Jennifer Hawkins for Siren

So upon browsing Siren's website to pick what I'd like from the new winter collection, I came across the new JLH for Siren range. Not sure what the L stands for, but I'm going to go with 'Louise' as it seems to be Australia's most popular female middle name. Anyhoo, these are my picks from the collection. Chunky heeled sandals and suede pumps are making a big impact this season, and after abandoning all hopes of ever getting that pair from Zara, I may just have to settle for these-

Angle, $199.95

Golden Slipper

So My sister and my lovely friend Courtney decided we would go to the Golden Slipper for a bit of a laugh. Usually we would get very dressed up for race day, gloves, classic dresses to the knee, demure fascinators/ hats. But on this occasion we thought we'd slack off a bit. and it was a very fun day. Admittedly we had a bit of a giggle at some of the more shocking outfits. My boyfriend and I had just read an article in this month's Shop till You Drop, all about how to 'de-bogan' your man and the classic signs to look out for. These included items such as printed Ed Hardy t-shirts, white dress shoes, oversized designer sunnies, and pastel suits. I feel awful for saying this, but that's quite literally the entire catalogue of men's outfits that were on show at Rosehill. I could tell that many of the girls were thinking the same. I know the three of us just couldn't wait to get home to our lovely boyfriends!

ZARA opening at Westfield Sydney

So I braved the crowds on Wednesday morning, with what I now know was a delusional hope of getting my hands on a few of the pieces I'd been eyeing off on the UK website. So here they are:

Firstly, the perfect block colour, chunky- heeled platform sandal. I had envisaged wearing these with full skirts, black peg leg trousers and generally any outfit that I could think to put them with. I have been a huge fan of block colour and neon brights, but being a red head, I feel I'm somewhat limited to accessories in these hues. Anything else might be just a bit too much.

The trench.
The perfect short-lengthed trench coat in a beautiful burberry-esque shade of beige. To die for.

And finally, these gorgeous, chunky -heeled leather platform ankle boots. They are the perfect winter essential.
I'd also hoped to get my hands on a couple of blazers, and perhaps some of the beautifully tailored trousers that they are so famous for. I very foolishly believed that if I arrived at 9am (with the store due to open at 9.30) and jumped into the line, I might have a chance. Little did I know the store had actually opened at 9.00, and 600 odd VIP's had been privy to an exciting opening night celebration the night before. After lining up for what seemed like an eternity, and was in fact and hour, I was in. The chaos that ensued was a shock to the system. I had imagined that it might be similar to the boxing day sales in a department store, but it was so, so much worse. Not only were all of the XS sizes completely sold out, the shoes were all gone too. Apparently size 37 is the new size 38- they always go first. I finally got my hands on a pair of trousers that seemed nice, only to have the snatched way by a terrifying girl who was about 6 feet taller than me and bearing the expression of a furious lion protecting its young. I quickly let go and backed off, rather than copping an elbow to the face or a violent shove. Onward with a few boring, last ditch- effort pieces in hand; utterly disheartened, I struggled on to the fitting rooms. Another 50 minute wait, and Surprise surprise, the few things I tried on looked completely wrong. Sweating, stressed and eager to breath clean air, I made my way through the crowd, which was similar to that which you would find in a packed nightclub. I hadn't even bothered to tie the laces on my boots- I rolled my sleeves up and fled the scene.

I then stumbled across into the new Mid City Centre,  where I found myself in love all over again. $189.95 later, and I am the proud owner of these gorgeous shoes from Wittner. Surprisingly comfortable, I gave them a whirl at dinner last night and my feet still felt perfect when I got home. Definitely a winner!!

 So, when asked will I return to Zara, The answer is yes. I am a glutton for punishment, but more importantly, I WANT THOSE SHOES!

10 Ways to Feel Better About Yourself

So today I've been thinking about what I can do to make myself feel better-physically and emotionally.
I've added the healthy food pyramid for a bit of a giggle-I'm sure most of us haven't seen this since Healthy Harold came to visit back in year 3 :)

1. Eat more fruit (preferably 3 pieces a day) and vegetables
2. Drink more water. Ok, so this will not make you immediately turn into Miranda Kerr, despite the fact that she and every other attractive person claims this is their secret. It's called genetics. Water will simply make you feel cleansed and less lethargic.
3. Walk at least 2kms every day
4.See girlfriends at least once a week
5. Wear make up EVERY time you leave the house-and strictly no pyjamas! With the exception of the chemist/video shop
6. Blog more. Writing is a great way of letting off steam as we all know. It's an added bonus that what you say might also benefit others in some way.
7. Go grocery shopping once a week and stop buying unnecessary foot items ie. dips,cheeses, and crackers- get extra fruit instead
8. Get out of bed before 8am on weekends- the day lasts so much longer, and no one enjoys that awful, headachy feeling after having far too much sleep.
9. Moisturise your skin morning first thing in the morning and before you go to bed. My mum did it everyday of her life and she has the most beautiful skin I've ever seen on a 54 year old- this is one thing genetics hasn't got a say in; it's all up to you.
10. And most importantly of all, something that I believe every girl and woman should do- treat yourself to one nice thing every week. I'm not saying splurge on a new pair of Louboutins every time you feel a bit average- that will only damage the wallet beyond repair, and possible lead to unwanted financial strain. And we don't need that. Simply treat yourself, even if it's as small as strolling along to the markets and indulging in some chocolate coated strawberries, or laying in the park listening to some music for a few hours- just do something for you and you only.

So that's my list so far. I decided to write these things down for myself because I'm feeling a bit average of late. I should be feeling great. I'm 23, I've got a great boyfriend and I'm in pretty good health. But I feel like a boring cat lady wearing pyjamas and eating too much chocolate. I don't go out as much anymore, and the only person I can rely on to compliment me is myself, and with the way I feel at the moment, I'm not doing an awful lot of self-validating. So I'm putting this list into action.
 Stay tuned for the results..