a range of colourful kicks in bright hues of orange, turquoise, yellows and blues to luxury Salvatore Ferragamo footwear.

"I just get this feeling when I see a shoe that I just gotta have, and I just know it," Seline said. I imagine that feeling happens a lot given he works @ Nordstrom's men's shoes department as an assistant manager…

Read the entire article @ St Louis Today.

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PRADA'S MILAN SHOCKER!

Am absolutely with Matt @ Imelda on this one.

I usually adore Miuccia Prada's creations & last seasons platform sandals were to die for, but what was she thinking sending these nasty things out on the runway @ Milan Fashion Week...?

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COLLECTIVE SUBFUSCO

Subfusco’s runway show at Serafini Chains was genius.

Scacheri's Collective Species S/S 2010 adorned models strutting at Perry pace through the industrial space with music that pumped the rib cage.

Brisbane hot-spot Cloudland presented guest DJ’s and chemical like cocktail concoctions served in jam jars with paper straws.

The man behind Subfusco is Über cool Josh Scacheri. After relocating to Italy to pursue a professional football career at the age of 16, he took an unexpected liking to the realm of fashion and became heavily influenced by the style and culture exhibited in his new surroundings.

Upon return to Australia Scacheri swapped ‘the boots’ for a sketch pad and officially launched Subfusco in 2006, built on the cross-cultural ideal of European elegance fused with Australian comfort.

Scacheri has raised the Brisbane fashion event bar.

This Collection is hot. Check out Subfusco or visit the concept store @ TCB Building, Fortitude Valley.

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JELLY LEGS

Practicality and comfort aren't attributes commonly found in glamorous footwear, but thanks to design icon Vivienne Westwood and Melissa Australia, they are now.

Long known for celebrating the architectural transformation of plastic spheres into the world’s most coveted fashion accessories, shoes, Melissa has united with Westwood yet again to create another line of dazzling stunners for this season.

"This technique guarantees perfect shapes without interweaves as we see in fabrics ..." says the designer herself. Her designs are unquestionably British, undeniably feminine and fearlessly non-conformist.

Westwood is an institution, now the esteemed matriarch counts the Melissa brand as a part of her monarchy.

Get this slice of Westwood (pictured) for a comfortable $185 @ Melissa Online.

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THE ONE THAT GOT AWAY

We've all had moments when time seems to slow to a pace akin of a bad telemovie. This is usually a moment that is not so great, when danger is near, or your favourite bowl is plunging toward the nadir of a tiled kitchen floor. Three minutes feels like thirty and we can hear ourselves screaming NOOOOOOOOOO, with desperation reminiscent of Rocky Balboa bleating for his wife Adrian in Rocky 2.

I have had one such moment.

Tastefully dressed for a Christening on a sunny Sunday, I am thrilled I have managed to style myself in the problematic dress code typical for such events; smart casual. Smart casual is one of those landmine dress requirements that is truly an art form. Pull it off and you look effortlessly chic. Go wrong and your attempt will be the topic of ridicule and discussion for weeks.

Managing to pull off the unimaginable, I affirm my classic black and white couture of choice with a quick nod at the mirror and we are out the door.

Of course I am wearing heels requiring significant concentration and a concerted ball-of-the-foot teeter so as not to put too much pressure on the decadent heel. A diminutive price to pay when they look fabulous.

Sitting through a grueling Minister’s sermon, while he exploits the possibility of converting the unconverted, and chasing my child around the parish to ensure she doesn't play in the holy water I manage to accomplish this walk with precision. Executing my pew dismount to gather outside for the post service recap, then striding across the car park enroute to the next venue is all done with almost gay abandon.

Once back at the home of my friend, shoes are being removed so as to make the wearers more comfortable and I opt to maintain my elongated calf and additional height in my much sought after designer runway shoes, circa 1998. We sit down, chat, and have a well earned glass of champagne. Realizing I have left my camera in the car I spring from my seat and march up the driveway.

Enter champagne induced momentary lapse of concentration.

There is a sound that only true shoe aficionados fear. I imagine it is somewhat like the noise of one’s arm ejecting from its shoulder socket. More like a gut wrenching pop than a crack.

