Danish by Kunish: design T's

In love with this entire range of hand printed t-shirts, bibs, hankies and art designed by a Danish native now calling Canberra home. I spoke with the Kristine Buccoliero at her stall at the Old Bus Depot Markets about her label Danish by Kunish...

Using her own bold graphical images and unique combinations, Kristine prints every piece as a one-off design inspired by nature and elements from her homeland.

Danish By Kunish long sleeve t-shirts and hankies are currently stocked at Little Owl. Contact Kristine directly for more of the Danish By Kunish range ph 6166 0241

Glam goes bush: Capturing Royalty

A few months ago, on a classic clear day, photographer Julie of Capturing Essence and Vicki of Rockstars and Royalty went rural for this amazing "Stage Coach Robbery" themed fashion shoot for the latest in the Rockstars collection. Just out of Canberra, diamonds meet the rough...

Photography by Capturing Essence; Carriages thanks to Brindabella Carriages

Says Julie of her passion for photography, "My main aim in my work is to literally capture the essence of a moment, whatever that may be, and preserve it for years to come.

I shoot weddings, commercial and other little bits and pieces, but i LOVE being on a photoshoot with a bunch of good people and working together to get some incredible images!"

"I love clients who want something different, colourful and most of all to have a lot of fun!"

Fabulous work Julie and more amazing gowns from Rockstars. Love it all!!!

Contact Julie Clyde of Capturing Essence to chat about your photographic or design needs. Julie@capturingessence.com.au and check out her fabulous portfolio here.

Diamant Hotel: Design love

Looking for somewhere chic and fab for your stylish international guests to stay while they live it up in Canberra? Look no further, now we have gorgeous modern boutique Diamant Hotel. Designed by SJB Interiors, the new 73 room hotel is a modern extension to the historical Acton Hotel and such, is a fascinating blend of old and new - I am in love.

ps: may I please take home all of the lobby furniture right now?

Perrier Jouet Bar

The suites and rooms

Even if you're not staying in the hotel, you really must check out the restaurants here too.

Du Jour cafe

Parlour Wine Room

Flint Dining Room (the interior is also gorgeous)

The Diamant Hotel is at the New Acton East precinct on Edinburgh Ave Canberra City. Very pretty indeed.

Shhh: Trade Secrets...

Just discovered, near Brand Depot: Trade Secret offering big brands with cheeky prices. I was skeptical as to what I would discover beyond the doors - expecting a pretty average bonds style outlet, but what I found got me pretty excited...

"Trade Secret offers the latest looks and fashion essentials all at up to 60% less than you’d pay at other stores. Didn’t you know that paying full price is so last season?! The best part... Trade Secret has fashion for the whole family! From bubs and littlies, to girls, boys and teens of all ages, as well as ladies and men’s fashion for all occasions. Plus, there’s a great selection of homewares at amazing prices! All garments are first quality that’s right – no seconds or samples and with new stock arriving daily you can discover something new every day!"

When I got to the womens fashion department I was in my element. Labels include French Kitty (OMG I'm in love!), Purr, Living Doll, M-one-11, Sass, Otto Mode, Just Add Sugar and Vanessa Tong (see the red top at the bottom, I couldn't help myself - Faaabulous!). Love, love, loving.

Living Doll; Otto Mode

Purr cardi; M-one11 jacket

French Kitty shorts; Living Doll rain boots

L: Vanessa Tong top; R: Just Add Sugar T-shirt, French Kitty shorts, Tempt jacket, ebay shoes, op-shop bag.

Trade Secret also stock a fantastic range of kids clothing (fab prices, really nice stuff), handbags, umbrellas, very cute lingerie (if you are a normal size*), sleepware and mens clothing. And the prices actually ARE pretty amazing!
Trade Secret is on Mustang Ave, right next door to Jim Murphy (near Brand Depot).

* I am actually not average enough for most lingerie - outrageous! My mate Ali understands my pain.

Real Estate rooms: loving these homes

You all know how much I love a good look at real estate rooms, here are some Canberra homes getting it right. I'm loving...

24 Quandong Street, O'Connor - damn I love that kitchen! Actually, I love everything about this house.

20 Caladenia Street, O'Connor. Nice combo of colour and pattern.

2/1 Garran Place, Garran "The Terrace". Can't get enough of those gorgeous shoji screens.