The Daily Hero

Madison - January 2012

2011-12-20T15:17:00.000+11:00

2 By Lyn and Tony Necklace

Stolen Girlfriends Club Silk Flare Shorts

Stolen Girlfriends Club Scallop Front Blouse

2 By Lyn and Tony Necklace

Romance Was Born Lounge Deco Dancer Slacks

Romance Was Born Leisure Set New Deco Tee Top

2 By Lyn and Tony Necklace

A Real Life Hero

2011-12-08T15:08:00.000+11:00

Hero from Miguel Endara on Vimeo.

Intersection Magazine - December 2011

2011-12-07T12:07:00.000+11:00

Colab Avian Glasses

Romance Was Born Nell Jumpsuit

Stolen Girlfriends Club Junk Ring

Stolen Girlfriends Club Pyramid Ring

Stolen Girlfriends Club Baby Don't Go Pendant

Grazia - December 2011

2011-12-06T16:35:00.002+11:00

Therese Rawsthorne Blocked Singlet

Therese Rawsthorne Accordion Skirt

FALLEN - Issue 9

2011-12-06T16:33:00.002+11:00

Stolen Girlfriends Club Biker Jacket

Therese Rawsthorne Red Room Skirt

The Melbourne Magazine - December 2011

2011-12-06T16:27:00.002+11:00

Romance Was Born Gold Sequin Denim Jean

MANUSCRIPT - Issue 01

2011-12-06T16:21:00.002+11:00

Rusty R Dot Long Sleeve Rashie

Rusty Limited Edition Surf Board

Vogue - December 2011

2011-12-06T15:59:00.003+11:00

Helen Kaminski Alonso Hat

Stonefox - Issue 1, 2011

2011-12-06T15:46:00.003+11:00

Romance Was Born Gold Sequin Denim Jean

Flannel Last Dance in Siagon Dress

Flannel Streets of Desire Vest

Flannel Tencel Singlet

Romance Was Born Empress Skirt

Shakuhachi Daisy Chain Loose Pant

Shakuhachi Don't Believe the Stripe Bikini

Seventh Wonderland Amadora V Neck One Piece

Pages Digital - Issue 89

2011-12-06T15:40:00.002+11:00

Main Fashion styled by Romance Was Born
Flannel Ginza Shirt Dress

Carl Kapp Falling Singlet

Stolen Girlfriends Club Silk Flare Pant

Claire Inc.com Chanel Blouse and Moschino Bustier

Romance Was Born Embroidered Denim Jeans

Therese Rawsthorne Ensemble Buffalo Shirt Dress

Murmuration

2011-11-08T22:30:00.000+11:00

The beauty of nature.

- RB

The Age Of Excess

2011-11-02T11:46:00.000+11:00

Big ups to Romance Was Born's Anna Plunkett and Luke Sales for their styling debut in the December 2011 issue of Marie Claire. Check it out below.

Vale, Heidi

2011-09-29T17:23:00.003+10:00

Today we all bid farewell to the world's cutest opossum, Heidi.

The opossum became a German media sensation after her picture was published in late 2010 and had more than 330,000 fans on Facebook!

Heidi and her sister were found as orphans and raised in a wild animal sanctuary in North Carolina before moving in 2008 to Leipzig Zoo in Germany.

The zoo today released a statement saying: "Heidi, our cross-eyes opossum, has closed her eyes forever".

Rest in peace, Heidi.
-DS

Today Little Hero Loves...

2011-09-20T16:35:00.000+10:00

A salute to polka dots!

From Melody and TeePee x

Swiss vs. Swede

2011-09-14T13:44:00.000+10:00

For those that aren't so into cleaning but love to COOK, try out your arrangement skills with your ingredients as photographed in Swedish IKEA Cookbook titled Hembakat är Bäst, which translates to "Homemade is Best".

Who says you need silver bowls full of ingredients. You just need a pop coloured bench top and a vision for not only the after......but the BEFORE.

Bon appétit.

x TeePee's first ever blog post x

The Art Of Spring Cleaning

2011-09-02T16:55:00.001+10:00

Spring is here! And what better way to welcome back the rays than a spring clean to rid yourself of all that winter clutter.

We've taken inspiration from Swiss author Ursus Wehrli's latest offering 'The Art of Clean Up'.

The comical book presents before and after shots of how to neatly organise everyday objects from food and cars to even people.

Happy Spring!

All Originals

2011-07-27T18:20:00.000+10:00

adidas Originals are leaping into the Little Hero showroom!

With over 60 years experience dressing the world in three stripes on the field and on the street, they're bringing their forward thinking designs and amazing collaborations (including Ransom, David Beckham and Jeremy Scott) to be a part of our world.

To celebrate, here are a few of our favourite adidas Originals clips:

Nobody says it better than Run DMC:

They've worked with the world's biggest sports stars:

And have a reputation for being a bit cheeky:

Step Back In Time

2011-07-14T16:31:00.000+10:00

Claire Inc wants you to switch off your computer, and head into the streets.

The veritable vintage virtuoso has seemingly returned from yet another time-travellin' trip to the 80's and 90's, with a bounty of one-of-a-kind designer pieces. But instead of staking your claim online from the comfort of your home (read: bed), this collection is available only for purchase in The Corner Shop.

The much-anticipated Claire Inc residency starts next Thursday 21st July at prestigious Sydney boutique The Corner Shop in the Strand Arcade. It's your chance to peruse, sample, fondle and generally obsess over exclusive pieces that have appeared on the supermodels of yesteryear, or graced Vogue covers 20 years ago.

They're all there: Chanel. Chloe. Sonia Rykiel. Moschino. Givenchy. Issey Miyake. Kenzo. Azzedine Alaia. Jean Paul Gaultier. Christian Lacroix. Gianni Versace. Cacharel. Escada Couture.

Flick through the photos below for an idea of whats on offer, or check out the full collection.

Chanel Spring 95 Cropped Neon Yellow Blazer

Vintage Chanel High Waisted Silk Skirt with Coco Figures & Text

Vintage 90's Comme Des Garcons Covertible Wool Knit Dress

Vintage Karl Lagerfeld Double Layer Fringe Dress

Vintage Chanel Classic Red Camelia Brooch

Vintage Sonia Rykiel All About Flowers Logo Bomber

Vintage Karl Lagerfeld Multi-Colour Logo Earrings

Vintage Moschino "Cheap" Wool Dress

This Winter Weekend

2011-07-01T17:57:00.000+10:00

Looking for the perfect activities for your winter weekend? We've compiled a little list of the most fun things you can do with your eyes this Friday, Saturday and Sunday:

Edward Gant's Amazing Feats of Loneliness
Head down to the Sydney Theatre Company for a glass of wine and a spectacular show. The funniest celebration of human loneliness we've ever seen, all costumes were designed by the wonderful Romance Was Born (Luke Sales and Anna Plunkett) and are just as lavish and surprising as you'd imagine.

Sleeping Beauty
The ridiculously talented Julia Leigh makes her film debut with this dark tale of Lucy, a young university student who finds herself drawn into an unseemly world of human desire. An Australian film with so much substance and resonance, head over to your closest cinema and check it out.

World Press Photo 2011
One of our favourite exhibitions of the year begins tomorrow at the State Library. A collection of the world's best photojournalism - some hilarious and some devastating. It's free, and it's unforgettable. See more.

Davide Monteleone, Italy, Contrasto for The New York Times Style Magazine.

2nd Prize - Arts and Entertainment

From M to M and Back Again

2011-06-23T18:17:00.000+10:00

The day Melody met Mark she was determined to make him her best friend.

The day Mark met Melody he was interested in her boyfriend.

Here is some Q&A with this superstar Little Hero duo:

How would you describe each other in 3 words?

Melody on Mark: Wacky Fabulous Klutz

Mark on Melody: Ball busting, Spunky with Talent to Spare

More after the jump.

How would you describe each others style?

Melody on Mark: Gentlemanly with a pinch of dandy

Mark on Melody: Fearless, Eclectic and Leggy

What is your favourite Mark fashion moment?

Mark everyday. No one can work a bow tie like Mark can.

What is your favourite Melody fashion moment?

When Melody turned 21 she rocked a self made coca cola printed dress and turned it into an avant guard party dress with balloons as an underskirt. She was receiving rental enquiries on this number for weeks!!

Today Melody wears Therese Rawsthorne Dress and Urban Outfit Wedges

Today Mark wears Jack London Blazer, Vintage Shirt and Bow Tie, Topman Pants, River Island Shoes and Jasper Conran Glasses.

