tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21668697010836668222024-02-23T03:08:35.451+11:00THE NOIR COLLECTIVEthe mix-media moodboard behind the everyday fashion and lifestyle misadventures of the noir collectivethenoircollectivehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06226372374512601697noreply@blogger.comBlogger30125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2166869701083666822.post-71971011122158919772016-01-28T21:26:00.001+11:002016-05-11T21:51:45.517+10:00TOKYO: travel guide<center>
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Landing in Tokyo feels like being reborn into parallel universe. It's culture shock, in the best way imaginable. What greets you post customs gate, is a carefully refined, subtly quirky city of contrasts. Neon lit, technologically driven yet embedded in tradition and etiquette, which play a major part of modern life in Tokyo. Exhilarating, yet completely devoid of chaos. If you’re a fan of Jiro Ono the incredible chef and sushi master, you might have heard him attribute his success to doing the same thing over and over, improving it bit by bit. This is something I found central to understanding Japan’s culture.<br><br>
If you find it confusing at first, you simply haven’t figured out the logical principle behind what you’re attempting to understand. On my first visit to Tokyo, 7 years ago, I really struggled with grasping the inner workings of the transport system. A few late night wrong connections, a not so ideal travel companion and plenty of tears, it was something that stuck with me for the next visit. World renowned for their efficient trains, I was on a personal mission to not get lost this time around. I looked for signs and information, much in the same way I look for them here in Sydney - give me everything I need to know to understand where I’m going. Which works on one level because the system here isn’t as evolved or considered. Three days in and already too much precious holiday time wasted on getting lost, my partner and I figured out the system.<br><br>
Colour coded and individually numbered train stations meant that all unnecessary information could be omitted. You follow this key to guide yourself through a labyrinth of tunnels and interchanges, dozens of travel combinations narrowed down to your specific journey for that day. Similarly everything in Tokyo has a purpose, utilitarian objects are beautifully decorated and seemingly aesthetic objects all play part in benefitting a process or forming a ritual. The simple pleasures behind the logical connections you’ll find in Tokyo, once you understand them, feel like finishing a 750 piece puzzle with a mild case of OCD - deeply satisfying and utterly zen. Also all of which could be understood a lot easier had I read a city guide before leaving. You know, if you’re the type of person that isn’t into simultaneously confusing all of your senses and battling a language barrier.<br><br>
Nonetheless, I felt like a city guide was in order simply because no other city guide I read for research after left me feeling like it captured what Tokyo was all about. With most urban cities, the landmarks and must do’s give a fair overview of the lifestyle you’re about to stumble upon. In Tokyo however, the essence of the city is only apparent after you submerge yourself in the old and new. The food, the design, the architecture and the day to day suburban life although seemingly busy and complex always pay homage to the beauty of simplicity. If you like spending too much time perfecting your favourite vice, this city is for you. <br><br>
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<b>STAY</b>
Like with most urban cities I visit, I look for neighbourhoods just outside the main city bustle but still walking distance to the hotspots. We chose to stay on the outskirts of Shibuya for this trip. Quiet apartment blocks and miniature lush green parks lead into an array unassuming noodle bars, shopping centres and late night arcades the closer you get into Shibuya’s centre. Harajuku is within walking distance, so is Roppongi’s nightlife. <br><br>
If you prefer a quieter suburban stay, opt for Aoyama. With its nouveau French influences, the upscale residential neighbourhood is dotted with boutique coffee shops like Maison Kitsune and is home to fashion flagships like Isabel Marant and Acne Studios. Omotesando’s grand architectural buildings can also be found nearby.<br><br>
Most apartments are small, but well equipped for a short trip. Alternatively, book a stay at the iconic Park Hyatt. Entry to the New York Bar comes free with your room, expect jazz, english speaking tourists and the best panoramic views of Tokyo.
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<br><Br><b>SHOP</b> What makes shopping in Tokyo so memorable are the unique, arty touches in every boutique. High-end or high street no other city is quite as good at building brands and selling their lifestyle.
Visit the Prada flagship in Aoyama for it's jewel like architectural tower designed by Herzog & de Meuron. Alexander Wang, Celine and Comme Des Garcons also had strikingly intricate facades and interiors.
<br><br>Just a short walk from Shibuya's vibrant and hectic centre is Cat Street, full of eclectic boutiques en route a cobblestone lined path. Opening Ceremony's four floor boutique is reminiscent of a candy coated warehouse. Customise a pair of Converse's at their White Atelier. Eat what can only be described as the best lobster roll of your life with not the slightest bit of exaggartion at <a href="http://lukeslobster.com/">Luke's Lobster</a>. One brand I really fell in love with (and visited each one of their boutiques in Tokyo) was <a href="http://www.beautyandyouth.jp/en/index.html">Beauty & Youth</a>. The elegant, design-focused pieces at B&Y really stood out amongst the ultra minimalist or overly feminine trends circulating other boutique Japanese brands. The design aesthetic resonates a timeless and clean capsule wardrobe, I stocked up on cashmere jumpers & wool coats whilst carefully contemplating over their selection of Acne boots and Jerome Dryfus bags. What really resonated with me is how carefully curated the stock in each one of the boutiques was; carrying across key seasonal items the majority of the products were unique to each of the store reflecting the demographic of each neighbourhood. Their men's department is also fantastic, my partner's purchases made their way into my suitcase as I ran out of clean clothes on the trip.
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<a href="http://ginza.doverstreetmarket.com/index.html">Dover Street Market</a> is another Tokyo bucketlist visit. Comme des Garcons’ creative director Rei Kawakubo brought the concept store to Tokyo, synthesising avant garde art and design in a seven floor complex housing the likes of Maison Martin Margiela, Nike Lab and Celine amongst works of Andy Warhol and Jean-Michel Basquiat. Each fashion designer is allowed to integrate their own visuals and DSM takes on an ultra luxe bazaar feel. For those that make it to the top floor with pocket change from a vigorous shop, <a href="http://ginza.doverstreetmarket.com/dsmpaper/rose_bakery.html">Rose Bakery</a>, the Parisian favourite is ready to serve up brunch and tea.
