Sandra Nizette - San Nizet

A Behind the Scenes Look at Creating a Vintage Inspired Fashion Collection 2012

Thu, 17 May 2012 12:14:00 GMT

... Musings of the designer Sandra Nizette bringing her collection Edge of Nostalgia from the drawing board to the Photoshoot.

Already I know some readers are confused with the concept of what vintage is all about and how the term fits to ones own style of dressing. We are all aware that there is a difference between looking totally glamorous with designer vintage and vintage inspired fashion or totally old fashioned with some of the outfits we might find in the op shops.

I did a definition of what all of the terms retro, vintage and antique mean on my Biz facebook on the 20th of March ... see San Nizet fashion interior & homewares ... but for our purpose here, vintage literally means clothing from the 1920's through to the 1960's.

The transformation into the culture of recognising vintage as 'fashion' came to the fore towards the end part of the 1990's which is when the trend of following the celebrity culture came into the mainstream and Kate Moss in particular took the lead spreading the word.

Many of the renowned designers of Europe are now looking into their own archives and reinventing previous looks using a modern flair, when creating their latest collections.

Q&A with Sandra Nizette the designer behind the latest capsule Winter & Trans-seasonal 'Edge of Nostalgia'

Q: Why did you decide on a vintage inspired look for your latest collection?

A: My girlfriend Wendy, brought back from the Paris markets, a vintage fashion magazine which I was excited about & loved, especially browsing through the pictures (the writing is in french) so this seemed to be the catalyst. As well, I have always followed what's going on in the New York & European collections & Fashion Weeks, so I knew I wasn't far wrong adopting this trend, but with my own San Nizet signature stamp.

Q: Did you have a mood board like a lot of designers do?

A: Yes, instead of putting pictures up of travels & people & quotes as many do, I put up samples of lace, faux fur, fabrics feathers and sketches of design features for sleeves, pockets, and architectural lines & angles that inspired me.

Q: How long has it taken you from say the sketch to the finished garment?

A: At least six months, but before that time a lot of thought went into my justification for doing smaller capsule collections this year with designing for my particular client always the foremost in my mind, following my mantra for my last collection ... "Step into fashion and direct your own movie". This really means I want my client to feel beautiful & confident when she is stepping out into the world, wearing my collection.

Q: What does this collection "Edge of Nostalgia" comprise of?

A: The collection revolves around lace swing jackets, trench coats, vests, boleros, stoles, wraps and theatre scarves ... separate pieces that glam up your wardrobe with a sophisticated, elegant but edgy feel and totally practical as well. Also have some very different clutch & shoulder bags and other accessories like brooches made with 1930 buttons to make your look totally eye-catching & very different from the mainstream.

Q: What is your 'point of difference' with your latest designs?

A: They are Australian designed and made which seems to be unusual these days. The line of the jackets and pockets have interesting angles and have a blend of very different textures which gives a different dimension to the look. Have also used the best quality fabric so is beautiful to wear as well as having longevity. The key is practicality with a very modern, edgy yet feminine limited edition design.

Q: When will "Edge of Nostalgia" be released in your San Nizet studio for purchase?

A: The photoshoot will be on the 22nd of May so the capsule collection will be up on the website on the first day of winter the 1st of June and then able to be ordered from the studio the following week. There will also be Studio Fashion Teas so if you would like an invite let me know sandra@sannizet.com.au

So excited to share this celebration with my friends, clients and readers of the launch of my 2012 Winter / Trans-seasonal Collection ... Edge of Nostalgia ... on the 1st of June.

How do You get that Fashion Glow?

Sun, 06 May 2012 07:18:00 GMT

San Nizet using Gold-Glowingly Hot accessories shows you how, with a few tips along the way.

GOLD the symbol for prosperity and wealth, is the latest precious trend addition to many of Europe's latest runway shows. The king would have to be Gucci's spring/summer'12, showcasing masses of gold and silver bugle beads dramatically designed Art Deco style, which is so much a favourite of San Nizet's designs. You too can add a shimmer and glow to your day, business or evening dress with a few before and after tips just by adding an accessory. Note the difference from an observers eye to the transformation it achieves ~ so easy for you to do too, with the know how.

