KAREN magazine

Now here is a new Jacket that I must have!

2011-01-11T20:12:00.005+13:00

Dressed up and ready to play.

I love this wine, 12% red in a bottle of delicious bubbles, my favourite Rosé.

I have a few of these little jackets in the cupboard, and now for a new beauty to add to the collection.

In fact as far as branding goes I am a total sucker for Veuve Clicquot.

I always have a bottle in the fridge. (I live in Volcanic areas- you never know when they are going to blow)

I have the sexy Ice Bucket, the scuba jackets as I like to call them, the flute glasses, the handbag picnic set......

Now the Birdsong Ice Jacket, designed by the French artistic director and illustrator Pierre Marie, the theme is inspired by dusk - the time when the birds call, the sky softens to pink and the perfect time to pop a Rosé, surely.

Pretty and practical the Jacket keeps the temp just right for up to two hours - great for a magical and romantic bubbly rendex-vous.

Now I just have to wait till Feb 1st.

art branding

2010-09-29T20:45:00.004+13:00

I do have a little weakness for big brands, (who can often get rather stayed) that lash out and do something fun.

Range Rover have stepped out in Paris far from their British hunting green.

On show in Paris at the Pompidou Centre and the Palais de Tokyo between the 28th and 30th of September '10.

Range Rover have a new model, their smallest lightest in weight and light on the juice called Evoque, I'm guessing they are pitching at the fashion/city set then,.

They roll out the car in 2011.

The artist creating the pieces are André AKA Monsieur A, JCDC, Surface to Air and Yorgo Touplas.

Apparently Juliette Lewis is to perform live to celebrate the new release model.

Now that would be entertaining.

Ace type!

2009-12-29T15:20:00.004+13:00

Shuffling around with design.

From the very clever Jim Sutherland at UK based hat trick design the ultimate design freaks deck of cards.

What a brief ! 52 cards + Jokers with a different font for each card incorporating the suit symbol. In Jim's words: "made it hard but very rewarding. It was like solving 54 micro design problems". The man is a genius (and or) has a head for a long term hobby.

Already gagging for a deck after spotting this on The Strange Attractor

thought you would be game too.

Inquiries can be made to allison@hat-trickdesign.co.uk

Zambesi 30th anniversary retrospective.

2009-09-27T21:30:00.002+13:00

photos Marian Simms

Elizabeth and Neville Findlay celebrate 30 years of their family business this year. An outstanding achievement anywhere in the world. And it was humbly celebrated as a closing event in Auckland their home town at Air New Zealand Fashion Week.

To be front row for such a landmark event is rather a privilege indeed.

The show opened with a powerful performance from the Black Grace Dance company, on the runway - energetic and proud.

The fashion show saw a collection of garments from the design archives styled beautifully for one show. We were transported to a time in our life when the collection showing was on high rotation in our wardrobes.

The makeup in four looks was put together by M.A.C's Amber D from past shows looks researched in the show archives.

As was the, hair created by Ryder Salon whom with KMS have been working together in collaboration many years.

I saw at least 5 garments on the runway still hanging in my wardrobe. The strength of Liz Findlay's voice in design was testament to how relevant so many of the pieces were to this day.

A designer who over the years has enabled us to add pieces to our wardrobe that fit our personalities and define us as design appreciative humans and still flattering our figures and designing beyond trend.

The collection I am most fond of a recent on the Greek plate smashing summer range from Australian Fashion Week was well represented in two looks. A range I was nostalgic to see as Tuliah's influence has faded fast since her departure - the sexy Zambesi girl was a distinct favourite. Then to see Dane's influence in his first range extending into the range shown earlier in the week - everyone in flat shoes. The silver suit was a pretty special moment in his expression as menswear designer.

However it was Liz's night, her talent and vision are the inspiration for most New Zealanders within the artistic community. Plenty who have been born whilst she has reigned as the Queen of the fashion industry.

high fashion in tiny shoes, Trelise Kids

2009-09-27T01:19:00.008+12:00

Photos Marian Simms

This show was the first at ANZFW I felt really very excited about going to. The staging and the props just felt a little magical to enter into. The macaroons on the chair all pinkness and delight.

I enjoyed this show so much, for me one of the best in the week.

The shots I was capturing inspired me, the styling was transforming these little ladies through my lense into powerful fashion images.

There is a lot of great energy pouring through Trelise Cooper and her superb team. It is wonderful to be around it.

Seeing actress Kiesha Castle Hughes walk down the runway embracing her daughter was a lovely moment. ( she was lampooned in the media for having a child so young, yet she has had such a big life and makes a beautiful mother) The mothers all around me, their little and not so little children feeling so special in their outfits.

This is what I love about a fashion show - an event that you just had to be there for, beautiful clothes, great music and feeling. Drama and romance, some sparkle and a stage alive.

That it was a kids show - well I think kids have such compelling presence. Everything was tiny therefor looked a d o r a b l e and it was a an excellently produced show.

- it was a great show on every level mini or not.

There were tiny leafy carrots in a pile near my feet. The floor was covered in pages from books. The set was theatrical with enormous effort and thought put in.

I loved it to bits.

That I have a boy is..... well..... I will make a great granny one day.

Pammy

2009-09-26T13:00:00.004+12:00

photos Marian Simms

To the incredulous surprise of all fashion followers and fans of Baywatch, Pamela Anderson came to New Zealand.

More surprising, Pamela was coming to fashion week. Famous for not wearing clothes and of course nothing changed in the nippy viaduct in Auckland yesterday.

On the world tour to promote their Label A*Muse, Richie Rich of *Heatherette* and Pamela Anderson premiered their launch at Air New Zealand Fashion Week.

Rich in a self described Warhol role with Pamela as his muse presented the LA, surf punk, glamour girl, lifestyle collection.

