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If you've had your eye on a Boden dress, now is the time to make your move with the long weekend sale. I've actually never bought a dress from Boden before, but I keep coming back to the perennial favourites every few weeks.
I love the Marisa dress, above, in both the Baltic colourway, as pictured, as well as the leopard print. This fitted dress would work hard in your wardrobe, taking you from work to drinks, and the vintage-inspired collar is a lovely detail. This weekend it's reduced to $98.40 from $164.
I'm also a fan of the Sixties Jacquard dress, above, which finishes above the knee and features some vintage-inspired pockets at the front. I couldn't get away wearing it without feeling a wee bit Mutton, but it's a bit of a cutie for younger ladies and right now it's $82.60 (from $118).
I love that many of Boden's designs are available in a wide range of sizes as well as fabric and colour options. It's well worth reading the buyer reviews at the bottom of each listing, taking note of the reviewer's size and shape. I'm always interested to read feedback from other busty girls because some cuts just don't work on women with big boobs. Like me.
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If you find yourself stuck for inspiration when you’re arranging decor in your home, take note of Danish design brand House Doctor. With an extensive range of beautiful and practical homewares, House Doctor is a superb example of combining simplicity with functionality - a signature of Scandinavian design.
It naturally follows that House Doctor’s pieces are styled to perfection for their website, consistent with the brand’s design aesthetic.
Here you'll find bucket-loads of ideas for styling decor and homewares in every room of your house: a masterclass in how to style a vignette inspired by Scandinavian style.
The Shelf(ie)
Look at how the various pieces displayed on the shelf are often linked by the sporadic use of a unifying colour, texture or material (ie: black; wire; and glass). It's not overdone so the trick is not to make it look too contrived. Easier said than done, I know. But have a play and see how you go.
Also note how you can draw an (invisible) triangle in each arrangement, which is the classic guide to creating a balanced vignette. The triangle needn't be centred, in fact an assymetrical design looks best, but see if you can create lines from the highest piece in your group to the lowest piece.
The Workspace
A typical Scandinavian-style palette uses white in various textures, combined with timber or natural materials for warmth. It's usually accented by black (the mobile against the wall as an artwork is a genius idea and I love the modernist simplicity). Note the mix of materials (timber, paper, metal and ceramics) in neutral hues and a sprig of foliage for a fresh pop of colour.
The Coffee Table
Notice the common feature in the coffee tables above? It's all about lighting, albeit in different forms. Using candles and table lamps adds creates that all-important sense of hygge (the Scandanavian concept of cosiness and homely warmth). Its's not a cluttered look, featuring just three completely different objects, which are subtly unified by material (ie. brass) or hue (natural, earthy colours).
The Hallway
A good hallway setting combines function with style, which is key to Scandinavian design. The hallways above demonstrate two ways to not only organise and store your stuff, but create a pleasing display of objects. Whether you go for a bench or a chair, you can create a sense of harmony by using natural hues with pops of black to tie it all together.
The Sideboard
Here you'll find that foliage and indoor plants feature on all three sideboards, punctuating the vignettes with a pop of green. Note the repetition of materials in glass and brass.
The Kitchen
Use your kitchen shelves to display a collection of objects, such as ceramics, glassware and wooden utensils. Both kitchens are set against white uncomplicated backgrounds, accented by granite benchtops.
Collections
Got a collection of glass or vases you want to display? Keep similar materials together and style them in groups that follow the classic triangle arrangement. Avoid lining things up in a row like soldiers and aim for a relaxed look.
House plants
Use house plants and foliage to bring attention to special pieces in your home. You can create an interesting display on a shelf or sideboard by grouping plants and foliage in pots. Choose planters in the same tone but vary the textures.
Gallery wall - and cushions!
This is a great example of how to arrange artworks and objects on a gallery-style wall. Note how each piece is hung along a roughly diagonal line, with a subtle mix of black, wooden and brass frames. The grouping of cushions, meanwhile, demonstrates how different shapes, sizes and textures work to create interest on the sofa. The whole look is pulled together by using grey as the dominant colour, accented by complementary shades in olive and dusky pink.
Dining table
Here you can see how the classic triangle arrangement works to create a sense of drama on the dining table. The pendant serves as the tip of the triangle, while the grouping of (roughly) three different items are positioned off-centre, avoiding that cliched look of one central vase, which is often seen showroom styling.