Base versatile winter top with detailing on sleeve ~ lunch out so needs some glam.

...1...

This necklace attracts focus to the detail & colour & reflects the pleating of the sleeve which would also be seen at a table.

Much of our social life revolves around going out for dinner, both casually and for a dressed up celebration and really the other guests mainly get to see you from the waist up, so since this is the focus, wear a stunning piece at neck level.

San Nizet Biz Shirt styled on its own has already great satin detailing but on this occasion wants colour to provide focus

...2...

The tie adds an edgy androgynous look and the red beading is interesting, arty & evokes passion.

Some of my San Nizet readers could be doing some sort of business presentation or going to a networking event, so want to leave people with an image of business, but with a feminine slant and certainly would want to appear approachable. This will give you some idea how to achieve this, especially if you were speaking in front of a group ... all eyes would be riveted. Note, I am using the essentials of a planned wardrobe, the indispensable black and white shirt.

The great white Biz Shirt now with the addition of gold glow & classy pearls - give a dressy but relaxed look

The LBD - so classic - so crying out to be accessorized

...3...

Look at me now! The eye follows the style of the dress as the detail & colour of the loosely knotted tie gives an interesting ethnic twist - definate conversation starter

Think of an evening function whereby you have the LBD [little black dress ]and it shows your womanly curves beautifully, but you just need something to give it a bit of oomph! Remember too, that wearing a gorgeous interesting accessory can not only attract people to you to say hello, but it is a good starting point for a conversation and breaking the ice.

...4...

Most importantly, you will not see a replica of your GOLD-GLOWINGLY HOT collection piece walk through the door because they are all more than limited edition, they are all one of, unique and lovingly crafted in the San Nizet studio. Have a browse, enjoy the workmanship and hopefully one could be yours!

See the whole collection

WAISTED? Yes and What's More Skirts are a Huge Look as Well!

Wed, 29 Feb 2012 13:44:00 GMT

After watching the progression of Fall 12/13 Fashion Weeks from New York to London through to Milan, waisted pants, skirts and cinched into the waist dresses are definitely in the forefront of high fashion into the future. Following the trend are appropriate accessories to complement the total waisted look.

Cummerbunds were back in the limelight, both wide and thin to cinch in the designs. This essential accessory was always very useful for camouflaging either a full or part elastocised waist which has great comfort value. I remember being in Dubai eight years ago and bought two high end, very dressy European brand ankle length skirts which still are amazing to wear and both had thin elastocised waists.

Just look at now! Exposed elastocised waists are very hip. Look at the Prada skirt that graces the cover of Australia's March Vogue and the New York designer Thakoon who cleverly uses the rows of elastic as a design feature especially with his jackets.

Yves Saint Laurent, Chloe and Celine are all bringing back the wide buckled belts that slouch to just below the waist for comfort value, whereas Emilio Pucci uses the thinner belts to guide the eye to the waist level.

San Nizet has used in their collections wide sheen cummerbund belt ties interchangable for a neck scarf and thin waist belt ties interchangable for a necktie with great success for years now, simply because there were some clients that wanted to celebrate their womanly curves and emphasize their best fashion feature which is their waist. These are very savvy dressers who know their body type and stick with it .

Skirts, skirts and more skirts. Still within the Age of Pluralism there is no single trend and there is something for everybody. Predominantly the hem lengths were determined by the style. Ranged from the straight cut skirt, mid waisted with hems just above the knee like Bally and Louis Vuitton's slightly flared version, to the sharp look for Nina Ricci featuring pencil skirt with ruched features, high waisted and at the knee.
Contrasting, loved the Son Jung Wan Fall 12 collection, featured review in my Biz Facebook San Nizet Fashion Sunshine Coast if you would like to have a read ... waisted overlapping angular skirts finishing midcalf. ParkChoonMoo showed her sharp architectural signature by showcasing very angular split skirts. Donatella Versace went Gothic at Milan Fashion Week ... black and softly waisted leather look, and a higher version of above the knee .