A*Muse or more specifically amuse and arouse they did. The whole tent erupted into a roar of laughter, ooohs and giggles as a fit young male model carrying a surfboard, wearing eyeliner, a grin and a very tight pair of low slung white jersey slashed leggins opened the show.

Most people in the room took photos creating the most documented show of the week. NZ's own pinup girl Nicky Watson bronzed and only just secured into a bikini on the runway was joined by popular surfers and models. With a few LA imports in for gregarious cod piece displays.

Closing the show were Rich and Anderson here are my front row snaps:

photo Marian Simms

Gucci Mens evening.

2009-09-12T09:39:00.005+12:00

Photo Norrie Montgomery The A List

Gucci held an intimate "men only" soirée to launch the new collection and introduce the made-to-order suiting and shirt service to Auckland's best dressed men last night.

The Queen street Gucci store, feeling very much like a gentleman's club was indeed a most handsome sight. With the tall dashing and (as he reminded us) newly single news journalist and lawer Simon Dallow comparing, the menswear collection was shown with much appreciation especially with the gorgeous Georgia Fowler making a gorgeous runway cameo.

Sarah Paykel at the door in a backless black silk dress greeted as the room filled with fashion aficionados.

The beautiful Gucci women in from Australia holding court were there Helen Soo, Sally Poole, Susie McCallum, Marcia Temporal & Christine Woodley.

In attendance were hair kings Grant Bettjeman and Paul Serville. Art Dealer Gary Langsford. The energetic Jeff Fearon of Fearon Hay Architects. Dashing financier and Clooney co owner Peter Hulijich. Richard Bagnall owner of the hot new bar Longroom. Charming Business consultant Chao Xian Yang. Jeweller Graeme Thompson. Fashion misters Muray Bevan and Atip Wananuruks.

Catching my eye was Patrizio Buanne the Italian Baritone who was in town performing. Fitting that the best dressed man in the room was indeed an italian, we were at Gucci after all.

Seated between stylist Robert Niwa (pictured) and actor Peter Mochrie for the fashion parade it was great to hear their appreciation for the collection on show. And the presentation was short and very very sharp.

Not often do I have the feeling I have been accepted into a secret club, a very well dressed mens one at that.

window shopping in World Beauty

2009-07-22T16:13:00.003+12:00

Sometimes the best things are right under your nose.

I had a dear fashion friend staying nearby on Waiheke Island last week, And while sharing a divine local red we created a shopping itinerary for a day in Auckland.

There was a discerning fashion designer to buy for, not an easy task.

One of the standout stores to visit to buy a gift for me is World Beauty in Vulcan lane Auckland City. The World team are a bit of an institution in New Zealand and their retailing & display is inspirational.

I have a few favourites around the world now -

Strange Trader in Byron Bay, Orson & Blake in Woolahra, Beker & Minty in Potts Point both in Sydney. L'Eclaireur in Paris, Muji in Tokyo, World Beauty in Auckland is firmly on that list.

World Beauty has a lot of lines exclusive to them in New Zealand which makes them a destination store. The range of candles, soaps, fragrances specifically are delicious. The addition of antiques, collectable picture books and over the top religious icons make it less pharmacy than other beauty stores and more of a wonderful fossicking adventure.

http://www.worldbrand.co.nz/retail.php

Eye Candy

2009-07-12T04:27:00.003+12:00

After a spell of what seemed like the same shape frame in brown, black and tortoiseshell for the last two seasons, here is a little sneak to what fun is on its way for summer.

Sunglass Hut have the bulk of the hottest labels such as : D&G, Versace, Tiffany, Tom Ford, Ralph Lauren, Ray Ban, Prada, Bulgari, Burberry, Oakley, and our current crush Persol.

Luxotica owns all of the licenses for these brands and they manufacture distribute and retail under the Sunglass Hut brand. The have gone from strength to substance in the last few years and we got a kick out of the new summer range in the KAREN office - fun, sporty girly and we want them all! (of course the mens are divine too)

I am a strong advocate in having a sunglass wardrobe - different frames for each occasion, beach, formal, workday, holiday, etc. I struggle being confined to one style.

I think it is going to be a fun season :-)

so from top to bottom :

Ray Ban, Dolce & Gabbana, Versace, Prada, Ray Ban.

its all about the website!

2009-04-27T00:13:00.002+12:00

Our super talented art director David Mendes has re jigged our website and our amazing team are blogging away! - Have a look here . www.karenmag.com

- it is kinda cool.

I on the other hand have been quite as a mouse online as real life has bestowed be a milestone birthday as well as the last few weeks in Sydney galavanting around. With fashion week beginning tomorrow I will attempt to put my head down and jot some goodies.

starting with me uploading shots from the Freidrich Gray show this evening! x

Jay Harrison in person

2009-03-13T23:55:00.006+13:00

Yesterday I had the great pleasure to meet KAREN photographer Jay Harrison in person.

And what a lovely bloke he is!

I often work remotely with our contributors as they dash about the planet. Email, Skype, SMS, Facebook and Twitter are all part of the daily touching base with our large band of creatives.

So to meet up in person after over a year of electronic conversation is quite a buzz - never mind I was baking and the house was occupied with small people, he was just charming.

- In the usual zero degrees of separation that happens now, Jay's nephew had been at the same kindergarden as my son and we are friends with his sister and live on the same island of 8K residents :-o

How small is this world?

Jay shot the stunning closing fashion spread "Malibu" in the new KAREN issue as pictured above, starring Viviens beauty Shanay Hall, styled by Edwina Robinson, MU by Katrina Raftery, Hair by Barney Martin.

falling to earth

2009-03-13T06:39:00.008+13:00

I love shoes as much as most women and maybe more. I even have astrological aspects to back this up (mercury in Pisces) translating very loosely to thinks from feet- also in images.

