This Friday, the 20th March is a special occasion. Not only is it the Spring equinox in the Northern hemisphere and the Autumn equinox in the Southern hemisphere but there is also a total solar eclipse happening and a supermoon will be gloriously huge in the sky. These things, you see, I take very seriously.

When I was a child growing up in Croatia, my relatives from the countryside used to tell me magical folk stories in which the heavens and Earth were always connected; planets and stars weren't masses of matter but characters personified here on earth. Whenever something was going on in space, it had direct correlations to our mortal world and we had to prepare for our life changing in some way. In this sense, faeries were completely real beings that occupied a world overlapping ours, only a thin veil away. These faeries were not some cute little creatures like Peter Pan's Tinkerbell, but female beings ,long haired, beautiful, sometimes endowed with goat legs underneath long dresses.  They harbored emotions and intentions, sometimes evil and capricious, sometimes pityingly sensitive to mankind's plights . Occasionally they fell in love with men, abducting them and the males would cross into their world never to be seen again. Congregating around water, rocks or anything misty; they danced next to flowing forest springs and roamed foggy sunset fields. I was terrified and mystified yet dreamt and wanted to be them; ethereal and eternal, perfect but ultimately flawed in their formless shape, never quite of the material world.

For my Thomas Sabo edit I wanted to emulate these otherworldly beings while showcasing some of the most gorgeous clothes available right now. Thomas Sabo is a company I have had my eye on for the last few seasons for their meticulous attention to detail, high quality and collections that vary from classically elegant to extravagant and punk rock. Their beautifully crafted , innovative silver jewellery garnered them fame in the 1990s, however the original collection has expanded into a myriad of styles ; from charms and pendants to crystal jewellery, there is something in the range for everyone. For my edit, I picked my favorite pieces ; silver seashells and white pearls, gorgeous gold plated medallions, cute flamingos and chakra inspired mandalas. I hope the faeries approve ...

MELTS1This Alex Perry gown is modern romance personified while beautifully crafted silver jewellery and pearls add a little moonlight to the ancient rocks

MELTS2Ellery does contemporary with a vintage twist - this gorgeous tweed fabric and flared details are completely on point. Match up tones with Lucy Folk's delicate bead clutch and Thomas Saboo's Maharani set with radiant milky quarts and milky aqua. Faerie of the seafoam would approve

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The forest faerie should be so lucky to posses a special amulet such as this radiant sphere for her crown and a beautifully crafted Toni Maticevski knot top to dance around the weeping willows in

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Don't let the adorable flamingo and intricate charms fool you, this faerie is being naughty in her Agent Provocateur corset.

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Align your chakras by wearing beautiful pendants the other way around with a backless gown - all that skin needs ornate adornments to shine (Kaliver gown)

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Toughen up pretty lace with some rock n' roll jewels - this Bianca Spender floor length dress is asking for moonlight nights and bad boys

 

 

photographed by Ana Suntay- Toledo

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Ahhhh, springtime in Paris...Tiny little green buds on the trees, bright jonquils and saffron dotting the meadows, blue skies, fresh strawberries with creme fraiche, bustling mornings with happy enfants walking to school in packs past a fast moving river Seine, jewel like Ile Saint-Louis and Ile de la Cite winking out of the water, Eiffel tower doing it's romantic Christmas tree nighttime routine and warm croissants straight out of the oven (damn freaking delicious croissants totally ruining my record 3 month gluten free run! ). I hate to be so lyrical, so positively full of sparkling, wholesome adjectives but unfortunately it is all true - it is so disgustingly beautiful and horribly nice this Paris in springtime business that every time I wish I was staying, perhaps in a little attic apartment somewhere up high, on the end of a 5th floor walk up, where I could eat all the croissants and drink all the wine I want because, let's face it , when you live up a 5th floor walk up, you are the epitome of that book "French Women Don't Get Fat".