Think it is a great trend for designers in SS12 and Fall 12/13 to vear towards putting THE SKIRT to the top of the fashion chart. Just reading my San Nizet blog you would be getting a gist of how versatile wearing a skirt can be both for day and evening. From the huge trend in digital print fabrics, to floaty and romantic and the classic sheens and block colours, the skirt is a great asset in any wardrobe, high waisted or just below the waist and you will have the look to go!

Be true to your body shape and there is a design for all. The First day of Autumn ...for my Sunny coast readers a time to enjoy lower temperatures, less rain but plenty of warm sunshine. Lucky southerners watching the leaves change to hues of red and orange and starting to rug up. Over the seas thawing out and looking forward to some sun on the skin. Happy times wherever you might be !

Travelling San Nizet Fashionistas Love their coffee and food too! ~ Part 2

Thu, 26 Jan 2012 20:40:00 GMT

Even though my face is glued to the window looking for boutique frontages as we travel by tram through Melbourne & suburbs and by car through Hobart and the Tasmanian towns, I get very excited when I find a great little coffee shop or restaurant we can stop at for a bite to eat.

Now the coffee and food too ! ~Part 2

Foodwise finding a satisfying place to eat is not too dissimiliar to my fashion prerequisite in my former blog. Ambient frontage, welcome atmosphere that feels like a great experience when you walk in and then an 'eye run' over the cuisine to see if it appeals. Of course there is a need versus want factor just like fashion buying.

On my travels around Tassie [Tasmania for overseas readers - the mainland fondly call it this] I had a craving for scallop pies and I loved every little flaky morsel (want) but it WAS cold, so my goosebumped legs told me, till I realised the cold wasn't going to go away and I dragged out my hip new footless tights ... see my previous post.

Just had to have it - Acland St, St Kilda, Melbourne

But then no cold excuse in Melbourne! The windows of the patisseries in Acland Street in St Kilda so enthralled me with its ambience I just had to have a double layered custard slice - well I shared - and the temperature was 39 degrees so think I would classify it as a want. At least with the fashion wants you buy, it can be worn again!

Definately have your coffee in Acland street at 95 expresso, great coffee and fun to watch the passing people with so many different accents drifting by.

Hopetoun Tea Rooms Melbourne

On the subject of ambient eating places that draw you in, would have to say that the Hopetoun Tea Room in the Block Arcade Melbourne would take the cake. Have a look at the photo and I ask you - would you too just HAVE to line up just so you could get a table, then be so thrilled to get in, in such a short time, that you had to order not only a cherry pie but apple strudel as well - shared though!

Melbourne still, in raptures when I wandered around the Prahran markets off Chapel Street. Row upon row of not only fresh produce but cheeses, homemade pastas and a lot of unusual continental food that I would have just loved to take home and try. For a light refreshing interlude, the Oriental Tea House in Chapel street is just the place. The lanes of Melbourne city are another story.

I know you are wanting to know in my tour of Tasmania where that scallop pie came from? Actually can be sourced from many places but I enjoyed the curried (mild) one from the bakery at Richmond, a beautiful historic town not far from Hobart .

Along the national highway on the way up to Launceston I found some little gems - actually, local knowledge passed on. Just into Campbell Town, so pleased we took the time to stop at the Red Bridge Cafe & Providore. Loved sitting in the historic building of 1836 drinking a big cup of the best coffee & a moorish light lunch.

Not far from there, on the next morning coming back from Launceston saved breakfast to stop at the village Perth (Tassie Perth !) at the ut si cafe, set in a restored church building and surrounded by its own herb gardens. One word for this place ... gourmet!