In saying this you would not guess it - I am really rather sensible compared to my flock and to my peers. I just have feet that need well designed and study footwear. And any shoes that make my legs look incredible are only worn in my bedroom - with soft carpet.

(Girls gotta have a few props.)

Come fashion weeks when I am the only one in the front row in flats (beside my fashion week boyfriends) I do feel like I am in a different club at times - and then I realise I am smiling so much more than most others!

Yes I am very grumpy in 3 hours of wearing those beautiful toe torture chambers. SO it is now that I have finally figured out why so many magazine girls are snooty - they are all in agony - showing off a years salary in designer footwear for the week.

When I say wow those shoes are so high they are always chirpy saying oh they are so comfortable - rubbish!! - they make her look thin tall and feel powerful. And they ache like hell and are giving her the ugliest bunions as we chat. Not to mention one stumble and her ankle could snap at any moment.

When seeing the fashion pack recently picking their way through lawn and dealing with sand at Swim Fashion Week in their gorgeous silly heels I noticed that the senior or top people were all wearing flats. So the girls climbing the career ladder are doing so in 6 - 12 inches, and the editors and publishers are quite comfortable thank you. Interesting.

This all brings me to what is happening on the runways for the last 5 seasons at least.

What the heck is happening ?

First we get the two years of hell in baby doll dresses that make you look like an infant or pregnant, together with platform shoes - so a pregnant, clumpy child - mmmm not how I had envisioned looking in my late 30's.

Then we got the same deal though the shoes got much higher well with their own little step and the skirts got shorter - great now they want me to look more like a child prostitute.

( and do you think any mainstream made variations ??? nope - child hookers the lot of you)

So as hemlines became more like big belts and shoes something that needed scaffolding I did not hear too many cries from women thinking feminism has just been trampled on .....

I just wondered around in shock muttering to myself. ........how compromised does this all make you feel ?

And do I need to mention how many tumbles we have seen on the runways of late ?

makes great sensationalised fodder - but if you cannot have a model under a certain age - can you also have a shoe designed for walking in please.

Not feeling the empowerment of the elegant woman I had pencilled for myself, when as a teenager I looked at women in their 30's and 40's looking so stunning classically beautiful and well it was the 80's - powerful!

Now this new European season the hemlines are lowering, volume is being revisited and now to cope with the longer skirts those masters of the cloth have now put everything with the equivalent of something you would wear if there was open sewers in the streets, high heels with their own high shoes underneath.

Call me crazy but I do not feel empowered by any of this - if it were just theatre I love it. Translating to the main street - disaster.

When am I going to feel embraced as a woman by fashion rather than feeling like I should be binding my feet and kowtowing.

Is this progress ?

Strangeness

2009-03-09T19:17:00.007+13:00

Lyn Balzer and Tony Perkins our Editors at Large here at KAREN are putting on a very special show in melbourne this week.

Famed for their high art nudes, Lyn and Tony are on the eve of another exciting exhibit. Their partnership has a unique strength in this arena, with hundred of nudes captured together.

The high contrast tones that transmute the incredible illuminated creamy skin and unexpected beauty in the voyeuristic intimacy with the body forming a sculptural masterpiece. With their incredible love for the Australian vivid Blue skies and raw landscapes contrasting the fragility of skin.

The Exhibition is part of the L'Oréal Melbourne Fashion Festival combining work by fashion designer Konstantina Mittas.

STRANGENESS by Lyn and Tony

opens March 12th till March 28th at the Helen Gory Galerie

25 St Edmonds rd, Prahran VIC gallery@helengory.com

If you like us you will like them x they are amazing.

a sneak peek at the new issue of KAREN

2009-03-07T18:52:00.004+13:00

couture couture by GL WOOD

Tin City By Sonny

Spell Bound By Michele Aboud

Raven By Richard Freeman

Animalia by Sarra Fluer Abou-el-haj

The New issue is now out in NZ and sailing around the globe to reach you in the next couple of weeks. Here is a little teaser if you have yet to pick one up. We love it.

Nothing fainthearted in this "you are beautiful" Issue.

I hope you enjoy a little peak and you enjoy the whole magazine when it gets to you.

We are planning the next one already with an amazing swim story shot at Swim Fashion Week already.

love to hear your thoughts

xxx marian

Imelda touches down in sanctuary cove

2009-03-06T10:49:00.003+13:00

Imelda the shoe blogger AKA Matt Jordan our footwear queen would be delighted to see that he has far reaching influence even in the Sanctuary of the Cove.

Taking a little post breakfast stroll before the fashionable time to rise I was delighted to see our queen was present in spirit. - And her representative was so gracious about allowing media coverage.

Imelda would be proud. The place was spotless.

wood work squeaks

2009-03-06T00:19:00.003+13:00

......... and out come the fashion freaks

my very faves as listed on the right hand side of the page have been at it again.

pic courtesy of Imelda and Bryan Boy

Next month will mark our collective anniversary, in the meantime the three must get beers are amusing themselves in live Gareth Pugh show coverage no end and inviting you along.

go to ( from left) Imelda, Frockwriter, Bryan Boy all will be revealed .

bahhh ha ha ha haaaaaaa how funny is the pic already?!

Anna and Boy - Swim fashion Week

2009-03-02T13:57:00.004+13:00

Anna and Boy in their third fashion week showed a gorgeous collection. Heart felt being the unofficial theme of the week was well and truly embraced by Anna and Lill the designers.

Starting with the cat walk with pink hearts running down the centre, a giant read heart on one ear of each girl, and adorable 80's top knot headbands with pink and red sprayed pump wedges.

