OUR VISIT TO ONE OF SYDNEY'S WORST KEPT SECRETS, WENDY'S SECRET GARDEN

Hello everyone, hope you are all well.

We had lovely relaxing time over Easter break.  On Friday, we had my family over for Passover dinner which was almost cancelled as my younger daughter who lives with us got COVID 😞 and was just released from isolation on the same Friday which was quite nerve racking.   I was worried that my guests don't want to be in close contact with her and would cancel the dinner.  However, luckily for me, all of them!!! 😮including ourselves just had COVID in the last two months and didn’t worry too much about spending the evening in the same room as her.   I can’t believe I just said it, that sounds so perverse, yet it is the reality we are now living.

I cooked a lot of traditional dishes which my guests thoroughly enjoyed, the kids had fun and we had a lovely family time together.   The next day it was my granddaughter’s 5^th birthday party in the park.  It was a typical children’s party thrown by the extremely busy and sleep deprived parents. The food in the form of pizza was delivered from the local Domino shop and the cake was store bought.  It was nice to watch the kids running around entertaining themselves while we adults were chatting with each other over the glass of wine poured into the plastic cups.  Priceless, wouldn’t change it for the world.

Sunday was a day of relaxation.  We couldn't believe our luck with the weather.  As if Mother Nature decided to make it up to us and after having an awfully wet and cold summer, granted us with the sun and warmth.  It was a perfect day for heading outdoors, preferably somewhere along the coast but it was during the Easter break and school holidays, we knew that the traffic on the roads would be chock a block and decided to go locally.  

A few years ago we read in a paper about Wendy's Secret Garden created by the wife of the late renowned Australian artist, Brett Whiteley near the house where they lived in Lavender Bay on the Sydney's Lower North Shore .  

As the story goes, after the death of her husband, grief-stricken Wendy was in need to regain back control of her life, to clean up the mess it was in, found herself savagely attacking piles of overgrown rubbish of the unused railway land in front of their home.  She threw herself into the clean up, day in and day out, too tired and exhausted by the end of the day to think or feel anything.  

Once the land was cleared, it was the time to create a garden.  Not everything went smoothly, the railway authorities were trying to stop her accusing of invading state property but with the strong support of local community and her powerful friends in artistic and political circles, the garden was saved and remains open for visitors who go there to appreciate its beauty and the creative soul behind it.

 We were intrigued by the story and went to visit it and fell in love with this place.  So on this particular Sunday morning when we were discussing the plans for the day, we both agreed that a trip to Wendy's  Secret Garden is in order and set off.

It was as beautiful and charming as we remembered.  The air was warm and tranquil, filled with the aromas of the flowers and freshly cut grass.  The soft breeze from the ocean was gently rustling the leaves of the giant trees. 

The autumn colours of foliage were magnificent, dark and rich.  Here and there old curiosity objects were on display placed on antique garden tables and pedestals.  

The picnic tables, strategically placed in the shade, were occupied by people who had smartly brought with them picnic lunches and bottles of wine and were enjoying their food, company and beautiful surroundings. 

The view from the garden over the bay and the city beyond was postcard stunning.  

We spent few hours walking up the down the garden following the pathways that lead to the focal points around the grounds.  We didn't bring any food with us so we left the garden to have our lunch at the local pub.  Afterwards, we strolled around neighbourhood, then went to our car to head back home.

It was such lovely day, we both felt refreshed and recharged.

What did you do during the break?  Hope your Easter break was enjoyable.

Until then,

Anna

xoxo

 

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

HOW TO ACCESSORIES A MONOCHROMATIC OUTFIT

Hello dear friends,

Sometimes it feels like the world has gone mad.  Take this latest attack on Ukraine.  One of the cities that is suffering from the invasion is my hometown of Odessa.  The last time when I visited it back in 2019 (see it here), it was a city of joy and free spirit.   Today those who have not fled yet, are hiding in the basements every time they hear an explosion. 

I do not know all the facts and reasons why Putin decided to start the war with a neighbouring country  all I know is that the civilians are being killed, displaced, their homes being bombed and ruined and thousands of them became refugees overnight and these are the facts.  Besides, knowing that Putin has put nuclear weapons on a higher alert is a terrifying fact and not just for Ukraine but for all humankind. Just hoping that this nightmare will be over soon and the peace will return.

