latest discovery: to be adored

'Pretty as a picture' is the only way to describe TBA, (To be Adored) a delightful label created by a girl called 

BinBin McNiven (how cool is that name?). With experience working alongside Alexander McQueen, Binbin, a Southern Chinese native, decided to create her own label inspired by the Edwardian era but with a mix of contemporary charm. 

I instantly fell in love with the S/S collection, mainly because of the lace collars, detailed socks, sun hats and the general cuteness of the apparel. And, because the model and setting of the shoot is very whimsical and vintage and I love both those things.

Well, the weekend has started off very nicely, with my sister finally returning home for the next two days. With her she brought some Mimco treasures that instantly sparked my interest. Who doesn't get excited about a pretty headband with Swarovski crystals embellished into it?  (Details coming soon)

Have a good weekend! 

5 favourites thursday

I'm still on the hunt for the perfect swimsuit. I love these ones and the ruffled pretties I featured in my last post. Floral, polka dots, ruched middles and vintage-like details are making a huge comeback. If I knew where the above swimsuits came from, I would snap them up instantly! Any ideas?  

Read some of the new Frankie today, my oh my, it is a good issue. Everything about the cover is adorable including the surprising pretty contrast between checks and floral. I wish it wasn't a bi-monthly magazine though, I want to read about quirky things every month! 

Polyvore. Best site ever! The only limitation is your imagination. I love how you can create the most gorgeous collages in a matter of minutes.

Embroidery hoop wall art. Place some pretty material between the hoops, add a bow at the top and voila! I have one hanging up in my room at the moment and it looks really pretty. 

This mug. Story of my life at the moment. I can't wait until holidays so I can de-stress and unwind. A few more weeks, Maria! You can make it!!

the cutest etsy

Polka dot and floral bow bandeau set, $70.00

I've solved your swimsuit dilemma (well, if your a vintage loving, floral coveting, bikini wearer). Amourouse, a little etsy boutique with made-to-order lingerie and swimwear is selling these precious bikinis. Unlike any other I've seen (I'm so used to seeing skimpy little numbers in the swimwear stores!) and are at a very reasonable price for the cutest swimmers around. I fell head over heels for the green and floral ones, so pretty!
The passed for days have been very busy, on Saturday my sisters and Mum went to a local 'Swap Party'. We had to bring in old clothing, bric-a-brac, books etc. that would be exchanged for another person's unwanted items. It was wonderful, not only did I feel very environmentally friendly, but I scored half a wardrobe! I picked up some gorgeous things from Sportsgirl, Sass, Target etc and was so happy because it was all free! (Outfit post coming up soon)

I hope the rest of your week is just lovely!

Navy Blue Floral Bow Bandeau Set $65.00, Black and tan vintage rose bow bandeau set, $65.00

the loveliest things

Happy almost-Friday! Well, I just had to share my latest Modcloth wishlist with you all. Everything on it is beautiful, especially that sheer lavender top. I can think of so many ways of styling it! Although, a white lace skirt, tied in with the blue belt, those gorgeous tan booties and the blue bag sounds tempting...

How has your week been so far? Mine has been very busy! And, it was extra special and rather different hosting Maria Elyse on my blog for the first time. Isn't she lovely? The casper&pearl interview was also very exciting for me, I felt all reporter-ish! That's sort of what I want to do when I grow up; interview emerging designers and fashion bloggers whilst carrying around a cute little notepad and taking snapshots to complement the articles. I get excited just thinking about it!

I would like you all to meet my precious inspiration board! I love it so much and it really makes a difference to a plain white wall. At the moment it's inspired by pastels, delicate details and all things pretty (are you surprised?). I will actually be giving it a new 'Bright & Summery' update over the next few weeks. The new SHOP and Vogue have been bursting with bright editorials and fabulous swimsuits. It's getting me really excited about the Christmas holidays!

Onto some other news, at the moment I'm making a pretty little smock dress that I can't wait to show you all. It's A-line, but will be cinched in at the waist with a skinny, white belt. It's very Summery and will go perfectly with my crochet wedges! Enjoy the rest of your week! ♥

Maria Elyse from First Impressions has dropped in to say hello!

Introducing the undeniably wonderful Maria Elyse from the blog, First Impressions. I caught up with her a little while ago, and was so pleased that she wanted to do a guest post and that she took the time to do this gorgeous photo-shoot for me. That lake is so magical. I love her amazing style and her cute vintage finds. We even share the same name! Be sure to check out her beautiful blog and follow!

Hello, lovely readers of Avenue M!

My name is Maria Elyse of First Impressions and I'm incredibly excited to be here guest posting for a fellow Maria.

I'd like to introduce you to "my" lake. It's a short walk away from my house and is one of my favorite places to be, especially on days where the clouds gather in grey billows, the breeze blows wildly, a chill flows through the air, and when the waves are untamed. It's like a wonderland that never ceases to draw me in and endlessly inspire me. People don't believe me when I say I like cloudy days better than sunny ones, but it's true, and mainly because of this lake. If "my" lake could talk, I'm sure we'd be best of friends.

