The Ethics Behind The Industry: Scratching The Surface

As a student studying fashion, I know how hard it is to also be on a student's budget. Looking "cool", having the latest trends and buying branded clothing seem to be a given in terms of how people view me and my fellow classmates. But in order to keep on top of trends, it often means having a large budget. And let's be honest, university is not cheap, so people tend to resort to buying into fast fashion. But what people are only just now starting to become more conscious of, is the ethics behind it all. How are their clothes made? Who makes their clothing? Are they being made with safe practises? The world used to turn a blind eye to this side of the industry, but in recent years I've noticed a shift in society. People are starting to care.

I sat down and had a large discussion with some friends over lunch about the issue of buying ethically made clothing. No, this does not mean I have to spends hundreds of dollars on a t-shirt made of 100% organically grown cotton (which if I had the funds for I probably would). But it means making myself aware of the background of the companies I choose to purchase goods from, buying second hand and educating myself on fashion ethics and what that means for the consumer. Now I'm not saying I'm an expert in this matter, far from it. I have barely scratched the surface. But in saying that, hopefully I can encourage those around me to do the same in educating themselves. I cannot save the planet on my own, but by practising it myself, and helping to inform others, hopefully we as a whole can make a difference. 

The world started to really think about it after the Rana Plaza in Bangladesh collapsed several years ago, killing over 1000 garment workers. It opened people's eyes to the terrible working conditions in some of the factories where clothes we wear are made. It made me personally stop and think, "am I feeding into something that people die over?". It shocked me to the core that I can tell you. 

After this tragedy, organisations and movements have been formed with people now avidly taking part in things such as Fashion Revolution and asking brands "Who made my clothes?", to encourage transparency within the fashion industry. This has gained a lot of popularity over the few years it has been running, with even celebrities posting photos of them getting involved in the campaign on various social media sites. In my part of the world (Down Under) Baptist World Aid Australia has come out with a report on ethical fashion and is rating companies on their ethical practises so the consumers within New Zealand and Australia can become more aware of the brands they are choosing to purchase goods from. This guide has not only enlightened the people that buy their products, but also the companies themselves as it encourages them to look into who their suppliers are and that the practises being used are safe for the workers.

I'm going to continue researching into this issue, and encourage all of you to do the same. I'm not saying I'm going to immediately switch to 100% ethical products, but I'm going to do my best to make a real difference in how I buy clothing and what I can do to support this movement.


Elise xo

Style Spot

I love shoes.

To be more specific: loafers, oxfords, and brogues to be exact. Flat, platform, metallic, tassels, I think they're all so cool. I'm currently on the hunt for the perfect pair. They basically go with anything. Jeans and a t-shirt, a full skirt and blouse, a big cozy seater and some wide leg pants. I have basically come to terms with the fact that I love pieces that are versatile. Something I can wear with everything, is comfortable and effortlessly cool. These shoes are something I don't think will ever really go out of style.

Here are some of my top picks in this shoe department:

These cool black loafers with a tassel from Kurt Geiger (here)

Pull&Bear platformed brogues (here)

River Island pointed patent loafers (here)

Sometimes I start planning my outfit from the ground up. Literally. The right shoes can make or break your entire look. I'm excited to find the right pair to add to my winter wardrobe!

Elise xo

My Love Affair

I have a love affair with fashion. 

This statement I feel is probably quite common, but I'm telling you, it's true. The feeling is something I can hardly describe. The joy it brings to my every day, in it's simplicity or extravagancy, there is just something about it I cannot get enough of.

Whether it be wandering through chain stores in a mall just taking in the colours and styles of the range, running my fingertips along each rack of clothing. Or when I am at my workplace in a recycled boutique, just taking in the vast space filled with all sorts of different colours and textures, from high street fashion, to vintage pieces. At my job in a designers head office, in her online department, overseeing each garment before gently wrapping in tissue and packing it to be sent across the country to be worn and loved.

Fashion is something I have enjoyed and appreciated my whole life. Every aspect of it I see value and importance. From the thought process to create the design, to the production of the pattern, the toile, the first sample. Right up until it gets seen by a buyer in a showroom, on the runway or in a magazine. It is sometimes so hard to imagine that basic t-shirt you are wearing going through that process, but it does. I am about to start a three year journey exploring this incredible industry doing a Bachelor of Design, Fashion major. Studying fashion has been something I don't think I've ever not wanted to do. My future role within the industry is debatable, but the one thing I know is that it is where I want to be.