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<b>EAT</b> Japan is famous for its low cost, high quality food. And everyone that's travelled to Tokyo has a recommendation for the best spot they've stumbled upon. Pick a few that line up with your itinerary but don't be afraid to let the array of good smells and cosy interiors sway you to find more hidden gems. If you're looking to try some notables, <a href="https://www.ichiran.co.jp/english/">Ichiran</a> is somewhat an institution for Ramen. Serving up only one style of broth, and doing it oh so right you have the option to customise every aspect of your bowl from the softness of noodles to the amount of fat in your soup. Nestle yourself in the signature Tokyo single patron booth and order endless noodles if you're still hungry after the initial serve. For world class sushi and sashimi drop into <a href="https://www.tripadvisor.com.au/Restaurant_Review-g1066456-d1678469-Reviews-Umegaoka_Sushi_No_Midori_Sohonten_Shibuya-Shibuya_Tokyo_Tokyo_Prefecture_Kanto.html">Umegaoka Sushi No Midori</a>, a favourite with the locals and like everything in Tokyo worth visiting you can expect to wait up to an hour and half for a table. In a tiny alley way leading from the main crossing at Shibuya is <a href="http://www.yelp.com.au/biz/%E5%85%83%E6%B0%97%E5%AF%BF%E5%8F%B8-%E6%B8%8B%E8%B0%B7%E5%8C%BA-2">Genki Sushi</a>, a great lunch option. High grade tuna comes whirling out on a mini train style delivery service and you can expect filling lunch for $10. <br><br>
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<b>VISIT </b>Tokyo is the perfect "neighbourhood a day" city. Walk or take the JR train, some notable highlights are:<br><br>
Harajuku is much more than Cosplay costumes and teen subcultures; tourist hot spot Takeshita street leads into smaller alleyways lined with niche fashion houses, tattoo parlours and tiny eateries. Book ahead for traditional Japanese tattoo work at <a href="http://www.threetidestattoo.com/">Three Tides</a> or head to the Harajuku's outskirts for the Hatonomorihachiman & Zuienji Shrines. Yoyogi Park is within walking distance and makes for a perfect shopping break on sunny days. In it's heart you'll find the Meiji Jingu Shrine and its famous iris garden. <br><br>
Shimokitazawa is an eclectic neighbourhood, known for it's vintage store, street art and music live music. Devoid of large crows like those at Shibuya, Shimokitazawa moves at a different pace. Let its narrow streets lead you into a Cat Cafe like <a href="http://cateriam.com/">Cateriam</a>, shop vintage Chanel at the <a href="http://www.grandbazaar.jp/">Grand Bazar</a> or vinyls at <a href="http://www.otonomad.com/">Otonomad.</a><br><br>
Tsukiji Shijo is a landmark visit if you love all things seafood. Heralding as the world's largest fish market, drawing in a very full audience for it's early morning Tuna auction. If lining up at 5am for a 1 in 120 chance of scoring front row views of the auction isn't for you, the market boasts an array of narrow yet deliciously inviting lanes filled with small retail shops selling catch of the day style meals and snacks. Growers and producers from various regions in Japan also sell tea, vegetables, dry noodles, knives and ceramics. With a few famous sushi shops in the vicinity, we opted to skip a sit down lunch and pick several snack from vendors like grilled miso cod sold per gram and smoked and bbq scallops roasted over coals.<br><br>
Roppongi is an arts and culture hub by day <a href="http://www.mori.art.museum/eng/">Mori Art Museum</a> hosts the likes of Takashi Murakami and its rooftop terrace is the perfect platform for viewing the city. 21_21 Design Sight is Tokyo's first architecture museum designed by Tadao Ando. It's low rise, concrete walls house a fantastic interactive selection of Frank Gehry's international work. By night Roppongi's atmosphere is buzzy, pocket sized bars are frequented by tourists and locals alike and stir just beneath the surface for host clubs and other risqué business. <br><br>
<b>WEAR</b>
Le Ciel Bleu Coat, Rag & Bone Leather Pants, Philip Lim Jersey Tee, Goyard Tote, Nike Mayfly Wovens<br>
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<i>T - B: Tokyo by night as seen from the New York Bar; <br><br>
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Shibuya apartment interior; <br><br>
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<br><br>Sushi Bar in Akhihabara & Muuji bicycle display; <br><br>
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<br><br>New York Bar & Ichiran Ramen; Shibuya crossing by night. </i></div>thenoircollectivehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06226372374512601697noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2166869701083666822.post-63688224432324868602015-12-28T22:29:00.000+11:002015-12-28T22:29:34.365+11:00les moroccans<center> <img width="800" align="justify" src="http://www.moma.org/media/W1siZiIsIjE2NzU0OSJdLFsicCIsImNvbnZlcnQiLCItcmVzaXplIDIwMDB4MjAwMFx1MDAzRSJdXQ.jpg?sha=525c0b2c20c60b09" alt="" style="border:none"> </center>
<div style="float: left; width: 630px; padding: 12px;"> <p align="right">A lesson in cross continental influences.
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<i>Henri Matisse, 1915, oil on canvas</i></div>thenoircollectivehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06226372374512601697noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2166869701083666822.post-8470976298864934882015-12-08T22:59:00.000+11:002015-12-08T23:04:27.446+11:00High heat<center> <img width="800" align="justify" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7X0JMiUYYqAMD6ibMbe1sOEt1mS7NpNg-jSseNzfYzMAaH9fiAnVpaUWC_lMj3_BzsO35VPJAlcNPuVEoQXyP5KHpQuyQSwyF_VAdWJkj40S9qN6OfoES8K-PNf7DynEisI3zcivIIVM/s1600/highheat.png" alt="" style="border:none"> </center>
<div style="float: left; width: 630px; padding: 12px;"> <p align="justify">As the year draws to a close, days turn into afternoon siestas and balmy nights. Heat waves pulsating on white washed stone walls, secluded turquoise pools and dusty geometric architecture dotted with cacti - the real deal type of therapy for your burnt out soul. Here's to stretching every tired limb upon a warm rock at your nearest oasis.
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<i>image credits pinterest</i></div>thenoircollectivehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06226372374512601697noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2166869701083666822.post-16825249057476910852015-11-10T21:48:00.000+11:002015-11-10T21:51:05.372+11:00An Autumn in Kyoto<center> <img width="800" align="justify" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHGNLnWBF_FP2T2QD_h7QQka4TLpkXSwfU2KjxclcrQ_nOHZ65wnYEyRE0x0ESZrWY4Icl3cLkkhDVdLuQM5zsi6U8RpJzT9iOZvwTWQ3rY_34SOx4r2NZZNp2TiyvftrAAF66VDOZQI0/s1600/anautumninkyoto.jpg" alt="" style="border:none"> </center>
<div style="float: left; width: 630px; padding: 12px;"> <p align="justify"> Craving one last hit of cooler climates before another scorching summer in Sydney, we opted for another take at Autumn in Japan. A perfect mix of old world cultural monuments and metropolitan cities that never sleep. Tradition permeates everything in Japan, from Tea Ceremonies to Wabi-Sabi inspired maintenance hubs in fashion boutiques. Behind every rush hour, every busy intersection in Tokyo, is a routine, a simple logical explanation that stabilised the chaos for every traveller willing to look.
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<i>Josh wears United Arrows Bomber Jacket, Comme des Garcon Tee and Acne Jeans. Anya wears United Arrows Coat.</i></div>thenoircollectivehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06226372374512601697noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2166869701083666822.post-44193592698393478852015-08-04T21:45:00.001+10:002015-08-04T21:48:54.619+10:00Coming up for air<center> <img width="800" align="justify" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjenZoD9Q0q3lZXIzBg6MCdRQrWStOvbhiP9hgph7WRGZs5tt3OLi9cJoiNub9kn1S2vomlde2Y4Dn-vHFKIJpcc-oYwu7Wt1a3r6F8Q6ER6iTrtObka06ZYnTsE19oafHGvKbDsvD3nw0/s1600/sokarnoheader.jpg" alt="" style="border:none"> </center>
<div style="float: left; width: 630px; padding: 12px;"> <p align="justify">A few of my favourite images from the beautifully shot August collection by <a href="http://www.sokarno.com/">Sokarno</a>. Mixing classic, yet distinctively youthful pieces with beautiful craftsmanship, signature staple pieces are subtly detailed with considered touches like splice panelling on the classic white tee and silk lining on traditionally sports inspired bomber. The unmistakably nonchalant lookbook was shot in Sydney's iconic Centennial Parklands, perfect home to Karim's Sydney designed and made pieces. <center><br><a href="http://www.sokarno.com">www.sokarno.com</a></center>
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<i>Photography, Jack Bennett /
Styling, Audrey Aguilar /
Model, Marko Bozic /
Creative Direction, Karim Sokarno /</i></div>
thenoircollectivehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06226372374512601697noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2166869701083666822.post-69900990180160456672015-07-19T22:29:00.000+10:002015-07-19T22:29:38.203+10:00sunday somewhere<center> <img width="800" align="justify" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDn7k75Q-Vsvp9Vw0xJfT1ybkniM1NEIwOYmkc6lKz14-tFyzuYSzwn_M_yHQ3QJJVhw0P-4BVCXgxFyRFJ6rTBU7fp4-GkgeVkmd0g4FFzWpIq6qcKdwQ1J873Vg6ZBvLnb-6oVZ8WCM/s1600/sundaysomewhere.png" alt="" style="border:none"> </center>
<div style="float: left; width: 630px; padding: 12px;"> <p align="justify"> Sunday mornings unplanned turn into sunday afternoons spent researching next weekend's meal plans by candlelight. Retiring your cashmere jumpers from their heavy duty weekday warmth, on Sundays they're worn purely for their tactile nature. All in a cosy nook lined with clean sheets, just shy of the newly starting week - this is how weekend rituals are born.