The swimwear predominantly in prints was sugar and spice nice, with a gorgeous pink red and blue plaid you can see on Jessica Gomes (pictured bottom) , the IMG special guest model and opening face (and body) for the parade. Jessica I will write more about shortly, walked for A&B in their first parade three years back in Sydney Opera House so it was wonderful to see them sharing the limelight in their success.

And judging by the smiles backstage it all went very right their end.

Their menswear was a hit with Damien Woolnough from Vogue.com and Adam Worling parading their fashion forward board shorts for Front row Swim fashion week chic.

new KAREN cover!

2009-02-27T17:54:00.006+13:00

Here is the new cover :-)

yes she is wearing blue lipstick Patty Huntington was rather interested in that.

The cover features Olivia O' Driscoll from Nova, Chadwick and IMG, shot by our treasure and talented Charles Howells. The genius behind the lipstick is Sarah Laidlow - her second consecutive cover for us.

I hope you like it - I thought we needed some cheering up.

Hotel Bondi Swim @ Swimfashionweek

2009-02-27T17:27:00.003+13:00

photos KAREN MAG The girls their legs the designers Damien and Fern of Hotel Bondi Swim

Hotel Bondi Swim showed to much appreciation last night in the tent out the front of our resort in the hip 10pm closing slot.

Fern and Damien are a little left of centre as far as swim and fabric design go. Their previous incarnation together was a gorgeous label called Kitten.

Their taste in Music gets the award of the week so far - Six months in a leaky boat in a rocking version of the Split Enz classic to an equally cool version of Pretty in Pink from the film soundtrack of the same titled John Hughes classic starring Molly Ringwald

- nothing is as whimsical as it first appears with Hotel Bondi Swim.

so to the important little lycra bits.......

The shapes and long distance appearance are all girly and super cute, on closer inspection, that would be a garden Gnome in the florals and in the super sweet oval picture frame print - you have Bob Brown leader for the Green Party grinning in a sketched Portrait of himself. HILARIOUS sense of fun and humor GOD Love them.

Last season our friend Gary's dog "Bindi" featured in print in a gorgeous sketch so cleverly placed and so life like they are clever.

The last exit of the show featured our favourite bikini bottom emblazoned on the butt in a cross stitch design print saying simply "LOCAL" Bondi has an official uniform.

The lovely news is that they are expecting a baby! sweet.

- so go buy one of their cozzies, they don't know how much a little one changes your need for bigger housing and all kinds of stuff yet! :-)

Swim Fashion Week ....

2009-02-27T00:03:00.006+13:00

There is gold when you get up for a 7.45am call to go see dolphins for a media briefing - you get shots like this !!! Lisa Blue who just showed at Swim Fashion Week at Sanctuary Cove this evening ( which I twitted about throughout ) Lisa is a woman on a mission combining her "passion for fashion" with her mission to save whales. So the dolphin connection (?) this morning was actually very UN fashion is a really beautiful heart warming presentation - we had dolphins playing around us for and hour - very beautiful and serene. Lisa is on the left of the frame. I'm feeling a little tired now ! x

Zimmermann at Swim Fashion Week

2009-02-26T10:04:00.004+13:00

Zimmermann started with a bang ... rushing to see dolphins more later thought you may want to see some snaps first. x covered in full here at Coutorture.

new issue

2009-02-16T19:27:00.002+13:00

hello loves

the new issue is getting its last little polish and we are off to the printer this week

Yay - so I can get back to blogging my head off

be well - love and light x marian

Louis Vuitton Pacific Series

2009-02-09T22:34:00.007+13:00

the racing yachts framed by Rangitoto

Team Greece

the girls

Collette and Bradley

Pietro Beccari, John and Rasa Bertram

thank you Angela, Jackie and Di.

Here we are, out on Auckland Harbour on the gorgeous launch Mistro, the official supporters boat for front row of the very styley yacht racing. Thank you Louis Vuitton Pacific Series for a lovely day. The four boats all swapped teams and spinnakers for the pair racing heats. And having famed Australian skipper John Bertram and his spunky wife Rasa explaining to us the ins and outs of the race as well as the details of carbon fibered state of the art sails, was such a treat.

And mentioning treats the event HQ, vip bar, and the harbour was filled with gorgeous sailors. Above are the Greek team coming to whisk the briefly visiting Collette Dinnigan and her partner Bradley Cocks back to base.

Pietro Beccari burst into spontaneous song as only an italian can ;-) he and his wife - the lovely Elizabetta were over from Paris, Pietro the senior VP of Marketing and communications for LV is responsible for the core values campaigns newly featuring Sean Connery.

And as you can see we were treated to the most perfect day to relax on a boat, Peter Gordon's Dine staff lulled us further with sumptuous food and Moet. Note Angela holding the Champagne between her toes- the things a girl adapts to on a boat- brilliant.

yes tough and definitely how to do sport.

2009-02-09T20:07:00.004+13:00

We digress from our usual flavour to share our sadness with the events happening with the Australian bush fires.

Instead of buying that one season wear bargain, we have put our pennies toward the Australian Red Cross Victorian fire appeal today.

to donate click here every little bit counts my friends, even five dollars.

for all the gory pics go to any Australian newspaper online, I cannot bring myself to post them.

god bless

the skipper and the Princess

2009-02-08T14:11:00.005+13:00

I had the pleasure of meeting John Bertram and his vibrant wife Rasa yesterday. (More about the event later). In my conversation with him he mentioned the charity he chairs, the Alannah and Madeline Foundation.

I have been talking about child welfare a lot in the past few days, and knowing healthcare workers who have revealed to me things you would never want to know (or wish upon anyone). The sensitive issue of child welfare is important to the whole community. And something that the Alannah and Madeline Foundation is working to help Australian children who are victims of violence and the prevention of it.

So this wonderful man, most famous for wining the America's cup for Australia in 1983, is not one to rest on his achievements. He has got together with Crown Princess Mary and Kevin Rudd on this popular charity.

