Pantone's Colour of the Year 2013

So if you haven't heard by now that Pantone's colour of 2013 is Emerald you'd have to be hiding under a fashionable deprived rock. Green has come back for this year with a vengeance in a beautifully crisp jewel shade. Just look at that beauty! Lurking deep in the cooler spectrum of the colour wheel this colour works with a surprising amount of people due to its muted tone.

Source: Pantone

Pantone's colour predictions are an important tool in predicting what's going to be hot in the upcoming season, as they say themselves "The PANTONE VIEW Colour Planner is a biannual trend forecasting tool that offers seasonal colour direction and inspiration 24 months in advance for multiple usages, including menswear, women's wear, activewear, cosmetics and industrial design."

Lots of designers are incorporating the hue into the collections, the colour will also work in Autumn and I can't wait to wear the moody shade! Here's what I want to add to my wardrobe.

Free People Raglan Sleeve Striped Top from ASOS

Mimco Small Cocoon in Emerald

Nike Blazer Mid Mint High Top Trainers

Day of the Dead - Incoming Mexican Fashion

Using the momentum from both the Novelty and Tribal pattern trends, what I'm loving coming into stores now are the cute Day of the Dead style fashions. Prettied up sculls, intensely bright colours, intricate patterns, crochet and crisp whites are all hallmarks of this style, but this time around the colours are more subdued and easier to work into your everyday wardrobe. Think deeper, muted and more natural tones with a polite pop of neon or pastel. Try a cute crochet top with your favourite shorts, some candy coloured skull jewels, or an Aztec patterned scarf for a subtle take or go all out with a printed bodycon dress.

Crochet Front Tank / Forever New

Aztec Patterned Skirt / Ally

Crochet Hem Shorts / Ally

Printed Bodycon Dress / Dotti

Mexican Space Shirt Holdall Handbag / Topshop

Nail Rock Strips / ASOS

Skull Mish Mash Bracelet Set  / Diva

Aztec Sequin Clutch  / ASOS

If you want some more inspiration, (or even a good movie to watch this weekend) I highly recommend you check out the Frida biographical movie from a few years ago staring Salma Hayek. It's a little unnerving to watch her sport more facial hair then my boyfriend but the movie blew me away.

Are you getting into this trend? How are you wearing it?

Bought! Asos Haul January 2013

Well more of a mini haul really. Asos is another must do destination in the sales as the prices that normally can't be beaten get even better. Here's what I picked up.

This aqua peplum top fits like a dream and hides any bumps with it's gorgeous Ponte fabric. The trousers are also awesome, they're linen blend so they're comfy as in Australia's blazing hot summers, and they also have a cute feature waistband.

Asos Linen Peg Pants

A Wear Bow Peplum Top

I couldn't say no to some cute accessories too. I love the little musician cat and mouse, I finally have a pair of cats eye sunnies that suit me, and the pillbox hat is something out of the ordinary in this day and age but I don't think they should be! They're gorgeous worn with an up-do and add an air of elegance.

Asos Cameo Earring Set

Catarzi Pillbox hat (Other colours available!)

Pieces Esther Sunglasses

Diva and Lovisa Hauls Boxing Day 2012

I'm glad to say that there are sales that I can always rely on to help me ensure that I don't overdo it on Christmas, Who really wants to be lying around with a throbbing head at home when there's shopping to be had? I may have been a day late to the party this year due to being out of town (and range!) for the holidays, but Diva and Lovisa are yet to disappoint. With everything on sale under $8 I picked up this haul from Diva for the teensy price of $68.

Staple heart studs to suit any other jewels I have on and cute articulated owls

Superhero matching cuffs, I could get them engraved but I think I'm satisfied wearing them with a hi-lo skirt and boots

Cute bangles in pastels and black

Rose Gold Torque, ethnic inspired necklace and statement choker

On top of the above I also picked up this bundle from Lovisa for around $40

Sweet bow and owl brooches, and perfect Deco style hairpins

Darling heart earrings and more Deco inspired earrings

I can't really escape my favourite staples of owls and hearts when there are such cute earrings in store, but what I'm really glad to pick up are the Deco inspired jewel bargains. The Deco trend is set to explode this year thanks to Baz Luhrmann's adaptation of The Great Gatsby. Not to mention period dramas lighting up our lounge rooms such as Boardwalk Empire and Downton Abbey giving us beautiful examples of Deco fashion inspiration to introduce to our wardrobes.