For those of you, like Maria, who live in Australia, it's springtime! I live in Northern USA, and so right now it's the middle of autumn. I love wearing pastels, florals, and sunhats, so with this outfit I tried to make those spring-like things fit for fall.

Thanks so much for having me, Maria! ♥

xo
Maria Elyse
First Impressions

my favourite summer dress

Happy Sunday, bloggers! I've been wanting to share with you my favorite summer dress for a while now. And, my crochet wedges that I love so much! Both go so well together. Anyway, I bought this dress in February at Valleygirl and it has been my favorite dress ever since! I feel so floaty and fairy-like because the chiffon is so light and cool. It's been perfect for the unpredictable weather lately. The last few days have been pretty crazy weather wise and I finally got a chance to take some outfit shots with the natural sunlight. Today was especially pretty!

What do you think of my Lizzie McGuire-esque platforms? I feel so tall and long-legged in them! The best part though; they are so comfy! What are your favorite seasonal outfit pieces?

casper&pearl: a dream come true

I had the pleasure of interviewing Stacey, the lovely girl behind rising Australian brand, casper&pearl. Her dreamy and beautiful clothes have captured the hearts of many young ladies and have attracted media attention on Teen Vogue, Frankie Magazine, Cellardoor Britain and various blogs and websites. I love the editorials and shoots too, so whimsical and pretty. I wish I could include them all! Check out her facebook page for all the latest updates and her blog for amazing inspiration. (The link to her awesome shop is at the bottom of the post)

Your designs are so pretty and quirky! Are there any particular designers that inspire you?
Thankyou! My favourite label of all time is Chloe! They never fail to amaze me after every collection, I love the soft flowy fabrics and colours that they use time and time again, and I will never stop wearing my scalloped shorts that were inspired by them. I also adore T by Alexander Wang, Jill Stuart, Lover and 3.1 Phillip Lim.

Where do you hope to see yourself in the next five years?
I have huge plans for my label, making all of my designs by hand is very stressful and it is definitely just a stop along the way rather than a destination. In the next five years I see myself working from a studio, creating seasonal collections twice a year, stocked overseas, worn by celebrities, and inside pages of SHOP, Frankie, Cosmo and all that other good stuff. Next year I am launching my first official collection for S/S 2012, such an exciting time for me I cannot wait to share all of my hard work with you.

Could you name some of your favourite hobbies as a child/teenager that would’ve influenced your amazing talents today?
As a kid I spent most of my time in ballet class, drawing and making things, so I guess you could say I have always been pretty creative. Other than that my childhood days were filled with getting up to mischief with my friends and my brother. I lived in the country so we were always found running through paddocks, climbing trees and getting up to all sorts of adventures. In year four I attempted starting a ‘fashion label’ with a friend, we named it ‘Spice’ after the Spice Girls- but as you may have guessed, Spice didn’t really work out ha! I’ve definitely always wanted to do what I do today.

How would you describe your personal style?
It really depends what my mood is and where I'm going! If I’m just going out to lunch with friends or going shopping, I’m usually just very casual- leggings with an over sized top, chunky jewellery and a floppy hat. If I am going out to a night on the town I usually wear a casper&pearl dress, just cause it’s such good advertisement!

Do you have any tips for blossoming designers, or anyone who wants to make it in the fashion industry?
Um, well I would still call myself a blossoming designer, I don’t think I have really made it far enough to give advice! But definitely just to stick to it if it’s something you really want to do. Don’t let people tell you can’t do something, instead use it as fuel to try even harder. I definitely had a few people telling me I couldn’t do what I am doing today so this ones for them. And stay true to yourself!

casper&pearl

5 favourites thursday

My top five things lately, not to mention those amazing shoes below! I'm so excited about getting the new Teen Vogue in the mail, Alexa looks gorgeous in that Stella McCartney bow dress.
The top and bottom right frocks are from Chicwish. Aren't they sweet? The red floral one is like a little apron-dress from the fifties! I think I would add a skinny, white belt though and a cute white satchel. I've also been on a desperate search for a pretty, vintage inspired swimsuit. I love this Anthropologie pink one, the design is so pretty and flattering.

Well, sorry for my unexplained M.I.A-ness lately. School has been so hectic. I have so many assignments due, it's crazy! I can't wait to enjoy a little down time this weekend. Reading the latest SHOP and Vogue and watching a few DVD's sounds good to me.

