Life's Simple Delights...

...finding the perfect pair of shoes on sale.

Closets To Die For...

Just like Carrie, this was the expression on every woman's face (including my own) when the closet doors opened in the Sex and the City movie, closely followed by a rather loud "ohhh". It's no secret that females love to shop, and although most of us are stuck with an in-built wardrobe or a boring chest of draws, we all love to dream.

The few women I know who have replaced their pint-sized wardrobes for a walk in closet or dressing room- (albeit on a smaller scale than the pictures featured) are notably either single, divorced or have no children. It is, unless you live in a house with excess rooms or have designed and built your own place from scratch, a romantic luxury that most of us will probably never have, but endlessly dream we did.

So, let us sit back and admire this stunning collection of closets and with a little bit of envy, wish we were the women of the world who can actually call these rooms their own.



[The chic, polished and heavenly closet from Sex and the City]

What more can I say? It made it into the movie for a reason.



[ His and Hers Closet]

Although this wouldn't be the way I'd design my dream closet, I do like the idea of having a masculine and feminine side to the room. The contrast between the dark timber and the light woodwork somehow blend beautifully and don't clash or look awkward to the eye. This concept allows the cabinetry to be designed to suit a males wardrobe for things like ties and suits and women's accessories such as jewelry, handbags, scarves and long dresses.



[Fairy Tales Do Come True]

 The rest of this closet is left to the imagination and in my mind...I'm loving it!

[Ikea Closet]

 The thing I find about Ikea furnishings and interiors, is if you're not careful you can leave the store with a loot that ends up looking like you've done exactly that- shopped all day at Ikea. I think Ikea looks best when you grab a few bits and pieces to add to your current room and mix with existing decor. I have the black boxes on the top shelf in this picture and placed mine in exactly the same place in my own wardrobe. They are perfect for hiding junk that you don't have the heart to throw away but don't want to display either. They're clean, streamlined and fit perfectly in those sometimes awkward spaces that are hard to get to.

[Bathroom Closet]

This built in closet makes great use of awkward and often unused space, maximising the high ceilings of this room. While I'm not sure about storing my clothes in the bathroom, a girl can never have enough space to store her shoes and those big, overnight bags that you don't use everyday but are too pretty to hide away.

Lifes Simple Delights...

...seeing something so cute it instantly puts a smile on your face.

LIFE AFTER 20's Guide To The Best Cities In The World...

- New York City -

New York, New York. From Frank Sinatra to Jay Z, over the decades many a song has been written about this iconic city and these days, it seems like almost every big budget movie is filmed there too, but what is it about the Big Apple that captures the imagination, fascination and intrigue of most of us who live everywhere else?

My experience in New York started like any good song does- understated and simple, but then by the third verse (or in my case the third day) launches into an explosion of emotion, excitement and a beat that you just can't help but tap your foot to.

I had flown straight from London, so I hadn't been overwhelmed by the size and pace of the city, but I did initially find it a little underwhelming. We hear and see so much about New York that perhaps my expectations surpassed the reality? That was until I discovered that the trick to enjoying New York is to throw the guide book away and just live your day like a true New Yorker.

By this I don't mean arriving at work before 6am and leaving after 11pm or permanently having your Blackberry fixed to either your ear or you're fingertips, but instead just loose yourself in the magic of the city. Sure, Stacey (my best friend and wing-woman) and I did the tourist essentials like The Statue of Liberty, Empire State Building and a horse and carriage ride through Central Park, but our best moments and fondest memories came from simply wandering the streets on foot.

We were there in November to see the last of the Autumn leaves fall and then in January to witness the city blanketed in white snow, but despite the cold weather we preferred to experience the city the old fashioned way and by doing so, discovered some of it's best kept secrets. We ate in little whole-in-the-wall cafes and listened to bands trying to get their big break in underground bars and clubs. We relished in the joy of walking past a place that made us stop, look at each other and say "that was in..." and finishing the sentence with a favourite TV show or movie. The real heart of New York though is Central Park. It wasn't until I wandered the paths which wind their way through the fields and around the lakes that I realised what a unique and necessary treasure it truly is.

If I were to describe New York in one word, it would be ALIVE. Even in the dead of the night the streets are filled with people from all different walks of life, the bright lights illuminate even the darkest of alleys and there is a constant buzz of cabs, party-goers and energy circulating Manhattan Island.The city has a unique pulse like no other place I've been to and the statement "the city that never sleeps" couldn't be more true.