Best Friends Forever.

xx M & M

Mark Richard Fletcher - Fashion Intern Extraordinaire

Melody 'Efficiency' Achi - Super dooper Showroom Assistant

When you smile at me you make me feel so happy

2011-06-16T20:11:00.000+10:00

Ratcat are celebrating the 20th anniversary of their number one album Blind Love this weekend - so good. Yewww!

Blind Love 20th Anniversary Show
Saturday 18th June, 7.30pm
The Factory Theatre, Enmore NSW

- RB

How To

2011-06-10T14:48:00.000+10:00

I love a 'how to'; they're very helpful for most things in life.

As a tribute to DJ Jazzy Jay playing in Sydney this weekend here's some 'how to' early 80's footage...

'How to scratch' brought to you by Jazzy Jay and Afrika Bambaataa:

'How to battle' brought to you by Beat Street vs NYC Breakers:

DJ JAZZY JAY

Saturday 11th June 9pm

GOODGOD Danceteria

55 Liverpool Street, Sydney

As quoted from the good people at GoodGod:

“Founding member of Hip Hop’s foundational Zulu Nation, Beat Street star and the Bronx’s very own yes, welcome the legendary DJ Jazzy Jay in his first solo Sydney performance ever!

Having a career that's spanned over 30 years, Jazzy Jay is one of the true Hip Hop pioneers. In the early 1980's his DJ skills ruled both NYC's street parties and the city's most famed clubs, including The Roxy and Danceteria. In 1984, Jazzy Jay famously played himself in the role of club DJ in the classic Hip-Hop film, Beat Street. This film took the four elements of Hip-Hop to the masses and became an overground hit in Australia. Marking the 27th anniversary of this groundbreaking film, Jazzy Jay will touch down in Sydney to confirm to us how fun and influential this era was.

Jay went on to become a certified hit machine when he co-produced Afrika Bambaataa's anthemic Planet Rock and recorded the single: "Jazzy Sensation" as part of the Jazzy 5. He assisted in founding Def Jam and Strong City Records and later collaborated with the finest including The Beastie Boys, LL Cool J, Public Enemy, A Tribe Called Quest, Fat Joe, Brand Nubian and more. His experimentation with turntable trickery saw him later inducted into the DMC DJ Hall of Fame and featured in the DJ documentary, Scratch: All The Way Live. - he's done it all!

Get your tickets EARLY from Moshtix!"

www.goodgodgoodgod.com

-RB

Hedgehog in the Fog

2011-06-10T13:48:00.000+10:00

The beautiful classic Russian animated short film 'Hedgehog in the Fog' [Ёжик в тумане], Yuriy Norshteyn from 1975...

Here's to tea with friends!

Stay warm.

- RB

Winter Walking

2011-06-09T18:09:00.000+10:00

- RB

Hat Trick!

2011-06-03T15:53:00.000+10:00

There is an influx of colour flowing into the Little Hero showroom as we shift from Winter to Summer for our press showings next week. All is bright and light; it feels good.

This evening plays host to our opener for a well earned introduction to the Vivid Creative Sydney and the Vivid Sydney program as we attend the first in a hat trick of weekend festivities.

Hands On: Makers show their wares

Friday June 3rd - 6-7pm

We're promised to 'meet the new generation of makers and artisans: hear how they craft unique products, manage niche production processes and share their work with fans around the world.' Definitely a conversation starter and one we're sure our Carl Tindall from COLAB eyewear will relish with his ability to spin a well executed dialogue on many topics!

Carl is one of the participants alongside Jodie Fox founder of Shoes of Prey, Keg de Souza artist, Jeremy from We Are Handsome and Brian McNamara from Rare Beasts.

COLAB's current collection is an evolving story as each frame is a new collaboration with an artist but take a peek at this behind the scenes snapshot of the look book creation...

Bat for Lashes
Sydney Opera House
Saturday 4th June at 9pm

Natasha Khan, aka Bat For Lashes, is pretty brilliant really. Finally a chance for a live performance.

Last night we heard was very good and continued her support of the work of our Romance Was Born as she wore one of their pieces on stage. This song always reminds me of their 'Doilies and Pearls, Oysters and Shells' collection show from 2009 (pictured below).

Chris Cunningham
Sydney Opera House
Sunday 5th June at 5pm

Music and multi-screen projections from an award-winning video art pioneer. From Aphex Twin to Björk and Madonna, Cunningham brings his own brand of genius to everything he touches. Cult filmmaker, musician, photographer and producer Chris Cunningham is responsible for some of the most iconic music videos ever made, amongst a myriad of other accomplishments.

View this 1 minute and 7 second trailer for a taster of his work - boom!

And then there's Abbey Lee for Gucci...

All is full of love...

Enjoy the weekend!

- RB

Dreams and Magic Castles

2011-06-02T22:20:00.000+10:00

Spod makes me laugh; he's a genius true blue Australian talent and so is Dan Kelly.

When two magical forces combine great things happen...

'Dan Kelly's Dream' - Video created by Spod at the 'Magic Castle.'

And in the midst of Vivid Creative Sydney here's an inspired presentation by Spod from 2010.

http://www.spod.com.au/
http://www.dankelly.com.au
http://vividsydney.com/

- RB

Why Cyndi Rules

2011-05-31T19:47:00.000+10:00

- RB

Collaborate with Colab

2011-05-27T11:15:00.000+10:00

Join the likes of local heroes Anthony Lister, Kill Pixie, P.A.M. and international superstars Geoff McFetrige, Deanne Cheuck and Eboy to collaborate with Colab for their 2012 calendar.

Colab Eyewear is looking for 12 of the brightest and most innovative up and coming photographers from around the world to collaborate with them on a limited edition calendar for international distribution.

Like every piece of unique limited edition Colab Eyewear, there will only be 1000 copies of the Colab 2012 Calendar produced and will feature work from the 12 best submissions.

In addition, one lucky photographer will be chosen to shoot the COLAB 2012 lookbook!

For more information and the entry form go to www.colab.com.au/2012calendar

90's excellence

2011-05-23T18:07:00.000+10:00

Sebadoh are touring and we can't wait.

Lou Barlow has reunited with bandmates Eric Gaffney and Jason Loewenstein as Sebadoh, one of the most excellent 90's bands ever.

Metro Theatre - Wednesday 21st September 8pm

And while we're pondering 90's, here's some Pavement joy:

- RB

Dance Off

2011-05-21T00:13:00.000+10:00

- RB

RAFW DAY FOUR - Stolen Girlfriends Club Thursday 4th May 6.30pm

2011-05-19T12:52:00.000+10:00

DAY FOUR - ROSEMOUNT AUSTRALIAN FASHION WEEK

Thursday 4th May 2011 at 6.30pm
STOLEN GIRLFRIENDS CLUB
Cargo Theatre

Spring/Summer 2011 - The Big Comedown

Stolen Girlfriends Club lead us off the garden path this season with a signature print derived from the stunning work of New Zealand visual artist Karl Maughan. Dealing with ideas stemming from the cultivation of the ideal, and an interruption or imposition on nature, the print presents a flawlessness that is both seductive and suspicious. Maughan's hyper-real paintings of surrealist fantasy landscapes in an explosion of colour are magnified and multiplied into an infinite maze of light and dark that dances on a slipstream of silk.

Refining their rock edge, Stolen Girlfriends Club applies their irreverent approach to sharp tailoring, loosened by panels of chiffon and georgette, dresses with articulated bodice details and a lick of leather, offering a collection with a slicker surface and a darker heart. The Big Comedown reflects a superficial beauty with an ominous undertone.

Show credits:

Production & Casting - Ali Newling & Natalie Jane Miller @ Alias Creative
Styling - Zara Mirkin
Make Up - Terry Barber for M.A.C
Hair - Greg Murrell @ Ryder for KMS California
Visual Effects - The Visualisation Unit
Fine Art - Karl Maughan for Stolen Girlfriends Club
Shoes - Stolen Girlfriends Club for Jeffrey Campbell
Creative & Music Direction - Stolen Girlfriends Club
PR - Rae Begley, Little Hero

Supported by sponsors KMS California, M.A.C, Ryder and Mini.

RAFW DAY THREE - Alice McCALL Wednesday 4th May 7.30pm

2011-05-19T12:44:00.000+10:00

DAY THREE - ROSEMOUNT AUSTRALIAN FASHION WEEK

Wednesday 4th May 2011 at 7.30pm
ALICE MCCALL
OPT

Alice McCall Spring/Summer 2011 - Thé Dansant

This season alice McCALL refines the relaxed bohemian quality that is so much a part of her signature, evoking a romantic, decadent world of modern elegance inspired by the old-world sophistication of a Victorian Tea Dance. Thé Dansant invites us to a decadent Parisian high tea that spills out into a garden scented with soft music and antique blooms. A broderie clothed table, already abandoned for the promise of the evening air, plays host to mismatched china, cut crystal, and delicate petit fours.

