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 ...

 

 http://whitesandsaustralia.com/

 

 

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)

Fashion : on a personal note

Happy mid week! .... past the Monday - itis and nearly approaching the Friday - fun :)

I very rarely post up pictures of myself, as I prefer to keep my blog about my love for personal fashion review.  But this year, with the new look of Madam AE,  I will be mixing up the style and feel of the blog with some random personal pictures of myself and some out and abouts.  I will also introduce reviews on  South Asian  fashion and profiles. Based in Australia, and my love for fashion review,  I think a fresh pair of eyes on such international designs allows us to understand and appreciate all genres and influences on fashion xx whether it's fashion from the U.S, or Australia... to the Madness of Mumbai, my fashion thoughts are never limited ................... xx

Look out for my next post soon on U.S. based, saree designer Noureen Dhanani.......

In the mean time.. this is me and my lovely friend Kelly, kicking up our heels on a Saturday evening :) ... I'm wearing one of my all time favourite Australian labels; 'Witchery'... I  love this dress, during the Summer I team it with open toe heels, and for Winter the classic closed point kitten heel brings about a classic feel.

 

Kelly ( left ) and I ( in Witchery dress :) ) xx

 

 

 

 

 

 

Shoes of Prey : If the shoe fits

 

 

  Shoes....... ( *sigh ) one can never have enough of them. A pair of shoes can possibly make or break your complete style.  The term from 'head to toe' rightfully should be one of the golden rules of styling. Like a well worn outfit,  the shoe should always fit, the shoe should always work 'with' an outfit and not against it, and the shoe should reflect the mood of the style ( feel like going classic, rock, a bit naughty, or on - trend), the shoe is almost like the silent - end piece to an ensemble. I have to admit.. I generally would have noticed a person's shoe's within the first few seconds of meeting them.  For me, I look at the outfit, the accessories and then the shoes ( that's just me ).

One of my favourite online and now a concept store, is a site called 'Shoes of Prey'.  Their customised concept  allows fashion lovers to design and create their own shoes, from selecting your favourite classic or on trend styles, to choosing colour combinations. This 'design your own shoe' is a niche and in demand concept.

For the Shoe - a - holic in all of us, whether it's for the nine to five daily grind or the special occasions of soirees, and bridal parties or simply a bride - to - be... Shoes of Prey is your landing destination for creating shoes for any and every occasion. 

Be warned; this is quite addictive, you are limited only by your stylish imagination :)

www.shoesofprey.com




Kim T.
Madam AE xx

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Images: Shoes of Prey

www.shoesofprey.com

Mr Porter : a man with more than just a sense of style

 

 

 

 

 

Mr Porter is a site tailored for Men's style. Serving for the man who knows style, has style or simply wants style.  A high end online men's designer one stop destination for apparel, accessories, and style advice.  The site is clean and easy to navigate, topped up with the latest fashion must haves for a well dressed man, who wants to be ahead in his personal style.

I love the instant feel of the site as you enter and explore the various services available. From tailored blazers, sleek shoes and niche accessories, it is without a doubt that  Mr Porter has tapped into  the man who can afford,  refuses to compromise on personal presentation.... and where the price tag has no limit, nor is it an issue. Even if the price tag doesn't suit, Mr Porter is a site where you can gain some inspiration and motivation in men's style :) .

The content is relevant and up to the minute, moving with the social style scene in a classic, classy and modern way.  How far..., we have come from men's style and fashion, I love the new focus that a man should dress and present himself well.

My opinion for the male in style:  Although it can be suffice to be in your comfortable moments,  it is also nice, every now and again for you to wear the crisp blazer,  the tailored pant, the textured pocket square and last but not least, the scent to match xx :)... be a little bit fussy .. no one will complain if you put in that bit of effort :)


www.mrporter.com


Kim T.
Madam AE xx

 

 

 

Images: Mr Porter

www.mrporter.com