Final (style) look back at the year that was, this time, through what I purchased. More specifically, my top five buys, and the three pieces I wish I’d reconsidered buying.  Aside from recounting my most worn pieces of the season, this has been one of the more valuable reflections when analysing personal style. Because you’re forced to consider the root cause of why an item has been tucked away at the back of your closet, unloved and unworn. That said, if I’ve taken away anything from my purchases over the years, it’s that regardless of how much time we spend agonising over buying an item, its success in our wardrobe isn’t guaranteed. It’s only when you have the thing, that you are living with it in your closet that you’ll discover how much it truly shines, or whether you consider it to be a bit of a “dud”.  So, let’s chat through my best and worst of 2023. Best purchases of 2023 #1 | Andersons mock croc leather belt Buying duplicates can be a little bit of a gamble. Often, we’ve already conditioned ourselves to instinctively reach for the original, that any repeat buy in another colour doesn’t get quite as much love. It also can limit styling options as the only new element you’ve introduced into your wardrobe is colour.  But, my black Andersons leather belt has been a cornerstone piece in so many of my outfits. A real wardrobe workhorse. And one thing I lacked was a textural belt, so when I saw the chocolate mock brown leather, I thought… “why not”.  I’ll admit I’ve been pleasantly surprised by just how much I've worn this. So much so, it’s essentially taken out that top spot as my most reached for belt. Much more versatile than you’d think, too.  One thing to note? The gold tone does start to wear off with time. The buckle on my black belt now has a bit of a two-tone gold/silver gradient effect but I personally don’t mind this.  #2 | Sezane Pippa dress Another one of those items that I didn’t think I’d like as much as I did. They’re sleeper “hits”; unassuming, but great. T-shirt dresses have a tendency to be kind of unflattering. As a pear shape with shorter legs, I find that the traditional loose silhouettes underscore how long my torso is, in a way that doesn’t feel great to wear. So the Pippa dress was a welcome reprieve from what I’m used to seeing. I was drawn to the way it’s designed to hug the contours of the body, and the ruched tie at the waist. Also, the side slits. These provide a nice element of movement.  It’s a cotton/elastane blend, so very stretchy and in my experience, has washed well. I believe it’s supposed to fit close to the body, so would recommend sizing down for a figure-hugging fit. Classic black was my choice, mostly because my kids seem to get everything I wear grubby and I wanted an easy-going piece. But the colourful options are fun, too. I also have the Sabrina dress which is a similar style but in a mini length, that is just as good. #3 | Facade Pattern grey wool trousers One of the top pieces on my 2023 wardrobe wishlist was a pair of grey wool trousers. Something in a fluid drape style, 100% wool, with belt loops. Single pleat. And while I’ve not really had much opportunity to wear these yet, the quality is exceptional, and they are a dream to have on. So while a late player to the game, I can already predict they’ll be on solid rotation for 2024. Some purchase, you just know. If it’s within your style wheelhouse and makes sense with how you build your looks, it can be a bit of a no-brainer. I have a few pairs of trousers from Facade Pattern at this point and they’re generally the pairs I will reach for first above any other. Which speaks volumes! #4 | H&M rib knit top I’ve purchased “dupes” of this iconic Khaite top in the past, but none of them ever felt quite right (though I do love this one from Sezane). Until now. And I think, for me, it was losing the sleeves. This absolute high street gem from H&M was such a winner that I immediately bought it in a second colour.  The ribbed knit is very thick, the cut is lovely and not at all revealing. It feels modest despite the style. These elements actually add a level of refinement that I like to try and tone down with more chilled out styles like jeans, denim cut offs, or a fluid drape pant. Opting for a silky skirt for example, immediately gives off an impression of elegance. Love that it’s easy to tone down. If you have been considering this, size down as it runs large, and from what I understand is best for smaller-chested girlies. #5 | Onitsuka Tiger Mexico 66 sneakers Better than Samba’s in my opinion. On my hunt for the slim sneaker, I was tossing up between Onitsuka Tiger and Adidas and decided to get both. And when I’m getting dressed, these win out every time as I find they’ve got more support in the sole (bouncy, with arch support). I like all the colour options too. Originally, I got these in a red/blue combination, and later purchased the silver. Which I think comes off as being a subtle but very wearable nod to the metallic trend that gained in popularity in 2023.  They’ve filled the gap in my closet for a slim fitting sneaker nicely, and I love the ease with which you can style these.  Worst purchases of 2023 #1 | The Row black heeled loafers It’s always disappointing when an expensive and drawn out purchase just doesn’t get worn. Even more so when you’re really excited about the item. The Row's Margaret loafers are exquisite. Minimally designed, with a mid-height but walkable heel, there’s no reason in my mind why I wouldn’t reach for these. But I never do.  And the “a-ha” moment came to me when I realised that they just feel a little too mature for me. I tend to like more playful elements, adding Pokemon pins to my denim jackets, minimalist components with a small feminine touch like a light ruffle. Something centred. These feel a little austere by comparison. Too minimal, and whenever I put them on I always feel like I’m trying to be a version of myself that I’m not.  Doesn’t help that the heel height is a little higher than what I typically reach for when working. Combined with the fact that I have a reasonably solid shoe collection as it is, any new pairs need to work double time to earn their place.  #2 | Tibi navy macrame set A purchase I think was guided by my fantasy self, as despite trying to wear this countless times, it’s never felt quite right. My personal style isn’t overly fashion forward; it’s more restrained, leaning in on classic designs with the odd flourish. So perhaps that was the first “tell”. But you never know until you try, and I generally love my Tibi pieces so thought this would fall in that camp.  