Magnified scroll prints curl around lampshade silhouettes and contour the body, while porcelain white cutwork echoes lacy-edged Victorian cake plates in basket-weave organzas. The exotic taste of China ties up basics with braided tassle belts, pulling back soft curtains to reveal a room dressed in sand washed silks, crepe de chines and antique jacquards laced with lurex. Set against floaty sun ray prints, sheer sculpted silhouettes are bordered by delicate flocking and contrasting white collars.1940s tailored scalloping adds an elegantly eccentric touch to the crispness of a Wedgewood print that freshens for a moment the opulent Parisian palette of deep blues and berry-peppered florals, adorned from time to time with fine gold piping, or an emblazoned Fleur de Lys.

Show Credits:

Creative Director - Alice McCall
Stylist - Tamila Purvis
Producer - Ali Newling and Natalie Jane Harvie from Alias
Hair Director - Jon Pulitano from Headcase Hair for Cloud 9
Make Up Director - Linda Jefferyes for M.A.C
Shoes - Jeffrey Campbell
PR - Rae Begley, Little Hero

Supported by sponsors Cloud 9, M.A.C, Veet, Westfield, Aveeno and Lily-Flame England.

RAFW DAY TWO - Kate Sylvester Tuesday 3rd May 8.30pm

2011-05-19T12:38:00.000+10:00

DAY TWO - ROSEMOUNT AUSTRALIAN FASHION WEEK

Tuesday 3rd May 2011 at 8.30pm
KATE SYLVESTER
Inglis Sales Ring, Randwick

Kate Sylvester Spring Summer 2011/12 - Into The Light

In one of Australian Fashion Week's most creative presentations, Kate Sylvester delivered a mood piece inspired by the ephemeral oscillation of the moth's wing and a reverie to the revs of a motocross engine.

The glass topped ampitheatre of the Inglis Sales Ring in Randwick played stage to a circular runway that allowed the audience to mill in dimmed light with the transient quality of twilight or dusk before taking to tiered seating where subtle movements and quiet chatter moved the air around an orb of light, pooling in the centre of the ring. With the screetch of tyres Julia Nobis opened the show under beams of light.

Models circled the ring as hot roller flames licked pencil skirts, emblazoned blazer pockets and burned leather shorts, refining into a soft grey silk jumpsuit, momentarily stepping into the light before disappearing as moving shapes in the ambiguous mist. The dusty palette of moth eaten pieces marked by the brooding eyes of fragile wings, worked cleverly into cut aways on shoulders and necklines, mirrored into the glorious grunge diffused grey/black eye created by makeup director Terry Barber.

Tulle applique fluted and ruffled its way across silk tees and dresses in muted notes of nude and charcoal. Sun ray pleats whispered around legs with an embellished bralette and lacy, eaten broderie hems grazed the floor with full length lace dresses in a monochromatic palette that provided the moody backdrop for an explosion of electric colour. Periwinkle, canary yellow and forest green injected saturated colour and a lighter moment with feminine, lightly frilled dresses. Moths wings fluttered in the folds and frills of a camisole tucked into high waisted leather short shorts before floating into the longer lengths of a tea dress. Offering not only a collection balanced delicately between the tougher elements of strong tailoring, biker details and leather and decidedly feminine dresses, but a considered and resonant fashion moment that moves beyond clothes and draws the concepts behind them into the light.

Show Credits:

Creative Direction - Wayne Conway
Styling - Karen Inderblitzen-Waller
Makeup - Terry Barber for M.A.C
Hair - Jon Pulitano for Headcase Hair for Redken
Production - Ali Newling from Alias Creative
Casting - Natalie Jane Miller from Alias Creative
PR - Rae Begley from Little Hero
Music - Wayne Conway and Kate Sylvester
Shoes & Accessories - Kate Sylvester

Supported by sponsors Redken, M.A.C, Rosemount and Perrier.

RAFW DAY TWO - Carl Kapp Tuesday 3rd May 5.30pm

2011-05-19T12:17:00.000+10:00

DAY TWO - ROSEMOUNT AUSTRALIAN FASHION WEEK

Tuesday 3rd May 2011 at 5.30pm
CARL KAPP
OPT

Spring Summer 2011/12 - Falling Water

Making a stunning debut at RAFW, master draper and fine tailor Carl Kapp cut silhouettes with enviably elegant restraint. Taking inspiration from the ballet shoe and the way it delicately ties around the leg, fluid silks in lustrous earth tones swathe the form with a relaxed Grecian simplicity. Sunset and desert shades set fire to fleeting silhouettes that transformed with the body's slightest movement, creating different shapes with settled drapes and folds. Dresses clinged to neck and flowed to the floor, twisting at strategic points with knot work and subtle ribboning that ties etherial slips of silk to a long, lean body with considered versatility. Like birds of paradise in full courtship display, gowns of textured silks in a saturated palette of saffrons, berries and deep rose carve striking figures in an intensely glamourous modern landscape.

Show Credits:

Producer - Rachel Tuffery, Pronto Productions
Creative Direction and Stylist - Mark Vassallo
Hair Director - Jon Pulitano from Headcase Hair for Redken
Make Up Director - Napoleon Perdis
Music - Jonny Seymour
PR - Rae Begley, Little Hero
Shoes - Tristan Blair for Carl Kapp

Supported by sponsors Redken, Westfield, Headcase Hair, Woolmark, Napoleon, Little Hero and Redken.

RAFW DAY TWO - Therese Rawsthorne Tuesday 3rd May 9am

2011-05-19T12:04:00.000+10:00

DAY TWO - ROSEMOUNT AUSTRALIAN FASHION WEEK

Tuesday 3rd May 2011 at 9.00am
THERESE RAWSTHORNE
THE CLOTHING STORE
WILSON STREET, EVELEIGH

Therese Rawsthorne - Spring Summer 2011/12

Rain fell on the curved corrugated roofs of an abandoned railway outpost as innovative designer Therese Rawsthorne opened Day Two of Australian Fashion Week.

Inspired by the saturated celluloid of David Lynch's Twin Peaks, this season Therese Rawsthorne drew her collection in a deeper, darker palette in a set of a circle of trees, set to the backdrop of builders plastic covered stud (ala character Leo Johnson's house) and the Twin Peaks High School logo rendered in neon lights.

Pulling from the iconic menswear pieces worn by Agent Dale Cooper, Bobby and James, and reworking them in an eclectic mix of soft silk and sharp tailoring, the collection projects a luxurious athleticism that defines the new femininity.

Trenches are roughed up with biker sleeves, or cut into wrap dresses that are spilt and spliced at strategic points to allow sleeves to wrap around the waist. A digital 'woodland' print derived from the grained panelling at The Great Northern wraps itself around accordion skirts and tops with open backs that race alongside preppie collegiate washed silk shirting and dresses.

Evening pulls back a velvet curtain on The Red Room, with rusts, lilacs and an electric chartreuse highlighting Rawsthorne's classic palette of nudes and neutrals, exploding into a digital orchid print inspired by Harold Smith’s greenhouse; a styling motif that carried through in elegant sprays of philanopsis looped into a belt, held in the hand or curling over the eye. A log ‘back pack’ styled back with the orchid print and oversized blue silk tee announced itself in ironic homage to the log lady.

Frilled dresses with elongated silhouettes and detailed wrapping backs in silk or spotted tulle walk through the racy rooms of casino One Eyed Jack’s hand in hand with tuxedo tailoring cut close to the body. Signature deconstructed man-style tailoring in silk jackets and wide-leg pants pull back the prettier dresses of the collection with the casual sense of ease that has always been Therese Rawsthorne's classically understated approach to modern dressing.

Producer - Rachel Tuffery at Pronto Productions
Stylist - Caterina Scardino
Hair- Jon Pulitano from Headcase Hair for Cloud Nine
Make Up - Linda Jefferyes for M.A.C
Nails - Creative Nail Design
Shoes - Tristan Blair
Underwear - Nearly Nude
Music - Jonny Seymour
PR - Little Hero

Supported by sponsors Cloud 9, Nearly Nude, M.A.C, CND, Westfield, The Vine, Latteria Darlinghurst and Black Star Pastry.