I was in New York for over 3 weeks and in that time despite our best efforts at cramming in as much as possible, I still left with a list full of un-ticked things to do and places to see. I don't think it's possible though to do New York in one go. The experience I was looking for at 22 is likely to be completely different to the one I'll seek on my next visit. Some choose to be the most productive tourist they can be, while others simply want to live and breath New York for all the night-life and entertainment the city has to offer.

Here are a few things I'll be doing on my next visit...

- Have a Frozen Hot Chocolate at Serendipity3

225 E 60th St (near 59th & Lexington)

- Walk across the Brooklyn Bridge

- Picnic in Central Park

- Get lost in The Metropolitan Museum of Art

- See a Grand Slam tennis game at Flushing Meadows

- Shop at DASH Boutique

Just Call Me Imelda...

“Give a girl the right shoes, and she can conquer the world.”

                                      - Bette Midler

Life Through The Eyes Of A Single Man

It was a rainy evening in London and I was with my girlfriend Gita dining at a newly opened bar close to our office. We were happily enjoying our meal when the waiter struck up a conversation with us in between filling our glasses with water and taking our dessert order.

He was charming, funny and exuded confidence, but not in an arrogant way that made us want to ask for the check and leave. Gita and I were both in relationships so we weren't after anything more than an interesting conversation and to our surprise we ended up being completely intrigued. After chatting for a while, he headed off to place our order in the kitchen and later returned with 2 business cards. While initially thinking this guy was pushing his luck by offering his number to both of us at the same time, we looked down to discover the cards simply provided the information to his blog- Life Through The Eyes Of A Single Man. He explained the concept of his blog- essentially considered himself somewhat of a male version of Carrie Bradshaw. He shared some of his stories about London's vicious dating scene with complete honesty and witty humour and simply left us on the edge our seats and wanting to hear more.

The next day I decided to search his blog, and immediately found myself struggling to tear my eyes away from the computer screen. I was meant to be doing work however, so I printed off his posts and figured they'd make some interesting reading for the long bus ride home. And an interesting read it was.

Here is the link and description to his blog. If you're looking for a humorous read about the brutal world of dating, then give this a go...

http://singlesrelations.blogspot.com/


"These blogs are the true experiences of my single life, dating, relationships and “love”. I have been single for a few years now and have come across some interesting people and situations. Instead of looking back on my failings I have decided to put a funny spin on them and write about them for your entertainment. The dating game is a vicious cycle with lots of issues and obstacles. These stories I believe will relate to your own experiences, well hopefully they will."

A Place To Read...

Since seeing the film Somethings Gotta Give (with Jack Nicholson and Diane Keaton), I instantly fell in love with the idea of floor to ceiling shelving (as seen in the Hampton's home where the movie is shot).

To be honest, I don't know which I prefer more- collecting books for their aesthetic purpose in a room or reading the words which fill their pages? While living in London I spent countless weekends trawling old book stores in Notting Hill and at vintage markets admiring the beautiful antique covers. London is the perfect city to find little gems off the beaten track, but being a traveller and eventually having to ship my loot back to Australia some day, I resisted the urge to buy and simply admired.

One day when I find a place to call my own, I'd love to set some space aside for a chic, modern take on a library/cigar room. A beautiful big window, a couple of armchairs, a coffee table, statement lamp and a throw rug is all I need to create the perfect chill-out room to read, write or just escape.

Here are a couple of rooms I found with floor to ceiling bookshelves that I absolutely adore...

This Weeks Must Have...

ANYTHING CHANEL

I've been meaning to watch the film Coco Before Chanel for months, and last weekend I finally curled-up in bed and pressed play.

If I were a celebrity and could choose a couture label to endorse, Chanel would without a doubt be my number 1 pick. Sure there are other designers I love (Roberto Cavalli, Armani and Christian Dior) but Chanel has a few signature pieces that I absolutely adore.



My favourite scent of all time is Chanel Chance. I can't get enough of it and wear it all year round. Every time I travel I'm on the look out for duty-free perfumes and no matter how much I try, I always find myself gravitating back to the black and white label.