I ordered these pieces during their end of season sale, and as I couldn’t try it on ahead of time, I took a real gamble. Because the purchase was final. No returns. And I think if I had been able to try it on first, I might have struck this off my wishlist, instead resorting to admiring it on others. Add to this that I’d originally wanted to buy it in white but that had sold out. Which serves as a reminder to stick to your guns, or be okay with missing out. Quite a few recommendations on Instagramwere to try both pieces worn as separates. I have tried this previously with the skirt and again, just didn’t come off quite right, but want to spend some time trying to style them up separately before I give up on them for good. #3 | Oroton olive green cotton shirt You know when you try something on in-store, and just can’t stop thinking about it? Well, that was me with this Oroton cotton poplin shirt. A great basic, in a deep earthy neutral.  And ironically, it’s the colour that’s thrown me off. That has had me questioning the purchase.  I loved how it looked on me in-store. I paired it with the matching mini and had a little monochromatic moment which felt chic and easy. In my mind, thinking it would look great worn with my (mostly) neutral wardrobe, too. And I was thrilled when I managed to snag it during a sale. But since it arrived in the mail, I haven’t been able to recreate that incredible feeling from in-store. Which is a real shame as it was another purchase I was so excited about. What this highlighted to me, properly for the first time, was how much my complexion plays a role in whether I will wear colour, or not. I have olive skin, so the base colour of my complexion is green, and in my case, has a bit of a yellow-ish tinge. Neither overly warm or overly cool colours suit me, so naturally I’m drawn to options which carry more of a neutral colour value or sit in the middle of the temperature spectrum. So greens in general are tricky for me. And when I look back at what I’ve worn over the decades, greens that are more intensely saturated, with a darker value tend to work better for me.  Again, I’ll be seeing if I can make this work with my wardrobe, but ultimately, if I’m wearing colour (instead of my beloved neutrals), I want to make sure I’m feeling my best. Let me know your best and worst purchases of 2023 in the comments!  

  ‘Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication’ – Leonardo Da Vinci What’s one style “rule” that influences almost every outfit you wear? For me, it’s the ‘rule of three’. An outfit will feel “done” when it’s made up of three main components. You’ll have heard of this concept many times, referred to as the rule of thirds, or the golden ratio. Prevalent in all visual aspects of our lives, and commonly used in photography, the arts, and architecture. It’s one of the reasons why summer dressing feels less than satisfying. There’s this sense that something is missing. Because when it’s 35 deg C and muggy, all you’ll be inclined to wear is a tank top and shorts. Maybe a simple cotton or linen dress. Basically, it can feel like a bit of a challenge to put together an outfit in that moment that makes you feel good (and also keeps you cool). So here’s my summer uniform I keep returning to. The one I reach for – in any colour combination – when I want to feel chic and confident, but also don’t want to ruminate over what I’m wearing. A simple fitted tank, tucked into a wide leg/fluid drape trouser, with a wide strap flat sandal. There’s visual balance here in the way that I’m showing off my arms, but keeping my legs concealed. The yin and yang of a tight tank top with loose pants. A waist defined by a belt (one with texture, tick!). And complete with a sandal that has some weight to it. Dainty sandals are nice, but don’t seem to complement this look quite so well. For those who wonder how to avoid dragging your pants on the ground, you can see here how I’ve tucked the back hem into my sandal. Some bangles on my wrist add to the sense that I’ve but at least some thought into my styling. While I can’t help but feel that this outfit might be better served with that aforementioned “third piece”, there’s something to be said for the simplicity of pairing the tank solely with the trousers. If it’s especially hot, I’ll usually swap out the trousers for a skirt. I find that you still get nice air flow with the longer length (a side split amplifies this!) ultimately feeling stifling than a pant, but more “styled” than shorts or a mini skirt.  

The internet has gone crazy for what is being tipped as a more modern, and less expensive alternative to the Hermes Birkin. Vogue called it “an heirloom bag in the making”. Functionally and aesthetically serving something quite similar to the Birkin. And it ties into broader trends that we’re seeing right now centred around power dressing, and a nod to collegiate prep. Silhouettes are getting sharper, with a sense of refinement and elegance. While we still crave the nonchalance and ease that has dominated over the past few years. Both of which tie into the appeal of this season’s latest “it” bag. But the phrase “less expensive” is a bit of a misnomer, as a quick Google search for The Row’s Margaux 17 lists the current price on Net-a-Porter as a little over $10K. So, I’ve been seeking out alternatives. Inspired by, but not exactly the same. And I think, I’ve found a winner. So is the Blanc bag from MONOROW the affordable answer to The Row’s Margaux? To me, this has all the qualities I’m seeking. It’s real leather (in fact, recycled leather!), and has a cotton twill interior. The closure is simple, a button stud with belt detail. There’s a small zip up compartment on the inside. It has that mannish structured shape which really encapsulates the vibe of the Margaux. Slightly more structured but in a leather that’ll soften. Not too big and not too small. And then there’s the price… currently $300 (with an extra 10% off with code MADEMOISELLE10). Another alternative is this mock croc version from Oroton. It’s a bit more structured (unlikely to lose its shape), and also has a rather handy crossbody strap. Curious to know what you think, and if one of these oversized ladylike totes has earned a place on your wishlist.  

