Travel Series: The Must Have Accessories for Travelling

Apparently travelling is all about packing light. Or at least, that's what my boyfriend tells me.

He may have 12 months experience travelling but I still disagree with him.

I mean, who could get dressed in the morning with only 3 outfits to choose from? And don't even get me started on only having 6 pairs of shoes to choose from.

But, I found a silver lining.

Accessories.

So, what accessories should you take?

You definitely need jewellery. 

All kinds of jewellery!

Add stacks of fine jewellery to your everyday outfits. It adds luxury and personality to your basic travel outfits and they take up no space in your suitcase. Fine rings and necklaces are a definite must have, while your away.

Style Tip: Change everything everyday so it looks fresh and different.

Don't forget to add your statement pieces to your suitcase! Oversized cocktail rings and statement earrings are the easiest way to dress up a basic outfit and to make a statement. If you pack a few options, you'll always look fashionable!

They are small, can fit in any nook and cranny in your suitcase and they can change your look completely so don't be afraid to pack a lot.

Don't forget your handbags!

You'll need a trusty, everyday handbag for travelling. My personal favourite is cross body handbags! They keep your hands free while you are taking pictures or eating Nutella crepes in front of the Eiffel Tower and they sit comfortably over your shoulders! Pick one with zips and locks for extra security.

Style Tip: Pick one in a neutral colour so it can match with everything in your suitcase!

Next you'll need an evening bag. While you're travelling, you are going to have nights out and dining in fine restaurants. You'll want a handbag that will dress up a basic outfit and make you look more elegant!

Packing Tip: Pack your delicates and socks into your handbags! It helps your handbags keep their shape and it conceals your underwear!

Aside from shoes, what accessories can't you live without?

Autumn is here!

My favourite season is definitely Autumn. I love how beautiful the world looks, when it's covered by a blanket of Autumn leaves. Everything looks and smells incredibly fresh and the weather is perfect. But most of all, the fashion is amazing.

Wearing: Kookai Collins shirt dress / 'Gabrie' boots by Wittner shoes / Michael Kors handbag
Images by Jordan Swioklo

And my favourite thing to wear during the Autumn season is definitely ankle boots. They are super chic, comfortable and look fabulous with everything.

I was recently asked by a follower to share with you my shoe collection. So I thought I would bring back Shoe of the Week so you can take a virtual tour inside my shoe wardrobe. I would like to introduce you to one of my favourite ankle boots this season...

Meet 'Gabrie' by Wittner.

'Gabrie' boots by Wittner shoes

I first saw these shoes on the Wittner Facebook page and immediately needed them in my life. I loved the style and the uniqueness of them with the cutouts on the side and the block heel had me swooning. I was lucky enough, to buy these babies on sale.

"If I ever let my head down it will be just to admire shoes"

I love the versatility of these boots. The cutouts on the side, elongate your legs and keep your feet cool on warmer days, which makes them the perfect trans-seasonal companion.

The 7cm block heel provides a lot of support and stability, making them super comfortable. They are definitely the ideal bootie for shopping followed by a cafe lunch.

The perfect shopping companion

I love the versatility of these boots. They look fabulous with absolutely everything. I've styled them with shorts, dresses, skirts and jeans. The outfit possibilities are endless with these boots.

What are your favourite boots this season?

Arm Candy

[Stacked bangles and statement rings] 

They make such a bold statement. It is the easiest way to dress up your outfit and turn it into a glamorous ensemble. I paired a classic striped singlet with shiny, bright gold accents, to lift the look. It took the look from casual to effortlessly chic. I am obsessed with adding cocktail rings to all my outfit and I love the way my new marble cuff by Country Road matched with my other jewels.

Wearing: 

Kookai striped singlet / Samantha Wills nude and gold rings and stacked bangles / Country Road marble stone cuff

Accessory of the Week: Cocktail Rings

I have admitted this before, I have two addictions…

Shoes of course being the main one and secondly… Jewellery.

And my favourite piece of jewellery to wear, is cocktail rings. 

My humble little Samantha Wills Bardot collection

What I love most about cocktail rings, is how easily they dress up a simple outfit. With a quick add of a cocktail ring, it can change your look dramatically. It can take you from work to play, from simple to elegant and add that much needed sparkle and shine to your weekend wear.

My current favourite is the elegant and stunning silver metal Bardot ring

And my favourite kind of cocktail ring is the Samantha Wills bohemian bardot ring. I bought my first Bardot ring back in 2012 and since then I have slowly added more and more colours to my ever growing collection.

Samantha Wills gold bardot ring

What I love most about them is, there are so many to choose from! Neutrals, brights, pastels and metals are some of the many styles you can choose from.

Every season, new colours are released in the current trending fashion palettes, which makes them the simplest accessory, to bring your outfit on trend.

