WITCHERY - Happy feet





Mine..all mine.. Witchery 'Mila Wedge'
 


& so... my love for Witchery continues. No matter how many times I globally shop... there is nothing like returning to what you love.. and for me, Witchery fashion has always been my fav. It depicts the Australian fuss free fashion style... xx

Today....I added to my Witchery collectibles..  the 'Mila Wedge' :)
A pair of very happy feet today! x

My plan? to wear them with any pant and skinnys this AU Winter... The statement will be on my feet :)



Kim T
Madam AE xx

NOUREEN DHANANI: Toronto Fashion Festival.... Bold and Vibrant

 
 
 
 
Fresh from the excitement at the Toronto Fashion Festival, exclusive pictures off the runway from Noureen Dhanani's first fashion festival collection.
 
Igniting life with colour; the collection depicts a vibrant and bold fusion of strong feminine colours.
 
Noureen Dhanani also had Bollywood actress; Neha Dhupia make her entrance at the Fashion Festival in a Custom Noureen Dhanani design.
 
The designer herself, was draped in a saree with literary texture to it ( for the after party).. ; forward, different and definitely no classic takes. Love it xx 
 
 
 
Kim T.
Madam AE xx
 
 
 
 
Noureen Dhanani with Bollywood actress Neha Dhupia in the showstopper piece
 
 

Bollywood Actress Neha Dhupia in exclusive showstopper piece Noureen Dhanani design
 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 


Noureen Dhanani with model Sabina Pasha at the After party
 
 

Noureen Dhanani with her sister at the Fashion Festival After party


Images: Noureen Dhanani

JIMMY CHOO : vintage... I suppose & some black is back

 
 
 


When in doubt and your wardrobe is offering no style ideas... return to the 'Black is Back' theory.. Black on black on black....

Out for dinner on an AU evening......I  opt for my favourite Witchery relaxed blazer on some blacks and my favourite black suede fur kitten heels xx

My first ever Jimmy Choo bag too :)  purchased back in some years ago....... so suppose it could be classified as Vintage ?? xx

BOOTS: sliding on and kicking up the right look





Winter is upon the fashion lovers in AU... putting away the open toes and bringing out the ankle boots and knee highs!

The staple Winter wears consists of your skinny's or leggings, jackets and boots.

Last Winter, boots didn't have a chance to make a long comeback, as the Winter peeped and went.  Come 2013, and this Winter, the boots have well and truly returned.  Ankle boots on skinny's are a slick and quick look to wearing a boot, it is the replacement to the Summer heel for  Winter :)  whereas the mid calf and full length boot is more of a Winter Warmer for the leg.

I recommend having two boot options;  flat heeled and one with a heel.  Casual Vs Stiletto style. Steer clear of severe round toe boots, I am not a fan of this look, it cuts your style short and robs you of that extra lengthy look in your leg... the illusion of long / lean is in the cut and style of the boot.

Unfortunately the flat heeled boot, serves no justice for those who are small in stature and height. It is merely a must have casual footwear to have during Winter, like that of the ballet flat. I recommend to give yourself a small heel or a wedge heel, don't go for the complete flat floor ( no heel ) boot if you lack height.

By night... kick up the look, and slide on a pair of calf, knee or thigh high boots over a slick pair of skinny's Thigh highs should not be worn lightly, to carry this look off with Style, always keep it tasteful with a sleek jacket or loose tunic style top. Steer clear of thigh highs over mini's.. it's about. style and class Vs something suggestive .. (the later should never be the case ) xx



KimT.
Madam AE xx








 
 











Images: Witchery, Style Sense.






SAMANTHA WILLS : Bohemian statement......

 
 

 
 
 
  Sunday Shopping @Samantha Wills.  I love the new Bohemian Bardot Ring collection.
A variety of bohemian inspired colours and stones. My favourite is the marble blue xx
 
There are few costume jewellery designers in Australia, and amongst the few and best is Samantha Wills designs.  She was one of the first designers to introduce and produce to the fashion circle in Australia, jewellery to make a statement to your style.
 