For more information and to shop House Doctor, click here.
All photography courtesy of House Doctor.
Love Scandinavian style? Me too. Get more Scandi buys and inspiration here.
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It's no secret that we Australians know a thing or two about design. Over the past decade, there's been a noticeable shift as the global industry spotlight - arguably led by international design bloggers - has swung south to the land Down Under. And never has this been more evident than in our bedding design, with independent brands taking the lead and showcasing a masterful use of print, pattern, colour and texture.
Here, I've rounded up my top 12 Australian bedding brands to shop for Spring/Summer 2016/17.
Above: Kip and Co's spring/summer collection 2016.
Aura is the go-to brand for high-quality bed linen in sophisticated Scandi-inspired print designs. This season sees a return to earthy fabrics, from vintage linen to stonewashed waffle weaves and frayed trimmings, in an array of soft and dusty hues.
Kip & Co's iconic prints are back for summer with the new Tropics collection: a bohemian medley of spots, checks, marbling and retro florals. But it's not all bold prints and bright colours - consider the linen sheets and pillowslips in the softest greys, apricots and lavenders, layered with luxe velvet quilt covers and cushions. Designed to mix, match and layer to your heart's content.
Sage and Clare's new season collection takes inspiration from vintage colour palettes and designs with retro floral prints, stripes and pops of colour. Punchy hues come into play this season with mustards and oranges offset by a soft chambray reverse. The tufted throw blankets are this season's highlight.
Adairs
Home Republic Vintage Washed Linen Indigo Quilt Cover, from $119 from Adairs.
You can't go past Adairs for well-priced bed linen in seasonal tones and prints. It's the fast-fashion of bed linen in Australia, and their in-house design team keep an eye on the latest trends. One of their best-sellers is the Home Republic line of Vintage Washed Linen, available in quilt covers and cushions in a range of neutral and muted shades.
Based in Melbourne, the design team at I Love Linen works with local and international artisans to curate a collection of well-made beautiful bedding basics. The hand-dyed and stitched lightweight coverlets are this season's highlight.
Melbourne-based Feliz Home is a small brand producing beautiful hand-screen printed designs, using certified organic cotton and sustainably-produced fabrics. With their children's bed linen featured in the latest season of Offspring (which has become a kind of style barometer of new and emerging Australian design), this is a brand to watch. This have just released their first Art Series, collaborating with local artist Maria Flores of 'Say Hola’.
With more than a hint of hipster cool, Hunting for George stocks a range of design-led homewares, including a nicely curated selection of bed linen. But their own designs are the ones to watch, with their latest collection of bed linen their strongest yet. They describe their new hero product, the Clifton quilt cover as "the everyday cool customer with an enigmatic smile". But don't let that put you off this rather smart product!
A stylish staple in Australian wardrobes and homes, Country Road is a trustworthy source of fresh, contemporary bedding designs. This season is all about understated elegance, featuring neutral cottons with subtle textural details.
An established Australian brand, Linen House produces its own extensive collection of bed linen and co-ordinating homewares. Recently, they've collaborated with the likes of Alex Perry, Marie Claire and Hiccups for Kids. Highlights include the timeless Nimes range featuring pre-shrunk and stone-washed linen.
Rachel Castle's inimitable screenprinted designs have their own cult following, with her trademark dots and simple florals adorning an exclusive range of bed linen, artworks and homewares. This season's new bedlinen includes the dark and moody Slate Linen bedding in 100 per cent Belgian linen - perfect for lazing and layering this summer.
L&M Home (formerly Linen & Moore) sources and imports an impeccable collection of high quality bed linen from around the world, with materials ranging from fine wool and silk to Egyptian cotton and pure linen. This season's highlight is the Phoenix quilt in white with black cross stitch detail. Understated luxe.
Arro Home would usually be at the top of my list, but they're a wee bit late in releasing their Spring/Summer 2016 collection. You can usually expect unique prints and patterns from this Melbourne-based label, but their latest bed linen features linen duvet covers in single hues. So what's coming next is anyone's guess. Keep an eye on their social media for updates.
Tell me: which Australian brand is your go-to for bed linen? Any new favourites here?
All photography sourced from each brand.SaveSaveSaveSaveSaveSaveSaveSave
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Forget about the LBD. It's all about the MBD (Midi Black Dress).