RAFW DAY ONE - Gail Sorronda Monday 2nd May 7.30PM

2011-05-19T11:59:00.000+10:00

DAY ONE - ROSEMOUNT AUSTRALIAN FASHION WEEK

Monday May 2nd 2011 at 7.30pm
GAIL SORRONDA
OPT

Gail Sorronda Spring Summer 2011/12 - Stem The Flow

Inspired by the bulbous shape of liquid and the flow of aqueous movement intercepted by time. It's an exploration of fluidity and freedom versus restraint. Sometimes a trickle, sometimes an avalanche...

Working in her signature monochromatic palette, Gail Reid weaved magic with textures, shapes, volumes and finishes. Layers of black and white delicately dance around the body in voluminous dresses with organic spherical lines and pleating and gathering that create a feeling of suspension. Tailored jackets and shirts drip from the body and pleated culottes and butterfly sleeves further emphasise liquidity and flow.

The show closed against a projected backdrop of a film element created by Sydney based artists Lyn & Tony with a look topped by a wide brimmed tulle hat by Richard Nylon for Gail Sorronda.

Producer - Kendra Greig
Hair - Brad Ngata for L'Oreal
Make Up - Napoleon Perdis
Nails - Creative Nails
Models - Chic Management
Music - Brett Little at Mu-Gen
Film - Lyn & Tony
Millinery - Richard Nylon for Gail Sorronda
Accessories - 2 by Lyn & Tony for Gail Sorronda
PR - Little Hero

Supported by sponsors L'Oreal, Napoleon, CND, Brad Ngata and Chic Management.

RAFW DAY ONE - Flannel Monday 2nd May 5.30pm

2011-05-19T11:49:00.000+10:00

DAY ONE - ROSEMOUNT AUSTRALIAN FASHION WEEK
Monday May 2nd 2011 at 5.30pm
FLANNEL
OPT

Flannel - Spring Summer 2011/12 - la sakura

Following a stand out debut collection at RAFW 2010/11, Flannel continues to excite with their second showing at Australian Fashion Week, la sakura.

Taking its name from the collection's signature cherry blossom print, la sakura embodies the opulence of 1930s France, informed by a refined asian aesthetic. Developed with the Banshu Project in Japan, and derived from the fabric of a 100 year old kimono, the textile lends a sense of the traditional, and a touch of the hand that echoes throughout the collection.

Patchwork camel leathers suggest a worn club chair in a smoky Parisian apartment, draped with vintage slip dresses and rose silk velvet bed jackets. The light and floral tones mirror the delicate graduation of an Austen rose; milk and cream suedes and silks curve into a lemony parchment and meet a berry-stained edge in rich cherry leathers. Pyjama style shirting and vests pleated with origami-like perfection pack worn trunks for a trip to the Orient.

Show Credits:

Show Production - Ali Newling and Natalie Jane Miller at Alias Creative
Creative Director - Kristy Lawrence
Stylist - Ryan Lobo
Hair Director - Jon Pulitano at Headcase Hair for REDKEN
Make Up Director - Nicole Thompson for M.A.C
Music Director - Jonny Seymour
Nails - O.P.I
Underwear - Nearly Nude
PR -Little Hero

Supported by sponsors Redken, M.A.C, Westfield, KW Doggett, Nearly Nude and O.P.I

PRELUDE - Romance Was Born Sunday 1st May, 4pm

2011-05-19T11:30:00.000+10:00

Sunday May 1st 2011 at 4.00pm
ROMANCE WAS BORN
Mitchell Library, Sydney

On the eve of Australian Fashion Week, Romance Was Born presented their Spring Summer collection 'The Oracle' in majestic style.

Inspired by the film The Never Ending Story, eternity and the beauty and decadence of the 1920’s, Romance Was Born transformed the Mitchell Library into a world of pure fantasy and unveilled a refined collection. The finale accompanied by the Sydney Youth Orchestra and Australian Youth Choir's rendition of 'The Never Ending Story' was an emotive finish to a breathtaking presentation for guests including Cate Blanchett, Jenny Kee, Sophie Lowe, Kylie Kwong, Nell, Del Kathryn Barton and Susie Bubble.

For Spring Summer 2011/12, Romance Was Born muse languorously upon the chaise lounge while in the background the warm crackle of a phonograph spins the jazzy warbling sound of the clarinet, pausing only to take a sip from their gin sling… squinting a heavily kohl rimmed eye as they drift back into Fantasia riding the gilded juggernaut of jazz and gin.

Deco dancers and dream weavers - this season Romance Was Born are drawn to the complete woman, she wears a hat or headdress, coiffure, shoes and all manner of enchanting accessories. Even the practical has a patina of the theatrical. Bold gem colours of coral, turquoise, chartreuse and the blue of lapis lazuli are housed in the finest gold and are offset by the contrast of black and white.

Their designs are the stuff of dreams calling for the most luxurious of fabrics and opulent prints, indeed this collection boasts the best prints of the season. Precious jewels and amulets are displayed as a whole swathe or turned into gorgeous strips of silk ribboning and trims. Elsewhere, garments feature hand painting and digital prints of artwork by Australian contemporary artist Nell.

Reality is never enough for Romance Was Born and so a fascination formed with the magical land Fantasia, a land created by the hopes and dreams of humankind. Inspired by the dual nature of the Empress’ magical talisman – AURYN whose serpents entwine to represent the two worlds, Fantasia and Reality but also the twin nature of their mutual creation and destruction.

Show Credits:

Show Producer - Rachel Tuffery
Creative Director - Mark Vassallo
Stylist - Caterina Scardino
Hair Director - Alan White for GHD
Make Up Director - Natasha Severino for M.A.C
Skincare - SK-II
Nails - Sally Hansen
Music Direction - Jonny Seymour, Mandy Warhol and Nick Wales with Sydney Youth Orchestra and Australian Youth Choir
Conductor - George Ellis
Floral Styling - Lisa Cooper and Simone Booch
Hats - Teresa Redrup
Eyewear - Polaroid for Romance Was Born
Jewellery - Autore
Shoes - Bloch customised by Romance Was Born
Hosiery - Jonathan Aston and Levante
PR and Sponsorship - Little Hero

Supported by sponsors: SK-II, ghd, M.A.C, Polaroid, Sally Hansen, MOTIF wine, Santa Vittoria, The State Library of NSW, Crystallized Swarovski Elements, Australian Youth Choir, Sydney Youth Orchestra, Autore, Publisher Textiles, Think Positive and Karen Willis Holmes.

Are you the next Little Hero?

2011-05-19T00:47:00.001+10:00

Little Hero is looking for a dynamic person to join their creative team as an Account Executive.

The ideal candidate must have excellent interpersonal communication skills both written and verbal, be a team player who uses initiative to produce results, possess a love for fashion and pop culture as well as the ability to think on their feet, problem solve and manage time effectively.

The role is working with a savvy team that understands the new media frontier and works together to produce excellent results for our clients. The successful candidate will be free flowing with ideas to formulate creative pitches for editorial opportunities, be a strong writer, have a sound understanding of social media and bring an enthusiastic spirit and flexibility to work across ongoing projects to a fast paced environment.

Day to day tasks include client liason, press release and blog writing, news and feature pitching, showroom appointments, strategic media planning, report writing, media monitoring and event co-ordination.

Professional experience:

Developed media relationships in particular with freelance writers, editors and online contacts
A minimum of 2 years PR experience and a proven track record of results
Excellent writing skills and verbal communication; both face to face and phone
Savvy with Word, Excel and Photoshop, as well as administrative efficiency and knowledge of social media platforms
A degree in PR, Communications, Writing or Marketing would be valuable but not essential

Please email your CV and a short cover letter detailing what you would bring to the role. For further detail about the role please contact us.

Applications close 1 Jun 2011.

Email - fashionprjob1@gmail.com

Burgers and Nails

2011-05-16T17:19:00.000+10:00

There is nothing that goes better with a sesame seed bun and a sloppy patty than a bit 'o nail art.

That's right why not accessorise that double whopper jnr double down'd with cheese with a few digits covered in Sally Hanson's Salon Effects.

Images courtesy of http://nailburgerlar.tumblr.com/

Fashion Week Hero: Jake Terrey

2011-05-10T16:18:00.000+10:00

We were introduced to twenty year old superstar photographer Jake Terrey backstage at our shows last week and were instantly swept away by his work.