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<i><a href="https://www.net-a-porter.com/product/502170/T_by_Alexander_Wang/wool-and-cashmere-blend-sweater#">T by Alexander Wang Cashmere Sweater,</a>
<a href="https://www.net-a-porter.com/au/en/product/561745">Carine Gilson Silk Shorts,</a> <a href="http://www.neimanmarcus.com/en-au/Oliver-Peoples/Womens/cat44530753_cat8380918_cat000730/c.cat?cmCat=cat000000cat000730cat8380918">Oliver Peoples Glasses,</a> <a href="https://www.theline.com/shop/product/benu">Benu by Corey Lee,</a> <a href="http://inbedstore.com/collections/types?q=candle">In Bed Candle</a></i>
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<div style="float: left; width: 630px; padding: 12px;"> <p align="justify">Hauntingly beautiful photos from the Namibian ghost town, Kolmanskop. The combination of dessert wind and sand creates staggeringly beautiful dunes inside the abandoned homes of the diamond mining town. It's whimsical pastel walls and abstract sand formations make for my perfect photoshoot set.
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<i>photos via <a href="http://www.dazeddigital.com/artsandculture/gallery/17618/15/kolmanskop-the-namibian-town-left-to-sink-into-sand">dazed digital</a></i></div>
thenoircollectivehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06226372374512601697noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2166869701083666822.post-89450971745341314322015-06-08T21:14:00.001+10:002015-06-08T21:16:14.742+10:0028 by Gary G x Anya Stoliar<center>
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<div style="float: left; width: 630px; padding: 12px;"> <p align="justify">Studio time with <a href="http://www.viviensmodels.com.au/models/brittany-boxall/">Brittany Boxall</a>, shot by Gary and grooming by <a href="http://luanabickel.com/editorial/">Luana Bickel.</a>
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thenoircollectivehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06226372374512601697noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2166869701083666822.post-26151491403055824702015-01-19T12:14:00.001+11:002015-01-19T14:01:36.735+11:00At home with Ileana<center> <img width="800" align="justify" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFJfYpkqvzXuZxwhQkiihY0wseqkEIuKrEZfSI1sTMcqnSfjQNFxM5PkXRAKLDr5zh_lqQ5Nflyi9flxhQWAkGpZL0MXovBMhsQJKk5LZE4P6SS9UpnEnmrEnRxNxx7_zP_rIbL8vRv6U/s1600/1.png" alt="" >
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From the first shoot Ileana and I worked on we discovered that we shared a lot aesthetically, and that was that. Missing brief, failing computer equipment and lack of early morning coffee aside, somehow we always ended up working on the same brainwave to finish off whatever project we were tackling at the time. So getting to capture my colleague turned creative partner in crime afterhours was like another fantastic opportunity to get a little deeper into what made us work so well as a duo.
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Her monochromatic signature style is as present in her day to day life as it is in her work. The deconstructed wardrobe space blends fashion and décor seamlessly. Chic separates are combined with detailed leather pieces and hand picked jewellery. Her home, which doubles as studio and office for various projects; is reminiscent of Japanese minimalist interiors with its whitewashed walls. Bathed in natural light, the space feels spacious and zen.
<a name='more'></a><br /><br><br><img width="800" align="justify" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxZCp2Ye45eEbqc0NQ8vg1WGZkv1J_QB2Rx5kWNGiOI3tRpfMqugPI_oDxEpD7Ys2vAGpE2TxlMtDDMGzjFUUa4GTnw_ikna5L3KGela_nIP12tuIS7lVpsfDA-lL-2VrI5f_T26fQARI/s1600/3.png" alt="">
<br><br><img width="800" align="justify" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfgSf2EtmEoiqJ8s4qn7mN8DgSbbnILs8buNchHyeqEf570L5ddsyUJNbpR9_I20sjQvSmULazGtGheYnBPP2umPHZ3J2V3xGR_qZjYSUK4ZyJ6Lt8-k0FYHXkhe_zSI3i5U-pP-jCTVo/s1600/4.png" alt="" ><br><br>Growing up in Indonesia and moving to Melbourne to get more exposure to all things art in her RMIT course, she found her soulmate in photography. Calling Sydney home (for the moment at least) her work has taken her through a circuit of aussie designers working on everything from print to digital, lookbooks and creative content. Ileana talks about plans of working on conceptual beauty shoots in the near future, but it’s not all about work. Downtime is a much deserved treat after 12hr shoots and sunrise call times. The weekends are filled with time to enjoy, rather than guzzle the elusive perfect coffee and scenic interstate drives. Ideally on a perfect 18 degree light-jacket weather-day, she smiles.
<br><br><img width="800" align="justify" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5Uw6t_KmhC25UifTNxGUl1rDV__CfKc17XTZTKA8FGYDL4Gj5pX6oB7A6RJvL58PWbz_VRQW912sZc9h_x3JVIQL_8-3svVHnXf6yiadewdu9GvkbFnhipYsBPEHBOGniS5MtXwATq74/s1600/5.png" alt="" style="border:none"><br><br> Influenced by her work and sheer convenience, her personal style evolved over the years as she began to slowly eliminate colours from her wardrobe. Feminine skater style skirts and delicate silk camis are paired back with Rick Owen-esque leather pieces, the monochromatic delight of a wardrobe is far from minimal. Her go to outfit is just the right amount of practical and polished, her favourite black maxi (with essential side splits for mobility) topped off with a fedora, scarf with flat boots or slides. We’ve often turned up to shoots wearing the same pieces, realising had we not styled them differently we’d have full blown unintentional couples matching outfits on our hands.<br>
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<i>Ileana wears tibi cami, zara shorts and leather jacket. Photography by Anya Stoliar, styled by Ileana.<br><br>Follow Ileana’s work <a href="https://instagr.in//u/ileanaileana">@ileanaileana.</a></i></div>thenoircollectivehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06226372374512601697noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2166869701083666822.post-52705587726400553882015-01-14T12:45:00.000+11:002015-01-14T15:19:27.400+11:00A day in paradise<center> <img width="800" align="justify" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWlUz75E5fOcUzuF-_MmdVJSKoOwg-nlBiHbUWLxX92a4_PfPDYB-NLmJuO1QcKiaQ0Ts-RZF93tAtSq0Rm2z1q5Sem7wQ34e_cQ4JTUuhnptooc41qegXlVFOkr3xNCpV4oZLlfTGObg/s1600/adayinparadise.png" alt="Oman Alila Jabel Akhdar and Marrakech Ksar Char-Bagh resort" style="border:none"> </center>
<div style="float: left; width: 630px; padding: 12px;"> <p align="justify">Forever bitten by the wanderlust bug or just ready for your next holiday even though you only got back to work a mere week ago, planning your next holiday sets you right back on the working track. Stat! Not to mention something to look forward to during long hours and something to do as summer winds down in Sydney. I'm one for chasing that sunshine around the world, warm weather lands itself number one on the destination necessities list, pretty much all the time. Lazy afternoons in a hot and humid climate has a much better ring to it when taken overseas.