I've been taking a look at some of the new pieces from from ASOS WHITE (ASOS's take on minimalist and sophisticated fashion), and the modern sculptural pieces look a lot more expensive than they are.
There are a lot of loose drapey silhouettes this season (aka what I fondly refer to as sack frocks), but I've got my eye on a couple of really lovely midi dresses, which are perfect for when you need a fast, pulled-together look.
The V-neckline on this black ASOS WHITE Midi Dress is super-flattering, and the sleek wide split sleeves have a dramatic cape-like appearance from the side.
It's the perfect midi black dress which will take you from work to dinner - and beyond. Add some strappy heels and a hand-held clutch to keep the lines clean and fuss-free.
ASOS WHITE Midi Dress with Square V-Neck, $163.63, from ASOS.Photography courtesy of ASOS.SaveSave
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Oh my flying fish. Bespeckled tigers, winged fish and hula-hooping trapeze ladies converge in this fantastical print from Gorman's new spring 2016 collection. Le Grande dress by name, le grande in style, as the carnival converges on the jungle in a celebratory mish mash of print and colour.
You'd be forgiven for thinking it sounds almost too much, but it works beautifully in this sand-washed silk maxi dress, perfect for summer celebrations and night time soirees. The simple lines and neat pleated skirt bring a minimalist cut to a maxi print.
Gorman, le grande Queen of le Prints, has done it again.
(And no, it's still not available in a size 16, but I remain holding a candle for us larger ladies. I fear those bust darts could barely contain my 16E boobs.)
Le Grande Silk Dress, $329 from Gorman.
Photography courtesy of Gorman.
Love Gorman? Click here to read more for my take on Gorman.
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Here are some more affordable alteratives for Nina's delicate boho-style drop earrings, starting at $12.93. My pick? Country Road's Drop bead earrings, reduced to $15 from $39.95.
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Have you noticed that desirable, well-designed homewares are suddenly extremely affordable? In Australia, Kmart is leading the way with their own brilliant designs that are extremely well-priced, and barely a day goes past when I don't stumble across someone on social media exulting their latest Kmart purchase. As for me, I've already succumbed to Kmart's terriarum vase, black pot and wooden wall hooks (all listed below).
I'm also loving IKEA right now - their latest collections and collaborations are beautifully design-led and not too fadish. I've bought the ANVANDBAR hanging planter and the BITTERGURKA Watering can, which I've used as a water pitcher on the dinner table, and is currently working rather nicely as a Scandianavian-style vase filled with eucalyptus leaves.
But almost all of us have made the mistake of being sucked into buying something that looks good online, only to discover that the real thing is a dud.
The other mistake we can easily make is falling for a particular trend that's on its way out. My advice for now? Steer clear of marble and copper-look products, which are looks that have trended for quite a while. If you really love the look of marble and copper, invest in a beautiful design-led piece that's not been mass-produced, so it will live long beyond the current trend.
I've done the hard work and headed straight to the shops to inspect all of the best buys his spring. Here's my edit of the top 25 affordable homewares to buy right now.
Top image: Some great buys from Kmart's current SS16 outdoor collection.
1. Dishcloth, $2.95, from H&M.
2. Oslo Pendant Lamp, $15, from Kmart.
3. BITTERGURKA Watering can, $14.99, from IKEA.
4. Jute cushion cover, $29.95, from H&M.
5. Seagrass basket, $12, from Kmart.
6. Quilted Geo Cushion, $10
7. Terra Vase, $15, from Kmart.
8. Dipped Hanging Pot, $10, from Kmart.
9. Cork Board House, $5, from Kmart.
10. Small stoneware vase $14.95
11. Linen Cotton Quilt Cover Set in Natural, $79 – $99, from Target Australia.
12. Textured black pot, $7, from Kmart.
13. Hothouse Round Picnic Rug, 29, from Target Australia.
14. Chunky Cable Knit Throw in Cream, $49, from Target Australia.
15. Round Plywood Wall Shelf, $19, from Kmart.
16. Hello Goodbye Door Mat, $15, from Kmart.
17. Linen Look Table Cloth, $15, from Kmart.
18. IKORNNES Table mirror in ash, $39, from IKEA.
19. Pentagon Planter, $25, from Kmart.
20. Planter with Stand, $15, from Kmart.
21. Wooden Wall Hooks - Pack of 6, $9, from Kmart.
22. ANVÄNDBAR Hanging black and natural tray, $39.99, from IKEA.
23. Candle lantern, $24.95, from H&M.
24. Amora Frame 8x10inch in Oak Veneer/Copper, $29.95, from Freedom.
25. Velvet cushion cover, $12.95, from H&M.
Find something you love? Let me know in the comments below.