If you are feeling lucky, happy and carefree perhaps you can share some.

There are events and different ways to contribute.

The Buddy Bag in particular is a wonderful idea. - $120 buys a child who is in hospital or a shelter, often taken there in the middle of the night with a bag of necessities and comfort - all they need short term and may possess of their own in the world in a very tough and lonely time.

I do truly believe when you give you receive even more.

love and light x

sailing into the sunset

2009-01-28T22:00:00.005+13:00

image ©Louis Vuitton / Edwin Levick, Mariners Museum, VA USA

On Board the Class J Endeavor in 1934.

Today was one of those days - the perfect day.

Midday on the harbour the most beautiful yachts I have ever seen - futuristic elegant sails that looked like liquid metal - my people have arrived !

Delicious lunch at the super cute "Fish and Chips" on Takapuna Beach with Jodie, Tatum and Lisa right in front of the chase around the Volcano, Rangitoto commanding prime position in the harbour.

A life altering haircut by Lucy Vincent Marr and a new Christine Crabb silk dress HOT HOT HOT. I really feel great and many compliments ensure :-)

Breeze in to the LV Queen st store handed a glass of Moet and view the Louis Vuitton "Winds and Sails" exhibition -"La Légende de l'America's Cup et de la Louis Vuitton Cup" historic photographic exhibition in the private gallery upstairs. - I love this company, their extrordinary history is linked with travel and Yachting is in their very fabric.

LV have broken away from the America's Cup and are hosting from this Friday in Auckland, the very glamourous Louis Vuitton Pacific Series.

So with bubbles in hand I saw a truly beautiful collection of photographs curated by the charming Bruno Troublé. With historic images of the Kennedy's, full blown romantic sailboats, sailors that JPG would melt over to the modern fast arial racing shots that simply invite adrenaline being so dynamic.

Angela, Melinda and Mark all in one place for a rare new years catch up - just delightful, they are all sparkling and in fine form hosting the worlds elite sailors.

My trip back to my beautiful island with the softening sun and a flock of sails all around us to complete the day.

Heaven.

a lacy appointment

2009-01-27T15:25:00.009+13:00

photos courtesy of Bendon

There is nothing complacent about the new Elle Macpherson Intimates Boudoir range. She is very girly and candy - and those silks would look gorgeous against a naked thigh.

Statistics are showing that we are way to stressed to get busy at what we all set out to look busy for in the first place mostly along the lines of - sex, power and money. So I thought perhaps the ritual - the lingering delightful thoughts of lingerie may persuade you to think twice about over time and more about having a nice time.

It is January and being back from that break at the beach is still fresh and making a habit ( it takes two weeks ) while you are still feeling good is a good habit.

Trust me making love is better than war and the stats need lifting for the good team ;-)

The lacy lovelies are in store now - just a spritz of fragrance and heels and you will leave the office way way behind.

Well Hello Kitty

2009-01-24T17:12:00.005+13:00

images courtesy of M.A.C

MAC Cosmetics have released their new Celebrity range - this time the 35 year old Hello Kitty.

I just love the imagery and imagine the little girl in us all will enjoy this one. Rush for this one these collections sell out super fast. That pink on the lip and nails is sensational.

My first and only Barbie was the M.A.C Barbie - my gorgeous friend Jason insisted on having her and I had no ammunition for his pleading eyes and sizable Barbie collection.

Well this time you have plenty of warning - hands off my Hello Kitty - go get your own or lick up the spilt milk. meow.

Available March 9th in selected MAC stores.

optimism and the brand

2009-01-22T14:24:00.004+13:00

Calvin Klein perfumes had a little shindig with Rock the Vote last night in Washington to celebrate the inauguration of Barrack Obama as President.

Cleverly leveraging the hope and optimism of the "re" United States of America for a little relaunch of the fifteen year old Fragrance CK One.

Jamie Burke the model and lead singer of the Band named Burke is pictured singing at the gig and in the staring role for the CK One TVC I have included.

"we are one" is the new catch cry and the new gen of CK fans will be sniffing afresh what was the smell of the early 90's androgynous grunge generation.

Never "one" (excuse the pun ) to miss out on cashing in on the mass psyche, CK is right there in the mosh pit of the warm and fuzzies for the new Global hope in the US President.

Personally I loved it at the time and I am happy that something great is getting a new audience.

Madonna UN-RETOUCHED !

2009-01-20T14:08:00.004+13:00

Yes this is what a good looking woman at 50 with a facelift, botox, lots of filler, shot by a good photographer with the worlds best in hair and makeup working on you looks like- BEFORE RETOUCHING !

These are Steven Klein out takes "ouch"- found on Candy Store

sigh and be relived - I know it you know it - modern photography is part painting now

relax in your own skin - enjoy the pictures knowing they are part fantasy.

Or go to the reality programming or the Nat Geo/ Discovery channels - plenty of pores and hair over there.

Geeze someone's head is going to roll with the leak of these shots - ALWAYS always be nice to the assistants - they can break you too it seems !

Future school

2009-01-17T22:15:00.004+13:00

Now you would have thought in the 60's that by now we would be living like the Jetsons - with our own spacecraft instead of cars and very very high tech surrounds. And things could not be more opposite - I have seen the future and it is made of Bamboo !

On a recent trip to Bali I visited the Green School to see what the future of education may look like. The School opened in Sept 08 and I understand they are going through their teething problems. (Bali is a small place with a fairly active bush telegraph)

The School, based on a Steiner and Australian level Curriculum starts and finishes there with any parallel to any kind of educational centre I have seen or attended.

The vision of the school by New Zealand Steiner educator Alan Wagstaff was realized by John & Cynthia Hardy, the Bali Based Canadian Jewelers. The Hardy's reportedly earned a cool US$200mil last year from the sale of shares in the company - so you know the scale of the place and project is massive.