Now, about my outfit. It is not often, never, that you can catch me wearing clothes in brown.  The top that I am wearing today has been in my wardrobe for over two years without being worn until today I accidentally spotted it tucked away on one of the shelves.  As the saying goes "Never say never", I decided to give it a try.  I chose to go monochromatic and for that reason paired it with tan linen pants (old), brown shoes (also old) and a tan coloured handbag (you guessed it, old).  

To save this outfit from looking plain and boring and to break the domination of brown and beige, I used my accessories to inject some bright accents into it.  I chose orange, for a few reasons.  One - I know that it suits my complexion, two - because orange is an incredibly complimentary colour to brown. 

First, I selected this transparent pink with orange corners sunglasses that you have seen me wearing time and time again.  They become my "go to" accessory this summer season.  No matter how simple my outfit could be, these sunnies always save the day. 

Then came the necklace, a combo of brown-coloured seashells strung on multiple strings of tiny orange beads - it just amplifies my choice of the colour palette of this outfit.  And last but certainly not least, one of my favourite silk scarfs with thick black and white geometric lines criss-crossed all over its vibrant orange background.  

The scarf here plays double role, it could be simply tied around the handbag like a playful pop of or worn around the neck.  In which case I would take off the necklace and replace my colourful sunglasses with more restrained black frames.  And et voila.

Have a great day!

Anna

xoxoxo

HOW TO WEAR BERMUDA SHORTS TO THE BEACH AND BEYOUND

Hello dear friends, how are you?

After weeks and weeks of bad weather, blame it on “La Nina”, we finally have our true Australian summer weather and can’t get enough of it, present company included.  If we are not at the beach 🏖, we are likely to be taking a stroll along the water’s edge or having a picnic nearby enjoying the smell of the ocean breeze while watching guys on surfboards conquering the waves 🌊.

Up until this summer, my “go to” beach outfit would be a pair of denim shorts that were rather short and just covered the top of my thighs but this summer, after a long deliberation, I decided to swap them for something longer and less revealing and bought myself a pair of Bermuda’s.  I know people say dress as you like and not for your age but truth be told, I just feel more comfortable in a longer version; besides I found the Bermuda's are more adaptable to many more different venues than my old ones and that was another reason that I like them.

If you read the description of what qualifies as Bermuda shorts, "they are a particular type of short trousers, worn as semi-casual attire by both men and women. The hem, which can be cuffed or un-cuffed, is around 1 inch (2.5 cm) above the knee".  I liked the fact that they are not exactly called "shorts" but rather a type of short semi-casual attire and that gave me an idea of wearing them to the places that have nothing to do with the beach.

Case in point, this outfit that I wore last Sunday.  It was a lunch date with the friends of ours in a very nice Italian place called Bondi Trattoria.  Apart from serving delicious Italian food in a relaxed atmosphere, this place has a commanding view over Bondi Beach making it one of our favourites.

Although we were near the beach, I wanted to dress in a way that while looking casual, still had an element of style and my new white Bermuda shorts seemed to be a perfect fit for the occasion.  I first planned to wear them with a t-shirt but then my choice fell on a light grey silk blouse but instead of wearing it all buttoned up like I used to, I just slipped it over a white singlet and left it undone.

Besides, I wanted to protect my shoulders from the sun in case we decided to take a stroll along the beach front after lunch. As it turned out, there was quite a strong wind that day but my silk blouse kept me warm and protected from the elements.

Do you wear short and if yes what type of shorts do you feel comfortable wearing?  Please share your thoughts in the comments section below.

This is what I wore today:  Shorts (Nobody Denim), singlet  (Zara), blouse - (Assembly Label), belt - (Hermes), handbag - (Furla), glasses (Valley).

I also included some images where you can see me wearing the same shorts in a more casual relaxed fashion.   They are truly comfortable and match well with a lot of items in my wardrobe from simple singlets and t-shirts to blouse and jumpers.  Next time I want to try pairing them with a satin slip and a blazer.  See how I go, I will keep you posted 😊.

