All I want for Christmas Is...
When the party season arrives it's of utmost importance to frock up in a killer party dress. With so many to choose from there really is no excuse to pull out last year's wares. It's not always important to spend a lot of money. Often some of the best dresses haven't broken the bank but considering it's nearly Christmas I feel I must share with you some of my favouries. Even though they're at the pricier end they're still super pretty to look at. All I want for Christmas is... A Zac Posen party dress!


L-R - Cove satin dress £1,227 & silk Love dress £1,254 both by Zac Posen.


L-R - Thomas Wylde Casablanca skeleton print dress £930 & Missoni Papavero mini dress £704.


L-R - Navy silk organza dress by Thread Social £281 & Zac Posen silk satin mini dress £1,710.


L-R - Antik Batik sequined mini dress £298 Marc by Marc Jacobs Fiona faille dress £217.


L-R - Milly strapless brooch dress £294 & Trickle halter dress £1,265 by Zac Posen.


L-R - Silk mini dress £737 & classic corset dress £682 both by Luella.


L-R - Flower corsage dress by Thread Social £311 & Alice & Olivia ruffle trim mini dress £277.
All dresses available from www.net-a-porter.com

Posted by Emilie Harrison

The Beautiful Boyd Baker House
Undeniably Australian and a national architectural treasure, the Boyd Baker House makes the perfect environment for a unique ‘Australian Bush Wedding’. Situated only 45 minutes from the heart of Melbourne and serviced by the delicious Ed Dixon Food Design, the Boyd Baker House makes an authentic and upmarket setting for couples who want something truly different for their big day. Featured in the Wallpaper Guide to Melbourne the Boyd Baker House is recognized for its sensational interiors as well as architecture. Completed in 1963 and finished in local quarried stone, the house is an organic property, unlike any other in Australia.
Several entertaining options and function spaces exist on the 34 acre property, including the Roy Grounds library, the Dower House and of course the Boyd Baker House which is complete with centre courtyard. The Boyd Baker House is also able to accommodate the wedding party and wedding breakfast the next day making it a fabulous place to celebrate you marriage. Visit www.boydbakerhouse.com.au for all the info.







Posted by Emilie Harrison

Delicious in Pink
If you're anything like me and love chocolate you'll be delighted to know that internationally acclaimed cocolatier Jessica Walker has just released the Jessica Walker Chocolates Luxury Collection. Not only are the chocolates delicious (I was lucky enough to get sent some) but they are packaged to perfection. I think they would make lovely favours or pressies for your friends and bridesmaids. Jessica Walker chocolates are available exclusively in Australian Priceline stores.





Posted by Emilie Harrison

Quick Switch
I have to admit, sometimes my handbag feels like the tardis, especially when I'm desperately searching for my ringing mobile that has somehow disappeared into a parallel universe in there. This nifty little gadget may just be the solution... it's the Borne Naked Liner. Pop all your bits and pieces into the sectioned compartments and never again will anything be lost. The best part... you can quickly change handbags without having to think about what you may or may not need for the day. Without doubt, this must have been designed by a woman! Perfect for wedding day and honeymoon organisation, especially if switching from handbag to beachbag at a moment's notice.


Before...


After... blissful organisation. Small liner $24.95 and large $29.95 + postage.

Posted by Jane Cameron

Bling-A-Ling-Ling
As the saying goes diamond's are definitely one of girls best friends. There is nothing quite like the sparkle of a diamond to put a twinkle in any young ladies eye. For over 100 years Harry Winston has been the king of diamonds, sourcing the rarest, most beautiful diamonds from around the world. His website happens to be on the list of my most drool-worthy, and now, for those of you lucky enough to reside in the continental United States you can shop online. I know the pieces may be a little far fetched for many of us but as Carl Sandburg said, "Nothing happens unless first we dream". Visit www.harrywinston.com to view the online shop.


The Sunflower ring USD$17,000


Button cufflinks USD$9,000


Diamant De Neige Drop earrings USD$70,000

Posted by Emilie Harrison

Apple of my eye
Whilst on the look out for a new cosmetic bag for my upcoming trip to London in December I found these gorgeous Apple & Bee bags. Their website is just beautiful and you can buy some of their range from Ciao Bella Travel. I picked up the fold out bath bag in blue!


fold out bath bag


bowling bag


small make-up bag

Posted by Emma Henderson

Heart A-Flutter
I found this stationery site based in the US - Linda & Harriet... gorgeous, gorgeous stationery... but what really got my heart pounding was their customised notecards with vintage wallpaper envelope liners. How fantastic are these - and what a stylish way to embark upon married life together!