Silk slip skirts are one of those “style essentials” you’ll see on lists for building your wardrobe. And while I don’t think that these are hard and fast templates for building up a wardrobe from scratch, I can’t deny that personally for me, they’re a big yes (for you, it might be a different cut in a different fabrication, or, no skirt at all). Combined with the trend towards 90s minimalism, hem lengths have dropped in favour of the maxi. Long and lean silhouettes. So today we’re going to chat through how to style a maxi slip skirt three ways. Which, is a great starting point if you’re planning to add a new silhouette into your closet. If you can’t identify three different outfit combinations which you’d realistically wear, give it a pass. #1 | Worn with a pop of colour The first outfit combination denotes a neutral/tonal base, using accessories to add in personality and vibrancy. I’ve used a red shoe here for that fun burst of colour, which I could have amplified by also adding in a matching bag. Bright accents are a great way to breathe new life into your much loved style staples. Some of my favourite pairings with chocolate brown are lemon yellow, soft muted pinks, burnt orange and verdant green. But obviously what you gravitate towards will depend on the colour of your skirt. Another tip for keeping things a little interesting is to consider your tee. Mine has a rich earthy red-brown print to it which serves to tie together the colour of the skirt and shoes. Wearing Sezane graphic tee, Quince silk skirt, Quince cardigan, Margaux ballet flats, Karen Walker bag #2 | Worn with texture and shape Use this type of outfit combination to create visual interest and dimension. Slip skirts tend to have this long and lean element, so you can either play into that, or opt to create friction through the use of fun proportions. This outfit does the latter. Not visible from this image but the top has a slight blouson/puff sleeve and relaxed fit. Though the jacket is really what is doing all the heavy lifting. It’s a fuzzy tweed combined with the oversized style that feels counterbalanced against the dramatic length of the skirt. You can also use your accessories to increase the tactical quality of your look. My bag is a mock croc leather, but then you could throw on a big bulky scarf in a fuzzy fabric. Also, it looks a little like I’m wearing “shades of” here, and in some ways I am. If you’re having trouble matching colours in your outfit, look for like with like colours (so brown with light brown, charcoal with black) as it’ll create variation while remaining cohesive. Wearing & Other Stories knit (also here), Quince maxi slip skirt, Mango bomber jacket, Arket boots, Sezane bag #3 | Worn in blocks of colour Something I talk about often is considering where you are adding visual breaks into your outfit. It’s why certain hem lengths might look off with certain shoes. Or why despite using all your other tricks and a usual style uniform the outfit just isn’t working. Matching the colour of your shoes to your skirt helps to continue that clean line and has the illusion of adding length – you can reveal a little bit of skin though the effect is amplified when wearing a boot or sock and shoe in the same colour as the piece on your lower half as the visual line is extended all the way down to your toes. Best way to think about this is using the rule of thirds. How can you break up your outfit like that for a look that feels settled and at ease on the eye?

Monochromatic or tonal looks might just be my favourite. It’s the styling tool that I utilise most and every outfit – saturated with colour or muted and calm – feels right within my wheelhouse. The trick though, is how to make a monochromatic outfit feel interesting. Stop it from falling flat. Through all my years experimenting with monochrome dressing, I’ve found that there are three key styling pillars that add in that visual element of dimension; shape, texture, and colour. You may even find that your outfit includes all three, but usually, the ones that feel good will have at least one of these core themes. Shape Starting with the first outfit, I wanted to touch on the theme of shape. This could be sharp vs soft lines, slim vs oversized. The silhouette could be exaggerated, sculptural, or strike some as unusual. It could be a design detail of the item itself, or a styling flourish that you’ve intentionally added in. A personal favourite of mine – belting something with volume to create an exaggerated peplum effect. This dress is a slightly more subtle take on shape; the bodice is fitted, designed to sculpt and contour in a thick rib knit. It has body, feels robust. The skirt by contrast has an element of grace and flow. The fabric moves around effortlessly, while also adding in a softness. Wearing ONTE dress; Oroton bag; Aeyde Maryjanes Texture The second theme is texture. A tactile quality to the clothing. Something that distinguishes between the partitions of our outfit. That draws the eye in, in search of a missed detail. Think soft, fuzzy, shiny, glossy, smooth, puckered, silky. A good mix helps to define the outfit, while also adding layers of nuance. You can see it present in this outfit here. The cashmere knit has a plush quality, whereas the skirt is in an ornate Jacquard with so much depth alone. My bag is a pebbled leather, with a slight shine, and the shoes are a mix of fuzzy wool flannel, and soft suede. Wearing Quince sweater; Foemina skirt; Vaneli two tone pumps; MONOROW bag (review here + it’s 10% off with MADEMOISELLE10) Colour Final theme; colour. And there’s a handful of ways that this can play out in an outfit. Namely, the balance between warm and cool. For harmony, you’ll want to pick one or the other (though neutrals that straddle that middle ground tend to work too). It could be how you incorporate prints – drawing in on commonalities of the colours present in the print for your outfit. Maybe it’s how you play with brights; opting for varying degrees of colour intensity within your outfit (think shades of blue, or red). Or maybe it’s how you add in colour against a neutral base through accessories (think bags, shoes, earrings and even makeup). You can see how I’ve chosen to use colour here in this final look; all pieces sit on the neutral to cool end of the spectrum, from clothing items to accessories. Wearing Jenni Kayne sweater; LILYSILK skirt (20% off with JL20); Tony Bianco shoes; Saben Tilly Bag (15% off with JAMIELOVESSABEN15)

