Typography & Wordplay

There are very few things that I truly enjoy, for long expanses of time (and never get bored of!) - typography and wordplay. Combined and you've got my attention.

Expect to see more from Kitten La Moda..... like this:

xxxxx

STYLE KITTEN #5: Jessica Cochrane

Jessica Cochrane, the enigmatic, bright eyed fashion-in-veins artist is one of Canberra's finest exports. Now based in Woolongong, working towards a design degree and fashion blogging with the best. (click click)

I have to say when first met Jess, was completely awestruck by her sheer raw talent, drive and ease with channelling her art form. For me, being from a similar arts/graphic design background - in many ways wish I'd been more like Jess - thriving as an artist instead of running the corporate rat race when beginning. To be driven by pure art and organic passion, is one of the most honest things you can do in this life.

Jessica will go far with anything she decides to do creatively. It's inspiring just hanging around someone so lovely! Naturally, this boho kitten comes from an artist family who were kind enough to allow us to shoot around their home and in her studio.

There's so much beauty and depth in what Jess creates. A knowing, story telling fashion illustrative approach to art. I remember visiting her working on the wall for LA DE DA bar, she was able to literally draft and recreate on this massive space. It was beautiful to witness the creative process happening live. I felt shivers - knowing first hand just how much work would go into such a piece of modern wall art brilliance.

Painting wall art at LA DE DA

Among the ridiculously gorgeous closet of high fashion items - one of my faves was a very cute pair of zebra wedge Jeffrey Campbell's. Have no idea how anyone actually walks in those bad boys, but do know I want to find out... ;) Jessica poses with an absolute command of her body, having modelled before as an artists model - she takes direction amazingly and really thinks of how to move in different ways to ensure a better photo outcome. LOVE that.

Hope ya'll enjoy the photos. We had a great afternoon working together on these. Admittedly, this shoot is from last season, and due to a world trip, finally posting today. I love them just as much now as I did then, am happy to share with you, kittens. Enjoy!

Have a beautiful day!

Allura xxx

Question 1: Tell me about yourself. - What do you do, What are your passions, What brings you happiness? 

Jessica: "Well I’m Jess. What do I do? Just stuff mostly. I work at General Pants Co. in the city playing with clothes all day and styling people up which is super fun. If I’m not at work then I’m usually avoiding my UNI work by painting naked chicks or taking photos and finding inspiration through clothing, music and late nights, or drinking coffee. Lots of coffee I am the sort of person who, if is not passionate about, or inspired by what they are doing, will fuck it off entirely. So I guess I am passionate about everything I involve myself with. Fashion, art, love, everything. Passion is what keeps me happy."

Question 2: Tell me about your work (& journey) as an Artist? How long have you been creating?

Jessica: "I’ve been drawing since I came out of the womb. I can’t remember a time when I was ever not drawing or sketching or playing dress ups. My dress up box when I was a kid was definitely enviable. The first artistic achievement of mine was probably having my work chosen to be exhibited in Head Space 8 at the National Portrait Gallery when I was in high school. When I got to college I studied art, graphic design and photography. And happily fell victim to hiding out in the art room at lunch sketching out images of models that I had torn out of every imaginable fashion and pop culture publication. I also started attending life drawing classes outside of college, which most people were surprised and curious about considering I was 16 and gladly drawing the naked female form. But I have never seen it as a big deal. The naked body is a pretty beautiful piece of work. I’ve always found women and girls are the main subject in my artistic work. Last year I started studying graphic design at UC but have felt more inclined to work as an artist and illustrator in the last few months. I made a blog to keep as a record of my work and through the blog, I have been offered amazing opportunities around Canberra such as painting a mural at the super cool bar, La De Da, and several exhibitions at other bars and rad spots. I’m currently working on a solo exhibition so I’m really allowing my self free reign. Its really exciting to watch this body of work progress and speak to you."

Question 3: Describe your style in 3 words 

Jessica: "Not too girly."

Question 4: Who inspires you, What style icons do you look to for inspiration? 

Jessica: "I guess if I had to sum up who and what inspires me and my style it would be anyone that brings their work to a personal, off-beat level and doesn’t give a toss what others think because they are doing it for themselves, not for others. "

Question 5: Who is your favourite designer/ artist? 