That's when I hear it. A loud pop reverberates through the thick summer air. My slow motion scene begins; arms flailing, mouth open – aghast, over-exaggerated lunge toward the ground clutching my shoe. Imagine a sprinter’s response as she is closing in on the finishing line, unexpectedly hearing the crack of an ankle and experiencing the scalding blade of pain intensifying throughout her limb as she accidentally weight bares post fracture, and there you have the picture. NOOOOOOOOOO!

If you have not had the displeasure of this unpleasant incident then it is difficult to explain the pain associated with it. You see, a high-end heel is a most exotic creature. Beautifully styled, beginning generously by enveloping the heel of the foot with cradle like reassurance then elegantly whipping itself to a chic point. A designer shoe is all about the heel. One can usually recognize a designer specimen over a clever reproduction by the architecture of the heel.

A blessing and a curse I have discovered. The quandary is that there is no replacement heel for a designer runway shoe. You can't just pop down to your local shoe guy and ask him to replace the fractured heel for a new one, because replacements of this nature don't exist.

To clarify, you can acquire replacement heels but they are such poor comparisons that you can not go close to matching the unscathed heel and you certainly would not commit the deplorable crime of ripping the other one off to match. As much as local shoe guy will insist this is the best case scenario, this is just not an option.

Unperturbed by this information, designer shoe must be taken back to designer boutique. Once inside the compassion I am seeking, that only staff at such establishments can grant, is finally bestowed upon me. There is even a point where having tears well in my eyes almost seems justified.

I feel validation and reassurance. Briefly. Right up to the point that designer boutique minion returns from her back-of-house phone call to 'head office' and her expression has morphed from sympathetic to defensive. Apparently there is nothing they can do.

Frankly, it hasn't happened to anybody else. Ever. I am the only one and while she does feel my pain she has no answers for me. Despite the fact I am willing to pay for a replacement heel and I understand it's not the poor shoe's fault it's my fault, she is unrepentant. A few tears, threats to never shop there again (which could by the way, unquestionably affect their bottom line) mixed with a touch of begging and I am out the door.

Anguish and melancholy subsiding, I am back in problem solving mode. Right. Shoe guy can't help. Damn designer boutique that sold me a shoe worth more than a Tiffany ring can't help. Fashion designer friend! He will know someone or something to remedy this. Surely.

Pouty lips, sad eyes and lots of back pats and ‘darls’ later, this hope too is dashed.

It is time to come to terms with the undeniable fact that this just may be the end for designer runway shoe and I. Even slipping into the shoe boutique de jour doesn't help modify my state of mind. Nothing it seems is going to replace the fabric ribbons that caress my legs and the three month wait list I was on to get them in the first place. I have suffered a loss.

Eventually I will find a pair that fill the void left by designer runway shoe, one perfect for the occasional long days or nights where a comfortable yet visually stunning shoe is obligatory. Somewhere in the back of my mind I know that they will never replace the ones that got away, but I will learn to love them.

Designer runway shoe and I still date. We find an occasion now and then that can accommodate our needs. Short nights guaranteed to have no lapses in concentration (because that would not end well, fractured heel would become snapped heel), minimal standing and ball of the foot walking and we can still look fabulous together.

It's not the same but it could be worse and I won’t feel this way forever. Next season is just around the corner and I know that one day, I will have healed sufficiently to fall in love again.

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HATE IT!

I have been quite vocal about the Croc in the past and while I remain steadfast in my distain of seeing grown men (or women) wear shoes only a toddler looks cute in, I have spotted another abomination in footwear crimes...

Introducing the Vibram FiveFingers, without doubt the ugliest specimens of modern footwear technology. Having not seen anything so lame since the launch of the toe-sock in the 80’s I was astonished to see a personal trainer I know wearing these cosmetically ridiculous adornments at my local coffee stop.

I completely adhere to the notion of the human foot being an anatomical marvel jam-packed with bones, joints, muscles, sensory receptors, tendons and ligaments, but I am reticent that these ‘shoes’ can be successfully morphed into streetwear.

Like the Crocs and Masseur Sandals people, please, for the sake of your own self respect – keep these for around the house if you must own a pair.

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LOVE A GOOD PROFILE...

Over the weekend I picked up the Sunshine Coast’s Profile Magazine.

On a rare Sunday with time to actually sit & read, it was a pleasant surprise to pick up a local publication that had a variety of interesting reads that were both well written & informative.

All too often local publications fall victim to morphing into glorified advertising brochures with little else to offer editorially. Having flicked through many local magazines in recent years I was delighted to find this not the case with Profile.