Undoubtedly one of the best when it comes to affordable wardrobe staples, UNIQLO has been a mainstay in my own closet since I first stepped foot in one of their London stores 15 years ago. Their t-shirts have sat in the top spots when seeking out the best of the bunch. Not to mention the ankle length trousers, which laid the groundwork for some of my favourite workwear outfits over the years. I popped in store recently and came across so many fab finds, that I thought it would be fun to share the ten best pieces to buy from UNIQLO right now.  1 | UNIQLO Cotton Relaxed Ankle Pants (AU link) A bit of a sleeper hit, I haven’t seen anyone talking about these trousers. But they are fantastic. These have an elasticated waistband with concealed drawstring; a small detail, but one that makes these passable for the office with some clever styling. They’re 100% cotton, aka low maintenance, and the $30 price point makes them an easy yes. I’m wearing the khaki here, but they’re available in a few different colours. Love the cropped length too! 2 | UNIQLO PUFFTECH Quilted Vest If you either live in a cold climate, or are headed on a winter vacation, then you’ve probably thought to check out UNIQLO’s heat tech range. There are so many options, and aside from the base thermal layers (a must if you live somewhere particularly frosty), my top pick would be this quilted vest. In typical UNIQLO fashion it comes in a whole bunch of great colours. But what sets this apart is just how practical it is. You can easily layer this underneath a blazer or jacket for your morning commute or wear it as part of your styling adding in an interesting tactical quality in the process. It is so puffy and light, but adds this lovely layer of warmth. And it packs down incredibly well. 3 | UNIQLO Knitted Short Jacket (AU link) Tweedy ladylike jackets have been a core trend piece for the past 18 months or so, but generally these cost a pretty penny. So I was excited to see that UNIQLO had designed their own affordable take on this style. The base is cotton, blended with synthetics which helps to bring the price down. But the yarn feels sturdy, robust, and more like cotton than anything else. It has functional pockets at the front (perfect size for a card or lip product), and looks chic both worn fully buttoned or loose. Personally I think this style might be better suited for those with a regular or shorter torso. Comes in a bunch of fun options – I’m wearing the blue here. 4 | UNIQLO Wide-Fit Pleated Pants (AU link) The trousers that are as good as everyone says they are. Affordable, wash well, and come in a range of textures and colours. I recommend these trousers a lot to my personal styling clients, particularly those who are more petite and are in search of a straight leg trouser that doesn’t swamp them. The “wide” fit is perfectly tailored, not exaggerated and in my opinion, looks good regardless of how you style them. If you want a looser fit at the waist, stick with your usual size, otherwise size down one if you prefer a closer fit. 5 | UNIQLO : C 100% Premium Lambswool Long Sleeve Half-Zip Sweater & UNIQLO : C 100% Premium Lambswool Mini Skirt The UNIQLO X Clare Waight Keller collection recently launched here, and I was thrilled to finally see it in person. The items that really caught my eye were the knitted styles and I thought that this lambswool set was great value for money (the cashmere vest, also chef’s kiss). It’s a premium lambswool, that’ll soften and wear well with age. I love the fisherman style ribbed knit, and how you have this sports luxe feel to the knit, and more classic elegant feel to the skirt. Perfectly juxtaposed. The knit I think works best if you size up one to get a little more of a slouchy look, whereas the skirt runs a little on the large side. If you want it to fit high on the waist, go down a size. I’m wearing the sweater here in an M and the skirt in an XS. 6 | UNIQLO Wide Straight Jeans (AU link) I’ve definitely shared these jeans, or a version of them previously. But I wanted to come back to them as they really are just that good. UNIQLO sizing often tends to be on the more generous side, but I’d say with this particular style, the size you choose will be centred around how you want them to fit. For me, I wanted them snug around the hips with that classic straight fit through the legs – not too wide. I’m a 26 jean size, so went down two sizes to a 24. If you’re after a chill relaxed fit, stick with your usual size or go down one size. These are 100% cotton, a nice soft denim to the touch, and the weight isn’t too thick nor does it feel flimsy and thin. Plus if you’re petite, you can always take advantage of their in-house tailoring service (free for most alterations) to get the length taken up. 7 | UNIQLO 100% Extra Fine Merino Ribbed Polo Cardigan Generally I’ll tend to steer clear of UNIQLO’s extra fine merino range, as the simple classic crews tend to wear poorly (my husband used to buy these yearly, but they wouldn’t last longer than 4-5 months being worn once a week). This polo style cardigan is the exception. The thickness of the yarn feels robust, not sheer or thin at all which makes a huge difference. As does the ribbed yarn, that helps to add some extra heft. The collar isn’t too pointed, which adds some softness, and I think the charcoal pearly buttons add a nice touch. My personal preference is to wear this style slightly unbuttoned to get a V-shaped neckline. For a close fit, I recommend sizing down – I’m wearing the XS here. 8 | UNIQLO AIRism Cotton T-Shirt (AU link) Basic t-shirts are one of the areas in your wardrobe where I always will recommend you save. Having bought both affordable and high end options, I can say with surety that you’ll get just as much mileage out of a high street version – if not more. These are high rotation pieces that tend to wear out quickly. UNIQLO hands down makes some of the best, and I like that there’s a pretty big variety. My personal favourite are their AIRism tees, which have a slightly slouchy fit, and longer sleeve length. It’s the sleeve detail that really sets them apart, as it feels a bit more styled than a basic cut tee (though the UNIQLO U heavyweight tees are also fab!). Wearing my usual size S here and it’s a nice relaxed fit. 9 | UNIQLO 100% Cashmere Crew Neck Sweater (AU link) Another item I’ve recommended many times before, but worth highlighting as we head into autumn here in Australia. While they’re not the softest cashmere sweaters (straight off the bat – these soften as you wear and wash them), they are reliable. The cut is classic; timeless even. Colour selection tends to always be interesting, with a good mix of neutrals and brights (generally cool-toned FYI). Depending on the fit you want, you can flit between the women’s and men’s styles – both of which will give you an entirely different look. I’m wearing the women’s size S here. If you have a little more money in your knitwear budget then I’d recommend checking out this style from COS. It’s twice the price, but feels incredibly soft and luxurious to wear. 10 | UNIQLO Ribbed Cropped Sleeveless BRA TOP (AU link) Final item on my “best of” UNIQLO list is this ribbed cropped bra top. A great basic for layering or wearing with jeans and high waisted skirts, baring a little peek of midriff. This has a built in padded shelf bra which I love – makes it such an easy throw on (plus no visible bra straps!). The ribbed texture adds in a slightly interesting visual element, and the way the neckline and armholes are cut is really nice. It does run large so I recommend sizing down. I’m wearing the XS here.