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Leave a CommentDecorate for a Party is a result of a genius collaboration between two of my favourite bloggers: Holly Becker (of decor8) and Lesley Shewring (of acreativemint). The new book, which officially launches on September 15, is packed with decorating ideas for planning a party, event or special gathering.
This isn't the kind of decorating book filled with stunning yet, a) overly-ambitious projects that, b) don't really look the same when you make them yourself. Instead, you'll find lots of simple, original and really beautiful ideas that are achievable and don't send you into a flap over your lack of crafting skills. Of course, if you're already creative and crafty, you'll find it all a cinch.
Split into ten different themes, there are creative ideas and step-by-step projects for decorating any kind of celebration or occasion, from birthdays and children's parties to bridal showers and dinner parties. You can cherry-pick the best ideas from the book and create your own unique celebration, or simply be inspired by some very nice ideas on how to welcome guests into your home and make any occasion feel special.
Here is an exclusive excerpt from the new book, which I've cherry-picked just for you:
New + Romantic
This soft, tactile look is a warm mix of organic materials and textures, handmade details and a touch of vintage glass. It is relaxed and feminine, perfect for a party with girlfriends. Napkins were dip dyed for the table and a wall hanging assembled with eucalyptus, string and a painted branch. Delicate garden roses are a beautiful contrast to rustic wooden tables.
WHAT INSPIRED US … chalky bleached colours; the smell of eucalyptus in Golden Gate Park; long conversations while drinking rose; handwritten notes; summer gatherings; roses in porcelain vessels; driftwood from the beach; natural fibres, creamy-toned Heath ceramics; and realizing that creating a wonderful evening for a special person is worth the effort.
This soft, romantic theme works beautifully for this casual bridal shower and would also be lovely for a summer birthday party or an all-girls evening to celebrate friendship. All our details are thoughtfully done to give some warm, homemade, feminine charm. Many can be made ahead of time and set aside for the day of the party.
Eucalpytus wall hanging
This eucalyptus and branch wall hanging was created easily on the day of the party. We simply tied eucalyptus sprigs to both ends of 20 pieces of fine white string cut to various lengths, and then hung them over a sprayed white branch. Fine wire wrapped around each end of the branch created loops for hanging the piece up exactly where we wanted it.
CALLIGRAPHY CANDLES
Basic jar candles are made special thanks to Canadian artist Kate Campbell’s calligraphy, done with a black ‘for glass’ pen. Our idea here was to have words that represent positive wishes or intentions. Each guest lights a candle and gives the wish to the guest of honour.
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Sprucing up your home or refreshing a room doesn't have to mean splurging on a mega makeover. Sometimes just one new item will make all the difference.
Here, I've rounded up five of my favourite new DIYs for your home. All you need to do is gather your materials; set aside some time; and have yourself a jolly nice crafternoon with these little beauties.
Top photography courtesy of The House that Lars Built.
1. Grab a cotton bud and make your own DIY confetti pattern plates with this tutorial by Sugar and Cloth.
2. In this tutorial by The House That Lars Built, you'll learn how to make your own succulent planter for your wall.
3. Give your letterbox a fun and vibrant makeover with this simple tutorial by Studio DIY.
4. Head straight to Fall for DIY for this clever tutorial on how to transform a basket into a stylish clock.
5. Love these super-sweet mini planters? Make them yourself with this tutorial by Paper & Stitch blog.
Tell me: which project takes your fancy?
After more inspiring craft or DIYs for your home? Check out our own DIY tutorials here.
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I can't help but wonder if The Rolling Stones has been on high rotation in Mark Tuckey's workshop, as the Australian furniture designer has turned some of his most beloved pieces black.
"No colours any more, I want them to turn black...Black as night, black as coal..."
The stunning new-look Scorched range includes the iconic Eggcup stool, and the matte black finish is bang on point this season.
Tuckey's Eggcup stool has reached cult status as a modern design classic, appearing in some of the Australia's most stylish spaces.
Each solid timber stool is turned by hand and given a soap finish, enhancing the natural beauty of the wood grain. These individual characteristics ensure that each piece is utterly unique.