I could spend hours watching styling videos on YouTube, reading biographies about famous designers and have genuinely almost cried watching fashion documentaries like Dior and I (trailer), and Handmade With Love In France (trailer). To see the heart and soul that goes into this industry, which people think is so heartless and intense, just makes me want to be there more. In a sense I already am there. On a slightly lower scale that is. These days the industry is so broad. Fashion bloggers, instagrammers, fashion psychologists, journalists, even hair and makeup artists are considered valued members of the fashion world. With advances in social media, fashion has changed the way its viewed, but in a sense, has almost made it "un-extraordinary" to your average person. It is no longer just for the "elite" but for everyone. Trends are expressed and the high street is picking up on the couture and high fashion designers styles and incorporating those things into clothing you can purchase from the local mall. 

Choosing what to wear each day can set the mood and portray how you feel. It is a way of being able to express yourself, tell the world a little bit about you, before anyone has even spoken a word. I find getting dressed for work each day such a therapeutic process, from picking my outfit to how I'll style my hair or do my makeup. It's putting in an extra 5 minutes to create "a look" and not just "an outfit". The way fashion makes me feel is in every way positive. I could be in my comfiest pair of sweats or my most embellished top, but if I love what I wear I feel the most confident and pretty. Fashion is a thing often overlooked, in a broad sense. Of course we put on clothes everyday, but is it a chore, or is it something you can look forward to? Surrounding myself with anything and everything I can get my hands on in this area makes my life that little bit more enjoyable, so why wouldn't I engulf myself in it?

Elise xo

A Few Faves

It's been a while, but as always, I've been busy with school finishing, life happened and I forgot.Oops.So here we are again. It's almost the end of 2015, and I'm vowing to try and start this again. And keep at it. But no promises.So, as usual, after a long time away, I'm coming back with a few of my favourite things. Speaking of, the other day, I watched the Sound of Music. Brings me back to my childhood. I used to watch that movie every day after school for about six months. No joke. I loved it. Julie Andrews is incredible.Okay, back to my monthly faves.

Wide Swing Dresses.

I recently bought this dress from The Fifth Label for my high school graduation dinner, and I'm obsessed with it. I bought the white version with black polka dots because I though it looked nice and summery. I wore it to my grad dinner with a belt and nude strappy heels like the ones in the picture, But it could also look great with some low top converse, and a denim jacket for a more casual look, or black booties and a leather jacket to toughen it up. It's super versatile, great for dressy occasions or even beach barbecues.

Purchase here.

Peppermint Truffles

As Christmas comes upon us, holidays parties, family dinners, and friends popping over become the norm. Also, a lot more baking tends to happen, cookies, fruit cake, pavlova (meringue dessert). These truffles are really simple to make, and make a great homemade gift. They'd be great in the evenings with a hot cup of tea, as a decadent treat at Christmas parties, and a really festive sweet to have on hand when friends come over. They're definitely on my baking list this year (although, they are technically no-bake truffles, even better!).

Get the recipe here.

Simple Christmas Wrapping

I love the idea of having such simple gift wrap. It make gifts look polished, but a little rustic at the same time. I mean, who doesn't love "brown paper packages tied up with string"? (here I go with The Sound of Music again!). I love the added sprig of pine, not only does it look really fresh, but the scent is a nice added element. A sprig of rosemary or holly could also look really nice. Just add a simple tag, some string or twine, and you've got a beautifully wrapped gift!

You do you. Do whatever makes you happy. Because that's all that matters. You have the power to choose how you want your life to go, and it may not always be smooth sailing, but you decide whether or not to make the best of any situation, or who you have in your life. Be happy

Until next time,

Elise xo

The Life of a Fashion Intern - Pt.3

I found this old post in my draft box that never made it out. It's a little old, but I figured I should just post it anyway. Enjoy!