Another different styled cafe gem that I found south of Hobart is The Red Velvet Lounge set in a historic building in Cygnet. As the name leans toward, 50's eclectic decore, fun, terrific menu, ... a place where you can buy their stoneground bread and a jar of homemade chutney to take home. My eyes were glued to the sweets cabinet all the way out so I could think about what I would order next time when I didn't have such a satisfying main .

Since I don't want to extend this to a Part 3 blog there are two places that I need to mention in Hobart.

As soon as I fly in and my sister meets me I always say .."take me to Jackman & McCross!" Positioned in the middle of historic Battery Point, it is a gourmet bakery & cafe that meets most of my casual cuisine needs (pork & sage gourmet sausage roll AND salad!) and the needs of our PM too, on her last visit!

Those little touches - tricycle cafe bar, Salamanca Hobart

Makes all the difference - The Red Velvet Lounge, Cygnet Tasmania

It is always the special small touches that make a difference to experiencing both fashion and food ventures. I was sold when the tricycle cafe bar at Salamanca Place brought out their water in old fashioned milk bottles with a big piece of mint slotted in it ... I was endeared when our milk came out in cute little capped bottles sitting in the cups at The Red Velvet Lounge.

To me this says loud and clear ... I care about the experience you have and I want to make it as wonderfully memorable as possible, so that when you are home the memory makes you smile. Hope if one day you visit these gems you come home with a smile as well ~ just like I hope you do when you come home after a visit to the San Nizet studio.

Because I care ...

Travelling San Nizet Fashionistas Love their coffee and food!

Wed, 25 Jan 2012 04:01:00 GMT

A great place for the travelling fashionista to rest her weary feet at night - The Charsfield, St Kilda Rd Melbourne

Enjoyed sharing fashion places and gorgeous purchases from my visit down south but my friends, family and clients also love to hear where I found great coffee and wonderful places to eat whilst on the road, because they know ME and it is one of my passionate priorities.

I did enjoy scenery in Tasmania as well as trying on shoes! Tasman Arch towards Port Arthur

Just the Fashion ~ Part 1

Fashion-wise when I travel I will wander into a lot of boutiques whereby I hone in on....always quality, not necessarily on sale but with the expectation that the item is well priced for its uniqueness and quality of workmanship, how it will work with my own label and most importantly how it makes me feel when I try it on.

With this in mind the highlights in Melbourne were a gorgeous coat from Dizinggof in Richmond and some great unique artsu tees from Rich Clothing in Fitzroy (which I have nearly worn everywhere, with a San Nizet skirt of course!]. The people who own this boutique are the loveliest people you would ever hope to meet.

My fav purchase from Hobart - spanish mikaela shoes, comfortable for walking too!

Shoes? Lloyd in Collins..they loved me coming and I loved being there. Could talk about the very chunky Stuart Weitzman that was on sale and I really needed to have and it goes on, but it would be a very long blog. Thank goodness for the baggage restriction weight when flying.

Also aware I was heading down to Hobart and my sister has the inside knowledge on all the happenings and if she can't be with me, arms me with a well marked map!

Thought The Dispensary in Bidencopes Lane Hobart interesting combining holistic & realistic, whereby I picked up an unusual 'empire rose' skirt that wouldn't be like any in my San Nizet range and Retail Therapy in Murray St are always helpful. Found some great basics and unusual tights that I can wear for our 'whole' few months of winter and I hope to travel to some cold places this year! Must be going to travel cause I bought more funky tights at 'ci simon' - for male shopping as well - in a wonderful location at the IXL Atrium at the harbour.

Love my Lloyd's from Melbourne - can't wait to wear them!

Shoes are honey and I am the bee ...loved the spanish suede leather ankle boot, mikaela label, purchased from M&A Mike and Alice central Hobart.

After spending much enjoyable time updating myself with the fashion houses down south I have come to the conclusion with the combined area of the Sunshine Coast and Brisbane we are lucky to have a wide array of choice of inspirational designs right at our doorstep. Like me though, you probably find it inspirational exploring new and revisiting old, so the places I have mentioned might be helpful to you.