Look, I could talk about food all day, but in Paris, fashion is equally as important, in fact, this is the epicenter, the Vatican of fashion. Other cities might try to deny this but they are the spurned ugly stepsisters just being jealous. So for my newest Coach edit, I wanted to take on the patchwork trend that is currently sweeping the world. A bit 70s and all art class, patchwork is not so much a trend as a way of incorporating different ideas, textures and colors into a unified new entity. For late Spring 2015's collection Stuart Vevers has remixed the classic turn-of-the-century bandana prints and combined them with denim and florals, for an uncontrived femininity inspired by the wilderness of the American Prairie Badlands. Prints such as Badlands Flora, Bramble Rose and Bandit patterns, either printed or appliquéd on bags and accessories or introduced on rugged blue “demin washed” burnished leathers create a modern iteration of one of America’s most loved style propositions. I mixed this gorgeous bag with some great new season patchwork pieces and took it all out on a spin in the iconic Luxembourg gardens ...

melcoach2(Above and here: Coach Americana bag, Karen Walker top, Topshop skirt, Proenza Schouler booties, Olivier Peoples X Isabel Marant sunglasses)
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( Coach Americana bag, Lover trench coat, Tigerlilly top,Citizens of Humanity jeans, vintage Marc Jacobs sandals )

melcoach4 ( Coach bag and sweater, jeans and shoes as before)

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Our designers on their inspirations and favourite Paris haunts

During Fashion Week, Paris is a whirlwind of activity – not only is it an arguable epicentre of the world’s most eagerly awaited fashion shows but numerous buyers flock to Paris for re-sees of collections that occurred elsewhere in the world. This year, I enlisted my dear friend Lindy Klim to help me find out what Australian designers love most about the city of love. We used the opportunity to visit their Parisian showrooms and choose our favourite pieces for a whirlwind shoot whilst picking their brains on their beautiful collections…

(above)Dion Lee

Tell me a little bit about the inspiration behind the collection, which fabrics did you use and why?

With this collection I wanted to explore evening wear silhouettes, that felt grounded and relatable.The silhouettes were created through slashing into the fabric at different points and alloying the fabric to collapse around the body.
We have worked with silk satin, triple viscose, leather and mohair; a mixture of contrasting, luxurious textures.

What do you love about Paris?

I love the sense of intimacy.You feel like you are in a small town, on a large scale.

Favourite spot in Paris?

Comptoir De L’Image on de Sevigne;An incredible archive of photography monoliths and rare design books.

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Christopher Esber

Tell me a little bit about the inspiration behind the collection, which fabrics did you use and why?

Desert landscapes were a major notion in this seasons collection influencing the white chalky hues and burnt yellows through to the Raffia textures and finer pleat details. I wanted to take a skewed approach on the Classics- the essentials that every woman needs in her wardrobe.

What do you love about Paris?

All the doors and architecture

Favourite spot in Paris?

Brezih Cafe would have to be my favourite café

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Tome

Tell me a little bit about the inspiration behind the collection, which fabrics di you use and why?

This season we chose two female artists: Belgian dancer Ann Terese Der Keersmaker and American Designer Donna Karan .They both rose to prominence in the early 80s and their aesthetic involved feminising and sensualising traditionally masculine elements . We took on their love of jersey and leotards -from Ann we took her geometry and from Donna the business banker cotton shirring stripes, bias cut satin dresses, and love for animal print. Then we took animal print in different directions by distorting it and elevating it in printed tissue silk lame, embroidered organza and wool blend jacquard

What do you love about Paris?

The food, the museums, the Bon marche!

Favourite spot in Paris?

It's not so secret but my favorite place is the Brancusi Atelier just outside the Centre Pompidou.

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Michael Lo Sordo

Tell me a little bit about the inspiration behind the collection, which fabrics did you use and why?

My inspiration for Spring Summer would have to be the creative gathering of models, photographers and fashion designers in early ‘70s Paris mixed with a hint of romance. One thing I’ve always loved on a woman is a sexy dress that makes her not only feel beautiful but also empowered. The collection has a hint of softness with movement of the sheer pleats – chiffons in black, white and red with an undertone of relaxed and effortless dressing.

What do you love about Paris?

There is a certain buzz that hits Paris during Fashion Week. You can feel the spark all around from the Eiffel Tower to the Sacré-Cœur. It’s hard not be inspired on a daily basis - whether I’m in the car or walking the streets – you never know what might see and grab your attention.

Favourite spot in Paris?

Every time I go to Paris the first thing I do is attempt to make a reservation at Breizh Cáfe in the Marais which is impossible at times because they are booked out until like 2018 and even though you must make a reservation over the phone they never pick up. But without a doubt the best crepes you will EVER have.

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Toni Maticevski

Tell me a little bit about the inspiration behind the collection,which fabrics did you use and why?