Posted by Jane Cameron

Afternoon Tea Heaven
Afternoon Tea is a part of the day loved by many. It's a chance to relax with friends, have a chat and enjoy scones, pastries, tea and even a glass of champagne. A glorious Afternoon Tea is also a great way to spend a hen's day. If hitting the town isn't quite your thing then I suggest you consider treating your nearest and dearest ladies to an afternoon of indulgence. There are many places incl. top hotels that do wonderful Afternoon Tea's and can cater to as many or as few as you'd like. A perfect ladies day out I'd say!


Afternoon Tea at Claridges Hotel, Mayfair London, is a grand affair with a deluxe selection of teas, pastires and cakes. In 2006 Claridge's won Tea Guild Best Afternoon Tea and in 07 & 08 won the Tea Guild Award of Excellence. Prices for Afternoon Tea start from £31.50 per person. It's definitely worth a visit when in London. Visit www.clardiges.co.uk for all the details.


The Tea Room Queen Victoria Building in Sydney is a luxe venue that has the most divine setting for Afternoon Tea. Atop the shopping mecca QVB it's the perfect end to a fun day shopping. Silver service is certain. Offering traditional, gluten free, sparkling and champagne afternoon tea's with prices from $32 per person. Visit www.thetearoom.com.au to view the menu.


There is no denying that the Palazzo Versace, on Queenslands Gold Coast, is one of the most luxurious hotels in Australia. Relax in the luxury of Le Jardin, Palazzo Versace’s lobby lounge, or Il Barocco Restaurant and indulge in a traditional Afternoon Tea consisting of gourmet finger sandwiches, steaming hot scones with jam and cream and small cakes, together with your choice of coffee or tea. For the ultimate indulgence, add a glass of Louis Roederer Brut Premier champagne! Prices start at $28 per person. Visit www.palazzoversace.com for more details.


The Apothecary 1878 in Adelaide is an elegant location for Afternoon Tea. Situated in the City their Tea menu is available each Saturday at 4pm and from Tuesday to Friday with prior arrangement. Reservations are essential with prices at $22 per person. Visit www.theapothecary1878.com.au to make a booking.


The Langham Hotel in Melbourne is well known for its decadent Afternoon Teas served in the ARIA lounge. During the week delight in nostalgic Tiffin, served on a traditional three-tierd silver stand and on the weekends, discover the The Langham Chocolate Bar. With an array of indulgent chocolate treats it's a delicious treat for any chocolate lover. Tiffin is $29 per person and The Chocolate Bar is $55 per person. Visit www.langhamhotelmelbourne.com.au for all the info.


Joseph Alexanders in Milton, Queensland, has a strong reputation for delicous and relaxed Afternoon Tea's. With a large tea selection and a variety of different Afternoon Tea's available there will be something suitable for everyone. Prices range from $34 per person for the standard tea to $46 per person for the champagne tea. Visit www.josephalexanders.com.au for opening times and menus.

Posted by Emilie Harrison

Moroccan Magic
I found this striking fabric at Mokum recently - it's designed by Cathy Brown and Tandarra Rothman. It reminded me of the patterns I designed for our Modern Spice story in Issue 3. All of the papers we used in this story are free to download from our website - endless possibilities for an ethnically-inspired event.



The fabric I saw at Mokum above...





A couple of the patterns I designed last year above.

Posted by Jane Cameron.

Empirical Values
To complement the ridiculously gorgeous homewares and decorating service offered by Empire Vintage, they have launched a small range of divine lingerie. Inspired by styles from the 30s to the 50s, and individually sewn by Susie Reid, these select pieces are truly sublime.


Satin Shirred Bra set with detachable bow available in Glamourous Baby Blue and Powder Pink, Bra $125, Underwear $55.