Then there is the classic Chanel purse. One day I will head back to Paris and pick myself up a real black and silver quilted bag. It doesn't matter if I find myself surrounded by other women wearing their imitations, I'll know mine is real and I'll love it! I find there is something so sophisticated with this particular bag that it truly is a piece which will never date, is appropriate for every age and can be worn with almost every outfit.



And finally, I'm not sure how much these original Chanel t-shirt cost, but I'm pretty sure it's more than my casual work budget allows. Regardless, a simple black and white stripped top, a few sequins and a bit of time over the weekend...I think I might have a new outfit for work on Monday :)

I'm a Chanel girl at heart, and I have a sneaking suspicion I always will be.

A Different Kind Of LOVE...

The past 2 years for me have been a little crazy. I spent a year traveling the world with my best friend, the past 8 months living in London alone and consequently learning more about myself and life than I ever thought possible, and now, since September I've been back home in Australia.

The thing is, I fell in love in Ol' London Town and the boy is making me a little crazy. We've been in a long distance relationship for far too many months already and finally, in December we'll be together again. It is honestly the single most frequent thought running through my mind each day.

Although today is glorious and sunny in Australia, I would give just about anything to be lying on the couch snuggling up to my man in front of an open fire on a cold, rainy Vancouver day.

I never thought it was possible to miss someone so much. I had been away from home living in foreign countries for 18 months and never felt as strong a desire to be with my loved ones as I did with my boyfriend. Sure there were times I wished mum was there to give me a cuddle when I was sick, or to turn to my sisters and ask "does this outfit look ok?" but not having them with me never physically hurt.

"Why" I asked myself? Why doesn't it feel the same? Why doesn't the love I have for my family compare to the love of a partner? It should, in all honesty be more intense. Does feeling this way make me a bad daughter, sister or cousin? Or is it the simple fact that there are many different types of love? The love of your family, your friends, your partner and your child (I assume) are all expressed on different levels so I suppose it's natural to have varied responses to being apart from them. All I know for sure is that I'm counting down the days until my man and I are together again.

This weeks must have...

A BLACK LEATHER JACKET

It is possibly my favourite item in my wardrobe. It's versatile, never dates and can be worn with a dress in summer or jeans and boots in winter. My leather jacket was a life-saver during my travels, as it was 'one jacket for all occasions' and being leather, it never crinkled or needed ironing whenever it came out of my suitcase.

This takes the cake...

My sister's 21st birthday is coming up in December, and she's not really one to have a traditional cake with all the trimmings. She's contemplated an ice cream cake (yes, like the one's they give you when you have a party at Hungry Jacks) or the casual but very over-done cupcake tower. So, when browsing through a magazine this morning I came across this...


I think it fits my sisters criteria perfectly, and will be something new and fresh. Oreos look great, but you could really substitute it with anything...TimTams, Wagon Wheels, chocolate chip cookies...oh the possibilities :)

This Weeks Must Have...

Napoleon Perdis Lipstick in 'Washington'

This is the ultimate lipstick if you're after a nude lip with a hint of gloss. I have naturally red lips and often struggle to wear a light or nude colour without a concealer undercoat. This product however is perfect and not only lasts for hours but also moisturises your lips. It's a shade that will carry you all year around and completely affordable at only $22. I think I'll need a backup just in case they decide to discontinue one day!

"A girl should be two things: classy and fabulous."

- Coco Chanel

My Happy 10

Here are the 10 things that make me the happiest...

1. FAMILY
Without the love of my family, my life would be a constant shade of gray. I feel so lucky knowing that no matter what, they will be there for me through thick and thin.




2. INTERIOR DESIGN
I'm a firm believer that by surrounding yourself with beautiful things, the ordinary and sometimes boring daily tasks we perform can become that little bit more enjoyable. Our homes are a reflection of our personalities, just like our wardrobe. It is the one space that we can control and nurture so why not spend a little extra time and money making it the perfect place for you.



3. SEASONS
I love the Spring- it is probably my favourite of the four seasons largely due to the beautiful display of flowers which bloom at that time of year. However, since experiencing snow for the first time last year, I have fallen in love with the colder months too. Plus, winter fashion is my favourite. Give me a pair of jeans, black boots, blazer jacket and chic scarf any day!



4. MOVIES
Movies are one of my most enjoyable vices. I don't even want to think about how much I've spent on cinema tickets or rentals over the years, but films are my ultimate escape. For me, it's all about the mood I'm in and finding that perfect flick to compliment or contrast the way I'm feeling. They can transform your emotions or transport you to another place, and for those couple of hours, you find yourself living that story. A rainy day, a room full candles, a blanket, block of chocolate, (and preferably a man to snuggle up to- am I asking too much there?) and my Saturday night in is set!