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After exploring enough of Central Europe last year, I have my sights set on more of Africa and the Middle east. Oman's Alila Jabel Akhdar and Marrakech's Ksar Char-Bagh have made it to travel bucket list of dream resorts and my partner and I are ready to tick off Istanbul. There's something addictive about holidaying in places with such vast cultural and geographical differences that the whole experience feels otherworldly from the moment you step off the plane.
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<i>image credits: <a href="http://www.centurion-magazine.com/home/travel/experiences/alila-jabal-akhdar.html">here</a>, <a href="http://www.ktapr.com/news/18-august-2014-choose-a-romantic-escape-at-salalah-rotana-resort-in-oman"> here</a> and <a href="http://honestlywtf.com/travel/ksar-char-bagh/">here</a></i></div>thenoircollectivehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06226372374512601697noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2166869701083666822.post-14809648808608224612014-12-22T10:49:00.000+11:002014-12-22T10:49:33.546+11:00The december edit<center> <img width="800" align="justify" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYV9qjSJLYpmNddwWjTRB7UffCheQ3nws6O2FOpjFgsRrb9b2OsdHtz8inhiP8TPEXnImPTkty6LK9okOLZa5IXnfwSGIbf7Ur7re2NnTFVJojOJrsQ0gl2u0edFBOeSE2PagEOrrYl2I/s1600/decemberedit.png" alt="" style="border:none"> </center>
<div style="float: left; width: 630px; padding: 12px;"> <p align="justify">Somewhere in between the last few clients for the year and Christmas rush is December down time. Probably the closest I’ll get to capturing the holiday spirit in a little nook on the eastern side of town with friends and family in tow.<br> <br>
Apart from that December is all about life admin, sorting out my own wardrobe (for a change!), preparing for a new season and getting ready for a slew of markets around the city early next month. I’m not particularly big on New Year’s philosophies but nothing seems to work out better than starting the year with lots of space in all aspects of your life to fill with new experiences.
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<i>topshop bra, vintage fedora, bassike tank, ray bans. <br><br>beauty notes: essie really red, NUXE body oil </i></div>thenoircollectivehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06226372374512601697noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2166869701083666822.post-28353458104080511392014-12-15T19:17:00.000+11:002014-12-15T21:15:34.196+11:00The fine lines of jewelry<center> <img width="800" align="justify" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx0eh096M14fYYhgn37eRDLuZM5N1cfn_iOOXx8IrpBkUBTSgmeuk3Diu0NEfr6SjiCmCVmUi1Ko6eeDbt6v3HhOxQn8DBzy9J4i8e3Z_CY7TF-nj6nCy0LEyOkw8CVRus61-SnuXzldg/s1600/FINELINES.png" alt="" style="border:none"> </center>
<div style="float: left; width: 630px; padding: 12px;"> <p align="justify">An extension of the body like no other piece of fashion, fine jewelry lands itself somewhere in the art realm of things. Somewhat influenced by mother who’s never worn a piece of costume jewelry in her life and really fascinated by the romance of pieces you never take off your body; I made a conscious effort to collect the practical stuff. Sculptural, symbolic, sentimental. A mix of family heirlooms and custom made designs, pieces are accents rather that accessories. Not pictured is the only piece I take off, a Gucci men’s watch, mostly to protect its mechanics. It lands straight in a valet tray when I get home, yet I feel pretty naked without its weight on my wrist. Putting it on when I wake up has become the first step in my morning routine.
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<i>mood board with line studs, divided cross necklace, cartier trinity ring</i></div>thenoircollectivehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06226372374512601697noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2166869701083666822.post-37834416437942044612014-12-05T08:19:00.000+11:002014-12-15T21:14:23.930+11:00Summer beauty essentials<center> <img align="justify" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOKOnYCVwhGyjlqO3nju9UB6cf7K5JQ-0fHfjiWM609SOAzIsgPpBASHE6J_03IOjUW2iIiGLFacEGRp7XXhT3NNN5BozIE21kYkmV92WmoJUA8tObnsWrNoXOfgdka_LYyLzIkRQLtCg/s1600/Noir_SummerBeauty.png" alt="" style="border:none"> </center>
<div style="float: left; width: 630px; padding: 12px;"> <p align="justify"> Summertime is too short for high maintenance beauty. Strip back your staples to five key products and win back a few extra late balmy nights turned into coming to soon mornings. My makeup is seasonally minimal, but in summer I'm a light base-n-go kind of girl. I could never give up perfume, but try to switch to a summer scent for the warmer months. The rest I leave up to the proper skin and body care and regular maintenance of beauty treatments; I avoid missing out on haircuts and micro to keep the sun and heat damage down.
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<i><a href="http://www.jomalone.com.au/product/13298/32241/Fragrances/The-Collections/Woody/Wood-Sage-Sea-Salt/Wood-Sage-Sea-Salt-Cologne">jo malone wood sage & sea salt cologne,</a> <a href="http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/tom-ford-traceless-foundation/3622575"> tom ford traceless foundation,</a><a href="http://www.diptyqueparis.com/jasmin-candle.html"> diptyque jasmin candle,</a><a href="http://www.aesop.com/au/skin-care-1/deep-cleanse/purifying-facial-exfoliant-paste.html"> aesop exfoliant paste,</a><a href="http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/nars-monoi-de-tahiti-body-glow-ii/2899838"> nars monoi body glow</a></i></div>thenoircollectivehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06226372374512601697noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2166869701083666822.post-13939601666296400722014-11-28T14:46:00.000+11:002015-04-11T09:34:44.397+10:00PARIS: travel guide<center> <img width="800" align="justify" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxrndGD5HedmhPnIgPqfhuJc9yWyy-6alBCjEOypjd5t0TrF_nU_eLT4Y7DTAd8NgbSoRlCXqh5KUCPKUHS03cP5TpNkrt90W4gFxnDOD0O2VQoH43K01HDX821Pj3lsnrOhB1ANQGA8Q/s1600/ParisTravelGuide_header.jpg" alt="Paris Travel Guide"> </center>
<div style="float: left; width: 630px; padding: 12px;"> <p align="justify"> What is it about Paris that no other city can quite attain? Skip the text book French quote for anything indescribably good, anyone in a sick love affair with the city will tell you it's all about the delectable contrasts that permeate the city life. I was enamoured with flow of energy in Paris way before I knew what that meant. This sometimes throws off first time visitors, they find the city perplexing with its strong attitude. I find the city cheeky, it plays with you; but as long as you play back with a little bit of smarts it’s a very interesting ride. The thing I struggled with the most was getting my walking/browsing/shopping pace up to scratch. Dawdle and you’ll spend eight hours getting slapped by bags and getting stepped on. Not really the right vibe for browsing the sites or giving away your hard earned euros at Lafayette. Walking with a purpose and standing out of the way helped like nothing else. Oh and make sure you underpack yourself a suitcase of all black everything to ease yourself into streets. But by the time I found all that out I was on my fourth trip over. <br><br>
To an outsider, and as friends living in Paris have told me, you forever will be if you didn’t grow up there; life seems a lot more curated yet simple. Everything feels meticulously thought through but not excessive. It’s forever a sartorial and cultural reference point. Start walking everywhere and take the metro once your legs have had enough, eat (three meals a day as you’ll soon find really isn’t enough to try all the cheeses), carefully edit your fashion buys, pack picnics, enjoy the outdoors and view art, arm yourself with a bottle of wine and make sure it’s full at all stages of discovering the city. Or simply become Baudelaire’s flaneur, the detached observer trawling the city with an inquisitive mind if you have a soft spot for French literature. Paris is really all about collective experiences of the city. There’s no easier way to obtain these than with a lack of responsibilities you have on holidays. You’ll probably find that you’ll pick up and take some of these new habits home with you, I know I’m forever eating cheese. <br><br>
<b>STAY</b> In hotels such as the <a href="http://www.ritzparis.com/fr">Ritz</a>, <a href="http://www.hoteldaubusson.com/uk/index.php">Hotel D'aubusson</a> or Pigalle's infamous <a href="http://www.hotelamourparis.fr">Hotel Amour</a> if fresh linen is your thing and hotels are your budget. After several months of renting during a stay, <a href="https://www.airbnb.com.au/">Airbnb</a> has become a favourite. Neighbourhoods like Montmartre and Batignolles have a nice bohemian feel and are ideal for longer term visits as apartments there are generally bigger and the neighbourhoods quitter than their city counterparts. On my last trip I stayed near Filles Du Calvaire, just a stone throw from Saint Paul and the Marais so I was able to pack a lot into a short trip.
