WHAT I WORE FOR OUR ANNIVERSARY DINNER

Hello my dear readers.  Hope you are all well.

This is post is long overdue as we celebrated our wedding anniversary on the 29 of July.  Sadly, the following week I had to go to the hospital to have a surgical procedure on my nose.  It was BCC (basal cell carcinoma), the most common form of skin cancer and the least dangerous but if left untreated it can turn nasty.  

A few years ago my skin doctor had removed a similar BCC from the right side of my nose but this time the lesion was bigger which involved skin grafting and I was referred to the plastic surgeon.  As a result, my nose is scarred on this side and as you can imagine, does not look attractive at ll.  I was told that the healing process might take up to 4 months, so I am not sure how I am going to take photos for my blog without scaring readers away.  Perhaps, I might just pose sideways, that’s a thought 😊.

Anyway, back to the topic.  A few months ago my older daughter showed me this glamorous looking jacket made out of jacquard fabric and asked if I wanted it.  I was not entirely sure if I needed it but said "yes", just in case.  Since then it has been sitting in my closet waiting for the occasion; it is not the kind of jacket that I would wear for my every day chores or to work.  In the old days people used to differentiate their wardrobe between what they wear everyday and for special occasions and although it sounds rather old-fashioned, I adhere to this notion. 

This way getting dressed for an occasion makes it feel really special. It does not have to be a major event like a wedding for example, it could be just a night at the Opera or theatre or a dinner party at an upscale restaurant.  I read somewhere that the ambience of the place depends as much on the interior decor as on the way the patrons appearance and we should make an effort to dress accordingly. My husband and I totally agree, if fact when I think I am overdressed, he always reassured me that it's better to be overdressed then underdressed.  

I like to start planning ahead on what I will wear with what and which accessories, shoes and a handbag would work best, it kind of builds anticipation for a good time ahead and fittingly, our anniversary dinner was one of those occasions.

I wanted the jacket to be the focal point of my outfit so all other elements should be of less impact as not to distract attention and since the background of it is black, I chose it as a base colour for all my clothes for the night except the shoes.

The slim pants I am wearing are also new.  They are my latest purchase from Reiss.  Those of you who read my blog, might remember that I absolutely love this brand and follow its sales religiously.  I appreciate the brand for its fashion style, high quality fabric and the craftsmanship of the execution.  The top is quite old Zara purchase but comes handy when I need to wear something black without any frills.

As for shoes, I am so happy that the singback pumps are back, here in OZ at least.  I haven’t worn these beauties for quite some time and am looking forward for winter to end so I will be able to give them a full workout during the worm months.

And that is that.  We spent our anniversary night at the Spanish wine bar called Bibo Wine Bar. It was our first dinner there but we passed it many times on our walks and loved the way it looks:  dark painted wall, flickering candles, people drinking, eating, laughing - obviously enjoying themselves.

It turned out exactly what we expected, the food (modern Med) was very tasty, the staff was exceptionally friendly yet highly officiant and knowledgeable and we had great time.

Do you separate your wardrobe into everyday wear and a special occasion or you just wear whatever takes your fancy?   Please share your thoughts in a comment section below.

Outfit details: Jacket - Minkpink, Top - Zara, Pants - Reiss, Shoes:  Hugo Boss, Glasses - Prada

Until then

Anna

xoxoxo 

 

HOW TO DRESS FOR OFFICE RETURN

Hello everyone, how are you all?

As our lives are gradually returning to BC (Before Covid) style, more and more businesses are encouraging their employees to return to the office.  While it could be a blessing for some, others feel rather confronted by the idea of using public transport, wasting valuable time in traffic or just simply gave up their comfortable lounge clothes which they used to wear during the last two years.

My office never asked us to WFH (work from home) anyway so I can’t be a part of this dilemma, however if you are facing the fact of return, you might feel relieved that the road map to rediscovering dressing for business is more mix and match inspiration and having confidence in mixing moods rather than rigidly following top-to-toe tailored approach that was expected from the office workers in the past.  In other words, it is an organic blend between two worlds, business and casual, and I quite like it.

These days court shoes have been replaced by the smart looking sneakers or even open toe flats, crisp shirts and fancy blouses – by simple t-shirts and sharp-cut blazers by knitted cardigans and biker jackets. 

