Breakfast

My week started with a breakfast function Monday morning.  I was invited to attend the media launch for the Salvation Army Red Shield Appeal.  Had a lovely breakfast, met some very interesting people and welcomed the opportunity to support such a wonderful organisation.  

A "suit" of separates seemed the right thing for the day, particularly as my Manager from Head Office is in the office for the next few days (possibly why I look tense!)

red wedge mary janes : novo
black tailored pants with side panel : target
sleeves black ruffle blouse : portmans
black slouchy jacket : katies

Accessories:
red wedge mary janes :  novo
red skinny belt : target
ipad case used as clutch : portmans
white watch purhased overseas, drop pearl earrings and pearl ring

Black and red is a bit of a fast fall back combination for me.  I like the way the red lifts the black without detracting from the drama of it.

For all  my Aussie friends, the Salvation Army Red Shield Appeal is being held over the weekend of 25 and 26 May, so if you can, please find a couple of dollars (or more if you like) for when the volunteers come knocking.  Every little bit helps:)  

Have a great week.
xxx Deborah

If you get a chance pop over to 40+ Style where I particiated in Sylvia's "Dress over Pants" challenge.

Clutch

The "clutch" style handbag has exprienced a return to popularity recently, and while seemingly impractical they can look great for daytime and and don't have to be kept purely for evening wear.

starting from top right:  sachi black clutch with silver handle, portmans red snake print Ipad Case, diana ferrari black patent leather clutch, vintempo black and white polkla dot clutch and black and silver envelope clutch from myer.

I originally just owned the soft patent leather Diana Ferrari clutch which I would use for weddings and other special occasions, however I have recenlty been converted to carrying a day time clutch and initially added the  Portmans Red Pouch (really an Ipad Case), with the others somehow making their way into my closet more recently:)

I rarely use them on works days, as I really do need more carry space on those days, but I am using them more and more on non work days and finding it strangely liberating to not carry everything but the kitchen sink in my handbag.  The only complaint is my from Mr Stylish Murmurs when his wallet and keys don't fit in my purse!

an assortment of recent outfits features 'the daytime clutch!  

If you need more reasons why you should be giving the daytime clutch a try, check out Angie Cox at You Look Fab and her  Seven Reasons to Carry a Daytime Clutch .

Are you a convert?

xxx Deborah

Sad

We woke to the very sad news of the bombings in Boston today.  I felt reluctant to do an outfit post because in the scheme of things it seemed a bit meaningless, but then I heard reports that one of the three fatalities was an eight year old boy.  As a mum, and human being, my heart just broke.  My son is only two years older than this little one whose life has been taken much too soon.

So I am posting today in memory of this little boy whose name we don't yet know.  I trust as you read this, if you haven't already, you will take a moment and offer up a prayer, or whatever you do, for the little boy's family and all those who have been affected by the events today.

I wore this outfit on the weekend.  I wanted dressed up but casual and comfortable so I chose pieces that are all pretty casual on their own but together created an elegant with an edge look.

jacket : cotton on
dress : jeanswest
jeans : katies
shooties : rivers
clutch : sachi
necklace : portmans

Take care of yourselves
xxx Deborah

Speckled

So, I have mixed feelings about these pants.  On the one hand they are leg shortening, and could be more tapered, but on the other hand, they are extremely comfortable, easy to layer over and I find myself attracted to the pattern.

Add caption

This is only their second outing and it was to the office on a fairly casual day.  And I did received a lovely comment from a client.

long navy jacket : vintage
oversized navy top : cotton on
black tank :  ???
patterned pants : katies
black wedges : rubi

With a family member in hospital, managing work, school holidays and daily hospital visits has left very little time for outfit photos and while I am truly having second thoughts about posting this outfit, I'm a little behind, so I'm posting :)

Add caption

Bonus pic of my slightly shorter hair cut.  I am attempting to grow a long fringe.  Earrings are a new purchase, silver set in resin bought at our Easter market a couple of weeks ago.

Hope you are having a great week and don't hesitate to make suggestions for these patterned pants, even it is simply "donate them" :)

xxx Deborah

Pattern

Sometimes I just crave a bit of variety, and while I would definitely pick a solid over a pattern, I have a couple of pairs of patterned pants that I reach for when I feel like a change.

oversized top : cotton on
jeans : rivers
loafers : rubi
bag : stella mcartney for target

These jeans are great for non work days.  The yellow, grey and hint of black while colourful, is still quite subdued to my way of thinking, and as I can't wear yellow close to my face, this is a fun way to include just a little of it in my wardrobe.

xxx Deborah

Camo

I really didn't think I would be a fan of skinny leg camo pants when I first started seeing them on some bloggers.  But then I came across a pair by chance, good price, and in grey tones rather than the traditional khaki, nice fit and decided it might be fun to step out of my comfort zone and try them.

blouse : brown sugar
pants : target
wedge sandals : novo

Clearly I have been enjoying them!  This outfit worn on a day when I felt like keeping it casual at work.

boyfriend cardigan : luca & marc
blouse : mix
pants : target
booties : can't remember:)

This combo was my day off.  Study group, followed by running around.  

jacket : katies
blouse : suzanne grae
camos : target
suede wedge pumps : rubi

Worn to church of on Good Friday. 

Haven't seen a lot of skinny leg camos in downtown Bendigo, but have seen quite a few versions available on The Iconic and various brick and mortar stores so it will be interesting to see if this becomes a mainstream trend.

Thanks for dropping by. Hope you had a great long Easter Weekend.

xxx Deborah