Watch this space, seriously.

www.jaketerrey.com

Gail Sorronda - Backstage Look (RAFW 2011)

2011-05-04T14:33:00.000+10:00

All photos taken by Daniel Boud

(http://www.boudist.com/)

Flannel - Backstage Look (RAFW 2011)

2011-05-04T14:17:00.000+10:00

All photos taken by Daniel Boud

(http://www.boudist.com/)

Flannel - Backstage Look: Hair and Make-up

2011-05-04T12:46:00.000+10:00

Senior Make-up Artist for MAC Australia, Nicole Thompson, gives us a sneak peak into the products used to achieve the make-up look at yesterday's Flannel RAFW show:

Redken Hair Director, Jon Pulitano, of Headcase Hair (Paddington), has also given us an inside look into how to achieve the slicked back, slightly messy pony tails on show at Flannel:

Use Redken Guts 10 Volume Spray Foam throughout the lengths of hair, coating strands.

Hair is designed to look as if the model has pulled it back into a pony-tail herself. Don't slick it back too tightly - hair should retain some height at the crown. The texture should be messy and sexy

Use an elastic to secure hair in a ponytail at the base of the head. Wrap strands of hair around the elastic to hide it.

Spray liberal amounts of Redken Forceful 23 Super Strength Finishing Spray in order to secure hair around the elastic. On a low setting, use a hair-dryer to secure the hair around the elastic

Finally, to give the hair a glossy sheen, apply Redken Hardwear 16 Super Strong Gel to the hair on the head. This will leave a glaze and some serious control!

Stay tuned for back-stage pictures from the Flannel and Gail Sorronda shows.

Romance Was Born - Backstage Look (RAFW 2011)

2011-05-03T12:11:00.000+10:00

Here is a look at the back-stage preparations for Romance Was Born's S/S 2011-2012 show at the Mitchell Library, Sunday 1st May.

All photos taken by Daniel Boud (http://www.boudist.com/)

Kick off RAFW with LIFEwithBIRD and Nearly Nude

2011-04-29T14:22:00.004+10:00

Rosemount Australian Fashion Week may not have officially kicked off yet, but we have already been treated to feminine designs and modern silhouettes courtesy of LIFEwithBIRD and Nearly Nude.

Melbourne label LIFEwithBIRD showed their Spring-Summer 2011-2012 collection yesterday with aplomb – a minimalist collection of back-to-basics slips and dresses in creams and grey, peppered with some floral prints. These garments were paired with luxury, seamless underwear from show sponsors Nearly Nude.

Exuding a classic elegance, the LIFEwithBIRD range offered up many workable pieces, with sheer blouses, flowing chiffon and cream trousers proving a highlight. The surrounds, Boutwell Draper Gallery in Redfern, were modest, and allowed the clothes to speak for themselves. Hair at the show was by John Pulitano for Headcase Hair.

The first half of the collection showed off the Nearly Nude brand, whose flesh toned intimates and shape-wear were visible in many looks. Models wore Nearly Nude Skinny Strap Tanks and Ultimate Comfort Briefs under translucent, thigh-skimming creations.

Stay tuned at The Daily Hero for our Rosemount Australian Fashion Week schedule and coverage!

This is Happening

2011-04-04T08:46:00.000+10:00

LCD Soundsystem played their last gig at Madison Square Gardens in New York on the weekend.

We'll be keeping our eyes and ears peeled for the next instalment from the excellent James Murphy. We're pretty sure he'll have a trick or two up his sleeve.

High five!

-RB

Window Shopping!

2011-03-31T10:37:00.001+11:00

Must admit to more than a minor obsession with the incredible Jenny Kee, and this week she launched her very own e-shop!!
Limited Edition scarves in some of her most iconic graphics, including the Black Opal print Chanel took a fancy to in 1983, are available now....
Don't just sit there- click through!!

xo
M

P.S.

2011-03-25T11:11:00.000+11:00

Check out our latest OTW Kailah Hart, only 15 and already a rockstar!

Keep an eye out for this one come Fashion Week...

xo
M

Lost & Found

2011-03-25T11:03:00.001+11:00

How do you simultaneously preview lingerie and mainline launches?

Step by Step here...

Kate Sylvester's Lost & Found Presentation from PEDESTRIAN.TV on Vimeo.

xo
M

5, 4, 3, 2, 1

2011-03-24T18:51:00.000+11:00

- RB

Stop, drop, roll it to the...

2011-03-24T18:12:00.000+11:00

Fashion Gone Rogue!

2011-03-23T12:52:00.004+11:00

Stolen Girlfriends Club took fashion to the masses- or at least a large number of inadvertent ‘guests’ in Auckland’s New World supermarket in Victoria Park, employing guerilla tactics to present their latest collection ‘Untitled’.

A grocery trip inspired the NZ boys to take fashion out of it’s usual context and stage a random, public pop-up show using the product aisles as runways when twenty models did the pony step for unsuspecting supermarket shoppers!

Never know what you're going to find in the fresh produce...

Bubble Boy

2011-03-21T11:49:00.001+11:00

Pioneer fashion photographer Melvin Sokolsky's ground breaking series 'Bubble' 1963 and 1965's 'Fly'.
Why snap a dress by the Seine when you can put it in a bubble and suspend it over the Seine?

xo
M

If we don't, remember me

2011-03-12T01:03:00.000+11:00

If we don't,
remember me.

An inspired tumblr...

click on link and count to 5...

http://iwdrm.tumblr.com/post/2406601773

Twist Top, Thumbs Off, Tally Ho!

2011-03-12T00:31:00.000+11:00

It's true; we love the Kiwi's. They're just really good people and talented to boot! This week one of NZ's most influential and superb bands, 'The Clean' played in Sydney and it was a real treat.

A few vids...

Two thumbs up!

Tally Ho all things must go!

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Clean

- RB

Lost

2011-03-11T11:34:00.000+11:00

I can see it in your eyes, I can see it in your smile...
Sadly, no tags taken....

Afternoon Tea

2011-03-08T16:41:00.000+11:00

Cake time at Philadelphia-based artist Amy Steven's place is something special....

Can you believe her weapon of choice is the Martha Stewart Cake Decorating Kit?

It's all about the icing!

COUNTERFEIT CROCHET

2011-03-02T16:41:00.000+11:00

Debasing and defiling designer items one step at a time...

www.counterfeitcrochet.org

Sunday

2011-02-27T19:37:00.000+11:00

- RB

Anja and Animal

2011-02-27T19:19:00.000+11:00

Anja an old friend visited from Berlin over the weekend...we see each other every year or so and pick up where we left off. Anja is a Junior Professor of Cultural Studies and is currently researching the concept of 'rhythm' in society; reminded me of Johnny Cash...

We took a walk and found an inspired book 'Animal' by American artist Elliot Ross which is a series of portraits of animals from an isolated and powerful viewpoint. Vastly different from our fun and fashionable 'Painted Paws' post, I loved the sense of calm in these images.

"Anyone who truly wants to escape human solipsism should not seek out empty places. Instead of fleeing to the desert, where they will be thrown back into their own thoughts, they will do better to seek the company of other animals." John Gray, Straw Dogs: thoughts on humans and other animals

http://www.elliotross.com/

- RB

Out Getting Ribs!

2011-02-18T17:48:00.001+11:00

We've been all about the music lately, so we'd hate to come to the end of a long day and leave you hanging. Slip off the last of the week's stress before you head out for a Friday night feed with the musical stylings of wunderkind Zoo Kid...

Enjoy the weekend kids!

xo
M

Girl Crush: Sylve Colless

2011-02-18T17:33:00.000+11:00

Ever since Rusty introduced us to triple threat Sylve Colless we have to confess to a minor obsession. That's not dance, act and sing by the way, it's smart, talented and smokin'. While she's not posing or shooting for Rusty, or conceptualising covers for Stab (by the way she boards as well), she is adding to a personal collection of works that is enigmatic and hauntingly beautiful.

Not just a pretty face!

Check out more of Sylve's work here:
Sylve Colless
The Five Point Five

She Bop!

2011-02-11T16:51:00.000+11:00

It's been a bit of a musical marathon lately- what with laneways piling up with ridiculously good looking crowds (seriously people- get thee to a festival!) and side-show alleys teaming with great acts we haven't known which way to look first!

Here are some of our favourite girly tunes from the past week or so to get your weekend underway...

LA outfit Warpaint brought 'experimental art rock' to town.
We're not sure what that is exactly, but we like it!

Sorry, but they had me at Bowie...

Warpaint- Ashes to Ashes (David Bowie cover)

...we like her old stuff better than her new stuff..

Cat Power - Free

...freaky folk...

CocoRosie - By Your Side

...new folk...

(watch this video, if only for the speedos...)

Beach House - Lover of Mine

...Blonde Redhead...