Did you take a look at Diva or Lovisa in your post Christmas shopping trip? What did you pick up?

The Best of Bought by Birdette 2012

Hello everyone! How did you enjoy the holiday period? We're glad to be back in business here at Birdette Headquarters to bring you all a wrap up of the most popular posts of 2012. Did your favourite make it in?

Most read Beauty Post:

How to Hair  - Serena van der Wooden's Ponytail

Always a goodie, sad to see it for the final time on TV last week but unfortunately for Gossip Girl lovers the show just wasn't what it used to be.

Most Pinned DIY:

Make Your Own Easy Fabric Bunting

A surprising success, and I do have to admit I still haven't entirely finished mine! It's about 7 metres long, I just keep running out of tape or missing flags to finish it off! I know there's a few more flags somewhere... lol.

Purchase of the Year:

Zara Plaited Leather Shopper Bag

Still a Favourite for readers all over the world, this classic bag is high up on many shopping lists.

Best Discovery:

Trilogy Rosehip Oil

If you don't already own this, I still highly recommend you give it a try, nothing else has helped me with my uneven skin tone more.

Best Tips and Tricks:

How to make your Eyes Brighter

How very well timed! I can imagine more then a few of us will be sporting bleary red eyes after partying tonight! Here's how to minimize the the appearance

It's been a good year here at Bought by Birdette and we're very happy to have you all as readers! You've been steadily growing and spreading the word and I'd like to take this opportunity to thank each and every one of you. If you don't already, please take this chance to follow us to keep up to date. You can choose from Twitter, Facebook, Google Friend Connect, or Bloglovin, and please keep in touch! We love to know what you're loving, and want to see more of. (Comments and Shares! Yay!)

Thanks again for an awesome year and your continued support, I hope you all have a fantastic New Year, Be the best you can be, and take care of yourselves.

Bought! Sportsgirl Cut Out Boots

So a few weeks ago I posted about some gorgeous Jeffrey Campbell Cut Out Boots that I was in love with, but just couldn't justify on my budget. Hello wallet friendly alternative!

So Mischa likes the boots too, or the camera, I'm not sure.

Can you tell I'm in love? You can pick up your own pair from the guys at Sportsgirl, I found them to be a little tight in the width, so make sure you walk about the store a bit in them first, and I certainly had to buy the bigger size my foot size normally falls into.

Loving this week - Bargain leather goods and Mecca Maxima

December is here and that means I can officially get all Christmas-y without anyone cracking the sads that I'm getting in too early. Hurray for that! I love this time of the year because the weight of the year starts to lift off everyone's shoulders. Even people on the street seem to smile more.

Of course it also means great deals for shoppers too, so I've been pounding the pavement (or carpet in Westfield Carindale's case!)

Colette is a store I haven't paid much attention to, I noticed when suddenly they appeared in almost every mall overnight but I've been afraid that my allergy would prevent me from wearing the jewellery. However I was walking past the store when I saw new posters up talking up their new leather range, Always keen for a leather handbag I had to check them out.

Nice, simple and clean lines are a great first impression to make on the handbags. However, when you look a little closer the top corners of the bag actually clip together internally and form a new bag shape, and a gorgeous one at that! I'm sorry to say I couldn't find any pictures of the alternate way to wear it, but I think it's worth going to the shops and checking them out, it could just be your brand new handbag (and matching wallet!) It also currently comes in other shades of tan, dark blue, and a pinky coral hue.

I'm a little ashamed to admit that I have waited this long to check out the new Mecca Maxima, or any Mecca Maxima in that case! I've been shy. It's like that feeling you get when you see the security guard on the doors of Louis Vuitton or Chanel, sometimes you don't feel brave enough and run away! But after entering I don't know why I felt that way. I almost squealed out loud at some of the cute stuff I found! Heart shaped foam hair rollers anyone? Don't mind if I do ...