Don’t worry if you have an after work engagement like going out to a fancy dinner or a cocktail party or to the opera house for a classical concert or an opera.  With few little tweaks, your outfit can be easily transformed into more formal look.  A pair of dress shoes, a beautiful necklace or a pair of statement earrings, a silk scarf or a nice evening bag that you can bring with you to the office, will add an element of class to your outfit and instantly transform it from day to night.

I really like this fresh approach to business fashion, you feel more relaxed and comfortable being able to add your personality and style.  Also, your existing wardrobe is getting a higher return on investment, so to speak which in turn saves you money and time on shopping for business clothes👍.

Luckily, my office has never been a stickler about a work uniform, I like to get dressed for work.  This outfit is my take of incorporating casual elements into the business look.  While my slim black pants and court shoes are part of my business wardrobe, the plain white t-shirt and a linen jacket belong to the casual corner of my wardrobe. 

I was on the hunt for a black blazer for quite a while, the reason being  that every time I saw something I liked, it was either quite expensive or was too business-like or both.  Then one day I stepped into Zara and boom, I saw a linen jacket in dark charcoal with white and thin black stripes lining and realised that it is exactly what the doctor ordered!   It might look like it is a top part of a pant suit on these photos but in reality you can see that the colour and fabrics are quite different.  I also like the fact that I can roll up the sleeves to expose the contrasting white lining if I am after casual vibe.

I added a brooch and hoop earrings to add some texture and a touch of style to this outfit. 

Enjoy your day

Until then,

Anna

NAVY IS THE NEW BLACK OR WHAT I WORE TO THE OPERA

Hello everyone and welcome to my blog.

I had to do a double take when I came to the office this morning and saw that it was the 1st of May on my calendar.  Unbelievable, how fast time flies.

My husband and I are big lovers of classical operas and ballet and are quite regular patrons of the Sydney Opera House.  We went there last Saturdays to listen to Elgar's cello concerto performed by the extremely talented lady named Harriet Krijgh. When I read in the program that she was playing the instrument which was made in 17th century and when her bow touched the strings, the hair on my neck stood up in admiration because that cello sounded heavenly.  I am sure it could also be attributed to the skills of a performer, no doubt.

We are so lucky in respect that both of us love classical music and are able to enjoy it together.  During our travels to Europe, we always try to book tickets for a classical performance at a local opera house.   

"I LOVE THE WAY HOW EUROPEANS GED DRESSED FOR THE OPERA"

I love the way how Europeans get dressed for the theatre, no jeans and sneakers, it is all about old school - silk dresses and pearls on women and tuxedos for men and that is another reason why I was looking forward to experiencing again the magic of the theatre with great anticipation.

When I was a little girl growing up in Ukraine, there was not much to watch on TV except educational or art shows and it was then that my passion for ballet was fostered.  My parents were extremely supportive and made sure that I wouldn't miss a premiere of a new ballet at our Opera and Ballet Theatre.  I had an auntie who lived in Moscow and every time I visited her, she would manage to score me a ticket to the Bolshoi.  

I still feel nostalgic remembering the grandeur of the building's architecture, the red carpet covering the marble staircases, the deep plush chairs upholstered in the deep red velvet, the gilded woodwork running along the balustrades and colonnades and the burgundy colour and gilded tassels of the stage curtain.  

I love our Sydney Opera House, it is one of the most iconic buildings in the world but I find it slightly too modern for me and although most people make an effort and dress nicely, the others simply don't care.  As for my husband and myself, we belong to the former and dress smartly for the occasion, which brings me to today's outfit which I wore to the cello concert I mentioned earlier.  

 

Although it looks like a suit, both pants and the jacket are separates with a common thread that ties them together.  If you look closer, you might see a satin stripe running over the side seam of the trousers (previously worn here).  The same satin fabric is used for a pleated belt simulating the classic cummerbund of a tuxedo.   

I wanted to step away from the traditional black and wore a dark navy jacket instead for a colour injection into the black monotone and making the whole outfit not look overly formal (you might remember seeing me wearing it previously here) but The other reason I chose it was that the lapels are covered in the same black satin as the stripes of the pants thus making them look like an easy version of a tux suit.

The top I wore is from Zara, just a simple sleeveless lace top that I tucked in to show off the belt.

My shoes are classic black patent LV pumps worn previously here.

And I couldn't help but add the red lipstick for a colour-pop.