Jessica: "I can’t count on fingers and toes how many designers and artists and other things inspire me. I’m inspired every day by something. However, a few favourites worthy of mention are: Alexander McQueen, Gustav Klimt, Egan Schiele, Scott Schuman and his blog The Sartorialist, any dude or dudette cruising the streets, with their own sense of style, and Adelaide based graphic design company MASH. "

Question 6: What are your favourite fashion/accessory items of the moment? 

Jessica: "I have a crush on neon yellow at the moment teamed up with black and white."

Question 7: What are you dying to wear this winter? 

Jessica: "High waisted jeans and beautiful sheer tops, traffic stopping coats and shoes and curious accessories. I’m also dying over anything with a jungle print or palm tree print on it!"

Question 8: What do you predict will be trending this winter? 

Jessica: "Tessellated digital prints, high waisted jeans that are practically a second skin, And fur coats. Oh, and messy sex hair. "

Question 9: What is your favourite colour? 

Jessica: "I actually don’t have one! I have tried all my life to pick one but its too hard! I love them all! Embrace all colours I say! They’re all great."

Question 10: If you could choose a song that describes you, what would it be? 

Jessica: "Hmm, I’ve never had to think about this before. Flume’s remix of Zimbabwe by new navy."

BTS

You Cannot Stop New York City: A Ballerina, SoHo rooftops and BrooklynBridge at twilight

Kittens!

I hope you are having a beautiful end to your weekend. It's sunny here, although literally freezing... Anyone who knows me personally, will attest am quite affected by cold weather. It genuinely offends me, lol so should you wish to kid-nap from the Australian Winter - ready, packed and willing!!!
- Still writing from Melbourne, chillaxing in my hotel room briefly before heading out again. :)

It's so lovely retracing my creative steps from world photo tour that today am sharing my second stop photoshoot: NEW YORK CITY. Featuring a very beautiful Swedish Ballerina Julia Bengtsson, now based in NYC at the world renowned, Joffrey Ballet School.

My friend Kari introduced us, who also happens to be a very talented Australian Opera Singer and together they live in an artists/creatives alike talent household in the big apple. On a very cold windy some might even say - moody NYC afternoon that lead into evening, we shot on the rooftop of my gorgeous fashionista friend ('Timeout's Most Stylish New Yorker'!) Emma's quirky pink apartment in SoHo/East Village area. (link: more of Emma's fabulouso style!) and followed by iconic Brooklyn Bridge, at twilight.

The thing you learn about NYC early on - it really is all about the networking. It took me a little while to get my head around the general concept, but now makes total sense. It's a slightly different way of doing things professionally/creatively than to how it works in Australia but you certainly see results - so why not see what happens & enjoy it if it works for you, too! :):)

Julia is the rare kind of dancer you meet full of pure innocence and a (contagious) lust for life. She's incredibly gracious and humble. All in all, one of those sweet people you look back on working with, think to yourself "that really is the epitome of a lovely person!" and smile. Not to mention, fresh faced Swedish beauty with high cheekbones any photographer would lovelovelove. (NOTE: scroll to end for photos!)


New York, I Love You

When I arrived to JFK airport, after being upgraded to first class from Cancun (yay!) and the inflight soundtrack to my Manhattan experience that played in background was none other than Frank Sinatra's "New York, New York" I felt excited for the possibilities the big smoke might hold. The first time my driver went through Times Square, I actually screamed!

Thankfully first impressions aren't always last. NYC and I didn't agree on my first night, people were rude, even one uppity bizznatch threw a $1 bill at me when asked for directions on Fifth Avenue (yes, srsly! people suck) all the while I was dressed in stylish black lace with gold. Clearly, not a homeless person. Bitch Crazy. Of course, this bizarre moment is worthy of laughter now! :)

The concrete jungle did make me often feel small and swallowed by the congestion of endless high rises, swollen masses of people at every turn but once you get into the swing of things, like anything in life, you: evolve. Adapt. Well....almost. I still have 100% zero directional skills (can't be trusted with a map - scratch that even google maps!) and refuse to ride the subway alone, as one fine evening in the early hours of too many cocktails and a great dress, found myself on the wrong side of town.