Sharing these six transitional outfit formulas I’ve been relying on lately – before it gets too chilly here in Sydney to share. Which if this current cold snap is anything to go by, the days of bare legs are already over… Because it’s easy enough to fall back on denim, especially when you primarily work from home, I wanted to highlight my favourite types of outfits where jeans don’t even get a look in. And no, these aren’t any earth-shattering outfit combinations – personally, am a big fan of an easy, minimal look that I can put together in a pinch (a must when you have young kids!). FORMULA 1 | Oversized knit + mini skirt + Mary janes With the knit either tucked or loose; I’m not particular. For me, a fun way to play around with proportions, and I find this is the easiest way to integrate looser silhouettes as you’re baring a lot more of the leg. Can easily update this outfit with some sheer tights too and a long trench for extra layering. Also, have been really playing into the idea of prints as neutrals. The snake print skirt I’m wearing here is a great example of a piece that plays well with other murky hues in your wardrobe. Especially fun when you play around with interesting textures. Wearing Marle sweater, ELKA Collective skirt (also here); Oroton bag (on sale!) FORMULA 2 | Relaxed cardigan + straight leg pants + ballet flats Worn with the bottom couple of buttons loose, to either expose the teeniest bit of skin, or a fun coloured tank underneath. I like this most worn with a slightly cropped pant, to expose some of the ankle, as there’s not really any definition in the outfit otherwise. Wearing Sezane cardigan, Sezane cropped trousers, Acne Studios mini musubi bag FORMULA 3 | Activewear + quilted jacket + chunky sneakers I don’t often wear activewear as my “outfit”, but if I am going for a walk and want to look a little styled, this is an easy way to do it. The quilting on the oversized jacket adds in an element of texture and dimension which feels really interesting. You can play it up by adding in a leather bag. Something with some shine to elevate and add a sense of luxury. Wearing Lululemon crop top; Lululemon align leggings; Karen Walker quilted jacket; Lemaire crossbody bag (review here) FORMULA 4 | Relaxed sweater + tailored mini skirt + oversized coat + ballet flats I’ve worn this fairly easy outfit formula a bit lately; what I like about it comes down to the details. Usually I’ll add in a belt to highlight the waist, but things like a scarf coat can bring in that point of difference. You also get a nice balance of relaxed pieces paired with more tailored items. Wearing Assembly Label cashmere sweater; Minima Esenciales skirt; COS scarf coat (alternate here – US only); Saben odile bag (15% off with JAMIELOVESSABEN15) FORMULA 5 | Sleeveless tank + tailored trousers + oversized cardigan + loafers Texture play being the hero of this outfit, which I’ll usually reach for in some sort of tonal or neutral colour situation. Outfits tend to feel a little more finished with the addition of that third piece, and the cable knit design on this cardigan is particularly special. Wearing St Agni tank; Facade Pattern trousers (10% off with MADEMOISELLE10); Andersons belt; Quince cable cardigan (US only); Oroton pouch (on sale) FORMULA 6 | Knit cardigan + tailored trousers + ankle boots Final outfit formula is a simple one, that pairs a slightly more feminine silhouette with a traditionally more masculine style. Heeled boots give that elevation and sense of refinement. Given my love of oversized knitwear, this feels a bit more unexpected. Wearing Oui Mais Non cardigan (10% off with MADEMOISELLE10); Laing Home trousers; Polene bag

If I had to name one brand off the top of my head which really embodies the essence of that minimalist style aesthetic, it’d have to be DISSH. A collection that is rooted in neutrals (only), and tends to be centred around core wardrobe staples, often elevated with interesting design details. That latter element, being the main thing that sets the brand apart. Basics that aren’t basic (or boring). So I’ve scoured the website, and put together an edit of the very best pieces to buy from DISSH right now. If you’re curious to know what I recommend (and also, what I don’t), then this is the post for you; a thorough DISSH clothing review. I’ll be sharing sizing info for each piece, along with exact item measurements for my size which I hope will be helpful. Largely, I find that the brand does run true to size, but can be a little more on the snug side at the waist for fixed waistband styles (worth keeping in mind if you are prone to bloating – often times my pieces tend to get a little on the tight side by the end of the day as a result of this!). If you live outside of Australia, the only way to access DISSH is via their website. Shipping is free once you hit their minimum order spend, and sent with DHL (duties unpaid). I’ve heard that the returns process is pretty seamless, too. But, what I recently learned (that surprised me), is that pricing is the same in USD as it is in AUD. As in, a $99 AUD piece will be $99 USD. DISSH Celine Blazer I had to start with the “Celine” range, as it’s this classic suiting that DISSH does really well. The cuts are always clean and sleek, in easy, wearable neutrals (in addition to white/black, think charcoal, chocolate brown, and taupe-beige).  