Coutouring are a one-two punch blogging duo. We ask them to share their Christmas cravings!
Given the tough retail times, we thought we’d give a selection of presents from Australian online retailers. Although the Internet has made it possible to get access to shops from all around the world, why not support the Australian economy this Christmas by keeping all your shopping local!
Here are our selections for this festive season:
LISA’S PICKS
1. Molten Store
Fieldguided Thunder Tote Bag
With sustainable fashion gaining in prominence I think it’s safe to say, green is the new black. If you are looking for something environmentally friendly and fashionable to give this holiday season, look no further than this quirky Fieldguided Thunder Tote Bag from Molten Store. Based in Sydney, Molten Store creator Jessy Cameron has selected a range of rare curiosities for the person who wants something a little left of center. This Tote Bag is perfect for the beach, carrying uni books, the groceries and anything really!
2. Lady Moor's Lover
Bianca Necklace – Gemma Redux
I recently discovered online jewellery store Lady Moor’s Lover, which is run out of Melbourne. Founded by former lawyer Fiona Phillips, Lady Moor’s Lover stocks the
most amazing jewellery from around the world. Often seen adorning the set of Gossip Girl, New York label Gemma Redux is quickly gaining a cult following. The Bianca Necklace is perfect for channeling your inner Park-Avenue Princess. The art deco pendant is perfectly offset by the graduated marquis turquoise and gold chain detail. This necklace is the perfect statement piece for any outfit.
3. Poplin & Panache
Navy Blue Knitted Square-End Tie
For that man in your life, why not pick something a little different from online retailer Poplin & Panache. Founded by Melbourne lawyer Tim Loh, Poplin & Panache aim to bring their customers the latest in men’s business fashion. The navy knitted, square-end tie is the perfect accessory for the party season if you want to dress up an outfit, without looking like you’re going to the office! Made from 100% wool, this tie is versatile enough to match with a plain coloured or patterned shirt.
4. Ariel Books
Irreverent by Carine Roitfeld
Ex-Vogue Paris editor and fashion icon Carine Roitfeld has teamed up with the editor of Purple magazine Olivier Zahm to release her first book which features images from her personal and professional live over the past 30 years. With over 250 magazine tear sheets, Irreverent features some of Roitfeld’s most notable editorials,from her early work at The Face, to her boundary-pushing shoots at Vogue Paris. With Roitfeld arguable one of the most influential women in fashion around the world, this book makes the perfect gift for any fashion lover.
5. Samantha Wills
Document Box
After launching her label in 2004, Samatha Wills has not looked back. Her beautiful range of bohemian and glamour inspired pieces have garnered a loyal following in Australia and around the world. Despite all the amazing jewellery to choose from, I love this larger version of the Samatha Wills’ signature box. It’s versatile enough to store and display delicate jewellery as well as beautiful stationery and fine papers. Available exclusively through the online store, this intricately carved piece would be a welcome addition on any dresser or desk.
THOM’S PICKS
6. (Belvedere) RED
Limited Edition Vodka
I’m no connoisseur of cocktails, but I know what I like and let me tell you (at the risk of sounding like a drunk) I love my vodka and I have always loved Belvedere. Maybe I feel an attachment to it because of my Polish heritage but I’m also sure it’s because I love the taste. Belvedere has been making a scene in the fashion world most recently supporting Vogue Australia in launching it’s first iPad application in case you were wondering what the link to fashion is. This limited edition range also donates 50% of profits to creating a AIDS/HIV free generation by 2015 which is a fabulous cause for any brand to get behind!
7. Missoni x Havaianas
Thong Collaboration
Italian fashion powerhouse Missoni caused quite an uproar with lines up to 100 people long waiting to get a piece of this brand-made-affordable collection when they collaborated with Missoni. Now is your chance to get in on the action with a pair of Missoni Havaianas. YES! They exist and I am obsessed. My number one summer thong pick, these are a must have for all and they come in two delicious trademark Missoni patterns for men and women.
8. Spirithoods
Faux Fur Animal Hoods
Since launching in California, Spirithoods have worked with some amazing names. One look at the label and you can see why Ke$ha was the first face of the brand and rightly so. These hoods are perfect for any festival (cannot wait to wear mine at Falls!) and are the statement piece for any summer event - imagine a cute little grizzly bear hood at the moonlight cinema on a balmy evening.... divine! It’s a shame you can’t wear them for during the intense Australian sun but for those of us living in Melbourne and the southern states, we all know how cold it gets, and SpiritHoods will last you all the way into winter as well.
9. Gideon Shoes
Brand new canvas range
I was OBSESSED with the Gideon kicks in their last collection - a smart way to use pests in shoes combining cane toad skin and kangaroo leather. The buttery texture was actually just so comfortable. Their latest range, quirky and colourful canvas shoes are the new must give items aptly titled “The Giving Shoe.” Also a brand with a moral backbone these shoes are anti-sweatshop with everything Australian made and all proceeds going to their Street University foundation giving homeless kids an education. I actually don’t see how it could get any more ethical.
10. Lotus Mendes
Goddess Ring
“Know who you are and then adorn yourself accordingly” is the quote written up on the Lotus Mendes website. I am sorry, but whoever you are, you need the Goddess ring. These juicy and one of a kind rings come in a range of colours perfect for any occasion. With a return back to the 90’s a definite, these gorgeous and almost art-deco rings are the perfect kick start back into this glorious decade. Also a must look are the Every Move Counts rings (The horse chess piece made into a ring) as well as the 3 Stars Love rings. Loving. it.