Blonde Redhead- 23

..and last but not least- some vintage MIA!
We love MIA, not just because she pops into the show room to play with Romance Was Born and Claire Inc, but because she rocks it on stage.

MIA - Sunshowers

Happy trails!

xo
M

Painted Paws

2011-02-04T16:00:00.001+11:00

Ever wanted a tiger all of your own? Or perhaps a panda to cuddle up to? There's no point in registering your residence as a zoo- just take that pooch of yours down to the parlour for a pamper and a paint job!

Do you find the latest canine craze in China as weird/amazeballs as we do?

But wait- these puppies aren't alone.....
Hellooo kitties!!!

Cute couple?

All we know is we're sorted come Halloween!

Really though-we prefer our pets au natural...

...like Therese Rawsthorne's puppy Scrap....

or Anna Plunkett's lucky pooch Monaro- seen here in a hand-knitted Rabbtoh's sweater by

Romance Was Born!

Retro-FAB!!

2011-01-19T16:10:00.000+11:00

Kate Sylvester's naughty little sister 'Sylvester' has rocked up at Little Hero, and we're raiding her suitcase for retro fab plaid, pretty florals and a killer leopard print.

My favs? These crazy-cool polka dot pants, which I'm actually considering wearing with the matching blouse- who doesn't love a walking optical illusion?!!

Set Adrift On Memory Bliss

2011-01-19T16:00:00.000+11:00

Welcome to 2011!
As the NY revelations are now but a distant memory, and work emails start flooding your inbox, Little Hero has compiled the perfect audio selection to soothe you back into that summer state of mind....

Didn't make the Christmas list? Here's the track listing!

School's Out For Summer...

2011-01-19T15:27:00.000+11:00

But IN for Autumn/Winter

Kate Sylvester is schooling us in cool by seamlessly stitching sportswear with couture in her upcoming collection 'Lost & Found', and we're happy to stay back after class!

Pulling from 70s images of muse-worthy Loulou de la Falaise and stills from Swedish art house flick Let the Right One In , 1970’s sportswear is reworked in featherweight chiffons and silks, the field comes into play with boucle knit sweaters and cardigans in rugby stripes, and an explosive Rubik’s cube print is pure math 1.01. But If, like myself, you're more of a spectator than a sportswoman, 'sweater girl’ knits, silk blouses and dresses in floral prints, skirts in mink, caramels, violet or lace, or dresses and tops laced with tiny sequins should keep you warm in the stands.

I FEEL GREAT

2010-12-11T00:28:00.000+11:00

Want to know why?

Claire Inc is the answer.

This weeks newest additions to the online shopping site are incredible!

Loads of 80's and 90's fun.

From Chanel, Lagerfeld and Moschino (of course!)

+ my Personal Favourite - a stunning Yohji Yamamoto Jumpsuit.

Get in quick cause these pieces won't wait around.
To see more go to www.claireinc.com

Weekend Video

2010-10-15T15:36:00.000+11:00

The PEN Story from PENStory on Vimeo.

Showing what you can do with stop-motion film-making, this film by PENStory was made after shooting 60,000 pictures, making 9,600 prints and re-shooting over 1,800 pictures.

Marvellous weekends to you all!

Aline Smithson: Arrangement In Green and Black

2010-10-14T10:33:00.000+11:00

I came across these fantastic works by artist Aline Smithson and immediately fell in love.
She explains the concept for the series on her website:

"The series incorporates traditional photography techniques, yet becomes richer with the treatment of hand painting. It is my intent to have the viewer see the work in a historical context with the addition of color.
My patient 85 year-old mother posed in over 20 ensembles, but unfortunately passed away before seeing the finished series. I am grateful for her sense of humor and the time this series allowed us to be together."

www.alinesmithson.com

Summer Camp -"Round The Moon"

2010-10-13T15:52:00.000+11:00

Paired with footage from the 1970 Roy Andersson film, A Swedish Love Story, "Round The Moon" is our pick of the week.
Watch it below!

SUMMER CAMP - Round the Moon from Paddy Power on Vimeo.

Super Sonic Sale - STARTS TOMORROW!

2010-09-01T14:51:00.000+10:00

Get ready for take-off, as the Super Sonic Sale starts TOMORROW!

And, even more excitingly, MARSU HOMME is hot-footing it as a last-minute check-in to the sale!

Here's those deets again:

If, like me, you haven't got your monocle handy, and need help with that fine font ...

The sale is at:

Tom Dunne Gallery
11 Little Burton Street
Darlinghurst
Phone: 0409 921 290

BE THERE!

x Samone

Super Sonic Sale - 3 days to go!

2010-08-30T13:01:00.001+10:00

Gearing up for the Super Sonic Sale, blasting off this Thursday?

With just 3 days to go, here's a sneaky peek of what to expect from ...

ANTIPODIUM:

and

FRIEDRICH GRAY:

And here's that flyer again:

More sneaky peeks ... tomorrow!

x Samone

Super Sonic Sale - one week to go!

2010-08-26T19:26:00.000+10:00

The Art of Happiness, I am sure the Dalai Lama will tell you, has nothing to do with happy pants.

In fact, let's forget happy pants, cos this post is all about Happy Socks.

Happy Pants. Forget them. Please!

Oh, Happy Socks. How you make me Happy!

Even a lonely Happy Sock looks Happy!

And, what makes me even Happier, is the thought of Happy Socks on sale! Opportune for my Happiness, is the fact that the Super Sonic Sale is on in just one week, Happy Socks n' all!

Here's the details again:

And, here's some more Happy Socks!

More Super Sonic Sale sneaky peeks ... SOON!

Super Sonic Sale - two-week COUNTDOWN!

2010-08-19T16:57:00.001+10:00

Sonic Youth ...

Sonic boom ...

Sonic the Hedgehog.

Lawd, there are so many SUPER SONIC things, here's another for your list!

And, the sale kicks off in TWO WEEKS' TIME, so lock it in your SUPER SONIC SCHEDULE.

Watch this space for some SUPER SONIC sneaky peeks ...

SOON!

x Samone

Florence Welch totally digs Stolen Girlfriends Club

2010-08-13T14:00:00.000+10:00

Pssst!

Word on the street says that Florence Welch (of Florence and the Machine, ya dingo!) TOTALLY DIGS our favourite Kiwi renegades, Stolen Girlfriends Club.

See Flo go in London! Dressed in Stolen Girlfriends Club,
of course.

And, if that's not enough bona fide evidence for you, Florence recently dropped by Stolen Girlfriends Club headquarters, NZ. There, she cuddled teensy leopard-print clad baby dolls with Marc Moore ...

Struck a pose in Stolen Girlfriends Club's Batcape Dress ...

And, if you won't take my word for it, WROTE HER VERY OWN AFFIDAVIT!

Word on the street: Florence Welch Totally Digs Stolen Girlfriends Club.

Bona fide.

x Samone

Julia deVille and William Llewellyn Griffiths: The Exhibition!

2010-07-20T12:27:00.000+10:00

It's not so often that I quote Edgar Allan Poe. That is, unless you count my midnightly ritual of slipping out to the local cemetery and raising the occupants with a rousing Cockney knees-up recitation of 'The Raven', thus:

Then this ebony bird beguiling my sad fancy into smiling,
By the grave and stern decorum of the countenance it wore,
'Though thy crest be shorn and shaven, thou,' I said, 'art sure no craven.
Ghastly grim and ancient raven wandering from the nightly shore --
Tell me what thy lordly name is on the Night's Plutonian shore!'
Quoth the raven, 'Nevermore.'

So anyway, this brings to mind an upcoming joint exhibition by Melbourne-based artists Julia deVille and William Llewellyn Griffiths at the Sophie Gannon Gallery from 28 July to 21 August. Both artists are well known for their exquisitely delicate interpretations of all things creepy, kooky, mysterious and spooky.

Check these tiny critters a-glitter beyond this mortal coil in marcasite, diamonds, silver and gold.

Julia deVille's 'Night's Plutonian Shore':

William Llewellyn Griffith's 'A Deus Ex Machina':

And, if a distraught young urchin child happens to tug at your shirt-sleeve and yowl: "But why isn't Angelina Ballerina dancing?" you are soooooo of the hook, Jimmy!

The little mousies are en pointe in a diorama driven by gears!

Where is it again?

Sophie Gannon Gallery
2 Albert Street
Richmond, VIC, 3121

And when did you say?

28 July to 21 August, 2010

And, as they say in the taxidermy biz: GET THERE OR GET STUFFED!

x Samone

Gail Sorronda is gale force!

