My summer fashion wishlist.

And why our brands do "luxury" better.

Nov 12, 2024

At the ripe old age of 35, I’m finally at the point where I feel comfortable outlaying *some money* on my wardrobe.

It’s taken all of this time to arrive here. Over 15 years writing about fashion to believe myself worthy of buying and wearing the things I want.

Is it an age thing? A maturing that happens as you start to approach your “midlife” era?

When I worked in luxury women’s mags a few years back, I remember wondering about the kind of person who sees a $38,000 Cartier necklace in a magazine and decides to buy it. Or a $14,000 Armani pantsuit. These things are placed on the pages because of advertisers most of the time, not because they’re within customers’ reach.

And besides, who are these customers? I still don’t know. If a magazine is a stretch to buy for $12.00 alongside your $6.80 almond flat white, who’s treating themselves to a piece of jewellery the price of a luxury car? How much more maturing do I need to do to think that’s realistic?

Just the other day I was flipping through one of the remaining women’s mags and saw that nothing has changed. A watch and high jewellery special; a sponsored editorial for Chanel… Yeah. It’s obviously not speaking to me.

I prefer to spend my dollars on what I consider attainable luxury: great Australian brands in tune with women like me, who are willing to invest a bit more in original designs and collections that speak to our lifestyle and the way we want to dress - effortlessly, stylishly, dressed down but dressed up.

Let’s call these the mid-tier labels. Not cheap, but certainly not high end. Brands like LMND, Lucy Folk, Blanca, Sir, Alemais, Kinga Csilla, Venroy, Zulu & Zephyr… I could go on and on.

For me, they’re the most exciting brands to shop from. Their pieces are the ones I prize the most and love to wear on repeat.

Clockwise from top left: Wearing looks from Ciao Ciao Vacation, Alemais, LMND and Kinga Csilla on our recent holiday.

Below is a little edit of some pieces I’ve come across lately and saved to my wishlist. I’ve got a big thing right now for retro silhouettes, mini wrap dresses, and vibrant colours like cherry red, mint green and all things rainbow - guess I’m feeling optimistic about summer. What are you eyeing off right now? Share with me in the comments! You know I love to see it.

Venroy Linen Relaxed Embroidered Shirt, $220.