The campus on two adjoining sides of the Agung river is really gorgeous. And the structures set in the landscape are a sight for sore eyes after looking at other "normal" schools.

- there are plenty of shots on the site.

The reason why this place intrigues me is this, my kid is about to start school, and I am looking for something extraordinary outside of the system.

What blew me away was the incredible architecture using Bamboo and the proliferation of food plants in the grounds. Being an avid organic gardener and a entrepreneur as well as growing up on the back of a national park - this ticks by innerchild's boxes for happiness.

My son could catch a chicken about the same time as he could write his name - good skills in this life I happen to think ;-)

As well as chickens (Ayum) they have water buffalo, goats, fish - and a mud wrestling pit !

The talking circle grounded with a giant Brazillian terminator Chrystal was hippy wonderland stuff. I am a Yippee - yuppie/Hippy so beautiful design and well thought out sustainability is right up my alley.

The web site is very comprehensive - to say they are media friendly over at the Green school would be a slight understatement.

So I wish the school much success in it's first year and I hope seeing the beautiful structures will inspire - Bamboo is a grass that grows up to a foot per day in the tropics - they have created something truly magnificent in the jungle of Bali.

And when the US dollar goes down or my income goes up, I may be one of the Green School Mummy's in the future.

from beyond the grave and into your lounge.......

2009-01-16T15:33:00.006+13:00

Perhaps not as gothic as it sounds ......

Florence Broadhurst has had design influence well past her death with Signature Prints the custodians of the library doing very clever things with wall paper and fabrics amongst many other darling design darling and desirable design items.

The newest release bound for Mason & Object in Paris this January 23- 27th, will be accompanied by the incredible duo behind the brand, Helen and David Lenny.

These are some shots taken during sample printing.

With Broadhurst design popping up in the swankiest houses clubs bars and hotels - keep a look out for these new releases - perhaps the swanky house will be yours :-)

and the bride kissed the bride

2009-01-14T22:40:00.004+13:00

I am really not very good at keeping up with celeb goss and the magazines stuffed with them - like if they do not leave Katie Holmes and her little girl alone I think we should start taking photos of the editors of these ghastly titles bums and posting them and see how they like it ......

I digress

:-)

SO in August Ellen and Portia got married

I love the shot I love that they are happy I love what they wore I love they squeezed that one in before the bigots shut down gay marriage again in California I love that I have met neither of them yet I am touched by their happiness

this is one of those great stories that would be in one of those awful mags - but making the life of a new celebrity mother miserable probably made the cover instead.

congrats ladies I wish anyone who is brave enough to love so publicly all the happiness in the world.

spirit song - film clip I worked on in 1989 !

2009-01-12T17:54:00.007+13:00

My dearest friend performer and healer Karina Hayes sent me this clip today, she is the featured singer and after many years of her living in the US I have happily found her after she married mr golden tonsils (god bless Google and Facebook)

20 years kinda flies ! so here is a little blast from the past with some updates.

This is the trailer made for the first film writen and directed by Alex Proyas.( I, Robot, Dark City, The Crow etc ) produced by Meaningful Eye contact. The film, shot on a shoestring in Broken Hill, NSW Australia. Was made with the use of equiptment used for the filming of "kiss the Dirt" film clip Proyas directed for INXS at the same time.

The B&W sequences for which I was Makeup and wardrobe, was shot in a studio on an old tabacco factory site very close to the old Ikea site in Waterloo. It was to be a stark contrast to the extreme colour of the film.

The remarkable makeup in the film sequence (shown in colour) was the creation of Mathu Anderson - based in the USA since the filming. you will spy him in early episodes of America's Next Top Model as the resident makeup artist.

Dean Denim and I have a little cameo doing Rhys Davis's Hair & Makeup - well pretending with much dramatic effect ;-)

And Karina Hayes (now Blakeley) as our slightly dark angel singing the theme song. Her sweet tones and her extravagant performance graced many a swanky nightclub and giant dance parties of our youth. Karina was a lead singer in in a hard core experimental band called SPK with the rather imposing Graeme Revell, now one of Hollywood's most prolific film & TV composers.

It took me hours to create the costume - not that you see much of it! - the bodice was constructed with rushed ribbon. the long black gloves for contrast and she was wearing my agents heavy metal biker rings (thank you Sally Galwey - she is now a jewelry designer).

The shoot was a laugh and it is wonderful to see it again - I hope you enjoy it.

JLo takes out - most breathtaking!

2009-01-12T15:57:00.005+13:00

OK SO she is not my fave, her fashion antics with the fur of small animals makes me cringe. Her new rich ghastly displays of more More MORE with the $500US mink eyelashes etc make me gag at times.

But I got to hand it to the little lady - she made my jaw drop in this gorgeous Marchesa gold gown -appropriately worn at the Golden Globes awards in Hollywood.

Nicely done Ms Lopez.

credit to Cavalli

2009-01-09T15:48:00.007+13:00

Designer plastic is no longer an oxymoron ! ( lol )

Sprouse - the book

2009-01-09T13:42:00.005+13:00

Launching today with the Stephen Sprouse collection is the Limited edition LV book.

It seems I have the fever !

And from highsnobriety here are the first looks of the Soho store. - BAM!

Blumenfeld

2009-01-08T22:51:00.004+13:00

whilst on the theme of idols in my youth ...........

I met the grandson of one of the most influential photographers and artists in my life yesterday. Casually over a beer on Waiheke as you do, I almost fell off my chair.

I had a print of the Eiffel Tower image framed in my room (at a huge investment at the time) as a teenager. When you go back to the masters, you get so much of the foundation of our current photographic trends.