Apart from getting lost constantly, New York began to open doors at every wrong turn. After getting lost, and finding my friend Alice, who was interning at the UN offices, I there met Emma, who welcomed me with open fashionista kindred spirit arms and from there we met her good friend Frank, who just happens to have worked on my favourite movie ever (Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind) and the four of us went to a fantastic dinner at one of the East Village's finest Lavagna's. Probably the best Italian food, I have ever eaten. In my life. 

We end up at the history enriched punk rock bar, Manitoba's and randomly met some cool well known Aussie musician's from Melbourne band, Clairy Browne And The Bangin' Rackettes, on their US tour.

Later during the week Emma & Frank took me to a Fashion Benefit for Hurricane Sandy in SoHo. We drank way too much, I posed too much with models and met some 'famous' peeps - didn't realise were even famous. (oops!.... famous is such a relative term, anyway)

While NYC wasn't exactly Sex and The City for my time spent in the Upper West Side, paraded with an influx of dates from the chuck bass's of the island or designer sample sales. It was.... real! If you dream about a city for as long as you can remember, of course it's going to be different in real life sans rose tinted glasses.

I love New York more now remembering the quirks, unexpected encounters and even struggles - I miss the rude pushy people, smiling with strangers, and of course the beautiful male models at Abercrombie ;) It's been REAL!!! I'll be back for Fashion Week, NYC. Some day soon.

Allura xxxx

Once Upon A Time in Mexico: Mexican Roses, Frida Kahlo and Paulina

Good Morning Lovelies!

Hope your day is beginning just as exciting as mine. The birds are chirping, the loud roaring sound of traffic below confirms life is happening somewhere and it's fantastic, awakens me. Currently sitting in my hotel room in Melbourne on looking a beautiful view of South Yarra - waiting for the next exciting chapter to begin. Can't say any more yet as don't want to jynx it, but sitting here feeling especially inspired and happy in a city full of creative opportunity. You just literally never know where the day can take you.... Great to be travelling again. You have to keep moving, keep exploring. Find something new every day to appreciate :)

In honour of celebrating travel well spent - this post is dedicated to the first stop of world tour: MEXICO!!!!

Playa Del Carmen with the beautiful Paulina Araujo & talented MUA Zoe Ashley. One of my most favourite shoots: we shot on rooftops, battled a naughty biting parrot in a 7/11 and posed like Frida Kahlo against the colourful barrio. In short - Mexico rules!!

It was lovely working with my mexican team: Paulina & Zoe. Both were such sweet people - even invited me to the cool Playa Del Carmen salsa attraction & nightspot at CocoBongo after our shoot. Paulina has a soft intriguing feminine confidence about her, it's always a privilege as a photographer to shoot and celebrate such a quality. Very happy with how the shoot turned out. Excited to share these photos with you all!

Cannot wait to come back and visit again! The beaches are not only exquisite, clear blue Caribbean waters and relaxing the people are incredibly welcoming, too. Everyone talks about how unsafe Mexico is this and that, sure, maybe in other parts like any country but here in Playa.... every day is paradise. Every person you walk past is a friend you haven't met yet.

Allura xxxx

Update

As some of you may have noticed, haven't been the most consistent blogger of late and this is something I'd like to rectify. Sure, could blame it on my recent world travel, exciting life + location changes and whatever else might keep you from making it a priority... Would like to (officially) work on changing that! -- also start by adding some amazing new content that's been waiting to be posted! (check back tomorrow! hint hint) :)

Over the past few months, have been thinking about where I'd like this little space of fashion free speech heaven to progress towards and before start thinking of the bigger future picture to where that might lead, would like to update more regularly for you, my lovely kittens, to have something fun and reliable in your newsfeed to look forward to ;) (here's hoping!)

This is just a little heartfelt THANK YOU from me to you, my dear followers. To say thank you for reading, agreeing or disagreeing with me through my posts and being part of this wonderful journey.

Much love and positive vibes your way wherever you are in the world. Hope however your day is beginning or ending, that it's a beautiful one....

Allura
xoxox

STYLE KITTEN #4: Emilia

The beautiful Polish-Australian beauty, Emilia, my next feature. Had the pleasure of working with her when just started photography professionally. It was such a lovely afternoon shoot. I was quite 'green' and still finding my feet in the Fashion Industry.