It started out purely about the fabrics. I noticed they all have a papery feel- everything was a bit tone on tone and shade against shade. So then I worked on silhouettes and shapes to exaggerate that flinging of supple crispness. I wanted it to feel clean but the detail in the garment to be really structured. So the whole thing felt a little constrained and relaxed at the same time.

What do you love about Paris?

Whats not to love! The pastry, the language, the people, the city. It really feels like my second home. Since living there over ten years ago just being able to go down any street and still discover something amazing is exciting.

Favourite spot in Paris?

Hmmmm. I love the little gardens across the city.. its so nice to be able to sit for five minutes outdoors surrounded by beautiful buildings, watching kids play and perfectly manicured flowers blooming.

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Kym Ellery

Tell me a little bit about the collection, which fabrics did you use and why?

Artist Egon Schiele’s expressionistic painting kicked off inspiration for the collection, and is the muse you can thank for the voluminous, twisted, sharp, soft and asymmetrical shapes which were strong throughout the showcase. Think flared pants which are more office-chic than 70s flower child and frilled criss-cross draping on layered shirting, both exuding a certain sophisticated and clean-cut femininity. Fabrics: When designing I tend to choose my fabrics first.
I feel like they really set the mood for the collection. I love to source unique textiles from Switzerland, France and Italy and there is never any substitute for quality.

What do you love about Paris?

I love the culture and history that comes with Paris. The city has such a rich history with so many stories, I really feel that when I walk the streets there.

Favourite spot in Paris?

I love sitting on the grass in the garden at Place des Vosges. Watching the children play in the fountain's water is one of my favourite things to do on the weekend.The fountains are the closest things to being at the beach for Parisians so and as an Australian it is so fascinating to watch.

 

Ellery photographed by Jake Terrey
All others photographed by Claire Price

inflightMEL

Comfort can be an elusive thing on planes but none the less it is the one thing we all seek in the experience. Along with the extra legroom, the window seat ,the glass (or three ) of red wine and new release movies that I inevitably boil my eyes to (what is it about planes that makes me extra emotional?) , I also have numerous little things I need to feel at home. No matter which class I am travelling, I want to feel cosy, moisturised, and well rested. Throughout my long career as a wagabond, I have experimented with various in flight essentials and these babies are my current must haves…

CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT

1.Coach tote: This pretty rose strewn tote is strong enough to carry my computer and other heavy duty items and colour match my monochrome outfits

2. Slip silk eyemask : Why would anyone want to put harsh nylon on their precious eyes when this cloud like eyemask exists in the world? It feels as soft as angel wings and in fact I take it everywhere -it’s a great back up to have in case your hotel doesn’t have blackout blinds. I feel as conditioned as Pavlov’s dogs these days because as soon as I put it on I feel sleepy. Zzzzzzz

3. Love and Strife natural perfume by Aromatika – this tiny little roll on perfume smells of Morrocco and is small enough to have as back up on long, stinky overnight flights

4. Kora Energising Citrus Mist: My pet hate is feeling parched on the plane. Spraying this on my face makes me feel like I am walking through an orange grove in light spring rain

5. Grown Alchemist Persian Rose and Argan Extract : I have this weird compulsion where I cannot have dry hands or lips while travelling by any means – it makes me irritable. Car, plain or train, I need my hands and lips to be soft. This rich hand cream is a must have.

6. Which brings us to Beauty Chef’s Beauty Fix balm : Sure, Carla Oates is sort of my sister in law, but this is not why I swear by this lip balm. Made from pure coconut and other organic ingredients it smells like a tropical holiday that is good enough to eat and great for your lips too.

7. Banjo & Mathilda cashmere pants : Talk about feeling cosy! These babies wrap you up in a 100% pure cashmere cacoon + are a sport luxe version of trakkie pants. Win win

8. Clinique’s cheek colour balm: A little rosy touch up on the other end goes a long way

9. Better You DLux vitamin D: vitamin D is so important in maintaining immunity -since flights out of Australia can be up to 30 hrs long, I take this little spray bottle with me to top up my vitamin D on the go ( Fpr immunity I also take 3000mg of vit C, 2000mg of Magnesium, some Armaforce and Whitania –both super adaptogens and immune boosters because there is no point getting there just to get sick )

10. SKII Facial Treatment Mask : If you don’t mind looking like a burns patient and don’t care about scaring small children, this SKII mask contains powerful pietera extracts to leave your skin in better condition than when you started the trip. Put on when the lights go down for sleep time and take off when you awake. Alternatively,put it on once you are at your hotel and all showered up & ready for a nap. Moisture surge guaranteed.