Revisiting his body of work today I am again humbled by the breakthroughs in photographic imagery this genius made. He died the year I was born.

Show studio has a collection of his experiments in advertising - the films of Erwin Blumenfeld.

enjoy x

Get your skates on

2009-01-08T06:25:00.012+13:00

Louis Vuitton celebrate the return of the Stephen Sprouse collection with a 2009 tribute.

The Collection is vibrant in the popular Sprouse handwriting (revamped in Neon) as well as the beautiful roses.

The Skateboard and case being a bit of a standout.

One of the most energy efficient modes of transport available on four wheels, - only ..... would you actually take it out of it's case and ride it ?

The Soho NYC flagship store will transform with a temporary showcase of Sprouse's signature collection with Graffiti embellishing the building in a special vinyl wrap for the occasion. (amazing)

The Limited edition skateboard is exclusive to the Greene street location (at US $8,250) - as is a Limited edition "Roses" T-shirt (at US $250 a pop). With a worldwide launch of the range February 2nd, Sprouse's signature "roses" pieces are due to start popping up in a store near you from tomorrow.

The hit collaboration with Marc Jacobs in 2001 was a sell out and the first time the LV monogram had been embellished. The artist passed away in 2004.

Proceeds will go to the Stephen Spouse Memorial Scholarship Fund, Sprouse estate, and Free Arts NYC Program.

If you missed it the first time around, and you have LV fever, get your skates on.

TED Talking

2009-01-06T21:09:00.010+13:00

Isaac Mizrahi is a bit of an idol of mine - when in my twenties he was just hilarious, creative and prolific in all the right ways. (As a 80's runway favourite NYC fashion designer in case you are uninitiated)

He has since had a talk show, designed costumes and done the best diffusion line for Target which set the high low trend in full steam.

So visiting one of my favourite sites: ted.com I found a familiar voice describing his inspiriation - I urge you all to view it, he is rather a compelling character - Also on the site there is brilliance in the form of some of the words best minds giving inspired talks. See Isaac here.

A Kelly of one's own

2008-12-30T11:19:00.007+13:00

continuing on my little dream bag theme ...

I stumbled on this gorgeous little treat on the Hermes website, I had to share.

I am just loving the H of my dreams right now ( their christmas card this year is just divine *)

Hermes have created a way for us all to have a Kelly bag !

minus the car or bag decision .... or the waiting list for that matter.

ta da !

Stuck on a rainy day with a printer and some scissors

- how adorable :-) I just love them

click here for the site.

*remind me to post a shot of the chrissy card x

joy to the world

2008-12-25T21:06:00.002+13:00

if it is just joy to the world - that would suit me fine

x joy to your world x joy to The world

one for me and one for charity

2008-12-24T21:10:00.007+13:00

One last little Chrissy ( or new year crush )

Gucci are supporting Unicef with 25% of sales from this Tattoo Heart range going to the charity.

The campaign is fronted by Rihanna the cute singer ( whilst she is not talking IMHO) - and I'm thinking this was not typical Gucci - they tell me she has bought a whole new audience to the Italian giant and the range is doing exceptionally. Good for her and Unicef.

I am very prone to a little one for me, one for them shopping, this one is the gift that gives and gives. Better make that two then please x

Merry Christmas to you

2008-12-24T19:34:00.002+13:00

larger than life

2008-12-22T12:58:00.005+13:00

Our current KAREN cover on display in the foyer of Luxe Studios in Liverpool st East Sydney - HOT.

Even Eva Mendes looks like she is checking it out. .....

am I dreaming ?

2008-12-20T14:36:00.011+13:00

Incredible !

Lilac and Gladioli of course.

The quintessential Australian beauty Dame Edna and the fearless cosmetic company MAC kiss and create a makeup collection.

here is a precious quote from the Dame herself :

"I stay glamorous because it's a thing that comes from within. I do my G spot exercise every morning. I wake up look in the mirror and say 'Edna, you are gorgeous. You're Gorgeous!' And I go through the day absolutely gorgeous"

I think we may all benefit from that advice - and lashings of Kangarouge.

Look out for this little collectors treat from MAC counters in the new year possums.

Then a little birdy tells me to say hello kitty.

Adelaide

2008-12-20T10:24:00.006+13:00

This year we produced the magazine for Mecca Cosmetica called Go Global.

We met this gorgeous woman in the process Adelaide Clemens, actor. With an awful lot of telly under her belt for a young lady she will be in her first film, Wolverine out next year.

We had the incredible Liz Ham shoot the editorial - in a private estate in Sydney's east. Adelaide is wearing this season Kate Sylvester clothing and eyewear.

With the whole team on back to back shoots and squeezing the timing to make deadline, Adelaide the pro in her teens seriously knocked our socks off!

Keep an eye out, we predict you will be seeing more of Miss Clemens.

I got this card in the mail

2008-12-19T17:38:00.003+13:00

Goddess bless them it is feeling very 1985 right now -with out a lot of modernisation usually involved in a retrospective fashion cycle. Now I will have to hunt down a version of me then - in the meantime - this just has to brighten your day.

all I want for christmas

2008-12-18T11:08:00.008+13:00

Well this little package certainly made my day !

That creamy yellow bag - the gorgeous box you cannot seem to throw away and the increasing collection of delicious scents on my dressing table and in candles around my home - bliss

Jo Malone is just so refined, restrained, luscious and luxurious all at once.

It is hard to have a favourite and it is nice to have one for each season and destination.

thank you for the best christmas present DDM. x

abuzz and in a flutter.

2008-12-17T15:35:00.005+13:00

Lancôme Oscillation Mascara.

I have eyelash issues, I have nothing visibly distinguishable to flaunt, suffice to say my mascara really has to work hard.