From her elaborate body and bib style pieces, to her now, wearable everyday collections.
 
Something Simple for your Sunday xx
 
 









 
 
 

 
 

 
 
Images: Samantha Wills
 

WHITES SANDS SWIMWEAR: Madam AE style giveaway

 
 
 
 
Win one of 5 White Sands Swimwear gift vouchers each to the value of $50.00
Like our page  Share our page xx
 

BIBI MAGAZINE: Madam AE fashion blogger




 
As I continue to take Madam AE international.
Find my fashion reviews in Bibi Magazine now xx

MEN'S STYLE ; Beware of the square

 
 
This week on Men's Style, NR our resident fashion enthusiast :) will be lending his opinion on putting on the 'right' shoe!  Become familiar with the words of NR as he makes himself comfortable in the Madam AE blog as one of our guest Men's Style contributors xx.

Over to NR...................




 So you have just entered into the 'professional' universe, a career in the 'real' world... what do you wear to work? You're asking yourself how do you make a great, not good.. but great! first impression?  My advice is to put aside the college style attire of jeans and a T-shirt or shorts with a T-shirt.  Go into the office "suited and booted!".

Clothes may not make the man, but it does give you a modicum of respect for the first few seconds you have to make an impression in any prospective job opportunity. First impressions last a lifetime. Literally from head to toe, plan your attire, prepare and be ready. Which leads me to this weeks style advice for the Modern professional Man - Give careful consideration to your footwear.



 
 
The choice of footwear, should always be appropriate. The fit shout be correct, and suited to the environment. This is key to dressing sharp. It is no secret that some say,you can judge a man by the shoes on his feet.

I am very particular about my footwear, never one to put the wrong shoe on, to me, it is important that if you're going to put that effort into dressing right.. then don't let your footwear succumb to neglect. The mistake often made by some young men is they invest in a great suit, but then throw on a pair of old square toe shoes!! this is a major fashion faux pas!

My stance on this is so strong, that I say; 'repeat after me;"I shall never ever wear square toe shoes".
Why? because:

1. square toe shoes do no justice for your feet except to make you look like you've got 'sponge bob square pants' clinging on your feet. You will look as though you have brick on your feet and 'chunky' is the word to use.

2. square toe shoes will make your outfit look outdated.  You'll walk in with an already expiry date to your style.

3. square toe shoes look too casual and relaxed. Instead of sharp and serious.

4. square toe shoes are for the Amish ( no personal offence to the Amish ), they will suck out the 'style' out of your complete look.


ummmmm.. NO!


Evaluate your shoe collection. Become familiar with what works and what won't. Other's may beg to differ, but I believe for the professional man, in investing in a good pair of quality shoes, that will retain it's style and wear - ability.

Stop lacing up the squares!

NR.


Thanks to the words of NR... his opinion on sharp footwear for the modern professional man. Noted and taken... according to the world of NR...... anything but square on the toes :) .... BEWARE OF THE SQUARE x


Kim T.
Madam AE xx


Image: Oxford Shoe ( versatile brown)
Image: www.details.com

FASHION : Madam AE... international in the BLOGGERSPHERE

 
 
 
 
 
Friday Fashion!.....  you can now find the fashion thoughts of Madam AE in one of North America's premiere glossy and digital fashion, lifestyle and entertainment magazines -
 Anokhi Magazine
 
Bringing a bit of the AU fashion review style of Madam AE, further into the International fashion bloggersphere :)

My blog has come a long way since I started penning small reviews a few years back.. For my loyal readers few would know that my blog took a small break a few years ago. Fast forward, I am back blogging away, due to a dear friend of mine Nick R. who has been one of the main reason's why this blog has re-emerged :).  With a terrific business mind and also creative in his own industry, he encouraged me to continue doing what I love, and that is to; write.....

So I hope you will enjoy reading my blog, as I share snippets of my life, the  things I love, and everything else in between xx

 
 
 
Kim T.
Madam AE xx
 

Leggings: My fashion pet peeve


Winter in Australia... is  well and truly here.. and my fashion pet peeve during Winter, is seeing the fashion blunder of  leggings worn with no over the hip-line cover up! 