Go to Profile Magazine & download the August issue to read the admirable story of Holster’s Natalie Miller & Ben Nothling. We love these gorgeous Jelly shoes – great for the beach & street. I was a convert before reading this article but even more so now!

Congratulations to Genine Howard & the Profile team, I look forward to reading your next issue.

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HIGH HEELS SOCIETY

Do you have an uncontrollable urge to purchase tremendous shoes aka Carrie from Sex and the City?

Don’t worry, you are not alone.

On August 20 Limes Hotel Rooftop Bar launch its monthly event ‘The High Heels Society” where women can get together, wear their latest shoe obsession, watch a complimentary film and win big fashion prizes!

The monthly gatherings will include judging of the most outrageously fabulous shoes & the winner is up for some great prizes.

To become a High Heels Society member visit Limes.

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MBFF DAY 3: FINETTI, JOHNSTON & HO

Day 3 @ MBFF was yet another sweltering Queensland winter’s day but the Mercedes-Benz Group Show 7 showcasing; Nicola Finetti, Kirrily Johnston, Pink Mint (featuring Jenny Bannister) & Lisa Ho was a breath of fresh air.

Undoubtedly the best assemblage of designer compilations @ MBFF this year, Kirrily Johnson & Lisa Ho’s collections were feminine, wearable & beautiful.

The stand out of the evening was indisputably Finetti’s stunningly tailored collection, mixing strikingly bold colours with blacks, whites & natural tones.

Undeniably the best show so far!

While some may consider the festival all but over, there are still 3 days of events ahead, including Thursday night's wrap party @ Cloudland. Visit MBFF for more details.

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MBFF DAY 2: GRBAC TRIUMPH

Day 2 of Mercedes-Benz Fashion Festival was jam-packed with fashion frivolity.

The Sunday Mail Group Show, set against the backdrop of Brisbane’s grandiose City Hall, was an undoubted highlight featuring; Chelsea de Luca, Talulah, Katlyn Aslett, Sacha Drake, Pia du Pradal, & Grbac.

Most wearable collections were Talulah & Sacha Drake, both channeling fabulously bright summer hues.

The dazzling Juli Grbac, of Project Runway fame, showcased her fresh ready to wear collection Juli Grbac (that will retail at the more modest price point $300 - $500 as opposed to $500 - $2,000 for her Grbac label) to a convivial throng of fashion followers.

With Vogue’s Kristie Clements & Kristi Hinze front row, this distinctive show was a must!

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HINZE & PERDIS TALK UP QLD FASH-PAK

Kristi Hinze & Napolean Perdis talked up the Queensland Fash-Pak & Mercedes-Benz Fashion Festival in Brisbane this morning on Mornings with Kerri-Anne.

Both Hinze & Perdis gave glowing references to Queensland designers & Brisbane’s audience of consumer fashionistas attending this year’s MBFF.

For more on this interview visit the KAK website.

Hinze will be in Brisbane this week attending a range of high-profile shows including tonight's Sunday Mail Group Show featuring last season's Project Runway winner Juli Grbac.

Perdis is presenting today @ the National Media Lunch & Napoleon Perdis make-up colour trend forecast @ GoMA.

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JUNIPER GROUP SHOW HAS SOUL

Astronomical Akira delivered tonight in the sold out Soul by Juniper Group Show showcasing; Akira, Camargue & Easton Pearson.

In a coup for Brisbane, Akira’s current collection debuted for the first time globally on the catwalk at Brisbane’s iconic City Hall, alongside local retail institution Camargue & Queensland powerhouse label Easton Pearson.

Festival Director, Lindsay Bennett & Brisbane’s Lord Mayor Campbell Newman launched tonight’s show with a salute to public support for the festival.

The Rosemount 0 Bar @ Sebel Citygate played host to post show revelers in true Fashion Festival style.

Some tickets are still available for shows during the week, visit MBFF for more details.

View full photo gallery @ news.com.au

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SWIMWEAR DOES NOT DISAPPOINT

The vibrant Portside Wharf @ Hamilton & the glamorous 60 metre MV Fantasea Ammari were the ultra chic backdrops for the sold out Mercedes-Benz Fashion Festival Swimwear Group Show.

