Burberry’s Grand Unveiling
The luxury sector is shaping up rather nicely in Sydney, and last week Burberry opened the doors to its brand new flagship store at 343 George St.
The space is truly worthy of the brand that launched in 1856, and vice versa, with all of the heritage elements of the former bank highlighted—marble columns and tables, vaulted ceilings, honour boards—and working in harmony with state-of-the-art technology including massive flat screen LED video walls and sleek shop fittings. It’s a mazzive 820sq m in total, and for the first time in Sydney brings together Burberry Prorsum, Burberry London, Burberry Brit, Burberry Heritage Outerwear, Burberry Childrenswear and a full accessories offering. At the media launch, there was even a live link-up with designer Christopher Bailey on the video screens. With Louis Vuitton set to become a neighbour later this year and Chanel undergoing a refit, Sydney’s luxury precinct is having a makeover of huge proportions.
Big Apple Bound
An initiative for the fashion industry between Australia, New Zealand and New York is gaining momentum, and offers a unique opportunity for antipodean designers to gain a foothold in the Big Apple. Fashion Palette is a design showcase that will be held at New York’s Gotham Hall at the end of September, with a catwalk presentation for US media, buyers and sales agents. If that sounds like your kind of bandwagon, jump on at www.fashionpalette.com.au.
Girls’ Blouse
The simplest way to add a feminine touch to your winter wardrobe is with one item: the blouse. This loveliest of pieces has had a major resurgence recently, and it’s something that will slot in easily to your existing wardrobe. The ’70s revival suits a loose-fitting blouse—simply tuck a blouse into some high-waisted, wide-legged jeans with wedges, and you’ll look like you stepped out of an episode of Charlie’s Angels. To tap into the ladylike trend, à la Mad Men, add a pretty blouse to pencil skirts or full skirts. You can also pop one under a pinafore—this looks especially good with fuller sleeves. Prints are particularly strong this season, a grey leopard print or polka dots would be right on trend. The best blouses come in silk, lace or sheer chiffon, just be sure to wear the latter styles over a camisole, bustier or beautiful bra that doesn’t give away too much. The high street is full of great blouses, from Country Road to Marcs, David Lawrence to Jigsaw, while antipodean designers are also taken away with the trend, including Fleur Wood, Marnie Skillings, Kate Sylvester and Mrs Press (pictured).
Classic Reworked
This is such a chic update on the classic trenchcoat, red lip and sunnies look from Kylie Minogue. The sleeveless coatdress—sleeveless vests and jackets are a great look right now—is a great new basic for any wardrobe (see Dion Lee for Cue for great sleeveless trench dresses). Just add sunnies, red lips and a killer shoe and you’re set for anything.