We shot spontaneously by the windy but calming waters of Lake Ginninderra in Canberra. With the help of local makeup artist extraordinaire & one of my now close friends, Tracey Mcmahon of Creative Makeup.

Emi, having not modelled much before instantly hit each shot with poise and model expression purrfection. I remember thinking how exhilarating it was to find that professional connection, with photographer and muse. The kind that just 'worked' flowing in a way that was both comfortable, and productive for the concept at hand.

Shall we say, we have come from humble creative beginnings to our reunion editorial for the KLM feature :)

 first shoot with Emi, MUA: Tracey McMahon

When I think of Emilia, Audrey Hepburn comes to mind. Gentle in nature, birdlike and delicate, with a sensibility of someone beyond her years. She's accomplished, well travelled and extremely artistic - which makes for quite the wonderful conversationalist on set.

Allura xoxox

Question 1: Tell me aboutyourself – what do you do, what are your passions, what brings you happiness?

Emilia: "I’m a 22 year oldinsolvency accountant - I work with underperforming businesses to assist themin restructuring and turnaround planning. While I am an accountant by trade, Ilike to think I’m not quite as boring as the stereotype! I have a love of the outdoors,morning coffee, snow, travel,cheese,photography and movies. Nothing makes mehappier than a walk on a sunny day!"

Question 2: Tell me about yourwork as a Portrait Photographer. What do you enjoy most about shooting people?

Emilia: "I first picked up a camera in 2008 when I starting shooting dance music events.My love of taking pictures of people grew from there.... there is justsomething about faces that I'm drawn to. Feelings and emotions can be capturedso vividly through a person’s eyes and expressions. Each face is so unique - Ireally enjoy depicting the beauty of that uniqueness through photographs. " 

Question 3:  Describe your style in 3 words?

Emilia: "The 3 C’s -comfortable, cute and chic!"

Question 4: What style icons do you look to for inspiration?

Emilia: "I love the styles ofVictoria Beckham, Audrey Hepburn, Miranda Kerr and Lana Del Rey. Classic andedgy."

Question 5: Who is your favourite designer?

Emilia: "To be honest, Ireally don't have one! At the moment, I'm loving Alexander McQueen and RobertoCavalli."

Question 6: What are your favourite fashion/accessoryitems?

Emilia: "I can never go pastan oversized handbag and a bold, statement necklace."

Question 7: What are you dying to wear this Autumn?

Emilia: "Boots boots boots!Given our fortunately warm climate in Australia, these babies only get to comeout of the closet a small period of the year – and I cannot wait!"

Question 8: What do you predict will be trendingthis season?

Emilia: "Burgundy colours and(faux) fur!"

Question 9: What is your favourite colour?

Emilia: "Turquoise!!!! Irecently bought a beautiful eel skin wallet in the most outrages turquoisecolour."

Question 10: If you could choose a song that describesyou, what would it be?

Emilia: "Michael Gray - Theweekend......I am constantly waiting for the weekend to begin."

BTS:

back from travelling the world!!!! :):):)

It's been a reeeeeaaaally long time since last post. I hoped to blog the whole way through my world trip, but it just didn't happen. Along with reading many books from the harvard classics list, learning a new language and becoming proficient in fashionable international liaisons. Suffice to say, none of those aspirations happened. Although, jet-setting for 2 months: almost every week travelling to a new country - There just wasn't time to mentally process and prepare new content for you, my darlings. I missed you of course, terribly. Just hope my little hiatus to see the world (& grasp some much needed life experience) hasn't lost you forever! but I do have some exciting news to share. On a couple of different fronts! (yay!) As already aforementioned, my next post will be on the lovely Emilia. (double yay!) coming this week. see previous post for her teaser image. kind of AHHHMAZE.

World Trip - spent time in Playa Del Carmen (Mexico), New York (USA), Paris (France), Zurich (Switzerland), Barcelona (Spain) and Marrakech (Morocco) over 8 weeks. Fashion shoots in Mexico, NYC, Paris & Barcelona.... coming your way very soon! I'm very very excited to share. It was fun, challenging and all in all a great experience working internationally with some of the beauties of this world!