So excited to also share with you the most gorgeous places I found with divine food, coffee and such ambience! But will put this into Part 2 of this blog as I am not fond of absorbing long blogs so figured you might be the same.

Till then

Wishing everyone the BEST year for 2012 from San Nizet

Mon, 19 Dec 2011 00:32:00 GMT

As 2011 is coming to a close seemingly very rapidly, it is time to look forward with some very innovative ideas brewing especially to expand the San Nizet accessories line with some very exciting and useful designs. The linen/silk sunglasses range released just before Christmas in the studio proved to be very popular and they never did get to be posted on the Limited Editions Gallery because the small trial range has nearly sold out. The padded sunglass case for big sunglasses seemed to be the most popular, because to find this size in a softcase is difficult and also the satin lining allows the glasses to easily be slipped in and out, as everyone is on the run. I must admit I had to get into the habit of putting the glasses into a case instead of just throwing them in my bag, and so worth it, knowing that I would get a bit more wear out of my Ralph Lauren sunglasses that I have got so attached to! Can't think of the day, they would become disposable because I didnt take a little more care.

A bonus with the smaller sunglass and reading glasses case is that I can actually find them now! I have a pair for each of the areas of the studio and my home where I tend to read, and when they are in the case I can spot them easily. Next year I am going to make all of my cases to match the decor of my home but then thats me ~ hugely into interior design as well as fashion design. With the shown photo, I have given you a peak at the little cutie case which is in fact a phone case. That was designed around my own needs when I got a new iPhone and even though I had the backing case, I felt it was still prone to getting scratched in my bag, since I carry every conceivable thing I "might just need''. Those who saw it loved it, so it will be definitely on the agenda next year. If you would like to have a browse and check out my other photos of sunglass and reading glasses designs, it can be found on my business facebook page ... San Nizet fashion Sunshine Coast.

Looking into gorgeous, unique, cultural vintage fabric as well, for those who just love this look ... because of the uniqueness, history and limited edition quality.

As always before Christmas I hunt for a lovely family shortbread recipe that I can make to serve in the studio with a glass of bubbly or a cup of tea when clients pop in to make some purchases or just say Merry Christmas! I have anticipated their request for the recipe by publishing it in this blog so everyone can enjoy it. I think this is better than even last year and as usual I can't help adding things to the basic recipe like a 1/4 teaspoon of vanilla bean extract or sprinkle flaked almonds over the top or a combination of dried cranberries and white choc bits because children are visiting and I know they love this.

So ENJOY and have a wonderful Christmas and New Year break!

The Very Moorish Christmas Shortbread Recipe ... served in the San Nizet studio from a family recipe.

125g butter
60g icing sugar
60g cornflour
125g plain flour
pinch of salt

Cream butter in the mixmaster with icing sugar (and here I add that 1/4 teaspoon of vanilla bean paste). Add all of the other ingredients and should end up as a soft dough. Add a tiny more flour if it feels a bit sticky. Press into a greased 18cm biscuit tray. I usually then make a pattern with a fork dusted in flour. Cook in a moderate oven (170 to 180 degrees) for 30 mins or until it is golden brown. Don't wander away for too long to check your emails etc. because it colours quickly and will burn easily. Hints ... I usually cut it into lengths down and across while it is still warm. I always double the ingredients because it stores beautifully .. .only ever lasts for a few days ~ its so moorish.

The San Nizet Studio will reopen January the 23rd ... Ready for a wonderful and innovative 2012.

A Yen to be a Designer for a Day? San Nizet can Help You!

Thu, 13 Oct 2011 00:41:00 GMT

See the latest San Nizet WiTH ATTiTUDE 11/12 Collection, launched on the sunny coast of Queensland and all Australian made.

Featuring the versatile Swing Sleeve Black Top that YOU can take part in designing to match Your colours in Your wardrobe. Some of my clients work closely with colour stylists as I often do as a fashion stylist, and some of these clients have a yearning to try their colour creativity with some of my styles and fabrics. So as a designer I try to accommodate their diverse needs. With this in mind I am happy to change the coloured trim features which are the light net fabric & grosgrain ribbon of the Swing Sleeve Top to a colour that suits your needs and at NO EXTRA COST to you.