Hey everyone,

As I've been doing this internship, I have learnt a lot about myself, and about being in a "work" environment. Being in my last year of high school, I know that next year, as I start university, and working more regularly, getting the opportunity to spend one full day a week, pulling a 9-5 has made me realise what the real world is like.

No more sleep ins, or just skipping the odd class or two. When you work, you have to show up, stand up and pull your weight. Some mornings I would lay in bed thinking to myself, "Should I just call in sick?". But as an adult, you can't that easily pull a sickie every day.

I realised that starting from the bottom is hard, but necessary. Doing the heavy lifting and those odd jobs that you think are silly are really not that bad. Because every little bit counts.  And those who have gotten somewhere also had to start somewhere. And this is where I'm starting.

To not even be out of high school yet, but to already have a job working in retail and have done an internship with a high level fashion designer, already puts me above where I thought I would be at.

I know that I for sure want to be in this industry, and through this internship experience I've figured out what area I want to be in. I know what I like, and what I don't, what it takes, and what I've got to give. I may need a bit more time to be 100% confident in my choice to pursue a career in this industry, but it's where I want to be.

Elise xo

The Life of a Fashion Intern Pt.2

Hi everyone!

Back again with another post about my fashion internship. As I'm only going in one day a week, I try to cram in as much work as I can, and considering I work at my regular job from 3-5:30, on the same day, its tricky to balance my time. But we're managing for now.

I thought I'd just share a couple highlights from my day and a few things I did. Here we go!

1. I spent at least two hours staring at clothes and lookbooks from the last few seasons putting them in order and range which seemed like it took forever but it didn't.

2. I got to pack clothes and shoes going down south for a show. Had to match photos with garments, in the order they'll go down the runway, with the specific model and shoe options (because their profiles "never have the correct sizes"). I literally sat on the floor staring at a rack of clothes and writing descriptions. It was better than it sounds.

3. They hosted us for a celebratory end of busy fashion week/welcome new person/you've all worked really hard lunch. We had Indian food, people were drinking wine (it was 12:30pm), I ate some really good butter chicken, cucumber raita and naan, and there was a cute thank you speech. But my boss ate turkish food because she "doesn't like spice".

4. I got personally thanked by the designer herself today as she was leaving for the afternoon. I think I said something lame like "you're welcome". I try to act cool calm and collected, but I guess speaking is still not a strong point when it comes to conversing with important people in the fashion industry. I'll work on it.

  

So that was a little insight into my day. Lets see if I can come up with something better for next week!

Elise xo

The Life of a Fashion Intern

Hi everyone,

So just last week I got a part-time internship with a top NZ designer.

I thought I would start sharing a few things I pick up on during my time.

1. You've got to be prepared to start from the bottom.
You've got to start somewhere right? Whether it means sweeping or vacuuming, coffee runs, making up boxes for packaging and generally doing a lot of more manual labour type tasks, they love someone who is competent and willing.

2. Always be polite.
No matter who you're talking to. Whether it be the designer her or himself, your supervisor, the receptionist or even other interns. Good manners will take you far.

3. Do your research.
Before you start your internship, or before an interview for the position, make sure you know the brand. What their style is, the type of demographic it serves, the collections they have etc. Knowledge is power and they're sure to be impressed if you are a fan of the brand and what they stand for.

The best part about working in this industry are the clothes you see, the people you meet and the opportunities you get. It can be a lot of fun, and sometimes its just what you expect to be involved in when you think or being a "fashion intern". For instance, in the designer's building I work in (just downstairs from the designer's studio) the office and workroom girls do yoga every Monday during the lunch break! And there are endless green smoothies and salads being eaten in the staffroom. Also, as a word to the wise, wear comfortable footwear! Or at least bring flats with you, because you will no doubt be on your feet a lot. And unless you practise wearing heels 6+ hours a day, flat shoes are the way to go. Fashion is such a fun industry, and I'm hoping this opens a lot of doors for me in the future.


Elise xo

A Few Faves

Hi all!

With the month of June coming to an end, I decided its high time I posted some of my favourite things!

Its getting well into winter here in New Zealand, and I've woken up many a morning with my windows all foggy, and frost on the ground. Here are a few things that make me feel all super cozy during the cooler months.

Sweaters!