Literally, just flew in last week back home to Aussyland. Crazily jetlagged and still attempted to maintain the usual social routine with my gorgeous dancer friends at our school Kokoloco's annual diamonds ball. It's one of my fave events of the year, because you get to see so many different people's takes on fashion. We have a theme each ball, it's really fun and interesting to see where the inspiration from the theme can go. 'Diamond' this year - so there was a lot of sparkly classy ladies & handsome boys in suits...and maybe even a cute waiter or two. If you could get off the overflowing energy filled dance floor to notice. Oh and tequila.... Had a greeeeeaaaat night!

I wore a divine beaded, sequinned, jewelled black and bronze 70s glam vintage dress - fresh from my new york tour. Acquired at a quirky, sought after vintage boutique in the east village. 'Angela's Vintage'. Just quietly, totally adore Angela. She's a sweetheart and picked this for me! It was a perfect fit. The rest is history...

Kokoloco Samba Belezas

Trending: Winter Fashion 2012

Note: this was drafted beginning of aussie winter, ooops! we're now spring flinging through to warmer southern hemisphere delights. Let's pretend this is for my euro/american friends currently approaching fall. ;) x 

Heya Kittens,

Once again the next season has already snuck up upon us. Where crimson coloured leaves fall at our feet, winds sweeping and passionate, that transitory limbo time between fire and ice. The beginning and end of summer flings. A reminder cooler times are on it's way. The Australian summer, if you can even call it that, was the least impressive it's ever been. Think I enjoyed more sunny days whilst volunteering in India (in their winter last year), than I did laying by Broulee beach on a questionably 'hot' afternoon. Mind you, in India, the only place I was safe to bare flesh was rooftop tanning. Much to my kid neighbours delight, where we would play 'bang, bang, you're dead!' until his mother called for dinner time and I would resume sunset 'meditation' (also known as my excuse for designated sun worship) to calm the mind in such a busy place. Plus it was my only escape from a house full of some 10 volunteers. Not terrible by any means, but if you normally live alone, with your demanding but lovable cat. Culture shock, granted.

Around this time of year (like clockwork) I resume my winter staple. Burgundy. Anddddd lots of it. (luckily for me this happens to be the 'in' colour of the moment! WINNING) Beret, Scarf, Handbag, Cardigan. You name it, I'll return to earthy tones and remember why layering is the most amazing fashion style for personal expression there is! Also, let's not forget knee high knit socks... Teamed with bodycon mini backless dresses and black sequin crop blazers... *delish!* gahhh so many options! Not enough parties?!

What are some of your fave go-to-winter staples? It can be anything. knit lace leggings, that snug old jumper you can't seem to throw out (not to be confused with the snuggie! ew...hello?!), leg warmers, poncho etc Whatever it is, I want to hear from you ;) comment. comment. comment. xo

Winter Fashion Trends: KLM STYLE

The Perfect Winter Trench 

For me, the perfect winter trench is double breasted. Tailored to purrfection. Classic, but not dated. Audrey-esque with a hint of couture quality. Ideally, without the hefty price tag. Navy, Burgundy, Red, Black, White or Cream (if we're being specific!) preferably with possible feature buttons (gold, silver, coloured) and military stitches. Which to the normal fashion gal, seems all but impossible to find! Depending on your body type and what works for you (fitted, cape, long, etc) it's important to have a warm but wearable solution for the icier times ahead. Something comfortable you can pair with your cute layered outfits. If you're a busy fashionista, you won't have hours to colour match every single outfit to your outerwear. Honestly, what sexy working chica has that kind of time? I recommend neutral 'safe' colour choices. Black, Cream, White, Navy. If your budget allows, stretch out your winter collection to feature colours as well, army green, burgundy, grape, fuchsia, turquoise, electric blue. I like to have one beautiful coat for the three months of literal frozen hell. Usually black or cream. Keep it simple, elegant and beautiful. Instead of buying excessive seasonal fashion you like, buy one thing you LOVE. Treasure. Adore. Collect. You'll thank me later! ;)

Second Skin (skinnies, leggings & tights)