Comes in a pack of six

I also picked up some Soap and Glory goodies that I'll talk about after I've given them a go. The tools section was of course unbelievable but the range of hard to find brands is awesome. I'm really glad to see that someone who has the means to has opened up the world of international niche cosmetics to Australians who would otherwise resort to eBay or overpriced international postage. After leaving the store I'm already plotting my purchases for next time in my head.

Matches Fashion

There's just something really dreamy about looking at Designer fashion. As I'm sure it is with a lot of readers, the lust I have for that perfect pair of Opening Ceremony shoes just isn't the same as the feelings I get about a good pair I could find at a department store. The desire just isn't as strong, intense, it just doesn't leave me yearning.
Matchesfashion.com is my latest Mecca for finding new objects to love and dream about. Opening their first store in 1990, they pride themselves on excellent customer service and turning your shopping experience into something fashionably extraordinary. Matches vast range of both new and established designers leave me feeling giddy and willing to whip out my credit card at an alarming speed, which can only be a good thing for my wardrobe!

I'm always on the hunt for kooky little outfit finishers and this cute Cotton Square Collar by Carven is a winner for me. Just pop it under the neck of any dresses, tops or sweaters it will fit under and you're good to go. The geometric cut is modern and that size of the bib enables it to work with numerous fashion choices.

Scarves always say to me that the wearer cares about their appearance. If they have been styled effectively they lift the entire outfit to another level. This Apeiron Scarf by Athena Procopiou hits the Sci fi Prints trend nail on the head while being light enough to be worn throughout the year. I love how the colours range from pastels through to black for a very workable piece.

I love spotting Australian labels on international websites! Kimono style cover ups are perfect for the beach and as a light cover up during summer, Anna & Boy's Circle Silk Kaftan has a gorgeous cream print that will make your tan pop, and add some sun protection and style to your beach ensemble. I'd also use this to dress up a simple jeans and singlet combination, just add a few gold bangles, sunnies and a simple but chic look is achieved.

This has been a sponsored post

Loving this week - Travel Totes, Owls and Deco Style

I think it's time to take back some of my old favourite post styles and revive them into regular columns, starting with a weekly round up of things that I'm completely in love with!

I like to think I travel a lot, but not as much as I'd like to. Being mama to a couple of kitties does impede on my ability to pack up and go somewhere for the weekend! But house-sitters are a saviour.
I am a great fan of good overnight bags, not just for luggage but for everyday use when I need something huge to haul around all of my gear for work and study. I spotted this amazingly beautiful and functional Raja Travel Tote by Mimco and knew I wanted it. It's expandable, has a detachable cross body strap and comes in a shade of go-with-everything tan with a pop of yellow detailing. Want. Now.

I'm still a sucker for a cute little owl and  I was in desperate need of a smaller vase as well, (I can only go for so long using items like jars and jugs to house flowers!) How cute is this little guy! He also comes in gold and is petite enough for smaller arrangements, he's also pretty damn adorable sitting round on his own. You can pick him up at Dotti stores in the selection of gift ideas they've sourced for Christmas.

I need to find a dress for my (Office) day job's Christmas Party. Something that's fun, on trend but that doesn't flash too much, I do need to look these people in the eye on Monday morning! In these cases it's prudent to follow the classy old style rules, show off either your bust or your legs, never both (and even then, don't be trashy, no one wants to see your knickers when you bend over!) and select something that flatters yourself. I love Lipsy for a good party dress, and I adore this option, the Deco styling of the frock  echoes with Great Gatsby trend, and if I wanted to style it a different way I could wear a different skirt over the top for another occasion.

Incoming: Baroque Trend

I'm sad that I won't get the chance to wear this trend well for another four months as it's certainly better suited to cooler weather, but that doesn't mean our friends on the north-side can't get into it now! Baroque fashion is something that had it's heyday in the 80's in the time where nothing could possibly be too excessive. Opulent, Decadent, Elegant, Lush, all words that describe this look to a tee. It's a very European trend, A trend where more is more, and jewels are not just an option, they're obligatory.