11. Anya Hindmarch travel pouch: Say goodbye to struggling with collecting all your toiletries and stuffing them in those annoying little plastic bags when going through luggage screening. This bag will hold all your essentials and you won’t need to take anything out – the clear windows are 100% customs friendly.

12. Ysl Babydoll mascara: Want to have wide awake eyes on the other end? Fluff them up with this golden wand.

13. Wot Not facial wipes : These are the most moisturising wipes I have ever tried and they contain all natural, organic ingredients such as aloe vera, rosehip and sweet almond oil. Deliciously good for your skin and handy for taking off make up or refreshing your face

14. Stila perfecting concealer: This concealer packs a punch and is your secret ally after tiring overnight trips. A little goes a long way so use sparingly.

15. Trilogy Rose Hip Oil: Another in the Ultimate Moisture Team. Good for everyday and the plane, this is my secret weapon for combating anti aging, dryness and imperfections.

16. Therapy Range Sleep pulse point : 100% natural aromatherapy oils of lavender and chamomile will make you irrisistible to Sand Man and beautifully relaxed. Say aaaaah!

17. Aesop Facial Hydrating cream is ultra rich and smells oh so delicious. Layer on post SKII mask and Rose Hip oil for ultimate in flight softness

Voguebeauty7

Make up is a special weapon us women have in our arsenal to keep ourselves looking fresh ( men were blessed with facial hair to cover their imperfections)  but this coup can quickly become a curse when it becomes a tedious, time sucking routine . It took me a long time over my long modelling career to work out what make up works, what doesn’t and in which order, but now, I have this daily ritual down to 10 minutes flat - which is always a blessing when all you want to do is savour your morning coffee a little longer before rushing to work.

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Step 1: Apply Hourglass Veil primer over moisturiser -this luxe,mattyfying primer will help foundation glide on easier and keep it on for longer -use it sparingly for best results. Lightly dot multi performing Giorgio Armani Luminous Silk foundation on the face, then rub in with your fingertips. The warmth of fingers will help blend the foundation seamlessly into the skin.

Step2 : Fill in eyebrows with Anastasia’s Perfect Brow pencil then brush out with the brush attachment for a natural look. Doing this first frames the face and lets you easily identify the high and low points you would like to highlight in the next step. I have fair eyebrows, so filling in all those light hairs really helps me find my features!

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Step3 : It’s all about reverse contouring! I find this is the most natural way to highlight/lowlight a face. Simply apply YSL Touche Eclait to the bridge of your nose, chin, under the eyes , under the arches of the eyebrows and just above the cupid’s bow to gently highlight these areas, erase dark circles, smooth lines and make the lips appear more plump. Finish off with a super light dusting of gorgeous, light Ilia translucent powder.

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Step 4. Curl eyelashes and apply lenghtening mascara such as Giorgio Armani ‘s Eyes To Kill. Take an eyeshadow shortcut by using Clinique’s eyeshadow chubbies in Lots o' latte to the eye sockets, then add a little of the lighter shaded Ample Amber just above it. Blend until edges are softened.

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Step5. With a soft wide brush such as all vegan Eco tools , swipe a light dusting of Natio bronzer in Sunswept just under the cheekbones, temples , hairline and jawline for added lowlights. Follow up with a little bit of Nars blush in Deep Throat on the tops of cheekbones for a healthy, rosy glow.

Step6. Apply a lipstick like Tom Ford’s lipstick in Blush Nude or a grown up lipgloss such as Dior’s lip plumping Lip Glow Colour Reviver Balm and voilá!

Tools of the trade: (clockwise from left) Nars bronzer in Sunswept, Ilia translucent powder, Giorgio Armani Eyes To Kill Mascara, YSL Touche Eclait, Anastasia Perfect Brow eyebrow pencil, Eco Tools brush, Clinique eyeshadow chubbies in Lots o’latte and Whopping Willow, Tom Ford lipstick in Blush Nude, Dior’s Glow Colour Reviver Balm, Nars’ cheek colour in Deep Throat, Hourglass Veil mineral primer and Georgio Armani Luminous Silk Foundation

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Wearing: Uniqlo x Ines de la Fressange shirt , Tiffany & Co necklace and Cartier bracelet

 

Photographed by Kasia Werstak

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