On this sunny note, have a great week ahead, dear friends 

Until then,

Anna

xoxoxo

 

PARTY ESSENTIALS - A SILK SKIRT AND A STRAPPY CAMISOLE

Hello dear friends, how are you all?

Although the festive season is officially over and the majority of people have resumed their work, unofficially, we are still in a party mode which runs all through the month of January and culminates on the 26 of January on Australia Day, the official National Day of Australia .  On this day we reflect on the highs and lows of our history and celebrate our nation and its people. 

 

It is a national public holiday, of course, and all over the country people gather around BBQs in their backyards, parks, beaches and many other public places and party all day and night long.  The main highlight of the day is the fireworks 🎆fired from boats and yachts all along the coast with the main and the most spectacular one that could be seen for miles is from our iconic Harbour Bridge.

It is also the pick of Australian summer , the days are hot and long and people like to flock to the shores straight from their offices for a drink, a bite, a refreshing swim or just a nice walk along the promenade.  It is this multi-tasking that requires some clever strategy when it comes to should wear and when.  You need something work appropriate but at the same time something which with a little adjustment like a change of shoes or sparkly accessories which will reflect the party mood 🎉.

For me, a nice looking skirt is a perfect answer to such a dilemma.  But before you rush to the shop to buy one, here are few points you might like to consider:

 - Have a clear idea of what is the purpose of the new skirt?  What occasions would you wear it to?  Is it for work, play or both?

 - Think about the style of skirt that suits your body shape best.  Are you a pencil skirt type or do you fancy a full ruffle one?  Do you like it to be short, midi or maxi?  Do you prefer a belt or elastic waist?

 - What tops will you mostly be wearing it with?  If your wardrobe is full of single coloured tops, then you might like to look for a skirt that has a nice colourful print or a pattern and vice versa.  Think about versatility, the more looks you can get out of it, the better.

Once you make up your mind about the style, colour and purpose of the skirt, let's talk about the fabric.  It might sound a bit indulgent, but I find that spending good money on a skirt that is made of high-end fabric whether it's silk, cashmere, wool, leather etc it is  the worth spending a bit extra as these luxury textiles will stand the test of time and your outfit will always look like a million bucks.

Over the years I have developed a strategy when it comes to shopping for expensive items.  If I see a nice piece of clothing that I would like to have but feel that it is out of my budget, I would wait for the end of the season sale and 9 times out of 10, I score a bargain 👍. I might not wear my purchase this season but if you are not chasing the fads and trends but rather are after classic timeless pieces, you will look great in it the next season.

This skirt from Ganni ticks all the boxes for me.  I was on the lookout for a right skirt for some time, the one that I would wear for going out but at the same time I wanted it to be easily adaptable for other purposes.  One day browsing David Jones department store on-line sale I found the skirt I was looking for.  I was attracted to its tie-die print and rather unusual asymmetric hem, not to mention the fact that its price was heavily discounted.  

When the skirt arrived, I decided to put its versatility to the test.  First, I wanted to make sure that it would look good paired with the black satin strappy camisole I just bought from Zara.  Satisfied with the look, I tried it on with the couple of other tops and was quite pleased with the result.  Even pairing it with a pair of sneakers and a oversized knit jumper worked well with it.

Today's occasion is a weekend lunch with the good friends of ours whom we haven't seen for a while at Kingsleys, one of restaurant situated on Finger Warf, one of the trendiest outdoor areas in the whole of Sydney.  

It's a typical summer day in Sydney - hot, sunny 🌞and luckily for us, breezy, especially near the water so the  We came here for the restaurant's specialty, salt and pepper mud crab which we washed down with a bottle of chilled wine.  The food was superb as was the dessert and the company - sheer delight.  There is no better way to spend the weekend.  

As I mentioned, the day was quite warm so the black slip top was a perfect match to the skirt.  For the same reason, I didn't wear anything around my neck but instead put on oversized black earrings and to balance them off -  a statement cuff 

What are your plans for the weekend?

What I wore:

Skirt - Ganni

Cami - Zara

Shoes - Country Road (Old)

Bag - Bvlgari (Old)

Glasses - Prada (Old)

Bone Cuff- Elsa Peretti for Tiffany