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<br><br> <b>SHOP</b> Whether you’re shopping or doing the window variety, visit the French flagships for a serious lesson in styling. Paris is the mecca of all things fashion meets art and the boutiques on Rue du Faubourg St Honoré will keep you occupied for a full day. Hermes, Givenchy, Goyard, Balenciaga and Lanvin have the most breathtaking visual merchandising displays. Paris also does high-street exceptionally well, probably something to do with being surrounded by all the fashion heavy weights and that good old Parisian attention to quality. <a href="http://www.apc.fr/frfr/index.html?first">APC,</a> <a href="http://us.sandro-paris.com/">Sandro,</a> <a href="http://us.maje.com/">Maje</a> and <a href="http://www.iroparis.com/">IRO</a> are perennial favourites. <a href="http://lelabofragrances.com/us_en/">Le Labo's</a> Paris boutique is worth a visit if you like artisan perfumes. Concept stores like <a href="http://www.colette.fr/">Colette</a> and <a href="http://www.merci-merci.com/en/"> Merci</a> are abuzz with locals and are great for people watching. With a focus on stocking lifestyle goods, use them for stocking up on souvenirs of the non tacky variety. For vintage take Metro Line 4 to Porte de Clignancourt for <a href="http://www.tripadvisor.com.au/Attraction_Review-g227615-d600725-Reviews-Porte_de_Clignancourt-Saint_Ouen_Seine_Saint_Denis_Ile_de_France.html#REVIEWS">Les Puce Marche</a>, the largest flea market of antiques and clothing. <a href="http://catherine-b.com/collections/chanel">Catherine B</a> is a tunnel wonderland of vintage Chanel and Hermes. My favourite all round vintage store is <a href="https://plus.google.com/102046940955244565994/about?gl=au&hl=en">Come on Eileen</a> near Bastile. The store itself is multi levelled with the bulk of its goods being downstairs, housing a rail of Burberry trench coats I eye off at every visit. I've snagged vintage YSL and Celine here for around 50 euros. Bring a friend to hold you back from buying everything in your size.<br><br>
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<br><br><b>EAT</b> It's really hard to find a bad meal in Paris, even when what you’re eating doesn’t constitute an actual meal ie. piece of cheese between a piece of bread for any time of the day. I've attempted to make ravioli by pouring water from a kettle into a bowl of pasta, decanting the water into a bathroom sink and repeating the process until kinda cooked, which was still better than a number of pasta haunts in Sydney. It's also the reason I don't stay in hotels when visiting Paris. But I digress; my food choices have become a little smarter since then. <br>
<br>Fresh produce markets on <a href="https://www.google.com.au/maps/place/Rue+des+Dames,+Paris,+France/@48.8837528,2.3211722,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m2!3m1!1s0x47e66fb3aedcdc7f:0xd0f162c568eb9ed1">Rue des Dames</a> are a big hit for me. I stocked up on my weeks groceries here and cleaned up big at the stalls selling chanterelle mushrooms. Grab a few different cheeses to try.
<a href="http://haussmann.galerieslafayette.com/en/food-shopping-at-lafayette-gourmet/">Lafayette Gourmet Food Hall</a> is the holy grail of delis. Head here for all your cheese and meat picnic or fancy dinner supplies. Try not to breathe heavily into the glass cabinets, its near impossible to count the variety of cheese that Lafayette stocks. They have an impressive wine library (I lost my travel companions here) but remember a 2 euro bottle of wine is still, French wine.
As for restaurants, you really don't need to go expensive to get something amazing.
<a href="http://www.tripadvisor.com.au/Restaurant_Review-g187147-d850136-Reviews-La_Petite_Perigourdine-Paris_Ile_de_France.html">Petite Perigourdine</a> has a sickeningly awesome ratio of cheese to potato in their mash and this is place to try a steak tartare if you've never been game. I discovered <a href="http://www.lebouledogue.fr/index-en.html">Le Bouledogue</a> by accident on my last trip. I spent most of my time swooning at pictures of frenchies and playing with a neighbours bulldog rather than eating, but the duck here was ace and so were the numerous Kir Royals that accompanied it. If you're not a big fan of duck I recommend ordering some cheese. <a href="http://www.tripadvisor.com.au/Restaurant_Review-g187147-d718129-Reviews-L_As_du_Fallafel-Paris_Ile_de_France.html">L'as du Fallafel</a> makes for a perfect night cap and sunday brunch in the Marais. If you like a good cheese crepes <a href="https://plus.google.com/106405110686103607755/about?gl=au&hl=en">Little Breizh</a> does both the sweet and savory kind. The <a href="http://www.timeout.com/paris/en/restaurants/rose-bakery">Rose Bakery</a> has made its way into every trendy Paris guide with their carrot cake and cool interiors. The best croissant? Is the one you buy at your closest boulangerie, freshness trumps any butter to pastry ratio here. And if you find yourself in a less than favourable eating situation, it probably has something to do with the lack of cheese included.<br><br> <img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCEDS-BRULipyKn66OFQ6NXCk-B5zykkUPfqa1vJucObR52Mhctnoq6aS3qKmNJKfp1AF0Z76hw2ApehCYCc563pUMpW-wI-js9M_2siZCheyFXcPfuBhIBUtlSmTVJdHW0v6tOM7vVaM/s1600/ParisFood.jpg" style="border:none"/>
<br><br><b>VISIT </b> <a href="http://www.musee-orsay.fr/en/visit/welcome.html">Musee d'Orsay,</a> <a href="http://www.musee-rodin.fr/">Musee Rodin,</a> <a href="http://www.lesartsdecoratifs.fr/">Arts Décoratifs,</a> <a href="https://www.centrepompidou.fr/en">Pompidou</a> and <a href="http://www.louvre.fr/">Louvre</a> for everything from classic to contemporary art.
For the best picnic spots try <a href="http://www.senat.fr/visite/jardin/index.html">Jardin Luxembourg,</a> <a href="http://equipement.paris.fr/jardin-des-tuileries-1795">Jardin des Tuileries</a> and <a href="http://equipement.paris.fr/jardin-du-champ-de-mars-1807">Champ de Mars.</a> Make sure you walk your way to all the usual suspects like <a href="http://www.toureiffel.paris/">Tour Eiffel,</a> <a href="http://www.notredamedeparis.fr/-English-">Notre Dame,</a> <a href="http://www.sacre-coeur-montmartre.com/">Sacre Coeur</a> and <a href="https://plus.google.com/109933037936602534145/about?gl=au&hl=en">Pont Alexandre</a> because the best of the city is in the streets.
<br><br><b>NOTEABLE MENTIONS</b> Laurent Garnier's <a href="http://www.rexclub.com/">Rex Club</a> for nocturnal music adventures, <a href="http://www.lecrazyhorseparis.com/en">Le Crazy Horse</a> for cabaret done right, <a href="https://plus.google.com/110135034018057888815/about?gl=au&hl=en">Les Etages</a> for happy hour and every other spare hour.