Perfect for layering under a jacket, or just on its own on slightly warmer days.  Love this ribbed brown sweater from ASOS. Purchase here.

Macaroni Cheese

My favourite comfort food of all time. To quote the character Haley James Scott from One Tree Hill, its "The Food of the Gods". This twist on your classic mac and cheese recipe includes greek yogurt and spinach. Yum! Find the recipe here.  

Breakfast Nooks

These little areas just scream "cozy" to me. Imagine having your morning cup of coffee and scrambled eggs on toast here! All cuddled up with a book on lazy weekend mornings. Sounds like bliss to me.

Remember to cherish the little things. Make memories for only you and your friends without posting them on Instagram. Explore your city. Go on that blind date. Visit Art Galleries and create things. Working is great, but take some time to just, be.

Hope your June has been wonderful. I'll see you soon.

Elise xo

Street Style

Hi everyone,

With Fashion Weeks coming up, street style post are going to become a more frequent occurrence on my blog as my mind will be overflowing with all the inspiration. Here are a few of my favorites as of late,

Dresses and sneakers. Love incorporating something so casual and super comfortable with a girly dress. I love the pretty silhouette and peplum aspect this midi dress has, and the black and white accessories that toughen up the ensemble.

Graphic sweaters and lots of white. Who says you cant wear all white? With a few little pops of colour (red handbag and lippy) theres nothing saying you cant. Love the addition of oversized sunnies and subtle print on the skirt.

Always a fan of the oversized coat and a bit of tartan, paired with a simple white shirt, this cozy, classic look is perfect for cooler weather.

Get excited for more stylish posts to come! May even introduce a new feature on the blog in the coming weeks... stay tuned!

Elise xo

Trends: Denim

Hi everyone

Recently I've noticed a huge denim comeback. Far from the classic "James Dean" look of blue jeans and a white tee, denim is back, with people sporting the denim shirts, overalls and of course jacket. Don't we all remember Chad Michael Murray wearing that oversized denim jacket with that sheepskin collar in One Tree Hill ?

Here's a few of my favorite looks:

Navy midi dress, black booties and classic denim jacket

Grey tank, black sandals and denim overalls

Black cape, Grey Tee, black booties and denim button up skirt

Hope this has inspired you to incorporate denim into your wardrobe in new ways!

Elise xo

(images not mine unless otherwise specified)

How To Style: Black White And Grey

As the seasons change, and it starts to get cooler over here in New Zealand, I start to rely on these three basic colours as the base of most of my outfits. They work well in monochromatic styles, all together and with pops of colour making them super versatile.

Here are a few of my favorite ways of styling these colours:

Black Base.

Black is such a easy colour to wear. Super slimming, easy to wear, and suits everyone's colouring. I love this look with black skinny jeans, open back blouse, felt hat with an oversized grey and white sweater for when it gets chilly. Really casual for a late lunch with friends, or even wear it to the office!

Black and White.

Love this casual look that incorporates one of my favorite things... sneakers. Anything that's stylish, but comfortable is a winner in my book! This simple white shirt, tucked into a black leather-look asymmetric skirt with black and white sneakers and big round sunglasses is the perfect, throw-together look for lunch out, or running errands.

Grey Monochrome.

Love this comfortable but stylish look of all-grey. The slouchy high neck sleeveless top tucked into matching grey wide legged pants is taking the term 'separates' to a new level! Perfect for going out to dinner, or a dressy event. Love it paired with the chunky tan heels and bright red lip to break it up a bit.

Hope this has given you a bit of inspiration for styling those neutral pieces together!

Elise xo

(images not mine unless otherwise specified)

Street Style

Hi everyone, hope you've all been well.

The craziness of the past few months has been insane and what with lacking in inspiration and in time, I have put off  writing up a post.

But nevertheless, I'm back again after a long hiatus, here to share some of my favorite street styles of the moment.

Tweed Coats

A long-time favorite of mine, I'm so glad to see the tweed coat coming back in. This classic cut is sleek and comfortable, making it so easy to wear. I love it paired with this classic chambray and black jeans.

Blanket Capes

With the weather currently transitioning into fall (in New Zealand), i am loving this really easy, throw over blanket cape. So easy to wear and super comfortable, not to mention stylish, worn with leggings or skinny jeans and a t shirt it instantly becomes a trans-seasonal outfit.