While fashion followers sat valiantly in the 30 degree heat that is Brisbane’s winter, models clad in the incandescent collections of; Flamingo Sands, Riot Swimwear, Karen Neilsen, White Sands, Rebecca Manning Swim & Colin Heaney flowed from the impressive Ammari onto the Wharf.

There was a veritable profusion of colour presented across all collections ranging from cut-out one-pieces & low-riding Brazilian briefs to a much fuller pant, reminiscent of the 1950’s. Swimwear is not alone in its return to 50’s glamour, with European & Australian designers seeking inspiration from this era in ready to wear collections for the coming season.

Concluding with a river cruise on the MV Fantasea Amari under the clear blue sky, 2009’s MBFF Swimwear Group Show once again lived up to the hype.

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MBFF MAKES A SPLASH!

Today is the calm before the Mercedes-Benz Fashion Festival storm.

What better way to kick off a festival of all things fashion in Queensland than a sold out Day 1 @ Portside Wharf for the Swimwear parade.

Traditionally the Swimwear show is a standout for MBFF & tomorrow promises to be no exception.

Watch this space for updates over the coming week @ MBFF or visit MBFF for the full program.


(Image: MBFF)
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EXTREME STILETTO FALLS TO FLATS

Just as we'd managed to convince ourselves that 17cm heels were a practical footwear option, rather than the modern equivalent of foot-binding, designers have made a radical U-turn.

Flats are back. You could call it fashion's banking crisis: heels rose to unsustainable heights and, as with the recession, no one quite saw the fall coming.

Now, even Britain's Trades Union Congress has jumped in on the act. Earlier this month it announced that high heels are demeaning to women and should not be worn in the office. Make of this what you will, but its suggestion that women should wear "sensible shoes" has inadvertently put the TUC in the same style camp as Vogue and it is unclear which party is more surprised.

News that pancake soles are the new vanguard of style will be a shock for many women (not to mention their shortened Achilles tendons). Sales of flat shoes may be up by 20 per cent at Selfridges, but the thrill of prancing about on a pair of toughened knitting needles is impossible to recreate with both feet safely on the ground.

Let's be clear, even though Christopher Kane, Hannah MacGibbon at Chloe, Calvin Klein and Lanvin's Alber Elbaz endorsed flat shoes on the catwalk, your old scuffed ballet slippers will not be at the forefront of fashion next season. That would be too straightforward.

Kane, who is fast becoming one of the most influential designers around, is adamant about the type of flats he deems acceptable. "Is it ballet pumps?" he asks. "In my opinion, no; flats need to be more boyish."

They must have attitude too...


Image (Tracey Gillinder @ Jimmy Choo, Sydney) & article published in The Australian newspaper, Wednesday 19th August 2009. To read the entire article visit The Australian.

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IT GIRL: TARA MOSS

With the impending release of her 5th novel, we celebrate this Siren’s fondness for stilettos…


WHAT MAKES YOU A DEDICATED SHOE ADDICT?
In researching my first novel Fetish, about a killer with a penchant for stilettos, I think I inadvertently gave myself a shoe fetish. I own perhaps fifty pairs of shoes.

YOUR FAVOURITE PAIR & WHY?
It is impossible to choose, but my fifteen year old black satin YSL evening shoes & my red Manolo Blahniks have to be up there.

YOUR SHOE PHILOSOPHY?
The higher the heels, the closer to God.

For more on Tara Moss's Siren visit www.taramoss.com

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GUCCI FALL WINTER 2009-2010

Champagne flowed & limousines were packed this week on the Gold Coast when style mistress & Courier Mail columnist Elizabeth Clarke hosted Gucci’s fall winter 2009-2010 collection launch.

While this collection is far more adaptive from day to evening it is no less glamorous. A nod to British style, it has a dash of 80’s. Metallics, asymmetrical stripes, shots of turquoise, bold shoulders, short dresses, kimonos & draped tops. All Über sexy & easily revised from work to party mode.

The amazing over the knee ‘division’ boot & gorgeous 'riddle’ boot with buckles & lace up front detail have fuss free side zip closure for easy booting up!

This collection rocks, so get your Gucci on.

Head to your nearest boutique or visit Gucci.com

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THESE SHOES AREN'T MADE FOR WALKING...

Hilarious clip of staffers @ New York Magazine attempting to walk in current collections gargantuan heels.