2010-07-13T17:35:00.000+10:00

Hang on to your hats, kids, because Gail Sorronda is one label a-stormin' up a serious gale. Yeah, you heard the forecast! Hector Pascal’s manning the Barometric Pressure Bar and it’s weather-related puns ALL ROUND.

Now obviously I don’t know a single thing about meteorology, but I do know that Gail Reid’s label Gail Sorronda was recently announced as one of seven finalists in the Vogue Italia emerging talent competition 'Who Is On Next'.

Well, friends at Vogue Italia, I can confidently answer your question (curiously devoid of a question-mark, which means it is probably a statement), thus:

GAIL SORRONDA IS ON NEXT, THAT’S WHO!

(Only don’t ask me to say it in Italian.)

So, as a finalist for 'Who Is On Next', Reid presented the Gail Sorronda ‘Murmur’ collection in Rome last Saturday. As you can see, the SS 2010/11 collection is a diaphanous plume of exquisite gathering, ruffles and tulle, all tethered with zips, buckles, seriously taut tailoring.

And, speaking of hats, as I vaguely was at some point, get a goosey gander at these hats, why don’t ya?

Gail Reid may have called this collection Murmur, but I say SPOLMONARSI.

(According to my real Italian friends -- also known as Google Translator, as my real Italian friends are, at a pinch, fictional -- ‘spolmonarsi’ means ‘shout oneself hoarse').

So, I'll shout myself hoarse by shouting, hoarsely:

SPOLMONARSI!

x Samone

Friedrich Gray Studio Store

2010-06-07T14:59:00.000+10:00

MAN ALIVE!

If there is anything to be positively scintillated about on this gloomy old Monday is Glum-day, it would have to be Friedrich Gray's Studio Store opening this Thursday June 10.

Up for grabs is the Winter 2010 collection, the Friedrich Gray studio collection, archive pieces, prototypes, and, if THAT isn't enough for you, you greedy thing, custom-made leather jackets to order!

So where is the store?

Level 1/1 Dunning Ave (Cnr Epsom Rd), Rosebery.

And when is the store open?

Wed-Fri 12pm-7pm
Sat 10am-2pm
and by appointment info@friedrichgray.com

Even more excitingly, there, within the studio space, is a HOUSE. Here is a mysterious sneaky peek of this mind-bending concept, just for you:

You got it: there is a HOUSE in the HOUSE, which is actually a STUDIO, and now, a STUDIO STORE.

Things are starting to feel positively David Lynch-tastic round these parts (and that's always a very good thing).

x Samone

Romance Was Born: If your collection was a mood ring, what colour would it be glowing?

2010-05-06T23:31:00.005+10:00

We asked Anna Plunkett of Romance Was Born: "If your collection was a mood ring, what colour would it be glowing?"

And you'll find the answer at the spot marked 'PLAY'.

Romance Was Born: A few questions after the show with Anna

2010-05-06T23:09:00.006+10:00

After the show, we caught up with Romance Was Born's Anna Plunkett to ask the questions that COUNT (especially by halves).

Question 1: What story is the collection telling?

It’s the story of dinosaurs getting transported through a crystal portal to the Renaissance to savage the upper class and free the lower class … and eat them.

Question 2: How did this story translate into the show?

The building and the set had a Renaissance kind of feel for us, for Australia, and the jungle is meant to be like Jurassic Park … we were inspired by the movie and the soundtrack.

Question 3: Was there a particular piece in the collection that you most connected with, or found most challenging to execute?

I really love the first outfit, the mask was the first Pandora mask that we did. I love the volcano, the crystal girl, and the bride. I really like the shoulder ride.

Question 4: In the mad lead-up to tonight’s show, who or what have been your daily heroes to help get you through?

Nella and all our workies … and my boyfriend. Just so many people to mention.

***

x Samone and Jaye

Our Daily Hero: Meet Narelle Robertson

2010-05-06T22:09:00.009+10:00

The warm, gorgeous, and unassuming Narelle Robertson is a beloved hero of Romance Was Born. Narelle's nimble whirling of the thread came into play in the days leading up to last night's show.

And we all know what a stitch in time saves, don't we? (Answer: nine.)

"I've just been helping the guys. There's just so much handwork to do, just lots of little jobs to put it together to get to the total garment that they want. It takes a day just to embellish these sleeves and put them together."

Narelle, as the first Daily Hero featured on this blog, we salute you!

x Samone and Jaye

Romance Was Born: 'Renaissance Dinosaur', SS2010/11

2010-05-06T21:32:00.013+10:00

Last night, The University of Sydney’s majestic MacLaurin Hall was the holding pen for Romance Was Born’s ‘Renaissance Dinosaur’ SS2010/11 spectacular. In the best kind of theatre, a trail of tinkling, thudding, and galloping ivories lured guests up the neo-Gothic staircase and into the venue. On the landing, we were met by a pianist in friar robes and a Venetian mask. A horned technicolour furry toy lounged on the grand piano lid, much like Michelle Pfeiffer in ‘The Fabulous Baker Boys’.

As the crowd surged inside, the room began wheezing with animal calls, grunts, and rumbles that built to a prehistoric hysteria. The scene was a moss-laden Eden of ferns and palms, dripping with vines. The runway was a glittering volcanic wonderland, laden with crystals, incense sticks, tiny insects, and a Late Cretaceous Period up-sized tortoise.

Jurassic foot-stomps stormed the walls and rafters, and then the show was ON.

And how to describe this riotous rumpus? Let’s try for some bullet points:

* Rainbow-coloured fairy-floss hair plumed sky high with headpieces of horns, chunky crystals, diamante hairnets, feathers, fans, and smatterings of Pandora charms.

* Necks were appliqued with a funereal rhinestone-studded lace. Nails were not nails, they were talons.

* The somehow lovechild of Princess Amidala and a Gothic Geisha strutted with an armoury of artificial fingernails embedded in her chestpiece.

* A floaty violin-print tunic and trouser set was made to waltz to its own tune.

* Raquel Welch’s ‘One Million Years BC’ met Toucan Sam in a deliciously lurid jungle-print bolero and shorts set.

* A gold-flecked knight of the Crusades heralded a bride-zilla riding on the shoulders of her groom.

And, the outfit that blew the roof right off that hall …

* The human volcano.

It was a BLAST.

Photo courtesy of vogue.com.au (final photograph only, all other photographs taken by Jaye Carcary).

x Samone and Jaye

Romance Was Born: Behind the scenes hair and make up

2010-05-06T16:09:00.014+10:00

Faces of Romance Was Born: 'Renaissance Dinosaur' SS2010/11.

Make up by super-talented Natasha Severino for MAC, hair by the extraordinary Lores Giglio for Fudge.

x Jaye

Romance Was Born: Top 10 looks snapped outside the show

2010-05-06T00:44:00.018+10:00

Q: What is your favourite creature with wings?
A: That would have to be a bird.

Q: What is your favourite national costume?
A: The lederhosen from Germany.

Q: Where is your favourite spot to take a seaside holiday?
A: Jervis Bay.

Q: What is your favourite African animal with stripes?
A: The zebra.

Q: Who is your favourite artist to disco with?
A: Donna Summer.

Q: Who is your favourite character in a film?
A: Rex Harrison as Henry Higgins in 'My Fair Lady'.

Q: What is your favourite thing that glitters or shines?
A: This top.

Q: What was the last song you listened to?
A: 'Paris' by the Friendly Fires.

Q: What was your favourite sport as a child?
A: Soccer - the same as it is now.

Q: What are you having for dinner tomorrow night?
A: Vietnamese, please!

***

x Jaye

Therese Rawsthorne: If your collection was a mood ring, what colour would it glow?

2010-05-05T14:23:00.003+10:00

We asked Therese Rawsthorne "If your collection was a mood ring, what colour would it glow?"

HIT PLAY!

Therese Rawsthorne: A few questions after the show

2010-05-05T13:59:00.007+10:00

We stopped Therese Rawsthorne after the show, and asked her a few questions about the collection and how she chose to bring it to us...

Question 1: What story is your collection telling?

I was inspired by a road trip I did last year in the desert in America. I really wanted to create a sense of vastness with incredible spots of beauty. When you're driving through the desert it's really desolate and open, and then you come across these beautiful plants that are often so quirky and unusual.

Question 2: How did this inspire today's show?

It was reflected in this space we showed in. Obviously there is no desert in Sydney, so we needed to find somewhere that would give that sense of space and openness. Because this building is so old, rustic and industrial, it gave that feeling of emptiness that I really wanted to capture. The embellishment of the colours in the collection were the idea of those beautiful odd-spots of beauty in that desert space.

