Short Stories

As I gear up for my trip to Barcelona, I’ve been reminiscing about sunnier times in Australia last Christmas. It was one of the best times of my life and I had a blast getting to know some Aussie brands, seeing my family and catching up with some friends. One of those friends being the gorgeous Emma Hoareau of Lolita Says So. We headed out into the sun along Bondi Beach for a little catch up and couldn’t resist taking some shots at Bondi Icebergs.

I’ve never been the biggest fan of wearing shorts, it’s a mix of body issues and feeling too casual in them. But when in Australia and 30+ degree heat daily, you don’t get to decide. For me, I always keep my colours simple - clean block styles make the look fresh while still keeping it looking smart. A decent pair of navy tailored or slim-fit shorts are going to be your best friend. I use them as my base and swap up the rest of my outfit to keep it different. If you’re of a bigger build like me keeping the hem above knee is going to do a world of good for your proportions - you’ve spent all that time squatting, you might as well show off the fruits of your labour. Then all that’s left to do is swap in and out the rest of your outfit to change it up.

One of my favourite Aussie brands is General Pants, and this roller-sleeve white tee is one of many purchases made from them during the trip. Not only is great value at 2 for $40, but the cotton quality and fit are amazing, a lot better than some of the high street stuff at home. General Pants curates a slick edit of the world’s best youth fashion labels - including Arvust, Cheap Monday, Zanerobe, Vanishing Elephant and more - and mixes it in with its own label. A lot of Australian clothes are cut longer (slim and athletic people they are!) and its a cut that works well for someone of my build. The shoulders and arms are fitted but with more room in the hem so it doesn’t hug my waist and make me look square. A boxfresh pair of white skater shoes are always going to be a winner when out in the sun, not only do they show off your tan - the main reason I bought and took them - but they just look good and make a nice change from the dark boots I tend to wear at home.

T-shirt ~ General Pants | Shorts ~ Topman | Shoes ~ ASOS | Sunglasses ~ Cubitt

Look Two

There’s another brand in Australia called Cotton:ON, it’s pretty much the Aussie equivalent to Primark but not as big. It’s a great store for emergency buys. When I needed an extra vest or top I ran into Cotton:ON as I could always get what I wanted without spending loads - incase I had to leave it behind, luggage allowance dependent! I loved this neon pink tee I picked up. It’s another great one for showing off a tan and it definitely made it back with me.

T-shirt ~ Cotton:On | Shorts ~ Topman | Shoes ~ Havaianas | Sunglasses ~ Cubitt

Thanks to Emma for the shots.