September 24, 2010 in news
Yes, ladies and gentlemen of the blogosphere, it’s my birthday!
I love birthdays – both my own and those of other people – and am known to channel Lily from How I Met Your Mother on my own yearly celebration (see video below). The boy even gave me my own birthday tiara this morning, which I am wearing with pride!
I hope you all have a fabulous day too and a great weekend as well!
September 23, 2010 in fashion
It’s been raining all week in Brisbane and while there is a cheeky bit of sunshine peeking through as I type, the wet weather is predicted to stick around for some time yet.
Now, I’m no meteorologist – even if I’m predicting (AKA hoping for) blue skies this weekend – but that doesn’t mean I can’t wear this cute brass necklace from Modcloth.
The adorable laser-cut weather charms may match the clouds outside but they’ll definitely lift my spirits. With its 35″ chain, it will also be one of those great pieces you can throw on to jazz up any outfit.
Buy your own online from Modcloth for US$61.99 – and don’t forget, they ship direct to Australia so take advantage of the near US-Australian dollar parity and stock up on their fabulous vintage inspired pieces.
September 22, 2010 in fashion, news
I appreciate that Hillary Clinton took it upon herself to prove my point from yesterday’s post - women can’t get a break when it comes to what they choose to wear to work.
The US Secretary of State wore a butterfly clip to the UN, where she discussed disaster relief for Pakistan and Haiti with Norway’s Foreign Minister, Britain’s International Development Secretary, and members of the State Department.
It might be a fashion faux-pas but it’s not front page news, or at least it shouldn’t be – the topic of her talks should be the lead.
But, of course, everyone is focusing on the butterfly clip. Which goes to prove my point – if you want people to take you seriously and listen to what you say, don’t wear butterfly clips to work.
Read more at Jezebel.
September 21, 2010 in fashion
Two weeks ago, I wrote a post about how it is possible to be both intelligent and interested in fashion – and that intelligent people can consciously use fashion to influence how others perceive them.
Following on from that, I’d like to discuss the issue of work wear, as inspired by Eve Tahmincioglu on MSNBC today. In her words: “Too sexy. Too frumpy. Too conservative. Women can’t get a break when it comes to what they choose to wear to work.”
Apparently 93% of managers in an OfficeTeam poll said how an employee dresses at work influences their chances of a promotion and one third said work attire “significantly” impacts your chances for advancement. Furthermore, Tahmincioglu says “women are often scrutinized differently when it comes to what they choose to wear. If an outfit is to revealing, suddenly they’re the office slut; but too buttoned up and conservative can mean she’s not hip, or worse, a bitch.”
We saw an example (albeit a 60s one) in Mad Men last week when Joan’s stylish but figure-hugging outfits saw the junior boys compare her to a prostitute. And let’s be honest, it’s not just men who cast judgement on what women wear – we do it to each other too.
So what can we do about it?
MSNBC quotes Valarie Birk, a Ball State professor in fashion and advertising: “women send messages through clothing. It’s referred to as ‘the silent language’ and there are feelings that are often attached to what they wear.”
As a fashion lover, I enjoy being conscious of what I wear and dressing for specific occasions. My own working week can see me meet with a marketing team one day and politicians the next. The clothes I wear to each will be decidedly different.
Is it right that we are judge on what we wear to the office? Probably not, but it’s unlikely to change. And so intelligent fashionistas can use this to their advantage – they can plan their outfits to suit their audience and to help get their point across.
If the way we dress influences our chances of success at work, aren’t we being foolish if we ignore fashion as a frivolous waste of time?
September 20, 2010 in entertainment
Spring has sprung in Brisbane (albeit a wet and dreary season right now) so here’s my pick of the best ways to welcome in the new season:
- Pull on your heels for Brisbane’s Inaugural Stiletto Run at Eagle Farm Racecourse on Saturday 2 October. If you can run 80m in 7cm heels or higher, you could win $5000 cash or a pair of designer shoes from Izabel. Did I mention it’s open to guys too? Register online now at the Brisbane Racing Club website or at the track on the morning.
- Want to see yourself on the big screen? Filming for a St George Bank ad will take place on the corner of Queen and Edward Streets in the city this Friday 24 September from 11am to 3pm. Registration is not required so if you’re over 18, head along for the opportunity to read a scripted line. The best will be edited into a 30-second commercial, with those selected to appear in the ad receiving a free ticket to the Brisbane International Film Festival.
- The Havana Club is happening at QPAC until 2 October. Themed on the legendary music bars of old Havana that served the likes of Brando, Monroe and Hemingway, Havana Club features the finest international and Australian Latin bands and DJs. Head along to the free sessions from 9pm to shake your hips and down some cocktails. Find out more on QPAC’s website.
- Finally, the Brisbane Festival is into its last week for 2010. You can enjoy whatever gets you going, be it live music, circus acts, theatre, dance or art installations. Check out this week’s highlights at the Brisbane Festival website.
Don’t forget your umbrella and have a great week out!
follow the dernier cri