Question 3: Was there a particular piece in the collection that you most connected with or found most challenging to execute?

The jacket with the tulle overlays was quite tricky, it was the first time we've done something like that. Yes, it was tricky!

Question 4: In the mad lead-up to today's show, who or what have been your daily heroes to help get you through?

I guess definitely Rae, Tanya and Dane at Little Hero, my God, those people work hard. My little bunch of interns are quite incredible, they were there at 3 o'clock this morning, I can't believe they are so dedicated and into it!

Therese Rawsthorne: 'The Wanderer', SS 2010/11

2010-05-05T13:18:00.012+10:00

Gentle tailoring and draping were buzz words at Therese Rawsthorne's SS 2010/11 RAFW show 'The Wanderer' this morning. The imposing stark industrial venue faded into the background with exquisite flashes of jewel-like scarlet in the way of cocktail-style dresses, with twisted shoulder detailing.

Nude and black footless tights were gilded and glorious with braiding running as seamlines down the front. A statement black shirt-dress took on the insouciant look of a loose and oversized 80s blazer, with a drawstring reigning it in for feminine emphasis at the drop-waist.

Soft and pretty prints conjuring Matisse were in muted plum-like tones on softly-rounded chiffon skirts and wrap-dresses that flared with flair, and tapered in mid-thigh. Shoes by Tristain Blair had a gentle toughness added with tubular ankle bracelets skimming the vamp.

'The Wanderer' was a triumphant mix of softness meets structure.

***

x Samone and Jaye

Therese Rawsthorne: backstage and walk-through, pre show

2010-05-05T13:02:00.008+10:00

Linda Jefferyes for MAC, make-up artist extraordinaire, back stage before the show.

Pre-show walk-through among the industrial steel pylons and polished concrete. The upscale venue at the Australian Technology Park, Eveleigh, set the tone for Therese Rawsthorne's show, and that tone was phenomenal!

x Samone and Jaye

An early start ...

2010-05-05T12:50:00.006+10:00

Bondi was all moody skies and keen anticipation as the Daily Hero team made the 7am commute out to the Australian Technology Park, Eveleigh, for the Therese Rawsthorne show. We were glad for the cupola of Sonoma's oven-roasted breakfast crunch that greeted us when we arrived.

In a word: taste-tastic.

Friedrich Gray: If your collection was a mood ring, what colour would it be glowing?

2010-05-04T23:02:00.003+10:00

We asked Friedrich Gray's Ben Pollitt "If your collection was a mood ring, what colour would it be glowing?"

Can't wait for the surprise? Find out ... HERE!

Ruby Rose loves Friedrich Gray

2010-05-04T22:55:00.006+10:00

Post show: A big thumbs-up from Ruby Rose in a one-off piece designed for her by Friedrich Gray.

Friedrich Gray: 'Refraction', SS2010/11

2010-05-04T22:51:00.004+10:00

Entering the runway through a mirrored portal of multi-faceted reflections, Friedrich Gray’s ‘Refraction’ SS2010/11 collection featured black with shards of white and white with shards of black.

Sharp shapes shifted with extended sleeves, scrunched finishing, and cutaway tanks. Black mesh and leather raced to the finish line with hints of motorcycle chic and triangular details.

***

x Samone and Jaye

Flannel: If your collection was a mood ring, what colour would it glow?

2010-05-04T22:15:00.004+10:00

We asked Flannel's designer Kristy Lawrence "If your collection was a mood ring, what colour would it glow?"

ALL REVEALED, HERE!

Flannel: A few questions with Kristy Lawrence, post show

2010-05-04T22:07:00.008+10:00

We asked Flannel's Kristy Lawrence a few pressing questions after the show ...

Question 1: What story is this collection telling

I think it’s about the free-spirited woman that starts feeling good about herself, she’s got comfort. It really came from the early 80s when women started to feel empowered, I suppose.

Question 2: Was there a particular piece that you most connected with or found most challenging to execute?

My favourite piece was the bias-cut dress with the ties on the side, it’s just a very cleverly cut garment. So simple, with few stitch lines, but it’s my favourite. Gorgeous!

Question 3: In the mad lead-up to today’s show, who or what have been your daily heroes to help get you through?

I had the most amazing team, an amazing stylist, an amazing producer, and Rae at Little Hero, too. My family, really!

***

Flannel: 'Catch My Drift', SS2010/11

2010-05-04T21:51:00.006+10:00

A sepia-toned nostalgia of buttery leathers and creamy suede conjured old-world luxury with a modern aesthetic at Flannel’s ‘Catch My Drift’ show tonight.

Sweet flutter-thigh shorts were paired with soft leather tees. Trapeze-like tanks knotted at the side billowed breezily.

Slouchy striped shirt-dresses were cinched at the waist, while soft suede tunics drifted with fringing. The palette blushed beautifully with a rose-hued slip dress cut on the bias, as tassels dangled like tiny buds on the hemline.

Flannel's Kristy Lawrence and two models straight off the runway.

x Samone and Jaye

Flannel: Sunday fittings at Little Hero showroom, pre RAFW

2010-05-04T21:34:00.011+10:00

Floating through the Little Hero showroom in a creamy wash of Flannel.

Goofing off and gorgeous!

Stomping the boards in Dr Martens boots.

Julia Nobis and Bambi Northwood-Blyth we love you.

x Samone and Jaye

Friedrich Gray: Refraction. Two SS 2010/11 garments up close!

2010-05-04T15:14:00.005+10:00

“We’ve used the definition of refraction and the angles of light in the patterns. The negative space is used to create shapes and visual effects.” – Ben Pollitt, Friedrich Gray

Friedrich Gray: Ben Pollitt and Tim Richardson on their collaboration for tonight's show

2010-05-04T14:49:00.008+10:00

We recently caught up with Friedrich Gray’s Ben Pollitt along with photographer, director, collaborator, and friend Tim Richardson. We discussed their collaborative work, the SS 2010/11 Friedrich Gray collection, and what went into presenting tonight’s show for Australian Fashion Week.

Ben Pollitt: The inspiration for the collection comes from Richard Serra and Banks Violet, these are two artists that Tim introduced me to. After showing Tim the collection and the inspiration images, he went away and came up with some ideas for the runway, and I liked the concepts.

Tim Richardson: We considered what we could do with the space that gives the show some kind of unique quality. I started talking about doing something that was architectonic or sculptural. I tend to work within a balance of the creative dynamic of what I can bring to it, and what Ben can bring to it. Then we talk about how and what we can actually afford to execute.

Question: How did the sculptural piece for the show come about?

Tim: This piece came about because I was looking at a lot of art in New York that I was really interested in that has a basis in music. Ben and I play music as a kind of inspiration … that’s one thing we have in common creatively as a starting point. I wanted to do something that was physical and had a presence in a room, but had a function as well. Because it’s all mirrored, it will be a beautiful amplification of what’s going on with the fashion. This being two-sided, it’s really nice, because as the girls walk through it, they will be multiplied. By choosing this medium, we are trying to make the most of the event and something for people to remember it by.

Ben: When the sculpture was in 3D, Tim tested how the light would reflect and refract from it. This where the name for the collection comes from, Refraction. When the models exit through the installation, the light refracts from the mirrors and shows you all the different sides of the garments.

Sculptural piece for the runway, under construction

Question: So how did you both come to work together originally?

Tim: I’ve known Ben since about 2004 before he had a label. He was recently out of school and changing careers. I moved to New York and he came and stayed with some other friends for a few months. We have a similar taste in music, and a lot of our references are musical. It’s very organic, the exchange. I think for me the reward is really simple, it’s being able to make projects on a situation-by-situation basis. It’s not like a traditional brand where you have a set campaign every year where you can afford to buy advertising space in magazines and you’re doing print. You’re really trying to take whatever medium you can get, and get the most out of it for the designer.

For me, it’s to find something that’s unique and interesting aesthetically. It has to be a balance of all those things. I work with a lot of big brands where you have a lot of money to spend, but it’s a very politicized situation. With Ben, I deal with the creative person, the marketing person, and the person who cares most about the brand all at the same time without having to wrestle with the dynamic of a big boardroom of people where you have to prove things all the time. Instead, it’s a one-on-one agreement.

Ben: We’ve known each other for 5 or 6 years, and this is the second project we’ve worked on together. Tim is also helping me with the lighting because he’s a photographer, that’s his profession. I trust Tim’s vision and how he works, so I let him look after those elements and he always comes back with something that’s incredible.

* * *