One of my all time favourites, is my black and gold Bardot ring

The signature tear drop shape, makes them a statement ring and a flattering and feminine style to wear everyday.

My saying is "a Sammy a day, keeps the Doctor away!" Everyday, I wear a Samantha Wills cocktail ring and everyday, it makes me feel confident and ready to take on the world!  

Talk is Cheap: Slogan Clutches

Let your accessories do all the talking with slogan clutches.

'More Issues Than Vogue' handbag by Colette

Slogan accessories are becoming more and more popular. Now, lets be honest. You either love them or loathe them, but there's no denying, they make a bold statement. And they are a fabulous conversation starter!

What I love most about a slogan clutch is how fun and quirky they are. They add humour and a certain edge to a person's outfit. And they make outfits, much more fun. Slogan clutches are fabulous to style with casual or street style outfits. It adds more detail to a basic outfit and they make people happy!

The opportunities are endless when it comes to slogans. Popular sayings, famous quotes and even music lyrics are the most popular choices. Some places even make customised handbags.

I searched the blogosphere for my favourite slogan clutches and here they are:

What do you think of the slogan clutch bag?

One Shoe, Two Ways

My shoe choice this week is the Senso Riley heel. I have been coveting these shoes, since I first saw them. I love the block heel style and the lace up front. They are perfect for any occasion.

Especially, Date Night:

Witchery Top / Cue Shorts / SENSO Heels / Samantha Wills earrings / Mimco clutch / Michael Kors Watch

These heels are great for whatever you have planned for date night. They are casual enough for a movie night or sharing a takeaway pizza. However, by adding glamour in accessories, you can step out in style for a fancy bar or restaurant. The block heels are also very comfortable for walking places. The block heel looks great when styled with high waisted shorts. 

Brunch with the Family:

Kookai crop top / Nicholas midi skirt / SENSO heels / Mimco watch / YSL bag / Samantha Wills sunglasses

The Riley block heels look super chic and feminine when styled with midi skirts. The outfit is classic and appropriate for any of those family gatherings. Pair your midi skirts with a fitted crop top to elongate your torso. Don't forget those statement sunglasses and cross body bag for the perfect combination.

The block heel is the perfect summer shoe. They are fashionable and classic without sacrificing height for comfort. Once you step your feet into block sandals, you'll be sure to fall in love.

What do you style your block heels with?

My Namesake!

Have you ever wanted something so bad, that it's all you can think about?

Well, that was me, when I first laid eyes on a pair of Christian Louboutins.

For years, I worked long, tiresome days. My work was always busy and stressful, so I decided to treat myself to a pair of Christian Louboutins. And it was way too easy to find the perfect pair to buy.

Meet 'Fifi' by Christian Louboutin.

I was hooked from the first moment I saw them. I love everything about this style. I love how classic the black patent leather and the black spikes look and how well they work together. And I love how classic the round toe pump is. It is a simple and elegant style but fun to wear with the spikes.

Not to mention, I seriously love the stiletto heel. It is terrifyingly thin but oh so alluring.

And who can look passed the trademark, red lacquer sole, without seeing red? This was where my obsession deepened.


These shoes are such a classic style, that they are the perfect accessory, to accompany any outfit. The only problem is, I'm too afraid to wear these shoes out. I love them and worked so hard to get them, that I am afraid I will ruin them.

So, for now, these babies, sit nestled in soft tissue paper, safely stored away until the right occasion for me to wear them.

What are your most treasured pair of heels?

Read the full Christian Louboutin story here

Lets Get Lost!

So, I think it's obvious by now... I have two obsessions.

One major one... All things shoes.

And, secondly... My love of Samantha Wills jewellery.

My Samantha Wills obsession started almost two years ago. I was browsing Instagram, when I spotted one of her pictures. Since then, I have been hooked. I love how unique her pieces are. The super chic bohemian style contains the right amount of luxury. Perfect for any occasion.

My bestie and I have also bonded over her pieces. Whenever we are together, we talk about the latest collections and our current SW favourites. 

So, it's no surprise that another one of my Accessory of the Week, contains a Samantha Wills piece.

I love statement necklaces. 

They lift simple outfits, into stylish and unique ensembles. If you are lacking outfit inspiration, adding a statement necklace can make you feel instantly chic. I love the unique shape of the 'Let's Get Lost' necklace. The beautiful etching draws attention to the turquoise bardot stone in the middle of the pendant.

What I love most about Samantha Wills jewellery, is how you can mix and match different pieces from previous seasons, and they all blend so well together. I had a bardot ring from a season before, which looks great when styled with the statement necklace.

What is your current statement necklace obsession?

The Perfect Accessory

Every girl needs a statement clutch in their life.

They are bold, beautiful and the perfect accessory for any occasion. They can lift a simple outfit into a head turning ensemble, worthy of the red carpet.