Here, the original Eggcup has been use variously as a bedside table, side table and stool, evidence of its classic design and versatility.
Here, the eggcup is used as a simple bedside table. Photo courtesy of Mark Tuckey.
Simplicity at its stylish best in Mark and Louella Tuckey's own bedroom. Photo by Sean Fennessy for The Design Files.
Here, The Design Files' founder Lucy Feagin uses the Eggcup as a versatile stool and side table in her bathroom. Photo by Eve Wilson for The Design Files.
The Eggcup works hard as a beautiful side table in this living room, tying in with other natural materials and finishes. Photo by Earl Carter for Aimee Tarulli.
Other Mark Tuckey favourites getting the Scorched finish include the oxo coffee table, wide frame mirror and mardi bench.
To shop the new Scorched range and for more information, head to Mark Tuckey.
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Oh my giddy aunt, Gorman has gone and collaborated with legendary Australian artist Mirka Mora and the result is heart-palpitating good.
I had a close look at the new Mirka Mora X Gorman collection on Friday, and I was mesmerised by how beautifully Mora's art has transferred into ultra-wearable garments.
Pictured above: Mirka Mora wears Mirka dreaming sheer dress.
The French-born Australian artist was a prominent member of the mid-century art scene in Melbourne, and her European background was highly influential on the burgeoning city, contributing to the city's growing art and food scene.
As many readers from my Wee Birdy days will know, I'm rather fond of birds, and happily for me, Mora is too. In fact, birds and all manner of whimsical creatures and children are recurring motifs in her bright and bold art, which spans all manner of media including drawing, painting, embroidery, soft sculpture, mosaics and doll-making.
I've got my eye on the Mirka dreaming skirt, which comes in a lush silk-cotton fabric and looks particularly fabulous worn high on the waist teamed with a cropped top. It's only available in limited-sizes in-store, but I did spot a size 14.
Oh, and remember my big whinge about the absence of sizes above 14, making Gorman virtually unwearable for larger ladies? Well, a wee birdy told me that Gorman is considering larger sizes. Don't quote me on that, and I don't know if that's limited to extending the range to include size 16, but I'm feeling optimistic. I only hope that the new cuts will allow for women with bigger busts, but I might be pushing my luck.
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Thank goodness for the weekend. How are you going? If you're at the end of the school holidays, and need a fast activity to keep the kids busy, read on.
I've also included some clever craft ideas from some of my favourite DIY blogs, including party decorations, jewellery and plants. Perfect if you're looking for a fun project for your own crafternoon.
Being creative and making something with your hands not only gives you a sense of achievement, but it's also the perfect way to wind down from the week.
I really hope you find something that inspires you this weekend.
1. (Pictured above) Make a colourful statement at your next party with a vibrant DIY balloon wall photobooth by Oh Happy Day.
2. Create a gorgeous water garden in a bottle with this clever tutorial by The Merrythought.
3. In this tutorial by Monsters Circus, you'll learn how to make your own pretty pressed flower pendants.
4. Grab some paper plates and gather the kids for a crafternoon making a flock of beautiful birds with Poppytalk.
5. Got a craving for donuts? Head over to Art Bar and get the tutorial for giant cardboard donuts - it will go down a treat with the kids.
Tell me: which project takes your fancy?
After more inspiring craft ideas? Check out our craft and DIY tutorials here.
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Well, here's a collaboration I didn't see coming: Australian fashion brand Sportscraft has teamed up with Brazilian artist Ana Strumpf to create a limited edition collection of travel accessories.
Given Strumpf's signature playful approach to design and her bold use of colour, she isn't the first artist that springs to mind for a collaboration with a traditionally classic brand like Sportscraft.
With an extensive portfolio that spans illustration, interior and product design, creative consultancy and direction, Trumpf has worked with a number of cult brands in the past, including Bertolucci, Tok&Stok, Micasa, KEDS, ELLUS, BRANCO and Walt Disney.
An example of Strumph's interior design (in partnership with RSRG Architects), 2015.
Her illustrations have featured in the pages of Brazilian Vogue (where she has a monthly column “Olho Mágico” and online show “A Moda da Casa”), Vogue Bambini, Style.com and Nylon. By drawing over images created by the world’s biggest fashion names, everything attains new colours, new packaging and new meaning.
Take, for instance, Ana's 're.cover' project, where she has drawn over the covers of fashion magazines.