Asos Brocade Baroque Skinny Jeans

The reason why this trend works so well in winter is because so many of the fabrics used are heavy. Brocades, jacquards, damasks, embroidery, sequins, beading, they're all fabrics that tend to be thick and warm. You can still wear it in the warmer months by wearing fabrics that have been printed with detailed and baroque style prints, but I think to truly pull it off you need the genuine article. The colour scheme first time around tended to be dark and moody, but for this remix gelato and pastel hues have been added to update for this season with flashes of metallic gold and silver. Dolce and Gabbana, and especially Versace have this look nailed.

Ally Pastel Skater Skirt

One way to quickly add this trend into your wardrobe vocabulary is the adopt something with a 'Scarf print' Scarf peint is a pattern that features ropes, tassels braids and occasionally equestrian themes. I kind of giggle when I think of this, as my Nanna has a great scarf print suit in her wardrobe that she brings out for special occasions... I may just have to steal it.

Oasis Scarf Print Dress

Another fast update would be to go into the jewellery, big, bold and colourful gemstones set in gold are the ideal, with door-knocker and drop style earrings being the perfect item.

Diva Black Opaque Stone Drop Earrings

You have to be careful with your makeup when you wear this look, it's the only part of the trend where 'more is more' need not apply. For a modern take keep your make up fresh and natural using nudes and pale pinks with a light fake tan, but if you want to carry on the bold theme of your outfit, play up your lips with a dark shade of lipstick. This trend is perfect for a deep red, or even purple contrasting against a pale base. If you're not feeling brave enough for bold lipstick then strong eyebrows work just as well. Russian doll style hair will complete the look, Think a straight middle part with hair either up or down in a smooth style.

Bought! Zara Plaited Shopper

Something tells me I'm going to have "It-bag elbow" immanently ...

Alright, So I completely admit that I'm a little late to the party on this one, but I have had it floating around in the back of my wardrobe planning mind for months and months, (what, you don't plan your wardrobe??) But it recently it dawned on me, "Oh wow, do you know what bag will go amazingly with all the pastels, prints and neon brights this season? And still be be big enough to carry ALL of the things?" Oh yes, Yes Yes YES! This will be my go-to handbag for this Spring/Summer for everywhere during the day except the beach.

Olivia Palermo wearing the bag

So you might also know this bag as the Olivia Palermo Tote, with her being snapped around with it on her arm, but I don't buy bags because celebrities have them. The shape is perfect, and admittedly because it is so huge it makes me look as tiny as an Olsen twin in comparison. Think about it this way, this couch that I have photographed it on, that's a massive couch, and the bag takes up almost a whole seat of it!

Fat bag likes to take up an entire couch seat!

They officially call it the 'Plaited Shopper" which is curious because none of it is plaited, the carry handles do have hand stitched features but I guess it might have been lost in translation. It is made from a thick type of Leather they have called buffalo leather, with has a nice heavy 'thunk' to it when you tap on it, Very sturdy. The inside has that lovely suede side that I love too.

The bag is constructed in a manner that I haven't owned before. The exterior can be used on its own without the inner canvas type fabric pocket, as this lining can be removed from the two hook like studs on either side of the bag. I'm assuming this is for easier care and washing. The included shoulder strap is also removable in the same manner, but when not in use it's easier to just swing it around and hide in between the lining and bag. When using the shoulder strap the base of bag can just be reached to fish around in.

A closer look at the interior

Hook Stud detail

Possibly the only things I don't like about the bag is the lack of little pockets in the lining, for you phone, little things you like to keep hidden etc. The bag will be hard to keep immaculate as the type of leather used will scuff easily due to the finish, so I've decided once it starts to look a little shabby on the bottom -where the majority of the marks will end up- I can take it to a leather specialist and get either a contrasting or matching leather panel sewn to the base to increase the bags longevity. It's such a classic shape, I'll be using it forever, Hell, it's such an awesome bag it'll probably be snagged by one of my nieces when they grow up!