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<br><br><b>WEAR</b> Saint Laurent brogues, Theory silk boyfriend blazer, T by Alexander Wang tshirt, J Brand leather pants, Anthony Vaccarello belt. Keep it dark, tailored and simple. <br><br><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirxhyphenhyphenSzAtNFVn3WzwRs0SbpJcEt89WMzshk7Fawq3Ub4fOLVTPYjKP3N_hQpWwivfOVXZniS36J9Gd15TBlkIdRkgEMAe2XHsdnHleVYh3vyj5ho1k9OdfhA8Etw019PQ4DSPEkcKElT0/s1600/ParisWear.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="border:none"> <br> <br> Any personal travel tips and recommendations welcome in comments! <br><Br><i>Special thanks to Lara Elisa Chiarot for being my Paris insider throughout the years!</i>
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<i>photos: <br><br> the louvre, <br><br>tour eiffel on bastile day,<br><br> interiors at crazy horse, <br><br>l'art du basic store near the marais, <br> <br>goyard flagship on rue du faubourg st honoré, <br><br>endless supply of fat and sugar at laduree,<br> <br>cheese, meat and liquour count as a meal, <br><br>les etages in the marais. <br><br><br><br><br><br><br><br><br><br><br><br><br><br><br><br><br><br><br><br><br><br><br><br><br><br><br><br><br><br><br><br><br><br><br>br><br><br><br><br><br><br><br><br><br><br><br><br><br><br><br><br><br><br><br><br><br><br><br><br><br><br><br><br><br><br><br><br><br><br><br><br><br><br><br><br><br><br><br><br><br><b>notes:</b><br> pack your language guides and maps, it's easier to get out of a tricky situation if you can at least speak some broken french. monthly prepaid metro cards are worth the spend on longer stays. some museums are closed on tuesdays and most stores are closed on sundays. </i></div></a></a></a></a></a>thenoircollectivehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06226372374512601697noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2166869701083666822.post-10070224146821102622014-11-17T12:16:00.000+11:002014-11-19T17:46:30.899+11:00Rustic Pearl<center> <img width="800" align="justify" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNuzisJawm62dfmpz0aRUZJDrXFpA80F8V8d_YHa6PhdGIsK0jF9RA8K5rC6ie3GjvcTgcE21er74KQDeGyi6H3CNoTxDpxWjzOwGa2TAwicYhJ4LPQAM2Hv57U9CsI10L57J4zpDceEI/s1600/rusticpearl.jpg" alt="Rustic Pearl Surry Hills Lobster eggs benedict spinach and cheese gozleme" style="border:none"> </center>
<div style="float: left; width: 630px; padding: 12px;"> <p align="justify">Sydney’s best cafes are an absolute luxury to visit on a weekday. Rustic pearl has made its way into my top 5, and is a real treat on a mod week day off or an early finish. Long time hesitations ensued after Saturdays of queue watching on Crown St but I was finally swayed by the Lobster eggs bennie. Cheaper than your average fish market feed, the eggs bennie comes out in a mammoth stack of 3 lobster tails, eggs, avo, chilli, fresh herbs and an extra rich hollandaise. The eggs are bang of perfect, just set whites and flowy yolks. The gozleme is up next, I usually steer clear of these at market stands as they’re swimming in oil but Rustic Pearl nails their dough. Crispy with a nice char, the gooey innards are made from baby spinach so the whole dish tastes sweet and fresh. I try and avoid all eye contact and mop up the rest of my hollandaise with bits of gozleme. I’m pleasantly surprised to see Turkish coffee on the menu, my parents have been boiling the stuff all my life so I skip my regular creamy based drinks and go straight for the shot which comes with a small piece of Turkish delight as a chaser. The space itself is small, seating about 10-15 people, the food service takes a while (and rightly so, the food always tastes fresh) which with large serving sizes which inevitably means people take their time. Always smiley and accommodating staff. Kitschy eastern European interiors. Coffee by Mecca.
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<i>Rustic Pearl | 415 Crown st, Surry Hills
<br><a href="http://www.urbanspoon.com/r/70/1727016/restaurant/Sydney/Rustic-Pearl-Surry-Hills"><img alt="Rustic Pearl on Urbanspoon" src="http://www.urbanspoon.com/b/logo/1727016/minilogo.gif" style="border:none;width:104px;height:15px" /></a></i></div>thenoircollectivehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06226372374512601697noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2166869701083666822.post-51648417537674502292014-11-09T19:53:00.000+11:002014-11-12T22:50:02.182+11:00All leather everything (all year round!)<center> <img width="800" align="justify" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgx8X5LIloKevSIFYK-wn3EiIN9-URE1SOM-kYu0S7PzSsYr8WQDTmOSoySG9RocMKqFZ-YqdFZcMqy3VCOTJBul6Tm4jPFpZtCPEhcT89QWqlINUGSJJfCUxBbdL0LBxQjvhFeVl2UC3w/s1600/allleathereverything1.jpg" alt="All leather everything" > </center>
<div style="float: left; width: 630px; padding: 12px;"> <p align="justify">The second best thing to wearing nothing, really is wearing leather. Behind a grocery list amount of reasons why everyone should own their favourite piece in leather, is that undeniable fact that anything leather will be the polish on your outfit that ties it all together. That inexplicable ability to complete any look comes down to contrast, the most underrated stylistic trick. It's value lies not only in the fact that no other material in your wardrobe looks like it, but also as a double whammy; the ones that don't, play a perfect contrasting piece to leather's buttery soft yet protectively fluid texture. Mix with crisp cottons and linens in summer, wool and cashmere blends in winter and silk for nights out. The best leather pieces are the classics you’d expect in wool or cotton reworked in leather. The leather tee has hit all the right spots in my hunt for luxe, updated summer basics. Playing a big part in transitioning my wardrobe into a more sleek and modern one, a leather jacket is perfect for taking the girly edge off my favourite silk tops and dresses when I need to feel more pulled together.<br><br>
Now while a head to toe leather ensemble is not for anyone that’s wading water with the insouciant material, I have before and the pieces above were my outfit of choice. <br><br>
Caring for leather pieces is fairly easy. Think of it as your own skin, a great leather conditioner every few months works wonders as well as keeping it away from direct heat or sunlight. Leathers age beautifully over time so embrace the creasing and patina as it add character to your garment. For more tips read my <a href="http://www.davidlawrence.com.au/Care-Guide-Leather.html">leather care guide for David Lawrence.</a><center><br><br><a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/blog/3718171/?claim=j5rkqkup7hj">Follow my blog with Bloglovin</a></center>
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<i><a href="http://www.farfetch.com/au/shopping/WOMEN/Muubaa-leather-top-item-10780069.aspx?gclid=Cj0KEQiA1eyiBRC-qI2VzKf0vaUBEiQAUiZ3xHO5T5yOTv-SbJHPfB8wZJengInzsmQZyxkONTfhHYwaAhin8P8HAQ&country=12&ef_id=VC1CdAAAAdrNvmFi:20141106110838:s">Muubaa tee</a><br>
<a href="http://www.topshop.com/en/tsuk/product/relaxed-leather-blazer-by-marquesalmeida-x-topshop-3413635?geoip=noredirect&utm_medium=affiliate&network=awin&affiliate_id=79682&cmpid=aff_cont_awuk_79682&awc=6009_1415272441_854ee4916c3a0d34951310b196c052ad">Topshop jacket (similar here)</a><br>
<a href="http://www.theoutnet.com/en-AU/product/Alexander-Wang/Croc-effect-leather-shorts/491534"> Vintage shorts (similar here)</a><br>
<a href="http://www.forwardforward.com/fw/DisplayProduct.jsp?d=F&s=B&c=Alexander+Wang&code=AWAN-WZ77&mkwid=bILl8brm_dc|pcrid|40957050874|&adgroups={adwords_groups}&adlabel={adwords_labels}&pdv=c&sourcetracking=google-pla&cvosrc=cse.google.83182630594&cvo_crid=40957050874&gclid=Cj0KEQiA1eyiBRC-qI2VzKf0vaUBEiQAUiZ3xM_obI5_COYuOyxMLhGtZ-S-oPn86lhpnIoXmauJrP4aAvCV8P8HAQ">Alexander Wang sandals</a><br>
<a href="http://www.matchesfashion.com/product/203495">Balenciaga bag</a>
</i></div>thenoircollectivehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06226372374512601697noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2166869701083666822.post-60248823933369167032014-11-06T21:33:00.000+11:002014-11-28T14:03:17.504+11:00More NOIR on tumblr<center> <img width="800" align="justify" src="http://s1.postimg.org/oneikx0sf/ontumblr.jpg" alt="The noir collective now on tumblr" style="border:none"> </center>
<div style="float: left; width: 630px; padding: 12px;"> <p align="justify"> All the photos that didn't quite make it to a full fledged post but are still too good to not share, subscribe to the new NOIR tumblr account for daily updates.