Now that Rio Olympics fever is kicking into full swing, Sportscraft's collaboration with Ana Strumpf makes perfectly good sense.
Rather than emblazoning the Olympic rings across a range of travel accessories, or (god forbid) creating a green-and-gold collection, Sportscraft has teamed up with the Brazilian artist for a stylish nod to the spirit of Rio.
The result is a vibrant floral print which wouldn't look out of place in the Liberty archives. Strumpf's illustration references tropical florals and the graphic lines of Brazilian design, and it adorns a limited-edition travel collection of six pieces.
“Working with Sportscraft was an opportunity to bring an imaginative fusion of cultural styles, that celebrate an iconic Australian brand on the international stage in Rio,” Ana explains.
If you've had your eye on a Boden dress, now is the time to make your move with the long weekend sale. I've actually never bought a dress from Boden before, but I keep coming back to the perennial favourites every few weeks.
I love the Marisa dress, above, in both the Baltic colourway, as pictured, as well as the leopard print. This fitted dress would work hard in your wardrobe, taking you from work to drinks, and the vintage-inspired collar is a lovely detail. This weekend it's reduced to $98.40 from $164.
I'm also a fan of the Sixties Jacquard dress, above, which finishes above the knee and features some vintage-inspired pockets at the front. I couldn't get away wearing it without feeling a wee bit Mutton, but it's a bit of a cutie for younger ladies and right now it's $82.60 (from $118).
I love that many of Boden's designs are available in a wide range of sizes as well as fabric and colour options. It's well worth reading the buyer reviews at the bottom of each listing, taking note of the reviewer's size and shape. I'm always interested to read feedback from other busty girls because some cuts just don't work on women with big boobs. Like me.
If you find yourself stuck for inspiration when you’re arranging decor in your home, take note of Danish design brand House Doctor. With an extensive range of beautiful and practical homewares, House Doctor is a superb example of combining simplicity with functionality - a signature of 
Look at how the various pieces displayed on the shelf are often linked by the sporadic use of a unifying colour, texture or material (ie: black; wire; and glass). It's not overdone so the trick is not to make it look too contrived. Easier said than done, I know. But have a play and see how you go.
Also note how you can draw an (invisible) triangle in each arrangement, which is the classic guide to creating a balanced vignette. The triangle needn't be centred, in fact an assymetrical design looks best, but see if you can create lines from the highest piece in your group to the lowest piece.
A typical Scandinavian-style palette uses white in various textures, combined with timber or natural materials for warmth. It's usually accented by black (the mobile against the wall as an artwork is a genius idea and I love the modernist simplicity). Note the mix of materials (timber, paper, metal and ceramics) in neutral hues and a sprig of foliage for a fresh pop of colour.
Notice the common feature in the coffee tables above? It's all about lighting, albeit in different forms. Using candles and table lamps adds creates that all-important sense of hygge (the Scandanavian concept of cosiness and homely warmth). Its's not a cluttered look, featuring just three completely different objects, which are subtly unified by material (ie. brass) or hue (natural, earthy colours).
A good hallway setting combines function with style, which is key to Scandinavian design. The hallways above demonstrate two ways to not only organise and store your stuff, but create a pleasing display of objects. Whether you go for a bench or a chair, you can create a sense of harmony by using natural hues with pops of black to tie it all together.
Here you'll find that foliage and indoor plants feature on all three sideboards, punctuating the vignettes with a pop of green. Note the repetition of materials in glass and brass.
Use your kitchen shelves to display a collection of objects, such as ceramics, glassware and wooden utensils. Both kitchens are set against white uncomplicated backgrounds, accented by granite benchtops.
Got a collection of glass or vases you want to display? Keep similar materials together and style them in groups that follow the classic triangle arrangement. Avoid lining things up in a row like soldiers and aim for a relaxed look.
Use house plants and foliage to bring attention to special pieces in your home. You can create an interesting display on a shelf or sideboard by grouping plants and foliage in pots. Choose planters in the same tone but vary the textures.
This is a great example of how to arrange artworks and objects on a gallery-style wall. Note how each piece is hung along a roughly diagonal line, with a subtle mix of black, wooden and brass frames. The grouping of cushions, meanwhile, demonstrates how different shapes, sizes and textures work to create interest on the sofa. The whole look is pulled together by using grey as the dominant colour, accented by complementary shades in olive and dusky pink.