So kicking things off with the Celine Blazer, which to me, closely resembles the Rowan Blazer – though, I could be wrong. That said, this is an excellent example of a relaxed, oversized blazer. The shoulder seams don’t hang too far off the shoulder; it’s not cut too wide through the body; and while the sleeves are a little on the longer side, it would be easy enough to get these tailored or to roll/push up the sleeves if you’re petite. This is another lined piece – something I tend to demand as a minimum for my blazers as it feels much more finished, and is generally more comfortable to wear. Single breasted, with a neutral taupe tortoiseshell button – love this detail as it makes the whole piece feel much more cohesive (same with the longline vest). I do think that it works for petites as well as tall girls, but be mindful of your proportions if you are shorter. If you are average height/tall, I would recommend getting your usual size. I am wearing size AU8. If you are petite, you may like to size down for a more intentional oversized fit. Measures 41cm shoulder to shoulder, 52.5cm underarm to underarm and 77cm long. Worn with UNIQLO white tee (size S) DISSH Celine Pant One of my most worn pieces from DISSH is the Rowan Pant. I tend to favour them over my other black trousers majority of the time as the cut is flawless, and they’re reasonably easy to care for (though the fabric does pill – I use a fabric shaver to tidy them up every few washes).  So I thought the Celine Pant – in that same soft pebble hue as the longline vest – would be a worthy addition to my closet. Something I could pop on around my kids and still feel put together, but also be able to throw in the wash after every wear.  What’s curious is that the cut of the Celine Pant is almost a mirror of the Rowan Pant. Aside from the double belt loop detail on the Celine – chic – there’s not much else that sets them apart. Possibly the Celine Pant is cut ever so slightly slimmer through the leg, and a touch longer, but the difference is negligible.  Which would explain why I like them so much. Unlike the longline vest and the blazer, the trousers are not lined. Typically this isn’t something that I expect in my trousers, and it actually makes them feel a little more carefree. Drape is wonderful. There’s sturdiness to the fabric but it has a lovely flow, which combined with the high waisted makes your legs look really long. Fits true to size. I’m wearing size AU8. Measures 35cm across the waistband laid flat, 32cm rise, 80cm inseam, and 110cm long. Worn with UNIQLO white tee (size S) & Tibi sandals (old, similar linked) DISSH Celine Longline Vest Waistcoats seem to have solidified their place as an easy wardrobe basic. And I loved this take on the classic silhouette. Longline length, with a tie at the back to cinch it in for a more formal, tailored look. This is a bit of an update on their classic Banks Vest in linen, but tailored more for a workwear setting. This is lined, and the fabrication of the Celine line is a twill in a poly-blend. To me it feels nice to the touch, and is the type of thing that will play hard, work hard in your closet. Essentially one of my tests for quality is how it’ll hold up with repeated wear, and this feels robust enough to stand the test of time. Fits true to size. I’m wearing an AU8. Measures 47cm underarm to underarm, 40cm across the waist laid flat (not cinched), and 73cm long. Worn with DISSH Celine Pant (size AU8) DISSH Ada Long Sleeve Midi Dress Probably DISSH’s most iconic dress, if I had to pick one. The Ada Long Sleeve Midi Dress has been part of their core collection since the rebrand in 2020 (at least that I’m aware of), and it’s a firm favourite for good reason.  This is a really thick ribbed knit dress. As in, I’m pretty sure it weighs over 2 kilos. Which will be something you either love or you don’t (really, it depends on what you’re looking for).  I’ve tried this in all three colours; the taupe and the black are both fully opaque, but you do need to ensure you’re wearing seamless flesh toned underwear with the white.  The little flared sleeves are so sweet, and I like the tie at the back, which allows you to really cinch in the waist.  I find that this does fit true to size. I’m wearing a size S. Measures 43cm underarm to underarm, 40cm laid flat across the waist, and 136cm long. Worn with Tony Bianco grey flats (size AU9) DISSH Carey Tapered Pant I used to own a pair of dark charcoal straight leg trousers from H&M, but had to let them go as they just fit a little too snug after having two kids. They were a classic cut, that went with everything. And ever since, I’ve been looking for a suitable replacement.  These, by far, are the best alternative I’ve come across. The colour is spot on, and I really like the fit. Classically tapered, but not too narrow at the ankle. The flat front detail comes off looking quite smooth and clean (compared to other styles I have with an extended tab – this always pulls and looks a little awkward).  Of all the suiting style trousers in this DISSH edit, these are the thickest, and have a real sturdiness to them. Another poly blend, which are easy to care for. There’s a singular back pocket, with a seam down the centre back – this gives off a really sleek finish. A great option to take you from work to weekend. I’ve worn these with a blazer and heels for work, and then for the weekend with a super chunky sweater and sneakers. Could also do a night out look with an off shoulder top or silk cami and strappy sandals. Fits true to size; no give to the fabric/waistband (fixed style). I’m wearing size AU8. Measures 35cm across the waistband laid flat, 33cm rise, 68.5cm inseam and 99cm long. Worn with UNIQLO white tee (size S) & Vaneli two tone pumps (size US9) DISSH Arden Knit Tank Next up is the Arden Knit Tank. This caught my eye because I loved the henley design – elevated and chic while still having all the hallmarks of a wardrobe basic. The slight sheer element to the fabrication also intrigued me – a great way to play in on this trend for the season ahead. The top is more of a cropped length, so hits me right on the waistband. Basically, you don’t need to tuck this. The fabric has a sheer quality to it, so best worn with a skin toned bra or playing up the sheer by wearing a fun bright neon coloured bra instead. Despite the sheerness, the fabric doesn’t feel delicate or precious. Just like with the layer tank, it has a bit of grit to it – I wouldn’t be worried about snagging this like I would some of their other sheer woven styles. It’s a slim fit, so if you want something more relaxed, I would recommend going up a size. I am wearing size S here. Measures 38cm underarm to underarm and is 48cm long. Worn with DISSH Carey Tapered Pants (size AU8) DISSH Laiken Wide Leg Pants With that shift into chic but still relaxed (and comfortable) silhouettes, these particular pants check all the boxes. A fluid drape trouser cut that’s full length, not too wide through the leg, and has an elasticated waistband.  