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<i><a href="http://thenoircollective.tumblr.com/">follow the NOIR tumblr</a> </i></div>thenoircollectivehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06226372374512601697noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2166869701083666822.post-57901032802549446782014-11-04T14:32:00.000+11:002014-11-04T15:36:06.290+11:00Studio Life<center> <img width="800" align="justify" src="http://s9.postimg.org/ba51r3f67/Studio_Lifeheader.jpg" alt="Studio Life essentials" style="border:none"> </center>
<div style="float: left; width: 630px; padding: 12px;"> <p align="justify">A friend once asked what I would do if I had to wear a uniform for work, or if I was to find my self in an environment where corporate dressing was the norm. I was in the very early stages of my career life, but the answer seemed clear even then, that’s not somewhere I’d like to end up. Work life would be just another style to take on, but I could never see myself in a tailored skirt suit. My first office job saw a rotation of fairly safe for work casual outfits, replaced ever so often with a trend piece. Numerous jobs later, my style has never needed to be so versatile as it is now that I work freelance hours. Broken up between time in the studio, client meetings and good old screen to screen time. The first two have needed a little bit of a tweak, and the last is usually done in pyjamas, gym gear or whatever pieces of clothing were still hanging on my chair from the day before. <br><br>
I fell into studio dressing fairly quickly, a few 11hr shoots in uncomfortable shoes, a couple of 7am starts where I probably should have washed my hair the night before and numerous studio spaces where air conditioning and heating seem to have been left out of the structure plans. All this meant I fine tooth combed through my essentials real quick and picked out a handful of items that were fuss free and still something I’d enjoy wearing without compromising; not a skirt suit in sight. After all, you'll spend more time in your work clothes than any other, you'll need to be happy with what you wear. Think functionality, with enough little details to keep the look interesting, natural materials for durability and minimal accessories.<br><br>
<b>Button up shirts: </b>I’ve written countless bits of online copy over the years on why you should own one of these, and the most important reason is stylistic variability. Depending on the style of button up you chose, it can take you from casual to formal in a slight play with the buttons. Done all the way up, sleeves rolled down, rolled up or cuffed, unbuttoned to a modest V, unbuttoned further for a flash of your favourite lingerie for when you’re ready to leave work, thrown over a cami as a light over up, tucked into a high waisted skirt, worn loose over denim cut offs, twist tied for weekend ease. All in one shirt. I own the above chambray shirt from Topshop for studio and casual wear and a silk Alexander Wang button up for client meetings and formal occasions, but both cross over on occasion.<br><br>
<b>Cashmere sweater:</b> I usually catch public transport to wherever I’m working on the day. If it’s a particularly early start, especially in autumn or spring, Sydney weather will vary 5-10’C during my travel time. An extra layer of warmth I can shed quickly is up there on my hierarchy of morning needs along with food and water because I can pretend I’m still in bed for an extra half an hr and then tie it around my shoulders when I start shooting and get too warm. It doesn’t have to be cashmere, wool is a great alternative with pretty much all the same benefits. Look for fine knits and skip anything with angora, the last thing you want to do is use the lint roller on yourself. <br><br>
<b>Denim:</b> Denim needs no introduction, how casual you can go will depend on your work environment, but even the most dress code conscious person can substitute black pants for a pair of black fitted and nondescript jeans. At the moment I’m really into dark grey denim in a light wash, goes with just as many things as black does and adds depth to an all black outfit on the odd occasion you’re just too damn of wearing all black. Extra hot days have seen me change these up for a work length appropriate pair of light denim cut offs. <br><br>
<b>Flat-but-not-too-flat shoes:</b> Photographers, stylists, production crew and anyone else on site will tell you sneakers are the go to staple. With sports luxe being on the fashion radar more often than not, its pretty much the norm to mix up sneakers with whatever it is you normally wear. Personally, I still err on this, I wear sneakers, but ankle boots are my go to piece for two reasons. An ankle boot with a small heel will give you better support for when you have to be on your feet for 10hrs and they just look so much more put together with just as little effort. No bigger buzz kill than having to turn up to a dinner after in sneakers. Leather doesn’t sweat so I have no problem wearing these when it gets warmer. Lace up brogues are another great option. <br><br>
<b>Hat:</b> Hats are an absolute life saver and there’s no two ways about it. It’s one of those accessories that packs a whole lot of personality and functionality into one. Bad hair day? Want to hide from a co-worker? Seem to have covered every part of your body but still cold? Hats, to all of the above. Nothing says don’t talk to me until I finish this as clearly as glaring at someone from underneath a wide brimmed hat. That being said, I never wear them into meetings or any jobs that require extensive eye contact and conversation. A lot of people steer clear of hats, but take the time to find the right style for you and you’ll never go back. I mainly wear Rag & Bone fedoras with a medium brim in winter and a light panama in summer. I look horrid in beanies but if your head fits they double duty for holding up convenience stores after a not so great day at work.<br><br>
<b>Personal accessories:</b> Most accessories just aren’t that functional lets be honest, especially when your fancy oversized necklace is getting caught in the hair of some model as you’re trying to zip up her dress. High heeled shoes are out of the question too. Jangly bracelets will drive your coworkers up the wall. So its best to keep these to a minimum, but make sure the ones you chose pack a punch. I wear a small selection of gold, silver and rose gold jewelry and a men’s watch daily. Mixing silver and gold tones is really easy if your jewelry is fine and you carry the colour combinations throughout more than one piece. I’ve worn my Russian wedding ring for over 8 years now, its small and sentimental and I can spend hours twirling it when in thinking mode.<br><br>
And once you find your work staples, invest in them. Buy them in the best quality you can afford because they'll be working just as hard to keep comfortable and effortlessly well dressed.