Leggings are sleek and sexy, the alternative to a very tight skinny jean. So the golden rule to wearing leggings this season should be;

1.Invest in a good quality pair of leggings where the fabric is thick, and doesn't look like some sheer cloth that's been overwashed and thinning. ( I suggest the equestrian style legging). If you do opt for the sheer cotton version, then you may as well throw on a dirty sweat shirt.. as the wear you'll get out of them would only be about three washes, until it'll look like you're wearing a saggy pair of ... somethings.

2.Unless gravity is on your side from the behind... then please don't wear tops that sit just above the legging waistline. Wear tops that sit midway just enough to cover at least half or all of the behind and front. Ladies, you're not wearing gym gear, so keep it kept...... kept all in.

3. If you're throwing on a jacket, a cropped or over the hipline jacket is flattering. ( tuxedo style / relaxed blazer is my choice )

4.Finish off your legging look with a sleek pair of boots or a high point heel ( avoid the severe round toe boot.. a soft curve is ok)). Although it's tempting to throw on the signature ballet flats.... Boots create a cleaner look and line.

Style up your Winter, ladies! x


Kim T.
Madam AE xx


Equestrian style leggings
 
 

Relaxed blazer
 
 
 

mid point boot

Images: www.witchery.com.au

 

On - trend with the U.S

 
 



 
 Wearing the trend that's popping up in the U.S. .... Green just felt right... adding a 'pop' of colour to an otherwise drab Winter beginning in Australia xx 
 
 
 

Kim T.
Madam AE xx

SUSAN POSNICK: carefree beauty.... embracing, enjoying, living and giving

 
 
 
As  someone with experience in pr, as a writer, as an occasional traveller, as simply a person who is curious and inquisitive to know and understand a person's story, I have come across many different people. I have spoken to those who are well and truely established and succesful in their career and personal life, I have encountered those who are just on the rise or barely there, but the profiles who leave a sense of humbleness and an impression worth re-telling their story to other's, are the ones, regardless of how known they are, or their monetary value, they carry with them a distinct air of humility on their sleeve. The particular type of person, where regardless of the above, they have evolved not based on what they can afford today, but instead, on what they could afford in the school of life, where no amount of monetary abundance can give you..... and that is; drive, passion and the hunger to succeed and then to give back to others.

One person who reflects such a character, whom I had the pleasure of meeting and knowing, is someone, whom when I first met, entered with a distinct presence; confident, aware and clearly astute of everything around her, direct and straight to the point. With this strength, came the sense of just a 'woman',  a woman who carried a sense of beauty by way of having her own, knowing her own and engaging in her own, no airs and graces, but instead a whole lot of 'real'.. what you see is what you get (which can often be rare to find in those at the pinnacle of their success). She speaks of her achievements with humble tact, no loud and proud announcements, but instead a true degree of humility; letting her actions speak for themselves.  This woman.... is by the name of Susan Posnick.



Fast forward.... Susan Posnick is the creator and owner of Susan Posnick Cosmetics, a company born out of a personal experience, and  now a company  creating a new experience for millions of other women around the world. It was through an enduring personal experience of facial sun cancer to this previous make-up artist, which lead her to create a single product in January 2002; Colorflo.  A product which launched not only the beginning of Susan Posnick Cosmetics, but also raising the bar and the awareness of a wiser choice in beauty care and sun protection.

I remember clearly the first time I met Susan, and she spoke of her products. You know, when a person is trying to 'sell' their  passion, as opposed to   ' to tell' of their passion and what they have created and achieved..... and now sharing it with others, Susan was definately of the  later.

During this meeting, I had asked to view some of her products, curious to understand the concept and the difference to what sets it apart from an already saturated market of beauty products. Instantly, it was the sleek and innovative packaging which captured my attention, which then lead me to instinctively explore and play with it's functionability, and then the attraction to the range of colour palettes.. from classic dark reds, to muted monotones, nudes, brash and satin pink hues for the lips, very classic and not at all too experimental....... which is what I love. Classic palettes always attracts me xx. 

