Head over heels - Camilla Akrans









Exquisite craftmanship - need I say any more.

I'm just about to board my flight. The next time you hear from me will be from a(hopefully) sunny Los Angeles.

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Images: Camilla Akrans, courtesty LUNDLUND

Summer in the city

Nichol Brooklyn Studio @ Friend in Fashion
Nichol Brooklyn Studio @ Friend in Fashion
Nichol Brooklyn Studio @ Friend in Fashion
Nichol Brooklyn Studio @ Friend in Fashion
A couple of weeks ago, I was lucky enough to have the opportunity of catching up with local photographer, Nicole of Nichol Brooklyn Studio.

We spent a warm afternoon soaking up the East End, laughing and snapping away. Nicole was an absolute delight to work with, and as you can imagine I’m ecstatic with the end result. We also took a few more photos which I will share with you once they are ready.

In the meantime, you can check out more of Nicole’s great work online on her facebook , blog , and official website.

I’m wearing:
Vintage polka dot dress
Vintage handbag

Last week, I was also tagged by the gorgeous Zanita in the NW magazine Mr Paparazzi tag – here are my answers.

What is the most worn item of clothing in your wardrobe?
Vintage white cotton sundress.

It’s Oscar night and you can be dressed by any designer, who would you choose?
Oscar de la Renta of course – classic and elegant.

What trend are you tired of?
Nothing springs to mind, everything in moderation, but I absolutely can’t wait to see a return to 40’s/50’s inspired fashion, full skirts and pretty prints.

If you could give any celebrity a makeover, who would it be?
Britney Spears.

Who is your celebrity style icon and why?
Has to be Miranda Kerr or Rachel Bilson – both so effortlessly chic.

I tag the following fashionistas

Stompface
Love More
Zebra and Meerkat

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P.S. This is officially my last week in Australia, before hitting LA - exciting and busy times ahead!

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The Perfect Winter Warmer Fashion Trends

The Perfect Winter Warmer Fashion Trends

Whether you’re planning a winter stroll along the beach, or just need to hide from the rain on the way into work, a warm coat is the essential item for the bitter January days.
Wrapping yourself up in a cosy parka or military jacket is the perfect antidote to the gloomy weather.
Colours this year range from muted stones and khaki to bright block hues. Add a woolly scarf or tasteful pashmina and a snug pair of gloves for the ultimate in cosiness.

Winter Fashion Trends

Fall/Winter Warmer Fashion Trends

Fall/Winter Warmer

Be my Valentine

Krista Hochwallner @ Friend in Fashion
Krista Hochwallner @ Friend in Fashion
Krista Hochwallner @ Friend in Fashion
Krista Hochwallner @ Friend in Fashion
Krista Hochwallner @ Friend in Fashion
This striking silk skirt is the work of Victorian designer Krista Hochwallner .

I love sharing fabulous emerging designers with my readers and Krista Hochwallner is just that. I first came across Krista’s classic designs a couple of months ago, and instantly fell in love with her modern take on 50’s and 60’s design.

Feminine lines, pretty detailing, fun and glamour underpin Krista’s collections, and is one of the reasons I’m such a big fan.

Lovers of beautifully crafted, lady-like fashion must check out Krista’s current collection at kristahochwallner.com.au.

Krista also has a beautiful blog - The Days of Glamour.

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P.S. I was absolutely spoilt for Valentines Day, with long stem red roses, a day at the salon followed by a romantic dinner! How did you celebrate?

Prima ballerina

Pretty Ballerinas @ Friend in FashionPretty Ballerinas @ Friend in FashionPretty Ballerinas @ Friend in FashionPretty Ballerinas @ Friend in FashionPretty Ballerinas @ Friend in FashionPretty Ballerinas @ Friend in Fashion
Pretty Ballerinas @ Friend in Fashion
My new favourite label - Pretty Ballerinas.

Don’t get me wrong, I adore my heel collection, but when it comes to running around all day, traversing the globe, sightseeing, nothing beats a comfortable pair of flats, especially ones as sweet as these.

Hand-crafted on the Island of Menorca in Spain, from the softest patent leather, the quality of these ruby red gems is incredible and comfort second to none. As you can imagine, these have taken prime position in my suit case, so expect to see these popping up frequently throughout my travels.

This is my first pair of what can only be described as heaven in a shoe, and they certainly won’t be my last. I’m now eyeing off the Rosario Zebra print, which come with detachable bows and flowers – too adorable!

You can check out the full Pretty Ballerinas range online at prettyballerinas.com. A warning though, you may get hooked, I certainly am. Aussie girls - you can find stockists at Zapatito

I'm wearing, vintage blazer and Hayley Kate dress

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P.S. The count down is on, less than three weeks until I arrive in the US. I don’t travel well, so I’m not looking forward to the 14 hour flight, but I absolutely can’t wait for my first visit to the states and sharing some of the fashion and sights with my beautiful readers.

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How to clean cheap costume jewelry made of metal

Ask:

My sister unearthed a bunch of old 1980's cheap costume jewelry that is made of various types of cheap metal. Is there a way to clean costume jewelry or is there a costume jewelry cleaner I can buy? I'd prefer NOT to buy something.


Answer:

Yes,I know the method because i have done that rightly!
You don't need to spend tons of money on expensive cleaners to remove tarnish from your costume jewelry, when you can use toothpaste? Most costly costumer cleaners include a mixture of baking soda and water, which is similar the formulas used in most tubes of toothpaste. Not only will using toothpaste save you money, it is also non-toxic and easy to clean up.

Steps:

1. Choose the right toothpaste. The key to using toothpaste as a costume jewelry cleaner is the baking soda. Do not use gel toothpaste, as it usually does not contain baking soda. And, avoid toothpastes that boast tartar-control or whitening power, as they may include chemicals that can harm your silver.
2. Use a soft dampened cloth to clean more delicate jewelry or softer silvers. Wet the silver and add a dab of toothpaste. Remember that a little goes a long way. Rub gently with the moistened cloth until polished.
3. Add a bit more toothpaste if the cloth becomes dark with tarnish and continue cleaning. Simply wash the darkened toothpaste foam from the jewelry piece, rinse the cloth and begin again.
4. Scrub your costume jewelry gently with a toothbrush for stubborn tarnish or hard to reach grooves. Try to find an old worn toothbrush or buy a new soft-bristled toothbrush to prevent scratching.
5. Rinse the polished costume jewelry in warm water and dry with a soft towel.

Tips & Warnings

* Toothpaste is an effective cleansing agent not just for your costume jewelry but also for your larger silver pieces.
* While toothpaste may be the best and most economical method for cleaning costume jewelry, it can be abrasive and may scratch more delicate silver items. Always test a small area first, in order to determine whether your jewelry piece should be cleaned with toothpaste or not.