I managed to pick it up from a seller on eBay as Zara do not post to Australia, Sadface. (Please fix this soon Zara!) Even so I'm not sure if it is still stocked online. Ed: Oops, I lie, here it is on the American site!

Already I've taken this bag on a jaunt about the Brisbane CBD and it is a compliment magnet! Shop assistants and even strangers love it enough to come up to me and ask when I bought it. I'm just so damn pleased with it!

What bag are you going to invest in for this season? Do you prefer classic or high fashion bags?

Loving this week! T2 Tea, Ikea and Topshop

As someone who likes to make and create when I get the time, I love the new kooky aesthetic creeping into everything from homewares to fashion. You can of course DIY, but there's not always the time to research a craft, how to do it, and then create your piece without it looking like it was found in a bargain bin, (regretsy anyone?)
Sometimes it is just easier to buy something. I found these cute and kitschy owl tea cozies, just like Nan had at T2 tea. They come in Green, Red, Purple and Brown and add just the right amount of sweet and handmade to your teapot. Also a very cute gift idea for any quirky tea obsessed friends, or your Nan.

Owl Tea Cozy from T2

There is one item that come in the mail every year that I without a doubt, stalk. The yearly Ikea Catalogue is a kind of house decorating porn that I pour over. Why not when everything inside is affordable? I'm at a stage of life where I'm living out of home, no kids in sight, on a comfortable wage and slowly starting to look at buying instead of renting. Disposable income ahoy! This year they have released a limited edition designer range with a wealth of new objects that have the potential to be collectors items, But I'm still loving the classic Hemnes collection and the awesomely priced linens.

I found it! The perfect bag to wear folded up and carried as a clutch! The sort of thing I was talking about in this post. To wear it like that, remove the long strap and do not overfill the bag. Fold it just under the handles, and hold with your wrist on the outer and your hand scooping it from underneath. It also comes in a gorgeous go with anything biege (they call it camel), as well as this popping transeasonal teal.

Bags available from Topshop

What are you guys loving this week? Found something awesome? I'd love to know about it!

Splurge vs. Steal: Watch this

Watches are having a renaissance at the moment and I couldn't be happier. For too many years we've been moving away from this classic accessory as the need for them has diminished. After all, who needs a watch when you have a mobile phone?
Two major looks that have come through for this season in jewellery are colours and rose gold. I love rose gold, it goes with both gold and silver and adds an air of vintage elegance. but brights are also calling, one for work and one for play? I think so!

These are two of my picks for the Rose gold look, Diva for a touch of bling and Marc by Marc Jacobs for it's sleek lines, (and duh! it's Marc Jacobs!)

Available at Diva and ASOS

Next on my roll call are colours. If you want to be bang on for this season, a pastel is perfect but I think the zing of a bright colour will pop on my wrist. For cheap thrills, I do quite like the White Cassie watch by Lovisa it looks awesome with a nice faux tan, but I love the bright pink It Girl Watch by Thomas Sabo (it's on sale too!)

Available from The Iconic and Thomas Sabo

Link Love: 9 September 2012

DIY Elastic Hair Ties: A cute DIY by Reese Kristal on how to make those cute hair ties that have been popping up in stores lately. Cute gift idea!

10 Shapes for your Eyeshadow: A great page for anyone that needs a helping hand understanding eyeshadow application.

Pimp an Old Tee: Five Cute ideas to take some of the old and boring shirts you might have lying about your wardrobe, I especially like the screen print idea.

Winner Winner! Ulinx Giveaway

Hi everyone,
Thank you to the people who entered the Giveaway, I entered the number of entries into a generator and correlated it to what order the entries were made, Leaving me with Thanhluu3 as the winner! I'll be getting in contact with you very soon over Twitter,

Also a big thanks to Ulinx for making this possible. Great Jewellery and service too!

Quick style updates for items you already have

You guys are no doubt aware of my love for a a cheap fashion update, but what's better then a free one? Chances are you have the items to do any of these already in your wardrobe, the trick now is to style them in a few different ways to how you're used to and you'll come up with looks that are huge right now.


