Wishlist

Cherries & Chocolate by nikid

Hammered Fine Silver Necklace by Linden Leaf Studio

Ebony Necklace & Earrings Set by fushciabloomstudio

Cedar Waxwing Art Block Painting by redtilestudio

It's the same every year, it starts in January: "what do you want for Christmas?" and "what do you want for your birthday?" (which is in November). 

My family is in New Zealand so it makes things a little tricky... this year, I'm pulling together a wishlist entirely from Etsy.  Not only will I be supporting handmade, it's shopping heaven!  These are a few items that feature in my wishlist... so far. mb

Down to Earth

My treasury was featured on the Etsy front page this morning! mb

Counter Culture

Newtown Social Club, Brunswick St, Fitzroy

I like this, too,

On the street, once again, to practice my happy-snapping... mb

Fun and Games

Front

Back

Side - note the bright pink sequin shoulder features!

I made this costume today for a friend in Wellington (NZ) who's off to a "Fire & Ice" party as an Ice Princess - more specifically, "The Australian Ice Dancing Champions" - alongside her partner-in-crime who shall be dressed in a matching skater top and his own fitting black pants.  I hear they're practicing dance moves already... mb

Dark Romance

I've just listed a new black kaftan dress I made a few days ago - the fabric's beautiful, a chiffon embossed with velvet paisley.  There's also a matching tie belt (or scarf).  mb

It Might As Well Be Spring

Gorman, Brunswick Street, Fitzroy

Madame Sousou, Brunswick Street, Fitzroy

Summer's nearly here in Melbourne and I'm diligently continuing my photo exercises.  Here are a few from wandering around the neighbourhood this week in the sweet jasmine springtime air.  mb

Sublime Simplicity

This week I designed and made this custom order top for a client who liked the Cinnamon Sequined Silk Kaftan but wanted something a little different.  It's based on the basic kaftan design, but with one long side which floats as you walk.  I hear it will be making it's debut this Saturday night... mb

A Stitch in Time

Hand Embroidered Corset by Irenagasha on Etsy

I am speechless - this Etsy seller's traditionally handmade and embellished pieces are exquisite.  mb

Goodbye Sweet Vacation!

Yes, I really have been off yonder a bit lately:  Christchurch and Auckland in New Zealand, then New York, DC and Southern California.  Now I'm back home in Melbourne and - thanks to the folks at Handmade Spark, have realised it's high time I make my blog 'less work, more play', so here are a few snapshots from my travels... enjoy. mb

Recovery morning, after seeing the Pixies in Christchurch, NZ

My favourite beach, CA

Notorious & Notable: 20th Century Women of Style at the Museum of the City of New York, NYC

Revisiting my old high school!  CA

At Ease

I've started making variations of the classic kaftan dress - here's the first, made from French corded lace.  Perfect for over leggings and one of those rare things that scream style but are uber-comfy.  mb

Dark & Light

Surprise - more kaftans!  This one's a very light, pure silk crinkle-chiffon with a gorgeous bright pattern.  It also just so happens to be my favorite color, dark green... mb

Cinnamon with Sparkle

I found an entire bolt of this beautiful printed and sequined silk chiffon this week and simply couldn't resist!

Of course, I started with a gorgeous kaftan, which is now for sale in my Etsy shop.  A luxury evening wrap, long scarf and one-sleeve top are on the way... she's back! mb