My favourite mascara in the world is made by Lancôme. They really make the best. I have two in my bag, one a super black and fat - the difference is 1960's proportions. The other is waterproof - I am a swimmer and I am prone to being even emotionally moved by those queer eye boys.

When Lancôme do something special with mascara - it is like a new genius undergarment, I take notice. There are the pretty and simple in cosmetics, as in undergarments - however mascara is in the full form, architecture and technology dept.

And Lancôme has created their new masterpiece, Oscillation Mascara.

The vibrating wand has created a world wide flutter - and yep there is reason.

It is marvelous.

Fast, perfect application, great lengthening, defining and curling form - and it is kinda fun.

A little button on the side of the lid/handle ignites the vibration that when applied creates the ziz zag motion that professionals use to coat lengthen and separate for the top and bottom coverage of the lash.

Even though the whole process is swift - take your time in long slow sweeps. Bottom lashes, try using just the top tip with the want vertical concentrating on the ends of the lash rather than closer to the eye for an opening effect.

Now available on order in NZ - (whimper) - on counter early next year and perhaps if you are on the waiting list by the looks of things.

Rock star behavior I know! and worldwide consumers are buying two at once!

What a serious fan base. Now if my order could just join the vip queue please.

Hair space

2008-12-15T09:07:00.013+13:00

In the category of - I want an office like that.

ghd the global beauty hair brand have stunned us with their Leeds,UK HQ design.

2001 a space odyssey and hair care collide ! And I'm guessing the staff all felt the need to dress a little swankier too.

The two floored office housing the ghd academy on the lower level covers an astonishingly big 17,000 sqm.

Not only has the yorkshire company taken over our hair rituals on a global scale they have now set a standard in office design. Not a hair out of place.

Stampede

2008-12-14T18:36:00.004+13:00

Beside buying men something practical or something you think they need for Christmas.

I thought this may be the gift that keeps giving ;-)

- and the model is so dam cute how could I not post him ?

The Label STONEMEN is the creation of (KAREN) photographer Marc Debnam and producer Lenny Christou who may have solved our christmas dilemmas. They have some fabulous delivery and gift wrapping services - have a look. www.stonemen.com

Oh Olivia O

2008-12-13T21:54:00.008+13:00

We have a new local model crush.

And by the sounds of things you may be feeling the same way too shortly.

Model fans look out for this little Kiwi sweetie, shot here by Charles Howells just landing an exclusive editorial deal with Australian Vogue. (look out in the new year)

Olivia is placed in the trusty hands of the one and only model mania blogger and booker Joseph Tenni at Chadwick models. Her mother agent in NZ Nova and her international manager MHI ( genius) have a lot to be proud of.

There was a little too much speculation about a Prada show hold for my liking recently - these things should really only be spoken about once the beauty actually graces the runway and then ka-pow impact and PR - never the less the hype has settled and the proof is in the pictures.

It is a rarity for girls with such presence and height to be discovered in NZ and anyone local may remember her from the ( dare I say tacky ) all over bronzer TVC commercials - to say it simply, she has come a long way baby and fast. - no doubt you will be adoring something on her in the not to distant future.

in times of troubles

2008-12-10T15:39:00.001+13:00

Publishers Condé Nast have confirmed the launch of a new Bi annual magazine called LOVE with Katie Grand mid february 09. Grand is the former editor-in-chief of POP and staffer on Dazed and Confused and the Face magazines, as well as stylist to Louis Vuitton and Prada.

Also announcing expansion is one of our hot faves Fantastic Man with the launch of Fantastic Woman.

With the crash of the worlds stock markets it takes no crystal ball to know will be buying more affordable luxuries - accessories, lipstick and magazines thank you !

blow me over .....

2008-12-10T11:09:00.005+13:00

If you have not been into NZ's MAX fashion stores of late you will get a surprise - fashion!

Delighted, I used pieces for a portrait recently and even better on the horizon, this is what will be in store in Late February for Autumn. With a new capsule delivery every six weeks.

Those clever Ezi Buy people have taken over the brand and done a radical makeover that will in turn give the nation one.

Lets just say I have not had the calling to shop there in the last five or six years. That is all about to change by the looks of these pieces.

Adding to my enthusiasm just announced to star in the racks in March is Kirrily Johnston's capsule collection.

We are big fans of Kirrily here at KAREN.

Kirrily Loves Maxshop as specially previewed below hot from the studio.

Gorgeous ....want it already.

How can you not love a designer bargain to go with high end accessories- it will no doubt be snapped up swiftly. NZ is a little light on the high/low designer treat, made so popular by the big multinational chains. And here is where I have to say clothing in New Zealand can be very pricey. Just having those additions to the party wardrobe or the staples for the office, both stylish and affordable from a retailer understanding highstreet fashion, brilliant.

And yes MAX is coming to Australia - Nice of them to share.

look out for the soon to be lunched maxshop.com

if it saves the day .....

2008-12-09T16:12:00.001+13:00

Inspired by the MAC red christmas offering I thought it only just to pop up some of Marc Gysin's incredible red lips - studies have shown that when seeing a woman with beautiful makeup, our heart rates lower and we feel happier - do the world a favour- world peace pucker up !

issue 7

2008-12-08T15:33:00.000+13:00

Starting by introducing you to our cover model Emma Booth, who's reaction to the cover is largely unprintable - lets just say she was delighted with a lot exclamations in her emails and huge acknowledgment to Charles Howells our cover photographer.

Emma has been writing to us from set, playing Clive Owen's love interest, then up to the UK filming Pelican Blood followed by Paris for the cinematic adaptation of an Australian novel. That is 5 films yet to be released - we will be seeing a lot more of Emma Booth in the coming year.

Emma wears Gucci fall 08

Makeup by Rae Morris Hair by Sarah Laidlaw shot on location at Luxe Studios Sydney.