JACQUARD FEVER

Wearing: jacquard and paisley woven suit by Seed Heritage,
printed blouse and necklace by Zara
Eve Heels by Rubi Shoes
and snakeskin satchel bag by Charles and Keith
 
Photography by Kassandra Hernandez.
Post edit by me.

So I'm back to blogging again and I'm very excited to bring you this brand, spanking new outfit post! In my return from holidaying in The Philippines, I've become more inspired... I guess a break from all the stresses of a working week and life in general can do you well. Also, I have some new additions to my wardrobe, part of me wishes I could of only attended fashion week and not be on a tropical holiday. But that's that and I have already penciled in MBFWA in for next year. 

If you follow me on Instagram (@youronlyblackswan), you may have caught my snap with Darren from Boy Moments and our MIB (Men In Black) shopping moment. Both of us happened to buy this jacquard, luxe black suit from Seed Heritage. The luminous fabric and jacquard weave instantly caught our eyes and after some funny change room antics, we decided to call it our own. We thought it was pretty amazing how the same suit can look very different on another person. Lately, I've wanted to invest in quality, wardrobe staples and this two-piece ensemble definitely passes the mark. Styled with a vibrant, Versace print inspired blouse by Zara, the decadent pattern and bright colours add contrast and vitality to the outfit. As you may know, I love tribal statement necklaces, so this beaded chain piece also from Zara adds an edgy touch to an overall classic ensemble. To complete the look, stilettos and a snakeskin satchel bag by Charles and Kleith. 

I know for sure I will be wearing this outfit again, teaming it up with other collared shirts and mix-matching the suit pants and jacket with other items in my wardrobe. The more wears the better.

If you haven't picked up on the latest blog news, Your Only Black Swan is now youronlyblackswan.com and no longer a 'blogspot'. Check out my little 'black swan favicon' in the tab bar but refreshing your cache. It's pretty cute if I say so myself :)

I've just about started reviewing my photos from my holiday and hope to share some with you soon.

Happy week everyone!

EMPORIO ARMANI SYDNEY STORE LAUNCH

Above: Stunning black and white monotone pieces. The white collar is just brilliant!

Last month I was invited to attend the re-opening of Emporio Armani's Sydney store located in Martin Place. It was no doubt a glamourous event, where guests had the opportunity to get up close and personal with their new Spring Summer 2012 Collection and enjoy live performances by rocking Melbourne band Strange Talk and Australian DJ Perfect Snatch within the glossy, refurbished dual-level store. The store has been carefully conceived and designed by Giorgio Armani and his team of in-house architects featuring signature glossy, stone floors in neutral tones and a grand central staircase connecting the two stories. The live music and rocking beats were a great touch to the evening, creating a refreshing, upbeat vibe amongst the crowd. Surrounded by divine, tailored mono-tone garments, beautiful silks and luxurious leathers, one could not avoid the wonderful details and craftsmanship of each garment throughout both womens and menswear lines. Large photographs of Emporio Armani models where lit up in featured light boxes, showcasing stand-out trends and pieces of the collection.

One stand-out piece of the collection was this black velvet jacket with leather trims - the 'ultimate Black Swan jacket', I'll say! You should of seen my jaw drop at the site of it, I just had to try it on. It is one of the most beautiful jackets I have come across to date and I love the inclusion of leather elbow pads too. Definitely going on the wish list!

Live performance by Strange Talk
Guests
Womens shoes wall

Across the evening, guests were treated to a range of Ciroc vodka cocktails including the fresh Ciroc Grape Soiree, Italian Sgroppinos and the lemon and elderflower Ciroc Blossom Fizz, Peroni beer and mineral water Santa Vittoria. The menu also included Italian-inspired canapés such as fontina and sage puff straws, vitello tonnato on crostini and mint, peach and lavender marshmallows which made you coming back for more.

Emporio Armani's range of sunglasses was very chic and on-trend offering many different shapes and colours. I was very much surprised when I came across a midnight blue velvet pair! LOVE, LOVE, LOVE! Very 70s though at the same time it's modern circular frames are very now. When there's an entire shelf of sunnies, you can't help but to try at least some of them on.

Darren from Boy Moments
Myself wearing the velvet sunglasses
Bryce and fellow guest also wearing the velvet sunglasses
Brianne wearing a tortoiseshell pair
Mens leather bags and satchels
Mens suede boat shoes/loafers
Menswear section
Stunning black suede and bowtie patent heels
Quilted tan leather jacket to die for!
Monotone necklace. Can never go wrong with black and white!
Beautiful silks and acetate accessories!
More leather!
Emporio Armani lingerie. Love!
Statement jewellery, loving the lime green!
Mens shirts and tie ensembles
Sneaky shot in the mirror
Store front

So if you're around Sydney, be sure to pop in store and have a look. There are definitely some heavenly pieces to lust over and you must just be surprised at what you will find.

4 Martin Place Sydney, NSW 2000 

Photos and post-edit by me.