Tartan

Another classic print, I love this outfit of a simple tartan skirt and boxy white shirt. Really easy to wear as a flannel tied around your waist with a white tee and skinny jeans, or as a coat over an all black outfit. It gives a cozy, almost lumberjack feel which I love.

Hope you have enjoyed seeing some of my favorite street styles at the moment as we transition to slightly colder weather.

Till next time,

Elise xo

A Few Faves

Hi everybody!

Back again to share some of my favorites from the month of November! 

In love with these beautiful tailored trousers. Slightly textured, these would be perfect for work/business attire and could easily transition for going-out wear. Purchase here.

With the holidays just around the corner, this Caramel Apple Trifle looks like the perfect way to finish off my Thanksgiving dinner!

I love these fold over clutches. Really simple and complements any outfit, as well as being able to hold everything you need (which in my case is quite a lot)! Purchase here.

If you're not excited about your life, change it. Be passionate in everything you do, and you'll live a fulfilled life, with no regrets, and make so many memories worth remembering.

Enjoy the rest of November, Christmas is on the way!

Elise xo

Dreams

Hi everyone!

I wanted to post something a little different today. More of a lifestyle post really. Lately I've been thinking a lot about my future, as I'm coming up to the end of my second to last year of high school, and its been quite a stressful time as I've been trying to figure out subject choices for next year, what I want to do at university etc. And with speaking to guidance and careers counselors, I have been deciding what path I want to take in life. 

I have always loved fashion, from as young as four or five I have loved putting on fashion shows in my room with my twin sister and myself, dressing up all my stuffed animals and styling outfits. As I got older I would sketch pictures of dresses in my diaries and flip through all my mum's magazines looking at all the clothes celebrities wore. But I never felt like the fashion world would be a career path I'd ever enter into. I guess it had never really crossed my mind back then.

Everyone I'm sure has been asked the question "What do you want to be when you grow up?", as a child I would answer silly things like, "A princess!" or the typical (after I'd started school) "A teacher!". But as I was growing up, and starting to try and think seriously about it, I could never come up with anything. In my head I would always be thinking about becoming a fashion designer, but coming from a small country not very well known in the fashion world, apart from maybe supermodel Rachel Hunter (who was married to Rod Stewart for a short time period), I never thought that as being a "solid career choice"). My siblings were coming up with things like lawyers and doctors, and I didn't feel like I was good enough.

After I got through intermediate school (middle school for all you Americans!) and began high school, that was when I really started thinking about it becoming a possibility. I took up sewing classes in school, began to take art subjects including photography, and started thinking about it in a serious way. As I said in my "The Backstory: Primp and Wanderlust" post, I shared my dreams of becoming a stylist with a teacher, who told me it was not at all an unrealistic dream and that I should write a blog. I then started to look into university options and talked with people about how to make this dream become a reality.

So I still have a way to go, with finishing school and then starting my degree, but now that I feel like I have a real purpose and a goal, I can't wait to see how life pans out. Having dreams are important, and following them through is even more so. Do something you're passionate about, I can promise you'll feel better for it.

Elise xo

How To Style: White Tops

A gorgeous fresh white is the perfect year round color. It goes with everything and can be worn as in various ways. Pants, shorts, skirts, jackets and of course the classic white tee.

Here I'm going to show you a few ways of wearing this color on top, textured, layered, casual or dressy. The white top is so versatile and easy to wear throughout the seasons. 

Here are a few of my favorite ways of styling white tops:

Monochromatic

I love black and white. Such a great statement making color combination without being too overwhelming. I love this textured short sleeve sweater. Adds a lot of depth in such a simple piece. Paired with black skinny jeans, booties and some sunnies, this is a great outfit for everyday wear. Can easily be dressed up with some black pointed toe heels and a statement gold necklace.

Dressy Casual

I love this eyelet white tee shirt. A fun alternative to your classic staple.Tucked into some black short and topped off with a black felt hat, this is a look i would wear out to lunch with friends. Switch out the black shorts for a floral skirt to add some color and mix patterns in a subtle way. Amanda Seyfried wore this gorgeous Valentino dress which emulates this style.