And, I finally 'bit the bullet' and purchased myself a beautiful statement clutch by Samantha Wills. I have been coveting these handbags, since she first released them but I managed to convince myself I could live without one.

One day, I decided to take a closer look at the handbag and it was the worst mistake I could have made! I fell in love instantly. The clutch fits perfectly in my hand and feels amazingly chic, to hold. 

So, naturally, I made it mine.

I could have squealed with excitement, I was that happy.

Bohemian Dreaming Clutch - Turquoise

I love the feel of the black satin in my hand. It is a beautiful and soft, luxury fabric. But my favourite thing about the clutch is the beautiful turquoise bardot stone on the front. The gold plating, makes the turquoise stone pop. This definitely makes a bold statement and will make people stop and notice.

The clutch is also, deceivingly spacious. It is small in size, but it opens out, nice and wide so you can fit all your essentials in there, without fuss.

I also love the versatility of the handbag. It is stunning when accompanied with high heels and lace, but it is also perfect for Sunday lunch with the girls.

It is the perfect accessory, for any occasion.

My Latest Addition

The first thing I do, when I wake up in the morning (after snoozing my alarm 10 times) is scroll through  Instagram. I love photography and I love fashion, so it is a great way to start my day. Sometimes, scrolling through celebrity's Instagram pictures and other blogger's accounts, gives me inspiration for my outfit of the day.

Seeing people wearing different outfits, reminds me of things that I have in my wardrobe but it also makes me covet some of the beautiful pieces of fashion that floods my Instagram feed.

Up close and personal with Sari

And, my latest obsession is a pair of strappy Nine West heels. For weeks, I have been waiting in anticipation for these beauties, to arrive in stores, so I could finally step my feet into them. 

And, when I did, I was in love.

Meet 'Sari' my latest shoe addition. They are everything I wanted them to be. They fit me perfectly. It's like they used my foot to develop the shoes. Almost an extension of my legs.

Wearing Kookai dress and Sari high heels by Nine West

And, I had to have them.

I'm a shoe girl. I love them and appreciate different styles, designers and mass produced brands. My desire for a shoe is not label deep, it is based on they way they look, and the way they make me feel.

Nine West Sari heels and Samantha Wills rings

And these ones, make me feel amazing.

What I love about these shoes, is the confidence they give me. They are sexy, sassy, seductive and super feminine. If you feel down, these shoes will pick you right back up. They will give you a little spring in your step.

And I love the heel height of these. The 9cm heel, makes them a comfortable and sensible heel height. They are high enough to be super glamorous when you hit the town but they are also great for during the day.

Sari heels image via the Nine West Facebook page

They are feminine and flattering and go well with everything. I've worn them with a-line skirts, pencil dresses and even under skinny jeans. Since buying these shoes, they have made more appearances in daily outfits, then any of my other shoes.

It's true love!

Kors I Can!

Have you ever wanted something so much, that it is all you can think about?

Well, that happened to me, when I discovered a Michael Kors satchel handbag. I don't even remember when I first saw this handbag but whenever I would see people using it or see images of it on social media, it made me want it so much more.

I spent months dreaming about it and saving my money so when I did eventually find it, I could buy it.

Wearing Cue 'Night Orchid' playsuit

And when I found it, I fell in love instantly. It was everything I wanted it to be. I was out shopping with my sister, when I saw it sitting on the shelf at David Jones. I had been to this particular store, many times before, but they never had it available. Once I tracked down a sales associate to assist me, she mentioned the bag had been on hold for someone else, who never came in to pick it up.

It was my lucky day. And, it was the quickest purchase I have ever made, that didn't involve shoes.

So why did I obsess over this bag so much?

This bag is amazing. I love how classic the bag is. It's simple elegance and classic shape, makes it the perfect satchel bag, to hold my life! 

Michael Kors handbag and Samantha Wills rings

It is super chic with the handles but it is incredibly practical, when you transform it into a cross body bag. It's great when you need extra hands, for carrying your shopping.

Samantha Wills gold bardot ring and Dance at Dusk in blush

I have never been much of a handbag person. When I find a handbag that I love, I use it for years and years, or until it breaks on me. This is my new pride and joy and I carry it around with me every single day. And I cannot be happier!

What's your current handbag story?

Heavy Metal

"Jewellery has the power to be this one little thing that can make you feel unique" Jennie Kwon.

Last week, I mentioned my love of accessories, well, this week I am going to mention my love of accessories...Again. With an emphasis on statement jewels.

Now, I want to mention, my love for shoes, has definitely not wavered at all. I still covet and buy way too many of them, but to me, jewellery is just as important when it comes to personal style.

A few month ago, I mentioned my love of Samantha Wills jewels. Well, since then, my love of Samantha Wills jewels, has grown, as well as my collection. 

And my latest Samantha Wills obsession, is the metal Bohemian Bardot ring collection.