Have a great week

Until then

Anna

xo

Linking up with A Pocketful of Polka Dots, Style Splash, The Pleated Poppy, Nancy Fashion Style

MY ANNIVERSARY PRESENT AND WHAT I WORE FOR DINNER AT QUAY

Hi everyone,

When my husband and I went to a gallery to view a new collection of South African artist Michael Taylor few weeks ago (more about it in this post "What I wore for a gallery opening), there were, like in every art gallery, the works of other artists on display a few of them which we really liked.  Particularly the one, depicting a very strange looking cat, totally got my attention.  Knowing that we are not hunting for any artwork at the time, I jokingly pointed out to my husband saying that it would be nice if we get it as a gift for our upcoming wedding anniversary, which is on the 29 of July.  

Traditionally, on the 29th day of every month my husband spoils me with a gift to mark the day.  It could be a pair of earrings or a voucher to the beauty salon or a coffee table book or anything he could think I would like to have.   Then, on the actual day of our wedding anniversary, he presents me with some lavish gift:  either an expensive piece of jewellery or a fancy handbag or a pair of gorgeous shoes.  That does not mean that I have to wait for the whole year if I need a pair of shoes but those gifts are not what I need nor even want, it is my husband’s and I quote "To spoil me rotten".  I have no objection to it, except occasional pang of guilt that the gifts should be for both of us, not just for myself but it does not bother him in the slightest.  We also celebrated this day by going out in the evening to one of the top notch restaurants in Sydney.

Anyhow, back to the story.  The time went on, I totally forgot about the cat but as the day of our anniversary grew closer, I started thinking more and more about what gift would I get this year or what restaurant we would go on the night.  My husband was keeping the plans close to his chest except for asking me to be ready by 7 pm.  Clearly, I had no idea about the surprise that he had in store for me, I did, however, felt slightly puzzled when I returned home after doing a school run and found no gift waiting for me.

As the day wore off, my puzzlement grew and with it came some disappointment.  Then, as if on cue, someone buzzed our security phone.  By the time I came downstairs to see who that might be, I found my husband standing in the middle of our dining room staring at the wall.  I followed his gaze and there, leaning against the wall, was the painting of a cat I had seen at the gallery.

Turned out, it was not just a picture of a cat, it was a cat called Behemoths, a character from the novel by a Russian author Michail Bulgakov, "Master and Margarita" painted by a talented Australian artist Jody Clark.  When my husband saw me looking at the painting, he quietly made an inquiry about its provenance and when he learned about its Russian connection, he decided to buy it for me.

We both absolutely love it.  If you take a closer look, you will be able to see that the letters on the door are Russians and so is the coin in cat's paw.

Technically, it was a gift for both of us but deep down I know that he bought it for me to honour my Russian roots and for that I am forever grateful to him.

When the time came for me to get ready, even not knowing where we were going for our anniversary dinner date, I thought my gold metallic pleated top with tuxedo pants and matching high heel shoes would rise to the occasion.  I found this shimmering top in Zara, Cape Town, when we were there earlier this year.  It was just hanging off the rack on its own as if someone left it there in a hurry.  I have always loved the tops with boat necks, not too high and not too low just, enough to show off your collar bone.   Besides, metallics and pleats are very hot right now and this top has it all.

My pants were also purchased on the same trip but this time it was in Lisbon.  I like the silk stripes running along the length of the leg and around the waist like a real tuxedo style making them look rather special.

And last but not least, the shoes.  I am sure it is not the first time I am stressing about an  absolute power which this accessory possesses over an outfit and its ability to make or break it. With that in mind, tonight I am wearing my newly acquired Louis Vuitton black shoes called Betty pump "accessorised with tone-on-tone resin marbles engraved with the LV initials".  Believe it or not, they were also purchased on the same trip but this time in Athens

All was left for me to do is to grab my mini Chanel purse and put on my coat and we were off.

 

As we were about to leave the house, my husband finally revealed to me our destination, a dinner at Quay.  It is Australian's most awarded restaurant and one of only two Australian restaurants on the prestigious S Pellegrino World's Top 50 list and to get a table there, one must book at least 6 months in advance.  You are not going to Quay for just dinner, you are going there to have a whole new experience of culinary world.  Situated in the historic district called The Rocks, Quay is not only famous for its unique food but its position offers the most breathtaking harbour views in the city:  over the Harbour Bridge on one side and the Sydney Opera House right across from it.  When it comes to food,  I quote "At Quay, our passion is to deliver a truly unique dining experience, one which is completely removed from the everyday".  Which they did with utmost excellence.