Menswear

This simple white v-neck tee with ripped skinny jeans is given a masculine look with this oversized striped blazer. Gives your simple "James Dean" classic look a new vibe. Perfect for casual workwear or afternoon coffee runs.

Hope you've enjoyed these few ways of styling a white top.

Elise xo

A Few Faves

Here are a few of my favorites from this month

This Longline Blazer is a different twist on the classic blazer. Definitely a style I've been loving! Purchase here.

Bliss Balls

I have been obsessed with these little treats recently. So simple to make and so good for you! Gluten free, dairy free, vegan, these are good for just about anyone! You can put in so many different ingredients but these Pecan Pie Bliss Balls look like the perfect sweet treat as pie season comes upon my friends in the states (I would enjoy these anytime of year!)

This half bun and beach wave hairstyle is super cute! Especially now with my hair being shorter, and not always able to go up a ponytail without half of it falling out, this half bun is the perfect solution. Not only is it cute, but super practical to keep hair out of my face.

Saw this a little while ago and it really resonated with me. You do you. As long as you like who you are, it doesn't matter if other people do or not. Live your life for you, not anybody else.

Hope you enjoyed checking out a few of my faves. Have a great day!

Elise xo

How To Style: Black Leather Jackets

A good leather jacket should be a wardrobe staple. It definitely is in mine! Its the perfect piece to add a little edge to any outfit. Here are a few of my favorite ways of styling them.

The classic stripe. 

I love layering a leather jacket over a good Breton striped t-shirt or sweater. Paired with some jeans and converse, this is one of my go-to casual outfits for a weekend lunch with friends.

Edgy Bohemian.

I love wearing maxi skirts, they are like harem pants, but more free-ing. I especially love making this girly silhouette more tough and by adding a leather jacket, black booties, and a studded handbag, this is a great fall outfit which looks put together, but still comfortable.

Check out my How to Style: Maxi Skirts post here

Black and White Simplicity.

I love Ashley Olsen in this simple white dress, black leather jacket and black peep toes. Great evening outfit with a gold cuff, perfect for a dinner date. Still dressy, but toned down with the pushed-up sleeves on the jacket.

These are just a couple of ways I like to style leather jackets (real or faux) for various occasions ranging from dressy to casual. Hope you've gotten a little inspiration on how to style this must-have wardrobe staple!

Elise xo

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Street Style

Hope everyone has been doing well!

I have decided to start a new little feature on the blog, showcasing street styles! These are my favorite types of outfits because it allows you to add a little personal flair to your outfits while still keeping it trendy. Here are my faves from around New York Fashion Week this year. Enjoy!

Separates

I have been loving the look of patterned separates lately. Its edgy yet classy all at the same time with that little peek of skin showing around the midriff either with high-waisted shorts, skirt or pants and a cropped top, this is the perfect outfit. I especially love the monochromatic theme of this one, and the little black booties, blue purse and sunglasses add a cool vibe to the overall look.

Shift Dresses

I've always been a big fan of the shift dress, I think its great for so many body types, its easy to dress up or down, and it looks so chic, like you put in a lot of effort. I love the high neck of this one, and the subtle pleating at the bottom along with the touches of color injected in the shoes and lippy. Gorgeously simple.  

Mixing Patterns

Ah Anna Dello Russo... the street style legend. Always a little daring, she manages to pull off very manic outfits, that most of us could only dream of wearing! I love the gentle, girly, floral print dress with the big white collar and black bow detail, paired with red tartan jacket, and tough biker boots. 

These are a couple of my current favorite street style looks, hope it gives you a little inspiration as we go into a new season!

Elise xo

A Few Faves

Hi everyone!

Back again to share a few of my favorite things with you all!

Risotto has been a real go-to comfort food recently. This Chicken Risotto looks delish! 

Always a fan of the Midi-Skirt, this Woven Midi-Skirt in Crepe from ASOS is gorgeous! A must have trans-seasonal piece.

Having recently cut my hair this length, I've been loving the tousled and textured look. An easy hairstyle that takes minutes!

Last but not least, RIP to the wonderful Robin Williams, someone who brought laughter and happiness to many. 

Hope everyone has a fabulous day.

Elise xo