It's no secret that we Australians know a thing or two about design. Over the past decade, there's been a noticeable shift as the global industry spotlight - arguably led by international design bloggers - has swung south to the land Down Under. And never has this been more evident than in our bedding design, with independent brands taking the lead and showcasing a masterful use of print, pattern, colour and texture.
Here, I've rounded up my top 12 Australian bedding brands to shop for Spring/Summer 2016/17.
Above: Kip and Co's spring/summer collection 2016.
Forget about the LBD. It's all about the MBD (Midi Black Dress).
I've been taking a look at some of the new pieces from from 
The V-neckline on this black ASOS WHITE Midi Dress is super-flattering, and the sleek wide split sleeves have a dramatic cape-like appearance from the side.
It's the perfect midi black dress which will take you from work to dinner - and beyond. Add some strappy heels and a hand-held clutch to keep the lines clean and fuss-free.
Oh my flying fish. Bespeckled tigers, winged fish and hula-hooping trapeze ladies converge in this fantastical print from 
Did you watch Offspring's season finale last night? I've actually been a a bit detached from this current season, but the finale promos alluding to more heartache for Nina had me on death-watch surveillance. And guess what? No one flipping died. What? (I still ate half a brownie, eating my anticipating-another-Offspring-god-awful-death feelings.)
Still, I found myself rather observant of Nina's wardrobe this season, despite the fact that I'm shorter, fatter and older than Nina Proudman. But her earrings! That I can pull off!
I've tracked down some of the actual earrings Nina wears throughout the series, as well as some super-nice affordable options. Let's go.
Top: Nina Proudman (Asher Keddie) wears 
Above: 
Above: 
Above: David Neale Fiori 18ct gold stud earrings, $800, from 
Above: 
Above (top left): Get the look with 
Above (clockwise from top left): 
Above (clockwise from top left): 
Have you noticed that desirable, well-designed homewares are suddenly extremely affordable? In Australia, Kmart is leading the way with their own brilliant designs that are extremely well-priced, and barely a day goes past when I don't stumble across someone on social media exulting their latest Kmart purchase. As for me, I've already succumbed to Kmart's terriarum vase, black pot and wooden wall hooks (all listed below).
I'm also loving IKEA right now - their latest collections and collaborations are beautifully design-led and not too fadish. I've bought the ANVANDBAR hanging planter and the 
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11.
12.
17. 
18.
22.
Decorate for a Party is a result of a genius collaboration between two of my favourite bloggers: Holly Becker (of 
Split into ten different themes, there are creative ideas and step-by-step projects for decorating any kind of celebration or occasion, from birthdays and children's parties to bridal showers and dinner parties. You can cherry-pick the best ideas from the book and create your own unique celebration, or simply be inspired by some very nice ideas on how to welcome guests into your home and make any occasion feel special.
Here is an exclusive excerpt from the new book, which I've cherry-picked just for you:
WHAT INSPIRED US … chalky bleached colours; the smell of eucalyptus in Golden Gate Park; long conversations while drinking rose; handwritten notes; summer gatherings; roses in porcelain vessels; driftwood from the beach; natural fibres, creamy-toned Heath ceramics; and realizing that creating a wonderful evening for a special person is worth the effort.
This soft, romantic theme works beautifully for this casual bridal shower and would also be lovely for a summer birthday party or an all-girls evening to celebrate friendship. All our details are thoughtfully done to give some warm, homemade, feminine charm. Many can be made ahead of time and set aside for the day of the party.
This eucalyptus and branch wall hanging was created easily on the day of the party. We simply tied eucalyptus sprigs to both ends of 20 pieces of fine white string cut to various lengths, and then hung them over a sprayed white branch. Fine wire wrapped around each end of the branch created loops for hanging the piece up exactly where we wanted it.
Basic jar candles are made special thanks to Canadian artist Kate Campbell’s calligraphy, done with a black ‘for glass’ pen. Our idea here was to have words that represent positive wishes or intentions. Each guest lights a candle and gives the wish to the guest of honour.
‘Furoshiki’ is the Japanese term for the fabric-wrapped gifts we made for our guests. We added a sprig of wheat with the natural cotton.
Extracted from Decorate for a Party by Holly Becker and Leslie Shewring, published by Jacqui Small (£20). All images © Janis Nicolay.
More information on the book can be found 