One of the funniest things I've seen this season. (Aside from models doing Bambi's first steps impersonations on catwalks @ Fashion Weeks all over the globe...)

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GUCCI RONSON POP-UP

Still on sneakers; luxury fashion house Gucci has joined forces with music mogul & producer, Mark Ronson, to launch the Gucci Icon-Temporary flash pop-up sneaker store that is set to travel the world.

Ronson, who has produced a string of hit records with No1 selling artists such as, Lily Allen & Amy Winehouse, has teamed up with Gucci’s creative director Frida Giannini to design a collection of limited edition Gucci Ronson sneakers.

Out in October, the range consists of 16 men’s styles and 2 women’s styles incorporating classic Gucci design signatures, such as the GG logo and a stylised version of the iconic Gucci red and green web detail. The sneakers will also come with silver or gold metal dog tags attached, with customers having the option to purchase customised leather dog tags with their initials on the laces.

The duo are set to host a celebratory launch party at the 1st flash store in New York on 23rd October. The NY pop-up will stay open for just two weeks and be decorated in a slick white gloss and an oversized red and green web band that wraps around its perimeter.

In December the flash store will then move from New York to Miami, continuing on to select cities in Europe and Asia such as London, Berlin, Paris, Hong Kong and Tokyo. At each international destination of the tour a new limited edition Gucci Ronson sneaker will be introduced. Sadly there are no destinations in Oz for this venture, but every customer that manages to snag a pair from overseas will also receive a custom 12-inch vinyl record with exclusive tracks, produced by Mark Ronson, as a gift with the Gucci Ronson sneaker.

Any potential for a snippet of this collection to reach down-under? I am told by a source @ Gucci that Ronson sneakers 'may be able to be sourced' from the US. Any interested candadites should check in @ Gucci Stores.


For more information visit www.gucci.com

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BLING IT ON!

Global footwear & apparel player Adidas will launch a diamond studded edition of sneakers on the occasion of its 60th anniversary in January 2010, as part of its lifestyle brand 'Adidas Originals'.

The special 'Superstar Diamond Shoe' will feature the three leaf logo & be embedded with six 0.02 carat diamonds along the stripes of each shoe. While only available exclusively @ Adidas Originals stores, I don't suspect we'll see them in Australia.

"The shoes inherit Adidas' legacy of soulful and stylish designs with six 0.02 carat diamonds skillfully embedded along the stripes on each shoe. The stylish Swarovski crystals studded on the accessories accompanying the shoe add on the extra style quotient," Adidas says.

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DJ's FASHION PACK

Hundreds of fashion pack, celebrities and designers watched yesterday as Miranda Kerr strutted the catwalk for David Jones Australian-themed Spring Summer launch at Sydney's Hordern Pavilion.

Bright flowing dresses and bohemian styles dominated the collections and were mixed with a healthy dose of animal prints and metallics, with the stand out being the gorgeous Kerr dazzling in a stunning off the shoulder red Alex Perry dress at the parade's close.

Celebrities such as actor Miranda Otto, ANTM host Charlotte Dawson and former DJ’s ambassador Megan Gale (this is Gale’s 3rd session on the bench) sat runway-side during the parade, as did leading fashion editor Vogue's Kirstie Clements.

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DESTINATION HAWAII, HONOLULU

Tracey's article in Jetstar Magazine this month:

Honolulu, on the island of Oahu, is one of the world’s most exotic cities. Encapsulating a modern vitality with the delightful charm of old Hawaiian, it reverberates with Aloha, the spirit of welcome.

MUST EATS:
Tony Roma’s – A Place For Ribs, for a casual lunch or dinner of ribs, seafood and steak. I recommend the baby back ribs with half an onion loaf to start. Not healthy, but a must try!

BEST NIGHT OUT:
Walking through Waikiki at night, wandering in and out of the Boutiques (especially during sale time @ Christmas), followed by shopping at the International Market Place. Be sure to stop at the Yard House on Waikiki Beach Walk for a drink.

MUST BUY (Money no object!):
A bottle of Moët at 2am for US$35 (AUD$43.50) at Hawaii’s 24 hour convenience stores called ABC – just because you can!

INSIDERS TIP:
Waikele Premium Outlets is a must-do day trip, about 25 minutes’ drive from Waikiki. You’ll find great American brands such as; Ralph Lauren, Calvin Klein and Tommy Hilfiger as well as imports. Purchase a voucher book for US$5 (AU$6.20) and it will save you lots of money.

