My friend recently returned from helping out the United Nations in Tanzania. She told me one simple way we can lend a hand to the HIV infected women of Africa is to buy a SEW bag. SEW stands for supporting and empowering women. This recyclable bag is designed to give women financial independence and self worth. Melbourne law students Jessie Smith and Denis Cairney are the brains behind this clever program aimed at giving back. The groovy tote retails at $19.95 and can be purchased from the Readings store in Carlton. 

Melbourne’s famous lane-way scene has delivered another gem in the form of The Hardware Société, a hole-in-the wall eatery at the more edgy end of the Hardware Lane precinct.

Australia’s favourite photographer Russel James is no stranger to the lights, camera and action. He has worked with high-end fashion models for internationally renowned magazines and even TV shows such Next Top Model. No matter what he snaps he is sure to take your breath away. Here is a sample of photographic bliss.  

There is nothing better than bringing a bit art into ones life. It makes you seem cultural, knowledgeable and even affluent- little do your friends know it’s your tea towel. So I present to you Third draw down, Melbourne’s museum of Art Souvenirs. Their store consists of beautiful, creative and clever products ranging from soapboxes, gift cards to fruit shaped memo pads and cups. Their bed linen and tea towel range has whimsical illustrations that turn a piece of cloth into a piece of art. Their website has instructions on how to stretch a tea towel like a canvas on a frame, just in case you want to use it for art work. The tea towels are screen printed on 100% linen, in limited editions and can be bought from their online or actual store.      

Jelly bellies -they are back from our youth and here to stay! I honestly don’t know how I feel about them. I see them and I wanna laugh, sigh and cry all at the same time. It seems so strange seeing a grown man or woman wearing plastic sandals. I guess if FAT clothing stores are selling them, then they must be cool.

What are your thoughts on this revival?

Kym Ellery is a local Aussi designer and the brains behind high-end fashion label Ellery. Debuting in 2007 she has made a name for herself in Vogue, Russh and Harper’s.  Every inch of her designs screams femininity with sharp tailoring and ornate designs. Ellery’s 2010 Autumn Winter collection - entitled “A Tribute To Dr Strange” consists of neutral tones but strong clear-cut shapes. Thigh high boots, small sequin patches and various fabrics are blended together to produce one HOT collection. Even if the clothes are not your thing its worth heading to her website to view her online look book. The photos are beautiful and tres chic!

For all you lovers of yummy fabrics out there, here is something to sink your body into! Cylk is an Australian label, which is seamless and best of all eco-chic. Luxurious blends of bamboo and silk are used to help create sexy, soft and edgy pieces. Cylk has been redefined as the modern basics brand. All the pieces in the collection can be used as outerwear or even lounge wear. The Cylk brand has now reached the coat hangers of Henri Bendels New York, Fred Segal, Mitsukoshi Japan, Gio Moretti Milan, Speak Easy Stockholm and high-end boutiques across Australia.