For example ... Purple or teal or hot pink would look amazing as a trim for the tribal black & white print sleeve. The options are not as prevalent for the tribal royal blue /white & grey combo but we can certainly work on something together.

An exciting option is also to substitute the Rose Print that filters through the collection in either colour combination ... there is a choice of two ... and use it as a swing sleeve. See the Rose Print fabric throughout the Limited Edition Gallery. So have a little fun ... and it IS fun, use your creativity and be a designer for the day ... with my guidance and help.

As always

More info ..ring Sandra 0418 887 296 or email me ... sandra@sannizet.com.au

Australian Made still Out There?

Fri, 23 Sep 2011 01:42:00 GMT

San Nizet's luxurious 100% Australian Merino Wool Jersey WRAPS/PASHMINAS and TOPS are ... Australian designed, locally manufactured and loved and proudly worn by women everywhere!

With a history of Australian merino wool spanning over 200 years, from when the first wool bale was exported to England to now, currently showing at La Galleria, Pall Mall, London the exhibition "Wool Modern" - which shows the full creative scope which can derived from the back of an Australian merino sheep.

Convicts in Australia used to wear jackets of coarse felted wool and merino wool used to be used in uniforms and workwear but these days many of the world's leading designers use wool as the favourable choice of fabric because of its unique components, it's in fact a 'living fabric'.

I was so excited by my find of merino wool jersey when I was on the hunt for an ideal travelling fabric for my Travelling Rose Collection, consequently the design of the long, trans-seasonal and short TOPS range. The selection of colours were stunning and lifts the look of any wardrobe, but the fabric also has excellent breathability. Not only does it keep you warm when needed but it releases heat and moisture when you are hot, so perfect for summer and winter wearing and ideal to pack for travelling because often, we want a versatile garment to adjust to a few climate changes in the short space of a trip away.

Also because of its natural elasticity it wont crush with handling and stretches to make comfortable wearing, then is able to move back to its original shape, so to purchase this quality is SO WORTH IT.

Anybody who has draped the light wool Wrap over the skin are amazed by how supersoft, gentle and luxurious it feels, ... "just like silk" and how the garment drapes so beautifully to follow the contour of the body.

I have added these wraps from the WiTH ATTiTUDE to my Limited Edition Gift Gallery because I think it would be a perfect addition to any woman's wardrobe from any age group and to wear anywhere! For my male readers out there a gorgeous gift for the woman in your life!

San Nizet's Philosophy Reflects some ATTiTUDE

Thu, 15 Sep 2011 05:28:00 GMT

Catwalk shot by Paul Fletcher

A surreal moment before it all happens?

Sunshine Coast Fashion Festival 2011 has come to a finale for another year, which leads to a time of reflection and hopefully a little rest, after the crescendo of my music Moby playing, whilst my models strutted my San Nizet collection on the catwalk, to the appreciative sound of the audiences enthusiastic clapping, which is music to any designers ears.

The great choice of the selected venue, the fantastic catwalk and the organisation and orchestration of the Group Designers Event is due to the diligent background work of Jacinta Richmond and team, and the enthusiastic applause of the audience reflected the success of the night.

200 VIPs went home with some fabulous gift bags and inside those was a special gift from San Nizet as well as two philosophical quotes ... the inspiration behind the WiTH ATTiTUDE collection launched on the night in conjuction with the TRAVELLING ROSE collection. Hope these inspire you as well to step out with a confident attitude.

To change your circumstances, you must first change your inner voice

The most important relationship you will ever have is with yourself

Sharing the limelight with my designer friends ... Felicity & Katie from Vinco Amor and Kathy from Rubyanna Road

Sharing the night with my buddy from Fashion Exposed ... Mel from Eva Lily

With my gorgeous model Katie ready to go!