Needless to say, the food was sublime, the service - excellent, and the reflection of sparkling lights on the Harbour Bridge dancing in our wine glasses was absolute magic.   I couldn't wish for more.

BLACK + WHITE WITH A SPLASH OF BRIGHT|HOW I STYLED BLACK JOGGER PANTS

Until last week, I had not been a big fan of the so called “Streetwear” trend – sweatpants and shirts, hoodies and singlets are not exactly my cup of tea, I prefer to wear garments with more shape-defined silhouettes and classier looks.  Then one day, while I was browsing through the racks of denims at the J Brand counter of David Jones department store, I spotted a pair of black jogger pants. 

They were not exactly what I was looking for but I thought, why not?  Every now and then you should get out of your comfort zone and do something you have never done before and here was my chance, so I paid the price and brought them home.

It was the time to figure out how I am going to wear the jogger pants.  Since it was my first close encounter with this style of pants, my initial look was quite obvious:  casual top, jogger pants and a pair of white Converse – nice and simple.  

However, true to my own style, I wanted my outfit to look more sleek and stylish without compromising the relaxed and comfortable feel. I kept the singlet and quirky sunglasses but ditched the sneakers for a pair of low-heel comfortable leather shoes in eye-popping red that together with a vibrant Hermes scarf (also worn here) pack a high-octane punch to my otherwise monochromatic colour scheme. 

LESSON LEARNT:  GET OUT OF YOUR COMFORT ZONE AND DO SOMETHING YOU NEVER DONE BEFORE!!!

 My new Messenger bag from Furla (another gift from my beloved husband) was just the right accessory to polish the sport luxe look. 

ACCESSORIES IN EYE-POPPING COLOURS BRING A HIGH-OCTANE PUNCH TO YOUR OUTFIT


Jogger Pants:  J Brand
Singlet:  Zara
Shoes:  Chloe
Bag:  Furla
Scarf:  Hermes
Cuff:  Dinosaur Designs
Sunglasses:  Bondi Markets (worn here)
Watch: The Horse (worn here)

Linking up with: Style elixir, Not Dressed as Lamb, 40+ Style, Elegantly Dressed and Stylish, Blog Chicks

WHAT I WORE - BOMBER JACKET

Back in the 80’s the bomber jacket was the staple that every “bad boy” had in his wardrobe. Ever since, due to its simple shape and lightweight design, the bomber jacket has secured its position as a cool classic and it comes as no wander that it is having a huge comeback as a principal wardrobe item for transitional wear for both genders.

  

Jeans:  J Brand

Jacket:  Lover

Keeping its true nature and style intact, ie short in the body with rather puffy sleeves and a front zipper, the modern bomber jacket brings a luxurious and fashionable vibe and versatility in a wide range of styles, colour schemes and fabric choices from luxurious expensive silky textures to swooshing nylon, from leather to lace, and from sheer to simple jersey giving us myriads of options to choose from which could become tricky when it comes to decide on which one to buy and how to wear it.

It took me quite a considerable amount of time trying to figure out which jacket suits me best and how much use can I get from it.  My choice fell on a very pretty white colour bomber jacket from “Lover” with the very distinctive texture of silk embroidery in the same colour tone for a few reasons.  First of all, because of a solid colour and rich fabric, it would give me endless opportunities for mixing and matching my bomber jacket with high and low-end items of clothing depending on the time of the day, the event or my mood.  Also, because bomber jackets tend to be quite boxy and can come across as slightly masculine, jackets in light pastel shades seem to look more feminine. 

During the day, I like to wear it with high-waisted cropped pants and lace up flats for a playful and relax look.

Pants:  Sass&Bide (I wore them here)

For a casual weekend away, I throw my bomber jacket over a pair of jeans and add a touch of panache with a beautiful silk scarf.

On a night out, I swap the flats for high heels and a pair of well cut black classic or tuxedo pants for a touch of elegance.   You can always add more glamour to your look by wearing some gorgeous necklace or other eye catching accessories.

Pants:  Fabiani (I wore them here)

The bomber jackets are fun and fresh cover-ups for women who want to mix-up glamour and modern pace of life and are irreplaceable for a transitional period.  You can wear it over your t-shirt or slightly warmer top once the temperature starts to fall.  They are great with almost any type of pants or jeans and even with skirts and dresses and I would highly recommend them to women of any age.

Wear a bomber jacket this season and you are bound to look fabulous!!!