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<i><a href="http://www.topshop.com/en/tsuk/product/casual-chambray-shirt-2595404">Topshop chambray button up</a> <br>
<a href="http://www.net-a-porter.com/product/468306/APC_Atelier_de_Production_et_de_Creation/blair-wool-and-cashmere-blend-sweater">APC wool cashmere sweater </a><br>
<a href="http://www.matchesfashion.com/product/214761">J Brand skinny jeans</a><br>
<a href="https://www.ssense.com/women/product/alexander_wang/black_notched_heel_anouk_boots/105121?gclid=Cj0KEQiA7NyiBRCOhpuCm9Dq6b4BEiQA9D6qhWTm2t9CleCLLUuhPWJhEkYJLU265eAV1Airw33dEcEaApMR8P8HAQ">Alexander Wang boots</a><br>
<a href="http://www.rag-bone.com/kingsley-hat/d/1297">Rag&Bone wool fedora </a><br>
<a href="http://www.cartier.com/collections/jewelry/categories/rings/trinity-de-cartier-rings">Cartier trinity ring</a></i></div><br>thenoircollectivehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06226372374512601697noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2166869701083666822.post-90552497847172969912014-10-30T20:43:00.000+11:002014-11-12T22:51:38.867+11:00Paramount Coffee Project Revisted<center> <img width="800" align="justify" src="http://s17.postimg.org/xbltuzmqn/IMG_7110.jpg" alt="Paramount Coffe Project Caramel Popcorn Milkshake"> </center>
<div style="float: left; width: 630px; padding: 12px;"> <p align="justify"> With a slew of new cafe openings in Sydney over the last six months, you can really eat at a different one each week. But none have really topped my list as much as Paramount, hence its always the choice by default. Their new spring menu was very much welcome, with a whole new rework of the tasty fried classics and I was glad to see the Crab Po Boy still on the menu. They still make a mean milkshake. Ever since I got hooked on the caramel popcorn variety at Gelato Messina, which since has been replaced withe Dessert Bar, I've been hanging out for these bad boys at Paramount. Just add a filter coffee and I'm pretty sure that equals a healthy breakfast.
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<i>PCP Coffee Shake, Caramel Popcorn Milkshake. Sunglasses by Moscot</i></div>thenoircollectivehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06226372374512601697noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2166869701083666822.post-50259393666711533162014-10-21T22:08:00.000+11:002014-11-04T20:03:20.674+11:00iCaved: Upgrading to a marble Macbook Pro<center> <img width="800" align="justify" src="http://s13.postimg.org/cy1l1u01z/Marble_Mac.jpg" alt="" style="border:none"> </center>
<div style="float: left; width: 630px; padding: 12px;"> <p align="justify">Making the switch from pc to Mac is no mean feat after more than 10 years of hailing praises to Windows. However design fanatic friends and new job prospects alike have confirmed me that the whole process of retraining your brain to go from alt to command key is well worth the creative ease. Moving and backing up the last few years of work however feels like moving house, too many things to dust and readjust that your brain simply wants to take a nap thinking about the sheer volume of things to do. I may have be swayed by this marble skin, clean start and lots of white space await!<br><br>
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<i><a href='https://www.etsy.com/au/listing/185731511/marble-macbook-decal-laptop-skin-add-a'>Marble Mac skin via Etsy</a></i><br><br>Notes on re-skinning: Skin runs slightly smaller than laptop, so go slowly and start from the top, front end for the neatest result. Anyone with OCD tendencies like myself, who just cant handle their Mac skin bubbling or shifting, prep yourself with a solid alcoholic drink of choice for a steady hand. Pop any minor bubble with sewing pin and smooth over excess skin.</div>thenoircollectivehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06226372374512601697noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2166869701083666822.post-5706717968589699352014-10-08T11:33:00.000+11:002014-11-04T14:30:57.599+11:00Festival des Métiers Sydney<center> <img width="800" align="justify" src="http://s8.postimg.org/yxubaqaxx/festival.jpg" alt="hermes festival des metiers Anna-Wili Highfield" style="border:none"> </center>
<div style="float: left; width: 630px; padding: 12px;"> <p align="justify">I've always had a soft spot for the link between craftsmanship and luxury branding, beautiful campaigns and marketing aside its a great reminder to why your money is better invested in products that are made with finesse. Above exhibition staff dressed in paper art collaboration between Hermes and Anna Wili Heighfield. <center><br><br><a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/blog/3718171/?claim=j5rkqkup7hj">Follow my blog with Bloglovin</a></center>
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<div style="float: left; width: 120px; padding: 10px;"><i>Photo taken outside MCA gallery
</i></div>thenoircollectivehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06226372374512601697noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2166869701083666822.post-83612291478522882882014-09-25T21:39:00.000+10:002014-10-08T11:55:43.767+11:00When in Paris <center> <img width="700" align="justify" src="http://www.vogue.co.jp/uploads/media/2014/08/04/51-513-paris14.jpg" alt="paris vogue japan" style="border:none"> </center>
<div style="float: left; width: 630px; padding: 12px;"> <p align="justify">The lovely Yasco Otomo from Vogue Japan snapped me outside Colette in Paris attempting to do last minute present shopping.
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<i><a href="http://www.vogue.co.jp/fashion/snap/2014-08-paris/page/14">Photo c/o Vogue Japan</a></i></div>thenoircollectivehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06226372374512601697noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2166869701083666822.post-20015605921216718062014-09-22T21:25:00.001+10:002014-10-08T11:53:19.282+11:00his & hers: grey marle
<center> <img width="800" align="justify" src="http://s30.postimg.org/thhnxatxt/greymarle.jpg" alt="grey marle sweatshirt and shirt" style="border:none"> </center>
<div style="float: left; width: 630px; padding: 12px;"> <p align="justify">I try to shy away from matching couples outfits, one too many knitted colourful sweaters and designer bags have been seen in my day. My partner and I unintentionally matched at a dinner last week, in what else but grey marle. It's the colour I find myself reaching for second to black. And with its murky territory somewhere between sports and weekend luxe no wonder it's so ubiquitous. <center><br><br><a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/blog/3718171/?claim=j5rkqkup7hj">Follow my blog with Bloglovin</a></center>
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<a href="http://www.apc.fr/frfr/homme/sweatshirts/sweat-shirt-central-park_pFVAAE4GF/couleur-gris-chine_dBA00003082-BV00341997.html"> APC central park sweatshirt</a><a href="https://www.net-a-porter.com/product/461368/The_Row/bobbi-stretch-jersey-t-shirt"> THE ROW bobbi tshirt</a></div>
thenoircollectivehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06226372374512601697noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2166869701083666822.post-1772436228610508202014-09-15T21:20:00.000+10:002014-10-30T20:45:14.887+11:00PLAY time<center> <img width="800" align="justify" src="http://s28.postimg.org/bvbeoce99/CDC_Converse.jpg" alt="" style="border:none"> </center>
<div style="float: left; width: 630px; padding: 12px;"> <p align="justify"> Thanks Comme Des Garcons for breaking my new sneaker fear with an off-white canvas. For me there's nothing worse than that too clean white feeling of new shoes and having to wear them in carefully until they just change colour but before they're covered in every dropable and stainable aspect of everyday life . I've put off getting new connies for far too long, my last pair survived numerous runs, washing cycles and a serious set of partying and Berghain.
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<i><a href="http://www.forwardforward.com/fw/DisplayProduct.jsp?code=CDES-UZ4&d=Womens">Converse x CDC Sneakers</a></i></div>thenoircollectivehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06226372374512601697noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2166869701083666822.post-22000308457810011902014-09-10T12:32:00.000+10:002014-11-04T19:10:17.968+11:00Sydney Sakura Season<center> <img width="800" align="justify" src="http://s16.postimg.org/ndlhsyc7p/IMG_6403.jpg" style="border:none" alt="Auburn Japanese Gardens, Sakura Season"> </center>
<div style="float: left; width: 630px; padding: 12px;"> <p align="justify"> The quickest way to jet set out of Sydney is to drive to Auburn and get swept up in the last little bits of flowering cherry blossoms for the season, add a light breeze, flying petals and boyfriend for your own little anime scene minus the 8hr flight. Maybe next year Tokyo!
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<i>Japanese Gardens; Chiswick Road, Auburn </i></div>thenoircollectivehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06226372374512601697noreply@blogger.com0