The gold bohemian bardot ring worn by Samantha Wills

These jewels make one hell of a statement. The only problem is, they are so beautiful, I had to buy more then one. And I still want more of them.

For months, Samantha Wills has been teasing us with glimpses of her upcoming collections. And for months I have been coveting them. You can only imagine my excitement, when her pieces finally arrived online and in stores.

As soon as I received the email that the gold bohemian ring was available, I was buying it online. I was still in my pyjamas, laying in bed. So of course, when she released the other metals, I knew they would be added to my online shopping cart also.

The amount of complements I have received from wearing these statement jewels is incredible. It gives me a confidence boost and makes me feel that little bit more stylish. I love the feeling I get when I wear these beautiful jewels.

The metal range of Bohemian Bardot rings are great, for adding that sparkle and luxury to your everyday wear. A popular trend at the moment is clashing your metals. So be sure to style your metal rings with other metal jewels to make more of a statement.

What's your favourite precious metal?

It's Just a Chain Reaction

Accessories are an important part of my day. I work with them and I style my outfits, based around my accessories. To me, they make or break an outfit. They change your outfit from an "off the rack" look, to a unique and stylish ensemble. 

I love clothes and I am constantly coveting the latest designer pieces but I am a true accessory girl. 

And my latest accessory obsession is the body chain.

I first lusted over the body chain, when I saw a beautiful body harness by House of Emmanuele on one of my favourite fashion bloggers. And since then, I have been on the hunt to find one, that suits my style and price range!

And I have finally found it.

The Kookai body chain! 

While I was on a lunch break, I was scrolling through Instagram, when I spotted a picture by Kookai, featuring a body chain. And, I loved it immediately. I knew this was the body chain that I have been searching for. 

What I love most about the Kookai body chain is the simplicity of it. It's delicate and simple, which suits me perfectly. And it's great for everyday wear. I have styled my body chain, with plain dresses and even over t-shirts and jeans. I can't get enough of it.

The body chain is great for making a statement.

House of Emmanuele body harness worn by the Sydney Fashion Blogger.

Body chains are also very popular over swimwear. Many celebrities have been seen wearing them on the beach, over their bikinis.

For something a little different, body chains are great for wearing underneath clothing. There is something interesting and seductive about a body chain, peaking out from underneath your clothes. They look fabulous underneath a fitted jacket or loose fitting crop tops.

There are so many styles of body chains and body harnesses around. Some that are basic for everyday wear and some bejewelled harnesses that would be sure to make any woman sparkle.

How do you style your body chain?

Oops... I cheated!

"I love the concept of bohemian luxury. A mix of raw & wood polished stones with silk, wood with faceted jewels. I design this way for the SW woman. She is my muse. She is creative. She is strong. She is adventurous & marches to the beat of her own drum. Charting a life of extraordinary moments." Samantha Wills.

I have a confession to make...

I've cheated... On shoes!

Instead...

I have been indulging, in other accessories...

Jewels.

Shades of blue! The traditional SW colour palette.

My love of shoes has definitely not wavered at all, I still love them but jewellery is just as important when it comes to style. Jewellery can make or break an outfit. They can transform a simple outfit, into a unique and stylish ensemble.

Cosmic love cuff!

My newest and favourite jewellery designer is Samantha Wills. I spend most of my spare time, on her website, buying new statement jewels or following her Instagram account for style inspiration.

Christian Louboutin 'Fifi' black spikes and Samantha Wills Bardot ring.

So, why do I choose Samantha Wills as my jewellery inspiration?

One of my all time favourite SW pieces...

The SW brand is so unique and appeals to so many woman. Whether you are a girly girl (like me!) or the whimsical type, there will be something to suit your style.

My favourite Samantha Wills earrings! White and gold is such a beautiful combination.

Samantha Wills pieces, make such a statement. You will be sure to get attention when you wear them. On many occasions, conversations have started just because people notice the oversized cocktail ring on my finger or the statement earrings. 

I love the confidence boost, it gives me, when people notice.

Purple, my favourite colour! It was a 'no brainer' to add this too my collection.

I love how stylish and feminine I feel, while wearing the beautiful Samantha Wills jewels. And I love, how simple her pieces can transform my mood. 

The Bohemian Bardot ring... the SW signature style

But, the biggest reason I choose Samantha Wills as my favourite jewellery designer, is because she interacts with her fans on social media. She shares style tips, personal stories, product information, as well as thanking her fans for their support.

The newest addition... The 'Hearts Centre' ring from her latest collection

She is a truly humble and inspirational Australian, who has my ongoing support.

The only problem I have now is, trying to find the jewels I want to wear amongst the mountain of wooden boxes. I think it's time to invest in her mirrored jewellery box to save me time, getting ready!

Ok, so now I feel bad, for neglecting my shoe collection, I think shoe shopping is in order!