Black shirt dress

Black maternity shirt dress- thanks to Eve of Eden

Pahwanna bag 13- thanks to The Luxe Project

Heels- Wittner (similar here, and here)

Watch- Swatch (similar here)

I have been wearing my grey chambray short sleeved shirt dress constantly this Summer (as seen here), so knew that this black longer sleeved version, also by Eve of Eden would be a fabulous addition to my wardrobe.  This is such an easy to wear dress, perfect paired with my black birkenstocks for running errands/ after my 11 month old, or add a heel for a smart casual look.  The press stud buttons down the front make it perfect for nursing, and it has pockets! Three cheers for pockets!!  

So yes, this is indeed a maternity dress, but as you can see it can take you through pregnancy and beyond.  I'll certainly be happy to wear this dress even when I'm finished breastfeeding. 

This beautiful, colourful bag is by The Luxe Project, last seen HERE.  

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Klara Cosmetics

How fabulous are these lip colours!  These are 'Kiss Proof Lips' lipsticks by Klara Cosmetics who claim that "no matter how much you play around, this lipstick will leave no evidence".  I decided to put this lipstick to the test.  Wearing my favourite colour, the pink in the middle, I ate an apple, had dinner, numerous glasses of water, a squillion kisses to Ashley and STILL my lipstick was in place.  This sure is one long lasting lipstick!

The second product is the 'Lash Extensions Box'.  Simply brush on the Klara Cosmetics fibres in-between coats of the mascara.  First go, I brushed the fibres on first and that didn't work at all.  Once I read the info and realised you apply the fibres in-between coats I got the voluminous yet natural lashes I was looking for.

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NeoSkin

Recently I had the utmost pleasure of visiting one of Victoria's most respected skin clinics, neoSKiN on Bridge Road, Richmond for a treatment.  The premises themselves are beautiful, light filled and modern.  While waiting I was treated to nuts, berries and coconut water before being taken into my treatment room.  The ambiance of the room itself was lovely, with high ceilings, pretty candles, and a comfy spot to lie down.  I had packed a cardigan in my handbag because I normally get a bit cold if I'm lying still for a while, but I actually got to get under the covers of what I can best describe as a comfy doona so I was warm, and able to relax completely. After assessing my skin and identifying problem areas, my consultant Suzanne decided that an neoOxygen facial would be best for my current skin condition, the perfect treatment option to replenish my skin with essential nutrients and hydration.

Wow wee, Suzanne was fantastic!  I felt like I was in the hands of an expert. The face massage was AMAZING, as was the head, neck, arm and hand massage.  The treatment went for one hour and afterwards I felt completely blissed out.  Plus, there was no doubt about it, my skin looked so plumped and fabulous afterwards that the wrinkles around my eyes had all but disappeared! So much so that I was happy to post a photo of my face, make up free to Instagram.

Ideally one should have a facial once a month, but if less is what you can afford, your skin will still thank you.  There is no doubt I'll be back to neoSKiN myself as a paying customer.

In addition to the Richmond clinic, neoSKiN are also located in Williamstown and South Melbourne.  They offer a range of non-invasive cosmetic treatments to suit all skin concerns, from specialised skin programs, facials and microdermabrasion, to IPL, laser hair removal and injectables.  

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Miss Links

Shirt- MCM Studio

Sophia Amethyst cufflinks-thanks to Miss Links
Skirt- Cue (similar here)
Shoes- PeepToe (similar here, and here)

My maternity leave has just about come to an end and I'm heading back to work.  To be honest I'm dreading leaving Ash, but admittedly it will be nice to get back into my smart work clothing, especially now I have these beautiful cufflinks thanks to Melbourne based retailer Miss Links.  I love the pink crystal, it adds a nice sparkle to my corporate look!

Launched late in 2013, Miss Links has an elegant range of  cufflinks specifically designed for professional women as the perfect work-wear accessory.   Made from sterling silver and Swarovski crystals, the collection includes an array of classic, feminine motifs, pearls, semi-precious stones and enamel designs; each created with impeccable attention to detail. The cufflinks are available online, with free shipping within Australia.

No doubt about it, I'm going to have to get more French cuff shirts!

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Opals for your Valentine

How stunning are these pieces!!  All featuring the most beautiful Australian Opals. Since I visited Coober Peady in South Australia about 20 years ago now I've been fascinated by this precious gemstone.

Today I've picked out my most favourite gold and silver opal jewellery pieces from the collection available online at Opals Australia.  I think these pieces would be so perfect for a Valentine’s Day gift (hint, hint!!) or any other special romantic occasion, especially those beautiful heart earrings.  The opal is also the birthstone for people born in October, and under the star signs Scorpio and Libra, so perhaps a great birthday gift idea as well.  Come to think of it opal jewellery would make a fabulous souvenir for any visitors to Australia too.

For me it's the spectacular colours that make opals so special, and the way they diffract the light so beautifully; plus every opal is unique!  Precious opal ranges in colour from clear through white, grey, red, orange, yellow, green, blue, magenta, rose, pink, slate, olive, brown and black.  Of these the red against black are most rare, whereas white and greens are most common.

People generally have the impression that opal jewellery isn't affordable, but Opals Australia actually make it affordable so everyone can own a piece of jewellery featuring Australia's national gemstone.  Opals Australia offer a comprehensive range of sterling silver, white gold and yellow gold opal jewellery in beautiful contemporary designs; including rings, earrings, bracelets, bangles, pendants, brooches and cuff links.  Prices start at around $100 to well into the $1,000's.

Did you know that throughout history opals have been regarded as a lucky stone?  In Roman times, people believed the opal was a combination of the beauty of all precious stones, and Caesars would give their wives opal for good luck.   The opal was also said to confer the power of invisibility if wrapped in a fresh bay leaf and held in the hand.  Fancy that! Must give it a go ;)

 Opals Australia are currently offering 30% off.

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Casual

Striped nursing top- thanks to Eve of Eden

Jeans- Cotton On (similar here)

Wedges- Nine West (loving these)

This fabulously comfy, casual top is actually maternity/nursing piece.  I've been wearing it so much lately as it has a great fit, looks smart with jeans for everyday wear, and I should add it's on SALE at the moment.  There is also a dress version which I am coveting.

Don't forget there is still time to enter my giveaway.
WIN one of three $50 gift cards thanks to David Jones

CLICK HERE to enter

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I Love Lola

Pari kaftan- thanks to Surbala

8 Other Reasons necklace- thanks to I Love Lola

Novo sandals- thanks to Uni Hill Factory Outlets

Denim shorts Cotton One (similar here)

An easy Summer look today, with this lovely white kaftan, denim shorts and a statement necklace.  I Love Lola are all about statement necklaces and have a range by different designers, and at different price points.  The kaftan, by Sydney based label Surbala, has such beautiful detailing and would be just as great over swimmers, as it is with shorts or jeans.

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Cropped

 Look 1:

Millers cropped pants
Birkenstocks (here)
Asos tote bag (here)
White tee (here)

Look 2:

Millers cropped pants
Mode Collective heels (here)
Antonio Berardi top (here)
Asos clutch (here)

Today I have created two looks based on these cute print cropped pants from Millers.  One casual look with a white tee, comfy white birkenstocks and a tan bag, and also a dressy look with this beautiful peplum style blouse, black pumps and clutch.

I must add these pants are an absolute bargain buy at $15!

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