Hold your bag like a clutch.
A lot of high fashion labels sent their models down the runway with their handbags folded over into a clutch shape, and held on the side of the body with the hand scooped underneith. You can do this very easily with a bag you already own, it just has to have a sturdy base to hold some of it's shape (it helps if the bag can be totally zipped up as well, or you might get the contents of your daily life spilling out everywhere!
Do-ability rating: 3/5, This look works so well, so long as you use the right bag, but it can also be a little annoying not having that arm free, and annoying again having to fully seal your bag up every time you want something.

Original Source

Cuff your trousers
This will work the best with trousers that taper at the hem, or straight legs so things like your skinny jeans.The trick is to keep rolling them up just the once, look in the mirror, and if it's not flattering on your legs, either try another roll up or down until they do.
Do-ability rating: 5/5, I barely know a person without skinny jeans.

Nishe Blouse & Shorts Available from ASOS

Wear all your pastels at once.
A few seasons ago we started with the 'gelato' trend, lots of gorgeous pale colours, mostly in block items. It took a little while but now pastel colours are everywhere, and will be massive this Australian summer. lots of key looks this season are all over looks and this is another great one to try. Try pairing a pair of pastel skinny jeans with a floaty pastel print top, perhaps a white singlet with a light kimono style cover up? Nude heels too and top the look off with some nude or pastel coloured nails. Perfection.
Do-ability rating: 5/5, Because pastel colours can suit a myriad of skin tones and colours and styles of fashion, it's really quite failproof. You can also style them suitably with tan and beige coloured accessories.

Source

Learn to fishtail braid.
Braids are becoming the new top knot, (Hurray! The trend of looking like a pre-schooler at a dance recital is coming to an end!) You can find a stack of videos out there explaining how to do this hairstyle, but like anything else, practise (and the right tools!) make perfect. And this look is so much better messy then perfect anyway. Regular braids are just as good for the time poor (or just uncoordinated like myself).
Do-ability rating: 5/5, only thing standing in your way is the length of your hair.


Head to toe prints.
We've been wearing a lot of these in the past few season so I assume you have at least a small collection? As I bought mine I tried to buy ones that would suit the wardrobe I already had, so unsurprisingly they mostly followed my usual cool colour palette. My advice is to not wear the same print, as it is sort of reminiscent of pyjamas and growing up in the country, only daggy people wore their pyjamas out of the house. Wear maybe a top and a bottom, with a block coloured third item to break it up a bit, if you work with the colours in both the print, and they share perhaps a colour or two, you can't go too wrong.
Do-ability rating: 4/5, It's really not as hard as it looks, if in doubt, ask a friend or try again.

Sister Jane available from ASOS

Button your shirt to the top.
As a girl with a large bust this trend is something that still kind of feels odd to me, but with the right shirt it works! (just make sure it's big enough not to gape!) Button your shirt right to the neck and then pop either a statement necklace, collar chain or a tie over the top, there are some very cute bow ties out there, or one of the gorgeous 'look at me!' necklaces from recent seasons work perfectly too.
Doability raiting: 5/5, cuff your sleeves into whatever length suits you as well.

I hope I've given you some ideas for updating your style into the upcoming season. Don't be afraid to try something new if you haven't seen anyone else on the street wear it yet, it just means you're way ahead of them.

What are you doing differently to style your clothes this season?

Loving this week: Ulinx Jewellery and giveaway!

The lovely people over at Ulinx sent me a gift! A gorgeous bracelet of my choosing from their extensive collection of magnetic jewellery. Ulinx are a collection of various jewellery elements that are magnetized so you can change your look at any time. I choose a summery blue theme to my bracelet which looks great with blue denim and a (faux!) tan. You can check out the range and see how it works at www.ulinxjewellery.com

My Ulinx Design

Also Ulinx have given me to opportunity to give one of their bracelets to one of my readers! All you have to do is share this post on either Facebook or Twitter (tag me with @birdettebuys!) and let me know by commenting in this post. I'll be drawing a name at random and announcing the winner on my blog on the first of September. Competition closes Midnight EST on the 31st of August. Limit of one entry per person, per platform, so if you post to both twitter and facebook, that's two entries.

Good luck!