SMELL the ROSES, WEAR the ROSES ... IT is SPRING

Wed, 31 Aug 2011 00:40:00 GMT

Wear the symbol of Femininity this Spring/Summer 11/12 - THE FLORAL PRINT

Step into the height of fashion this season by wearing the San Nizet Rose Floral and spotted print fabric. The collection includes The Skirts, The Capes, The Wraps, The Scarves and just a suggestion of floral print on some of the Tops in the Travelling Rose Collection.

Limited Edition Gifts?
See the eyecatching new Spring Gifts just added to the gallery - a gorgeous addition to someones wardrobe to give it a trendy "SPRING" lift. Bold floral silks have been the trend in Japan and China for centuries and to wear the ornate floral designs in Europe was a status symbol. Floral prints were revived in the 1950's and the glamorous trend of wearing floral accessories especially hair pieces, reflected the beauty of the natural world and emphasised our feminine style.

Style Tips?
Don't let it contradict your personal style if lots of floral isn't your thing. You can still be out there by wearing a pinstripe suit and a floral soft and flowing scarf ... the contrast softens the outfit and looks amazing.

I touched on this look in my Polka dot blog post. Floral and spots, floral and stripes - made headlines in the European Fashion trends and I love the interesting creative contrasts, which is why I love the San Nizet fabric so much ~ soft and flowing, strong colours with a purple or red base, but not overpowering, which allows it to be worn again and again and contrasted with an animal print base which rarely seems to date.

Have fun with the flower fashion trends and know that when you step out wearing some - it not only gives you a lift, but also enriches the person looking at that flower power.

Spot the Polka dot this Summer!

Thu, 18 Aug 2011 01:25:00 GMT

Who is the star here in the photoshoot? Finn or my model Dottie? Dalmation spots rocked Paris in the 60's and recently Michael Kors embraced the 'dalmatian look' by pairing oversized dots with pretty florals.

A more subtle polka-dotted fabric made into a Biz shirt ~ imagine dramatic monochrome dotted accessories styled with this great base.

The Polka Dot fashion statement has had a fresh revival. Even though there has been glimpses in previous collections, it has been a while since this festive and fun pattern has had such a standing ovation. Its proving its versatility by designers pairing it with pretty florals and even nautical stripes ...So if you are trying this mix of patterns at home have the same colour palette and it should work for you. Another suggestion is pairing big or small monochrome polka dots with black fashion pieces converting your look to superchic. Great also with vintage pieces, for example, a vintage jacket to complete the ensemble.

After all, the polka dot look has been re-visited countless times over the years with huge success, probably at times when fashion needed a more fun philosophy with connotations of happiness, prosperity and optimism. Think of Disney's brainchild, Minnie's polka dotted skirt and the polka dotted gowns of celebrities Marilyn Monroe and Elizabeth Taylor who a huge following. Then it was a popular motif for both formal daywear and informal beach dresses.

A close-up look at the San Nizet fabric ~ it's dotty!

Incorporating Polka Dots into fashion statements has made a continuous appearance in the latest Paris fashion week so it seems its popularity will influence not only our summer but into the next autumn and winter as well.

Accessories might be the way to go if you want to revamp your wardrobe with a more subtle polka-dotted look. San Nizet has three shades of fabric with a hint of dots, so it becomes a great base to mix and match and add the more dramatic fashion piece. You will be able to achieve this Spot On trend with very little effort now that you have the 'know how'. So have fun with it and stride out there feeling festive.

FEATHERS REIGN!

Wed, 27 Jul 2011 01:48:00 GMT

In Jean-Paul Gaultier's latest collection in Paris, feathers appeared to be the crown, not only in featured headpieces but used as trims to embellish coats, hems of skirts and even necklines of evening dresses. For something so humble, the feather gives glamorous ambience to this haute couture collection.