These heels are from GoJane. Ohh, I love them! Happy almost-Friday! xo

alexa chung's envy

I'm not used to wearing a lot of black, (I'm quite accustomed to wearing everything floral, it's grown into an inescapable habit), however I do love the idea of wearing an outfit similar to this one. It's the ensemble that would you'd be seen wearing to a Gala of sorts, or a wonderful fashion function. And don't those shoes scream Alexa Chung? This outfit is a little hard to resist. 

ballet shoes and reviews

New dance gear! Bloch ballet slippers, Topshop bag (courtsey of Natasja), Energetiks leotard and skirt

Woo! I just got back from a hectic shopping trip! I was in desperate need of some new ballet shoes and oh, how I love these new ones! I'm feeling more and more like a ballerina now, as I've finally perfected my turn-out and my sashays.

We also had to madly dash into the nearest chain-store in search of some umbrellas, the weather here has been disastrous -- my annoyingly curly hair has turned into fuzz and I'm struggling to keep it under control!

School this week was relatively ordinary, the only thing different was the unusual amount of assessment that was piled on top of my head so quickly. 

I think the only assignment I'm happy with is the opportunity to write a book report based on a favourite novel. For me, it's a toss between The Chronicles of Narnia and Anne of Green Gables. Both series are quite extraordinary. 

Well, I best be off, the latest issue of Vogue awaits (Summer fashions galore!) along with a hot chocolate. Have a nice weekend. 

Lots of love,

Maria

P.s: Welcome to the new readers for this week! 

fresh-faced beauty

Lately I've been drawn to 'fresh-faced' editorials in magazines. I love the way having simple make-up can not only enhance your overall complexion, but give you a natural glow and a look that will go with everything. My favourite example is this picture from DNA, a models site with various portfolios (the image the above polyvore is based around). The model's face has most likely been photo-shopped a little, but the general make-up is light and simple. Personally, I'm not a huge make-up wearer as it feels too heavy. Usually I just stick to a foundation (MaxFactor Xperience), black mascara (Napoleon Perdis) and some tinted lip balm (Burt's Bees have a great new range). For Spring, I don't think I'll be experimenting with too much make-up, although I would like to try out cream eyeshadow in light pink or nude tones and a cream blush.

And, while I'm on the subject of beauty, I just had to share with you this home-made face mask, it's my favourite for reducing redness and exfoliating.

You will need:

1 tablespoon of oatmeal, finely ground

1 tablespoon of live, organic yoghurt (unflavoured, natural

A few drops of honey

Make the mask: 

Combine all the ingredients in a small bowl, then apply the mixture over your face and leave for 10 minutes. Rinse off with warm water and wipe any excess with a warm face cloth.

I hope you have fun making this mask and using it! I got the recipe from Beauty, where you can also find more home-made beauty remedies and make-up tips. Happy mid-week!

P.S: The polyvore was made by the wonderfully talented Jodente. I love the way she combined neutral colours to create this collage. It's so pretty!

october inspiration

I can't believe it's October already! At the moment (well, actually for a while now), Bonnie Barton's blog, Flashes of Style has been a huge inspiration. I just love her outfits. Effortless perfection is the only way to describe her style. The above picture is one of my favourites. I love the way she cleverly mixed different textures to create a not-to-girly-but-still-feminine outfit. 

This Arabella Ramsay collection is so precious. Mixed patterns, polka dots, denim and mismatched knits are the way to go. The collection you would want to take credit for. 

Satchel bags! These brightly coloured accessories are the perfect solution to sprucing up a plain outfit. I love the blue one, it would go perfectly with a simple white sun dress.

Sorry for the initial absence, I have been busily getting ready for school again and I just got back from an intense ballet class and every morsel of strength left in my body has disappeared. I'm pretty sure I did about a trillion chaines across the studio and all I need now is a bubble bath, my Anne of Green Gables novel and a good night sleep! Happy Monday!

daydream lily for element eden

The first collaboration collection with Daydream Lily, how cute is that lace pullover?!

So far the lovely Liss from Daydream Lily has collaborated with charming Australia apparel brand, Element Eden twice. This is quite the achievement for a down to earth girl living on the Gold Coast in lower Queensland, Australia. The second collection boasts vintage-inspired outfits with a slight modern twist, Holga film photography and a sweet spot of romantic vibes. The first collection is just as beautiful, but has a touch more whimsicality. Aren't those lacey flower tights pretty?

I for one am a huge fan of her blog. It's sort of like my favorite online 'magazine', she's a lot like a writer for Frankie Magazine. I check every now and then for the latest on clothing brands, how-to's, general fashion and pretty photos.

I've been buried in a Nancy Drew novel since yesterday. The one I am reading is called The Secret of Candlelight Inn. In a nutshell, an historical establishment left behind by an old woman was donated to a Seeing Eye Dog society. But the little Inn is filled with secrets and dangerous mysteries that are (obviously) going to be unveiled by Nancy and her best friends, Bess and George. So far, I’m only up to the middle of the book, so I’m not sure how it ends and unfortunately I can’t spoil it for you all. Have you been reading any mysteries lately?

Well bloggers, I best be off. Happy October and enjoy the sunshine and don't forget to enter Katy's nifty nail polish giveaway!

Some snapshots from the second collaboration collection. I love the black and floral dress in the last picture.