Want to know the secret to being comfortable, looking skinny (no matter your body type) and feel realistically sexy without having to put in hours of style prep? Skinny jeans. Leggings. Skin tight pants. There's something incredibly empowering about wearing pants, as a woman, but even more sexy if they're skin tight. Second skin, as I like to call my favourite black skinnies. When I'm wearing these babies I not only feel in control of my style, but also quite proud to be showing off my curves via subtle confidence. Normally worn with an oversized white shirt, maxi gold necklace, structured blazer and kitten heels or wedges (day/night). I've asked my friends - they all have agreed, in one way or another, wearing this simple casual style has made them feel good about themselves. *tick! I made a point of asking different types because we all have impressions of what works for us in reference to height, weight and skin tone. Majority of my ladies-that-lunch felt comfortable. Sharing similar sentiments by choosing this quick fashion fix for achieving carefree pretty. It's fun too! There are soooo many options out there for making this look your own. From prints, textures, metallics, cutouts to denim and material variety. Every season is another opportunity where you can reinvent yourself, style or otherwise, and explore new possibilities. Fashion should be no different... ;)

The Bat-Cape

Sienna Miller rocking a red riding hood cape. I am currently in the process of designing my new winter staple. (also, worth noting for the less than experienced sewer - can be a totally easy DIY weekend project!!)

Colour Blocks

Colour blocking not exac new but certainly popular. Looking at fashion with the way it has been evolving around colour gradually moving towards more colour pops & ombre lights. Have to admit, kind of love it. Prints & colour NEVER get old. colour + mismatched print in the right colour opposites = LOVE SO MUCH!!!!!! Don't even get me started on the ombre fascination. SRSLY. We'll be here foreves. Some are cautious as this may be yet another fad (refer to: jeggings, the 'belt purse' aka ridiculously renamed everybody's fave: fannypack & hypercolour tees etcetc) that will probs guilty of following but personally, I just can'ts get enough of it....in my hairstyle, nails, design. If you're more of a softer belle can always opt for pastel pretty to lighten your closet pallet.  Your colour blocking play-style does not have to be limited to bolds, in order to create the same effect. If you are looking for tropical inspiration: street style women of spain and brazil have my vote.

Peplum

While I may not be overtly sold on this look, do own a few feature pieces that have the peplum ruffle signature. You can see it everywhere now. Do you likey? I love it in the early 90s and my strapless, bone structure corseted leopard print h&m dress but.. does it really have to be on every single top & dress avail? EVERYWHERE?! Just gonna go right ahead and say it - FAD. You'll be bored of it, mañana. If not, wear it, love, style & ignore. Not the biggest loverrrr of all 90ties revival.

French Lace - every girl's best friend

If you were to meet me tomorrow you'd probably be greeted by an annoyingly chipper girl in a white lace maxi dress. Possibly, with a bow in her hair. That's just how I roll... 'Lace Addict' does not even come close to describing this unhealthy (and often redundant) fascination with the prettier textures of Parisian inspiration. I genuinely think lace suits everybody. Every girl should wear something pretty, feminine and sweet. We spend too much of our lives trying to grow up, act our age, that we forget to embrace the softer aspects of beautiful material pleasure. And, more importantly, dress-ups! Ditch the power suit and add a little girly detail to your collar. (and everything else. always. always.)

Luxe Leather

Lisbeth Salander eat your heart out. Structured, studded, quilted, modern twists on the leather persuasion. Not limited to rocker children of the new world, any longer. Embrace your inner rebel (bad boys & bad girls alike) without the social stereotype. My most coveted and favourite leather-play has to be the Balmain matador inspired collection RTW '12. Every piece designed with impeccable detail, sophistication and vegas flair. Elvis, be proud. The variations of how you can wear it are pretty amazeballs - high waisted shorts, jackets, leggings, fingerless MJ gloves and even crazy colour options.
No matter how you choose to wear your edgy companion, wear it with the confidence and the killer attitude leather demands.

That's all for now, kittens. Epic entry right? Can't help it. Fashion excites me! :)

COMING UP NEXT: style feature (interview & editorial) on the beautiful Emilia. Love this girl's style. She is kind of ahhhmazing.

Get pumped.... until then, here's a little preview

Allura
xoxo