The core value in her cosmetic products, is to make "beauty, simple, portable, multi-purpose and functionable" - Susan Posnick. Directly appealing to the 21 - 71 year old demographic, you are never too of age to adopt simple and functionality in beauty. Her products encase intelligence  in beauty.. forward  and made for the 'woman' on the go, the woman of yesterday, today and tomorrow.


 
 
 Derived from a love to create products with the intention to make a difference in the everyday beauty routine of the 'everyday' woman. Susan Posnick Cosments, like that of it's creator, is fast making a presence internationally, with  products stocked in the U.S., Canada, England,Japan, New Zealand, Norway, The Netherlands, Ireland, Scotland, Belgium, Sweden, Panama and in Australia Online.

On a fashionable note;
Her style is classic, urban serene with a hint of boho .... that effortles chic and free-ness in style. When asked how she would describe her own style, I was pretty much spot on; "Classic, with a twist and little bit of boho chic thrown in" - Susan Posnick. Her fashion must have, she can't live without, is a great handbag and shoes :)

 The adage that beauty is skin deep is very true, even from a woman who has made up the faces of profiles such as Cindy Crawford and Diane Lane. When asked what beauty tip she would pass on, her answer: "a smile".....

And so I pen my words about a woman whom I believe dares to be that touch bit different, who lives with an element of carfree beauty.... to embrace, enjoy, live and remember :) xx



Kim T.
Madam AExx


Five Minutes with Susan Posnick:

Madam AE: What is the future for Susan Posnick Cosmetics?
Susan Posnick:  Our international is growing quite a bit, and our goal is to continue to expand in the U.S.

Our product range suits women the world over, our foundations and colors adapt to every skin tone, and I would of course would like to see every woman wearing colorflo for sun protection.

In addition, SPC is now partnering with an international humanitarian aid organization -  Linking the World, and the new face of Susan Posnick Cosmetics, is Mina Chang, the president of LTW. Giving back has always been important to me, and now with every purchase of a Susan Posnick Cosmetic, a portion of that sale will benefit LTW.

Madam AE: Which five words best descrive you?
Susan Posnick: Passionate, committed, ethical, compassionate and creative.

Madam AE: Who are your favourite designers?
Susan Posnick: Christian Louboutin and Alexander Mcqueen

Madam AE:Describe your ideal holiday
Susan Posnick: Being at the ocean.......even though I never get in the sun, you will find me by the water... the soothing sound, the smell, the warmth, the waves......all soothe my soul.

Madam AE: What piece of fashion advice would you pass on to our Madam AE reader's?
Susan Posnick: Developing your own sense of style takes time. Experiment with clothing, make-up and hair until you find the look you are most comfortable with - knowing that look, can change from one decade to the next. And remember it's ok to step out of your comfort zone from time to time, but if in doubt...... don't.


Susan Posnick Cosmetics: www.susanposnick.com
Australia: www.casperlewis.com.au



Images: Susan Posnick Cosmetics

WHITE SANDS : Madam AE Style giveaway......

 
 
 
 
 
 
One of my all time favourite swimwear labels White Sands, has hopped on board to participate in our Madam AE reader style giveaway! 
 
White Sands; forever embracing the stylish, sexy and sophisticated designs in swimwear..., have kindly gifted five vouchers, each to the value of $50.00!  
 
For those who are just about to feel the Sunshine. or you want to be ready for the next Sunshine.... go in the draw for your chance to win a White Sands gift voucher!... every chicky needs a pair of White Sands swimmers...... xx
 
It's quite easy... just head to our facebook page www.facebook.com/madamalexandrae. and LIKE our page... the Liking starts today!
 
For those who have already liked, we haven't forgotten about you! if you SHARE our page, you'll have a chance to own a pair of White Sands swimmers too!
 
 LIKE and SHARE xx
A voucher will be given away each week for the next five weeks! goodluck :)
 
THANK YOU WHITE SANDS ...
 