What I like about the waistband is that it’s a very wide piece of elastic, so holds its own, defines the waist but also doesn’t dig in. Firm but soft. There’s the DISSH brand logo at the centre, and pockets (love!).  These are lined (FULLY!), but I will note that the linen isn’t as soft or as opaque as the linen used for the Shannon Dress I shared above. I’d wear these with skin toned underwear. Also comes with a matching shirt for that loungewear as day wear look. Fits true to size. I’m wearing size AU8.  Measures 32cm across the waistband laid flat, 34.5cm rise, 75cm inseam and 107cm long. Worn with UNIQLO white tee (size S) & Tibi sandals (old, similar linked) DISSH Enyo Linen Pant Behind the Celine set, this has to be one my favourite pieces on the DISSH website right now. The Enyo Linen Pant is a lined trouser, with hidden side zip closure and paper bag waist finish with a long adjustable tie. No pockets give it a really nice smooth finish, which hugs the contours of the hips. Cut wide through the leg, but not too wide that there is an extreme excess of fabric.  Both the exterior linen, and the lining feel really soft and comfortable against the skin, and the colour is divine. It’s a muted pale sage green; reads as an easy neutral which is just brought to life when paired with fresh whites. Fits true to size, I’m wearing the size AU8 here. Measures 33cm across the waistband laid flat, 35cm rise, 80cm inseam and 107cm long. Worn with UNIQLO white tee (size S) & Tibi sandals (old, similar linked) DISSH Sofia Knit Tunic Top One of the silhouettes we are seeing a lot for the season ahead are these longline, fitted tanks, worn with a full length skirt. Essentially this concept of long and lean. And the Sofia Knit Tunic Top is a great way to pull this off.  It’s a thick rib knit – not flimsy or thin – and really hugs the body. There’s some lattice trim on edge shoulder, which is not really noticeable except when you’re looking up close. The details though, are what make this a standout. It has a side split, which creates this interesting splayed effect with the bottom third of the top, as well as a bit of a peekaboo moment.  What’s nice about this is that you can play around with the styling, wearing it over the top of a skirt (or a dress) like I’ve done here, some lovely silky trousers, or you could tuck it in and reveal a little sliver of skin on the side. Wearing size S, though I do think with this style you could go up a size if you wanted it to lay really flat against the body (especially at the back). Measures 29cm underarm to underarm and is 62cm long. Worn with Blanca white skirt (size XS/S) DISSH Rowan Tailored Shorts You may have gotten an inkling already that I’m a fan of the Rowan collection. The cuts are all classic, and the minimalist, neutral colour palette is a capsule wardrobe dream.  I had to mention the Tailored Shorts as they are a great summertime option. They’re easy to look after, and feel much more elevated than just wearing a pair of denim shorts. These have all the hallmarks of the Rowan Pant, but none of the length. Also comes in black too! Fits true to size. I’m wearing size AU8. Measures 34cm across the waistband laid flat, 36cm inseam and is 40cm long. Worn with UNIQLO white tee (size S) DISSH Jude Sleeveless Layer Top Final piece I wanted to include in this edit of the best pieces to buy from DISSH right now is the Jude Sleeveless Layer Top. I had to include this little layer tank as the moment I spotted it, I thought what a great affordable alternative to this white layer tank from St Agni. The DISSH one looks to be a little more sheer, and the design was what surprised me most (two separate tanks, which are designed to be worn together). The fabric is sheer and ribbed, but doesn’t feel overly delicate – I’m not worried that there’s going to be a snag if I happen to graze one of my rings against it.  Even layered up together, you will find that it still has a modicum of sheer to it, so would recommend either playing that element up, or opting for a skin toned bra. Fits true to size for a slim fit. I’m wearing size S. Measures 36cm underarm to underarm and 60cm long. Worn with DISSH Carey Tapered Pants (size AU8) What to Avoid from DISSH I wanted to wrap this up with three things I will always avoid buying from DISSH. Because while there’s a lot that the brand does well, I shop with longevity in mind and these items don’t pass the litmus test for earning a place in my closet. #1 | Synthetic blend knitwear I’ve tried a few of DISSH’s blended knit pieces, and sadly been disappointed every time (despite the styles being tres chic!). The fabric either feels spongey or has that synthetic quality which can’t be mistaken. And I’m not game enough to see how they’ll fare in the wash – I’m fussy and if I don’t like how a fabric feels, I won’t wear it. Instead opt for their 100% natural fibre knits. I especially love this one. #2 | Sheer knit tops I’ve tried two of their sheer knit tops, and the reality for me is that both were just too delicate for me. Despite my best efforts, I found that they snagged so easily, and then to top it off, I experienced a bit of shrinkage after washing. This is the type of top I’m referring to. I’d recommend this style instead – gives you a similar vibe but the fabric is robust and won’t snag! #3 | Satin anything I love a high-shine moment, something that is readily achieved with a beautiful satin skirt, however I haven’t had much success from DISSH. I found their most popular satin skirt was a little too sheer for day-to-day, and the light-reflecting quality I love has a tendency to highlight every single little curve. Not to mention that it is prone to snags, too. Instead, spend a little more and opt for one of their silk skirts, they are 100% worth it.

