Uniform

Top: Mink Pink (similar, similar)

Pants: Cotton on (these were a bargain!) (similar, similar)

Shoes: Dune London (similar, similar)

Apologies for the non-DSLR quality photo, this was an impromptu outfit post idea. As you can see, the only pop of colour happening here is from the bright yellow callipers on my friend's car...

 I find myself being asked often why I'm never seen in track pants or looking 'undone', the poor soul that was kind enough to give me a compliment is usually then faced with a 30 minute review on wardrobe staples and why monochrome works all day, everyday and with everything (I promise this won't be that long or tedious). It would not be a stretch to say that, monochrome and black on black are my most worn and loved trends and have effectively adapted themselves into a uniform of sorts.

This, somewhat intuitive, idea of sticking to the simplest shapes, styles and colours that suit ones self best, seemed boring and restrictive at first; it was not until I saw Harper and Harley, the brilliant blog by the eternally stylish Sara Donaldson, that this idea grew on me. I adapted this theory a little to develop a game plan for future shopping trips that involved not necessarily jumping on every trend that comes my way, but rather picking and choosing items that can multitask. Generally, save up and invest in pieces that are neutral in colour and style (i.e. will not date quickly) and look for affordable options if you like a passing trend. If you follow me on Instagram and Pinterest, you'll know that I have a little fixation on monochrome and anything black, leather or both so I will happily spend a little more on these sorts of clothes, shoes, bags and the like. Stay tuned for a proper outfit post soon!

It Bag

There are bags, and then there are bags, the latter of which, were originally status symbols for the extremely wealthy and successful. One of the first to introduce ‘it bags’ to the public was Giuliana Camerino from the Roberta di Camerino fashion house in Venice in 1946. What is it exactly? Well these bags are iconic, usually high-end designer purchases with a price tag starting from around $1K+. Here’s where I ask you not to roll your eyes at me, and to give me 5 minutes to explain why you might consider investing…

Good quality is a given, nothing compares to feel and build of an investment bag, and as far as I’m concerned, if I’m going to save up for months to buy one, it had better last me a lifetime. If you pick wisely, think classic style rather than trendy and in a neutral colour, it will be extremely versatile. It will not only work with everything you wear, but improve the overall look; imagine having a lazy day (jeans, t-shirt and flats) without actually looking like you’re having a lazy day! Also don’t forget, that by committing to an investment bag you are hereby renouncing your love for the cheaper bags you buy on a whim nearly every time you’re out shopping (saving money in the long term sounds good to me). If I this hasn’t inspired you to create a Netaporter account and set a goal for yourself, then check out my breakdown on a few of the styles available and see if there’s one that works for you.

Shoulder/Cross-body bag:

Shoulder bags are great if you’re of the organised kind that doesn’t rely on a whole lot of clutter in a bag on a daily basis. If you can survive with just the essentials, wallet, keys, lipstick and a phone, then go right ahead and invest, this style isn’t going anywhere soon and heads will turn seeing that Saint Laurent monogramme at your hip. On the other hand, the more casual cross-body bag, in my opinion, is a younger style that I couldn’t imagine myself using after the next 5 or 6 years. It is however, beautiful, so if you’re like me and won’t be able to sleep at night without one, go for a mid-range option like those from Michael Kors.

Invest:

Saint Laurent Monogramme leather shoulderbag

Chanel Classic Flap Bag

Alexander Wang Prisma Skeletal

Chanel Classic Flap Bag

Mid-range:

Michael Kors Leather Sloan Shoulder Bag

Michael Kors small textured-leathershoulder bag

Michael Kors Leather Sloan Shoulder Bag

Clutch:

This style has become increasingly popular recently, however it doesn’t seem practical enough to last in my opinion. If you choose one in a slightly larger size, you could still carry it day and night whilst forcing yourself to reduce the contents to the essentials, note that carrying this the whole day without a strap or handle might become tiresome. If this style works for you however, consider choosing a mid-range option.

Invest:

Givenchy Antigona Leather envelope clutch

Saint Laurent Letters

Givenchy Large Shark Tooth Clutch

Givenchy Antigona Leather Envelope Clutch

Mid-Range:

Kotur Peter Elaphe Clutch

Marc by Marc Jacobs Can’t Clutch This

Marc by Marc Jacobs, Cant Clutch This

Totes/Top Handles:

These have been incredibly popular as of late! There are so many options, and since this style appears to be appropriate for younger girls as well as mature women, I see no reason not to save up and invest, pick one that is big enough to carry your daily essentials (maybe even big enough to carry a water bottle too, I always forget to consider this!) but small enough that you could take it out in the evening, in my opinion the Prada Saffiano Lux and the Louis Vuitton Speedy 30 are ideal.

Invest:

Prada Saffiano Lux (my favourite!)

Mulberry Alexa (could be classed as a satchel too)

Givenchy Antigona

Fendi 2Jours Medium textured-leathershopper

Louis Vuitton Speedy Bandoulière 30

Prada Saffiano Lux Tote

Louis Vuitton Speedy Bandoulière 30

Mid-Range:

Michael Kors Jet Set Travel

Michael Kors Hamilton

Michael Kors Selma

Michael Kors Selma 

Best of luck on your bag hunt!

Comfort

Sportsgirl

So the prototypical ballet flat morphed a little over night, say hello to my newest fixation; brogues and loafers. The cooler months are approaching fast and I have used this as an excuse to buy a couple of pairs of these already (and don't forget they're enclosed shoes that you should be able to get away with in labs if you also have to deal with this little problem at uni like me). Not only are these up-to-the-minute, they're comfortable, they will last a lifetime (if you invest in a decent pair) and you should be able to wear them with almost everything (if you stick to neutral colours). There are a few interesting variations of this style, the Saint Laurent Lace Up Ankle Boot in particular is impressive, be warned, the price tag isn't pretty. See below and happy shopping!

Invest: Tods, Robert Clergerie, Nicholas Kirkwood, Jimmy Choo

Mid Range: Tony Bianco, RMK, 

Less: ASOS, ASOS, River Island

Inspiration:

Simplicity

Similar from Lovisa

When all else fails, go for something thats tried and true, headpieces were new to me but have been around for the longest time. This one is supposed to sit lower down on the forehead, but, I improvised a little and pinned it higher up...

Meet Me

What better way to write my first post than to introduce myself and give you an insight into what I hope this little blog will become. I am a 21-year-old Biomedical Science student from Melbourne with a slightly obsessive interest in all things fashion and beauty. Just like many students, I will probably be at uni for the next 15+ years (I joke, I really hope not) and I follow fashion blogs/reviews/news religiously. This leaves me in a predicament, with a part-time income but wanting jaw-droppingly beautiful, high-end designer goods. I'd love a Prada Saffiano Lux tote in every colour, however has to be put on hold for a while; and I believe some of you are in the same boat.

My aspirations for this blog are to share with you, what I think are the most affordable ways to stay on trend whilst indulging in key investment designer pieces (price per wear people!) I hope this blog is a worthwhile read and inspires you when you're out indulging in retail therapy.

Much Love,

Eresha