BEST IDEA FOR A FAMILY OUTING:
Hire a car and drive around Oahu island. The winter waves at North Shore are incredible and you may get to see a pro surfer or two? The shrimp vans at the side of the ring road are excellent lunch stops.

I LOVE HONOLULU BECAUSE:
It’s relaxed, casual and laid back, with some great bargains to be had. There’s something remarkable about sky-high palm trees, white sandy beaches and the Waikiki sunset.

Go to Jestar Magazine

(Image published in Jetstar Mag, photographed by Michael Greves)

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VOGUE'S 50th BIRTHDAY BASH

Sydney's bash of the year was indisputably Vogue's 50th Birthday celebrations, with the who's-who of the fashion industry, political heavyweights & VIPs in attendance.

The 50th Anniversary issue is not out until this Wednesday 5th August & while those on the inside were trying to keep the cover under wraps, blogger & new media enthusiast Patty Huntington of, Frockwriter fame, has already posted the scanned versions featuring the gorgeous Cate Blanchett. (Pictured: Vogue Editor, Kirsty Clements).

Go to Courier Mail Photo Gallery

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THE BEAUTY & DANGER OF SIREN

Tara Moss delivers a world of beauty and danger, of French cabaret and terrible revenge in her 5th literary installment, Siren.

Famous for her hands on research, Tara was set on fire by Hollywood stunt company West EFX, choked unconscious by Ultimate Fighter 'Big' John McCarthy, and earned her PI licence for this latest novel.

Best of all, Mak is back.

Mak Vanderwall - beautiful, street-wise daughter of a cop, graduate in forensic psychology, and now PI - is hired by a widowed mother to track down her missing nineteen-year-old son. Has he come to harm? Or has he run off with a bizarre troupe of shady French cabaret artists sweeping through Australia? Has the dark beauty of the burlesque, the magic, the mind-bending contortion, beguiled him? Or has he been seduced by the mysterious and amoral older woman who has a terrifying starring role in the troupe's modern performances of the Grand Guignol 'Theatre of Fear', famous in Paris in the early 1900s? And what of the rumours of violence and tragedy that have plagued the troupe for the past decade? Is their horrifying past fact or fiction?

Meanwhile, Mak is increasingly obsessed with the powerful Cavanagh family, one of Australia's richest and most ruthless families, whom she believes has got away with murder. And it seems their security advisor Mr White, and his hit man, Luther Hand, may not have forgotten about Mak either ...

Tara will be on tour throughout Australia in September, catch her in the closest captial city near you!

Pre order Siren now. After all, who can resist a good thriller series that began with a stiletto murderer?

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WANT TO BE A NATIVE NEW YORKER?

Fancy an evening coctail @ the rooftop bar (pictured) of the Gansevoort Hotel, complete with 360 degree views of New York City & the Hudson River?

Perhaps dinner at the tremendously chic Pastis, made famous for its frequent appearances in Sex in The City? Private shopping experiences at Sale prices?

Design legend Daniel Lightfoot & style aficionado Margo Bowers will wisk you away on the trip of a lifetime, the Native New Yorker Tour.

A few short blocks away from Times Square exists a city beyond your wildest imagination. A place of underpriced designer fashions and overpriced cup cakes. Where bars and lounges can resemble Marie Antoinette's apartment or your grandparents living room in the 70's but equally represent the essence of chic.

Daniel & Margo will take you on to the New York tourist rarely experience. From Freemans, a hidden culinary gem in the grungy East side, to the fashionable Bar American in midtown, to the Blue Note Jazz venue in the fashionable West Village.

Discover New York City away from the tourist trail where locals dine, shop & party.

And for one brief shining moment - you are a New Yorker!

Not busy this November? For more details contact Debra Grandidier @ Flight Centre Management on 1300 557 813.

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A VARIETY OF TEES

The gorgeous Ladies Of Variety (LOVE) launched the highly-anticipated 2009 Chari-Tees Collection @ John Kilroy's Jellyfish in Brisbane City today.

The Collection boasts designs from some of the most respected names in the fashion industry including Akira, Camilla Franks, Easton Pearson, Eeni Meeni Miini Moh, Jayson Brunsdon, Jonathan Ward, Juli Grbac, Little Joe – Gail Elliot and Trelise Cooper. (Loving Jonathan Ward's look of a hoodie over his long sleeved collared shirt topped off with a Jacket, not to mention the tucked tie!)