 
 
Kim T.
Madam AE xx
 



 
 



images: White Sands

Soaking up some vitamin D xx


Sunny Saturday in Australia!  Soaking up some vitamin D :)  Happy Weekend Madam AE reader's... xx 

 
 



Kim T.
Madam AE xx

MEN'S STYLE: Dressing Sharp in the world of NR


A bit of an easy read for the Friday ride home... continuing from my new section in Madam AE; Men's style, this week I turn to one of my friends Nick R. (NR) and ask him to lend his personal opinion and style advice to the fashionable 'homme'. He is not a fashion designer nor is he in the fashion industry, but he is a man who believes in dressing the right way, so I asked him to pen a post about his thoughts on men's fashion and style.

A quick excerpt on NR......he's known to other's as a part - time deal maker ( aka closer), and to those who have seen his style, a full - time fashion enthusiast.  NR is never one to be seen with putting the wrong foot forward, or pardon, I should say... never seen with putting the wrong shoe on nor without the well tailored blazer or the well fitted ensemble. He is a well dressed man, because attention to detail is his forte.. almost a habit of such, with a natural meticulous need to wear every outfit well. Whether it is kicking back on a casual weekend, or suiting it up for a vip invite, he lives up to his own style mantra; of 'Dressing Sharp'

Far from being a pretentious 'style snob', his particular need and way to dress is the standard of a modern man; someone who simply likes to look good, feel good and wear it good :). This habit of dress may not be the choice for some, however I say, it doesn't hurt to take on the style tips from those who do fashion well xx.

So here are some words of advice about 'Dressing Sharp, in the world of NR :) '.......



 
I am not a fashion guru, nor do I consider myself to have the in - depth knowledge of a GQ editor, or experts from other men's fashion magazines. But over the years I have learnt how to shop for myself and judge what clothes fit me, and what outfit's I can wear in the 'real' world on an everyday basis, and at the same time to look sharp. Which leads me to lend my opinion about how important I believe it is, to Dress Sharp.

Dressing sharp can often be mis- interpreted as wearing very plush and cushy items with the big price tag. I am here to say; this is not the case. Dressing sharp does not necessarily mean putting on that $3000 labelled bespoke suit or even blindly  walking in the foot steps of the on - trends. I interpret Dressing Sharp, to wearing well fitted clothes according to your physique. In other word's, what may look good on a mannequin or on a runway model, may not necessarily look good on you.
 
Dressing sharp is all about the details of  how you put an outfit together and how each piece fits  and sits on you. A $2000 suit may look like a $200 suit if not worn and fitted well, and same; a $200 suit can look like a $2000 suit, because it fits well according to your body type and build. As someone once said; "The clothes don't wear you, you wear the clothes".
 
 

NR  - in a blue blazer & sky blue pant ( custom designed by NR)
 
{"My personal theory is; dressing sharp is your ability to sense the occasion, no matter what the dress code is. Dressing sharp is not about investing inside your wardrobe as though it is going to earn you high returns, instead, it is about investing in some effort and extra time in your presentation and most of all carrying a bit of confidence, once you feel good in your outfit, you'll carry it well, and in turn, you will look good in your outfit" - NR }.
 
NR. ( Nick R.)
 
 
So there it is!  the lesson to be learnt about dressing sharp, from my friend NR:) .

To all the Male Madam AE reader's, recognise your own personal style, and don't compromise on your comfort either. Whether it is dressing up, dressing down, dressing sharp or just to dress; the key is to wear it well and add your own persona to it... and not to wear it, simply because you've seen it worn well on another. Be confident, be yourself, put the right shoe on..... and if you want... pop the collar! :) xx
 
 
 
 
Kim T.
Madam AE xx
 



Noureen Dhanani : an extraodinary woman, designing for the ordinary woman




 
 
Meet the ‘Aura’ woman… she is described by the designer, "as the girl next door, nothing more than the ordinary woman". To me, the ‘ordinary’ woman… is a woman who distinguishes herself by gracefully holding her own, she has no hesitation in wanting more or is simply satisfied with having less, she is a woman who by standards appears ordinary, but by no means her persona is extraordinary, hence her ability to be the exceptional ‘ordinary’ woman of today. Meet the designer behind the creation of the ‘Aura’ woman; Noureen Dhanani.