Posted by Jane Cameron

Kerry Rocks... Literally
In my quest for new and exciting bits and pieces I stumbled accros Kerry Rocks Jewellery, and what a pleasant surprise it was!
Australian born jewellery designer Kerry Beard has been designing gorgeous pieces for 6 years and after spending most of her life between Asia and Greece, Kerry naturally became inspired by the cultures of these amazing places. Her fascination for precious stones and jewellery brought her back to Australia to study gemology, and later her travels took her to India where she lived for three years learning all aspects of gem manufacturing and jewellery making.
Today Kerry's work takes her all over the world, from sourcing aquamarine and tourmaline in Africa, to amber and opals in Mexico. The stones are then hand cut and carved into beautiful gemstones and set into unique jewellery pieces. It's obvious that her divine collection has been inspired by far away travels and includes a beautiful array of Rubies, Emeralds, Tourmalines, Australian Chrysoprase, Opals, Pearls and Jade. There is a bridal collection available and Kerry Rocks is currently stocked in selected boutiques across Australia. To view the collection visit www.kerryrocks.com.au.


Lillian earring in green Onyx, Amethyst 'Brasil', Crystal quartz & Smokey quartz


L-R - Luna flower necklace & Emily on 4mm freshwater pearls (length 16")


L-R - Ginger claw in lemon quartz & Chrysoprase. Also available in Smokey & Crystal quartz

Posted by Emilie Harrison

Must Have Minna
Yesterday we received a lovely email from Minna Keum from Minna Designs, introducing her new business. After planning her own wedding she has 'decided to follow her passion for weddings' and has launched this lovely stationery site. The designs are delightful AND Minna has offered all Style Guide blog readers a fantastic 20% discount for the month of December. So, decide which of the many designs is your favourite and save some money in the process. Best of luck Minna.







Posted by Jane Cameron

Elise Gow Joins the Blog World!
Award winning Australian photographer Elise Gow has just launched her new blog. With gorgeous photos from her clients weddings it will give great inspiration for your big day. Each week she'll share with you their very latest shoots of gorgeous brides and cute kids as well as hints and tips for those of you planning your wedding, along with all the very latest news from the Elise Gow studio. To view the blog visit www.elisegowphotography.com/blog.







Posted by Emilie Harrison

Once Upon A Time...
It's no secret that I'm a huge fan of Australian label Rose & Ruby. Designed by Karah Tarran-Wilson and Rebecca Reeves-Saunders, the new AW 09 collection 'Once Upon A Time' takes inspiration from theater, music, travel and laughter. Drawing on a new pallet of teal, musk and cameo, they bring a fresh vibrancy to R&R's trademark colours of brown sugar, antique and noir. The label's signature French laces are woven together with the finest French tulles and pure silks, which make them a truly beautiful choice for feminine, pretty and well tailored bridesmaid and evening dresses. This season Rose & Ruby have injected a new direction of chic tailored suiting and shopisticated separates, which are super glam for the cooler months. On my wish list for AW is the 'Dusk Till Dawn' Italian stretch wool jacket. It would look gorgeous over a glam party dress and just as cool with skiny jeans and a pair of flats. To check out the gorgeous collection and find a stockist near you visit www.roseandruby.com.


The 'Dusk till Dawn' jacket that will be on my must-have's list for AW 09 with Moonlighting cami and Drama Queen stove pipe pants


L-R - My Darling Girl dress & The Pleasure's All Mine dress


L-R - Madly Deeply dress & Falling For You dress


L-R - High Society coat & Love and Lace Dress


L-R - When In Rome dress & Bonjour Beautiful dress

Posted by Emilie Harrison

Simply Stripes
After a much-anticipated visit to a fabric supplier to search out new designs for an upcoming shoot, I stumbled across the Otilly and Lewis sample book. I had forgotten what a wonderful range they have - striped cottons in the most delectable shades. It's all about colour this summer, so these fabrics are just the ticket.



How wonderful these would look–one fabric as a table runner, the other made into cushions, mixed and matched in all of the different designs–it certainly would be colourful!

Posted by Jane Cameron

Vintage Heaven
After looking at the gorgeous new cards on the Cafe Cartolina blogspot, I got wondering, where does one go to find vintage wallpaper inspiration? Second Hand Rose of course! It is a paradise of pattern - surely something to elicit ideas a-plenty.


One of the beautiful cards in question from Cafe Cartolina

Here are some of my favourite wallpapers...







Definitely worth a look if you need a little inspiration to get your styling ideas underway. Why not mix and match a bevy of them for a truly eclectic affair!

Posted by Jane Cameron