This year’s Chari-Tees also feature the inaugural children’s collection, designed exclusively by two-time National Retail Association award-winning children’s wear label Eeni Meeni Miini Moh and international fashion designer Trelise Cooper.

Beautiful food, delicious Moet on arrival & a waterfront vista. For the full selection of this year's Tee Collection go to Variety.

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LOUIS VUITTON'S RED PUNCH

Louis Vuitton has unveiled its new Pre Fall Collection 2009.

We love a touch of red! Discover the new reds @ this Louis Vuitton sneak peak...

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HOW TO TELL A WOMAN BY HER HANDBAG

What does your handbag say about you?

Are you loyal to just one bag or do you share yourself around? If you're like me, there may be several descriptions of you within these pages!

Does your 'it' bag reveal you to be a style-obsessed fashionista who will do anything or anyone to get ahead?

Are you the floral straw-bag girl with squeaky clean hair and a heart full of dirty secrets?

Perhaps you're the mink purse-carrying minx who has turned divorce into a profession, or the briefcase-wielding high-flyer whose favourite form of exercise is climbing the corporate ladder?

Kathryn Eisman's sharp research & quick wit helps you to identify your own handbag personas and those of our family, friends and foes.

From the 'I don't mind being daggy as long as I'm comfortable' bum-bag lover to the Hermes-clutching-heiress, we are all bag ladies - now it's time to discover exactly which one.

This is a fabulous little read & a great gift for a gal-pal.

To purchase in Australia go to Dymocks Online.

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JEAN BROWN INFILTRATES CITY SET

Now firmly entrenched as a must-do when visiting Brisbane’s Fortitude Valley, Jean Brown has announced the opening of a new store in Brisbane’s CBD.

The City store will bring a petite version of the Jean Brown Flagship stores to City gals seeking a the latest fashion must-haves.

Forecast to open around this Friday 24th July in Tattersalls Arcade, just off the Queen Street Mall, Jean Brown’s staff lack the pretence so often thrown at you when entering such boutiques.

For those who haven’t had the Jean Brown experience as yet, do yourself a favour!

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RUNNING IN HEELS

Israeli women competed in the 'Race on Heels' for the first time near the beach in Tel Aviv on July 16, 2009.

The competition came to Israel after being held in Amsterdam, New York and Berlin. During the race all women are asked to sprint in heels above 7 centimetres on a 50-metre track.

First one to the end without an injury wins...

I love my heels but... Pass!

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TEARS @ LACROIX

As Christian Lacroix’s Spring / Summer 2009 hits the catwalk in Paris, there is glumness in the air. This could very well be the final curtain for Lacroix.

France's US-owned couture house declared insolvency at the end of May 2009 after the company claimed it had fallen foul of the global crisis.

Arguably one of the most exuberant couturiers in Paris, not only will we miss his ostentatious haute couture & ready to wear collections, but oh, the shoes…

Like many luxury goods businesses, the Lacroix fashion house has been severely affected by the recession, losing 10 million euros in 2008 on turnover of 30 million euros.

Christian Lacroix is considered one of the Frances's most creative contemporary designers.

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COCO AVANTE CHANEL

This biopic film tells the story of the architect behind the world's most famous fashion house, depicting the course she travelled from humble seamstress to global style mogul.

The Babes in Business screening tonight was packed with VIP treatment. Fabulous bubbles on arrival and an exclusive screening of Coco Avant Chanel @ DENDY Portside followed by wines and canapés at the gastronomicly delightful Gusto Da Gianni.

With a cinema full of Babes inspired by the incredible Gabrielle Coco Chanel, who taught women across the world that "a girl should be two things: classy and fabulous", it was definitely a winner!

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MARYONS ONLINE

Loving Queensland designer institution, Maryons, new website.

Maryons matriarch Maryon Campbell can more often than not be found sailing these days, while her Über stylish & accomplished daughter Claire runs the business.

(Pictured @ the recently opened Tedder Avenue, Main Beach store).

For those too busy to pop into their Shoetique in person, jump onto the Maryons newly face-lifted website. Potential purchases can be viewed by season, event or designer & not only give you full details of the impending purchase but the retail price as well.

We love it when they make it easy!

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