Inspired by her steep and rich cultural background, Noureen designs with a mix of ethnic and traditional elements. Primarily specialising in the design of sarees, Noureen likens each garment as eclectic in design, with a modern take on the traditional.


Noureen Dhanani
 
 
With a background in business and liberal arts, Noureen followed her passion and love for fashion, which lead her to embark on creating her first collection in 2008. Fast forward with time and experience, Noureen will soon launch designs under her own name; “Noureen Dhanani”, in her first retail studio opening in Houston, Texas.  The studio (Aura) will carry exclusive “Noureen Dhanani” designs, but also with a mix of other high end labels and designer's from India.

Her designs reflect a beautiful fusion of colours, brave and classic textures pairing with traditional and modern colour palettes. I love her choice of marrying bold prints on top of muted tones and vice versa, and of course the classic pairing of one on one tones.

It is refreshing to see how far the design of a Saree has come, it is designer's like Noureen, who brings forth a new sense of appreciation and love for the traditional Saree. It is their unlimited vision and creative imagination which continuously moves the trends in the Saree, yet also captures and retains its classic purpose and style.

Noureen Dhanani couture pieces look, and no doubt is worn with a high end appeal, rich in elegance, style, design and texture. It is the new take on the Saree designs, which help propel and retain the popularity of the Saree. A Saree to me, always gives me a feeling of rich elegance, I love beading, intricate detailing and sensations of colour, so to me, the Saree always appears to be like a piece of art, almost classy in a very exquisite form, and of course.. must be worn well xx.
 

 
 
Over the years, through my madam AE blog, I have witnessed the successful rise of many creative profiles. I have interviewed and penned word's on designer's who are either established or beginning. It is without a doubt a ‘smiling’ feeling, to know when they have progressed so far within not only their industry, but their own goals and dreams. In my interviews I always ask the question; “Where do you see either yourself/ or your label in the next few years?” I asked Noureen this question, and her answer was: “for the ‘Noureen Dhanani’ label, I am hoping to retail that outside of AURA with other high-end retailers around the country as well as internationally. I also intend on participating in more fashion weeks and fashion festivals internationally in the upcoming years”.

Already, Noureen has achieved almost half of what she hopes to achieve for her label; with her retail store opening soon, and her upcoming participation in this year’s Toronto fashion festival.

Noureen Dhanani, like for the woman she creates for; is the new ordinary woman of today, with an extraordinary ambition xx. I look forward to following the career of Noureen Dhanani, as I believe her vision for her label over the next few years, will exceed her expectations.


connect with Noureen Dhanani / Aura Design studio : www.facebook.com/aura.design.studio
Noureen Dhanani, will be showcasing her couture collection at the 2013 Toronto Fashion Festival held between May 24th - May 26th, 2013. 


Kim T.
Madam AE xx
 





Five Minutes with Noureen Dhanani:

Q: Where is your favourite holiday destination?
Noureen: Any European destination, Paris, Istanbul... I love the architecture and culture present in city destinations.

Q:Describe your own personal style
Noureen: I consider my personal style to be simple and understated

Q:What styling tips would you recommend to Madam AE reader's?
Noureen: "Less is more", staying away from the blingy and flashy, is my definition of classy.

Q: Which fashion must have item, you cannot live without?
Noureen: Over sized handbags and big sunglasses for everyday use... and some of my own designer Saree's for dressier occasions.

Q: Where is the collection currently found?
Noureen: As of right now, the collection is available only around the U.S. I primarily retail my line via trunks shows and exhibitions around the country. I am talking to several high ended retailers of designer South Asian wear who are interested in carrying my label, so that is something that should develop in the upcoming months.

 
 
Pictures: Brian Styles (photographer)