Black still dominated within his androgynous styles, blended with browns, greys and slashes of block red. He softened the styles with frills, godey features and some sequining and of course mass use of feathers! Jean-Paul Gaultier challenged Parisian high chic when he presented his first collections in 1976 when even then, he dabbled in gender blurred fashion.

The label San Nizet has always used feathers to add a glamour and European touch to its collections, both winter and summer. A handcrafted feathered brooch to wear at the neck, pinned onto the side of skirt or onto a hat for the races or a wedding ... or ... the new wraps which are transformed and therefore transform your outfit to a new level, with the addition of the creatively placed FEATHER.

Check out the new Limited Edition - Buy Now Gallery for a selection of brooches ... and more will be added as they are crafted .

FOR A LITTLE FUN leading to the Sunshine Coast Fashion Festival I have three thumbnail photos of three wraps from the San Nizet Studio . If you are the first one to guess whether 1, 2 or 3 is the wrap that will be shown at the SCFF, a special feathered brooch will be crafted just for you with colours that reflect your fashion style. Just go to comments and add YOUR choice with your comment! Don't forget your email address, so I can contact you! Hope you will be the one adding a highly fashionable piece to your wardrobe.

Exciting times...Launch of Limited Edition - Buy Now Gallery!

Thu, 21 Jul 2011 09:42:00 GMT

Soon you will be able to see a new section on my website grown from PASSION for the limited edition designs and NEED for myself and likeminded clients trying to find a unique Australian Made and lightweight gift to send to a family member or special friends and I might add, at a reasonable price, which needs to come into the equation in everyones household these days.

I have designed great accessories for special events, or just on my own whim, when I see limited edition fabrics or when different designs that flash into my head are made up locally and then are seen in my studio but don't often go out for public viewing. Of course I make all the brooches myself ... with love...and very time consuming.

Then there is the other scenario where I only have limited sizes left of my trans-seasonal collection or those I have designed for special photoshoots and am sure would be snapped up if it stepped outside my studio doors. This gives me great creative scope and at the same time allows other likeminded people who love unique, limited edition fashion items and especially supportive of locally Australian Made and non mass produced, another venue to shop .

Soon....!

Opening Night of Eva Lilly Premises and Studio

Mon, 11 Jul 2011 05:38:00 GMT

This is me dressed in my San Nizet Knitted Winter Wrap ... yes it does get very cold here on the Sunshine Coast sometimes!

I was ready to drive a whole five minutes from my studio to Mel's Opening Party at her new Eva Lilly premises and I wasn't even the first one there. It was a fabulous opening, showcasing some of the Eva Lily's summer range with a fashion parade, great food, wine and other fashionistas I caught up with and haven't seen in a while.

Congratulations Mel and Dawn ... Eva Lily's Marketing Manager.. for an enjoyable successful and fun night. Mel and myself were two of the designers who went down to Sydney to launch our summer collections at Sydney Exposed and are very supportive of each others common interest in fashion and business.

Loved catching up too with Karen from Coco Riche who also went to Sydney with us .

Then I was home in 6 minutes ....just love that.

Fashion in the Vines

Sun, 10 Jul 2011 05:33:00 GMT

I always enjoy going to Maleny Wines and hear the speakers and link up with other fashion designers and others interested in fashion put on by SCFF.

Really enjoyed hearing Nikki Parkinson of Styling You words of wisdom and suggestions about social media, especially Blogging!! From one who has a very successful Fashion/Beauty Business and has won awards as a Blogger it was an inspiration for all of us to hear snippets of her journey and openly and warmly suggesting ways we could help our business on its way as well.

The interactive aspects of Fashion in the Vines are always beneficial to those who attend ... so thank you Nikki if you get to read this, your time was so appreciated.

A fabulous article, photos and Front Cover(!) of Nikki in July's Sunshine Coast Profile Magazine. Congratulations Nikki !

Pic: Clare from Eco Diva, Sally from Saucy Rose, myself and Nikki. As you can see we had a freezing day up there so I dressed in my very warm San Nizet scarf I knitted myself about 8 years ago ... luckily I had it washed and ready to go!