5. CHOCOLATE
Vice number 1!!!
I don't care if it's on a biscuit, in a drink, as a decoration or just a simple square of Cadbury...chocolate is my daily treat.



6. TRAVELING
I was fortunate enough to pack my suitcase, grab my best friend and spend 2009 traveling Europe and the United States. It was without a doubt the best experience I have ever had and it has no doubt changed the way I view the world and my place in it. I'm a different person from the experiences I had and would like to think a little wiser and more in tune with myself. What I ended up realising at the end of my journey however, is that my trip wasn't defined by the places I saw or the things I did, but more so the people I met along the way. The strangers who I can now call my friends.


7. FLOWERS
Flowers to me are one of life and natures simple pleasures. I love waking up to a beautiful vase of peonies roses on my bedside table.



8. SCENTED CANDLES
While vanilla, musk or anything that's meant to smell like dessert makes me want to gag, a softly scented candle not only eliminates lingering smell from the curry you cooked for dinner, but it's also the fastest way to bring a little romance and mood lighting to your home. My favourites are gardenias, roses, fig or sandalwood.


9. PHOTOGRAPHY
I have always loved photography, but my interest was heightened when I began traveling. I went to so many beautiful places, that my old digital camera wasn't doing justice to the incredible landscapes and scenery before me. So, when I went to New York and realised the city was too amazing to waste on poor exposure, I indulged in a very big, very touristy-looking professional camera and I absolutely love it. The quality is exceptional and there are so many photographic options I'm still discovering them.



10. MY BOYFRIEND
It was completely unexpected and perhaps a little random, but it didn't take me long to realise I had met a very special guy who ticked all the boxes that actually mattered. He makes me happier than anyone else and for the first time in my life...I'm in love.

Can Men & Women Just Be Friends?

It's an age-old question..."can men and women just be friends, or does sex always get in the way?"

I've heard people sharply reply "NO, not unless one of them is gay!" and then others who agree with me and say "absolutely!"

Some of my most valued friendships have been with males, and I find my time with them a refreshing contrast to the often drama-filled, highmaintenance and emotional interactions with my lovely lady friends. My very straight, very egotistical best guy friend is someone who's company I never seem to tire of and who's brutal opinions I can always count on to hit me with a dose of reality. For better or worse, females have a need to comfort other when they're down, whereas men seem to take a much more practical approach- a balance which has helped me see things in my life much more clearly.

While rummaging through my Nonna's TV cupboard one day, I came across an old VHS copy of the movie 'The Mirror Has Two Faces'. Impressed that it wasn't a black and white film, or similarly one which had been digitally retouched, I curiously pressed play.

I was at this point a hard-working, focussed, 20-year-old girl who had never been in a relationship and simply longed to travel the world. I sat there intrigued by the character Rose, played by Barbara Streisand, and constantly drew paralelles between her and myself.

She was the conversationalist, the intelectual who had an opinion on anything and everything. A woman you would love to catch up with for a coffee or casual dinner, even go for a long walk on a summers day. She was not however the woman you wanted to take straight to bed.

Maybe this is where my opinion on the matter stems from? All through high school, in fact most of my adult life, I've been the friend, never the girlfriend. That one person who others could always turn to for advice, comfort and honest truths. I can't say I minded fulfilling that role I think every group of friends has at least one of them, but there did come a time when I longed for someone to fall in love with what was on the outside as much as the inside. To go from 'the fat girl with the pretty face', to simply be thought of (by someone other than my parents) as beautiful.

Jump 3 years ahead and I've not only traveled the world but found someone who truly thinks I'm beautiful- my imperfections are perfect to him.

My male friend and I are both in long-distant relationships and are very much in love with our partners, but while the whole situation may strike alarm bells for some, for us it's been just another topic of conversation. There has been no crying on each others shoulder or throwing ourselves into one anothers arms, instead just two people learning a lot about themselves and life through each others company.

At the end of the day, I think the answer depends on the people involved. No one rule can apply to all mixed-gender friendships and if you ask 10 different people for their opinion, you'll most likely get 10 different answers. All I know for sure is that having a male friend works for me.