I still remember my first denim jacket. A classic, mid blue, which I often wore with a pink and white striped tee, and pink shorts. Even as a kid, I was partial to this wardrobe “classic”, the transitional weight jacket that has this uncanny ability to chill out even the most dressed up outfits. Tulle and taffeta? Dial it down with denim. Casual to its core. So off the back of a new series on Instagram, where I take a single item and style it 10 ways, I thought I’d immortalise those outfits here, while expanding a little on the styling concepts I leaned on. Basically, the idea is to become besties with the items we already own (if you aren’t already). Because it’s half the equation to finding wardrobe nirvana. There’s a few details I personally tend to seek out in a denim jacket. As someone with a longer torso, I tend to prefer a style that hits me just below the hip. The denim must be reasonably soft (though a rigid denim does work, the style needs to be quite oversized to compensate). And I want a medium blue; nothing too aged or faded out. No distressing. Any button style will do. A curved hemline is preferred as it creates a softer silhouette, but straight across is fine too as long as it meets my other criteria. The one featured here is Ceres Life (sold out but love this one they do). My wardrobe is mostly neutrals, so with the exception of the blue monochromatic look, I decided to lean in on that, as I wanted to highlight the jacket as the focal piece. The blue wash acts as something of a neutral – the great thing about this wardrobe hero – and it actually looks fantastic when paired with a vibrant red, or soft pastels. You could easily repurpose these proportions using a more vibrant colour mix or swap out the blue denim jacket for one in white or black denim (if that’s what you have in your wardrobe). Looking back on the outfits I pulled together, I can see that I favoured a higher neckline. And reflecting on this, you can see that the crew-neckline tops allowed the jacket to be the focus. Probably my favourite look, has to be the first double denim outfit. Or, pairing it with the white denim, which allows the blue to really pop. I think when doing double denim, what you want to do is aim to match with a jean that is as close as possible in colour to the jacket. An exact match isn’t a must, but it does make it feel much more intentional. You can see here in action, how a denim jacket is a great tool to use to dial down the formality level of dressier pieces in your closet. It makes full skirts or heeled looks feel more “chill”, by adding in that good friction. Finally, you can really play around with the styling. When doing double denim, break up the colour with a contrasting tee, or button it from the collar to get a monochromatic moment. Wear it like a shirt or a jacket. Throw a knit over the top for another layered piece. Before we get into the outfits, it’s worth also highlighting that as you remix your wardrobe, you’ll start to see a solid through line. Variations on styles that you find work best for you – something that comes with playing around with what you have in your wardrobe. Not all of these outfits will look wildly different, but instead allow you to see commonalities in items you own (and sometimes even lesser worn pieces!). OUTFIT 1 | Wearing Ceres Life denim jacket (old but this is similar), Assembly Label straight leg jeans, Edward Meller heels, Quince woven pouch OUTFIT 2 | Wearing COS t-shirt, Blanca skirt, Ceres Life denim jacket (old but this is similar), Edward Meller heels, Oroton bag OUTFIT 3 | Wearing Assembly Label stripe top, Ceres Life denim jacket (old but this is similar), Everlane linen shorts, Onitsuka Tiger sneakers, Oroton bag, Vieux Eyewear sunglasses OUTFIT 4 | Wearing Ceres Life denim jacket (old but this is similar), Wynn Hamlyn skirt (old but similar), Tony Bianco heels, Quince pouch bag OUTFIT 5 | Wearing Everlane stripe shirt, COS trousers, Ceres Life denim jacket (old but this is similar), Onitsuka Tiger sneakers, Edward Meller bag OUTFIT 6 | Oroton wool vest, Ceres Life denim jacket (old but this is similar), Nothing Written jeans (10% off with MADEMOISELLE10), About Arianne ballerinas, Edward Meller bag OUTFIT 7 | Assembly Label blue tee, Sezane slip skirt, Ceres Life denim jacket (old but this is similar), Loeffler Randall woven flats, Madewell bag OUTFIT 8 | Everlane strapless dress, Ceres Life denim jacket (old but this is similar), YSL slides, Quince woven pouch OUTFIT 9 | Grana cashmere vest, Levi’s ribcage jeans, Ceres Life denim jacket (old but this is similar), Bared boots, Edward Meller bag OUTFIT 10 | Ceres Life t-shirt, DISSH trousers, Ceres Life denim jacket (old but this is similar), Vaneli two tone pumps, Oroton bag