Innholdsfortegnelse for December 2016 i ELLE Australia

I’ve never hidden my unabashed adoration of the festive season. I’m the woman who starts humming Christmas carols on November 1, who buys her tree so early it’s dead and needs replacing by mid-December. I recently moved to one of those Christmas-lights streets and I’m not telling if it had anything at all to do with the house or just that it’s enabled me to live in a home you can see from Mars on Christmas Eve. And don’t ever tell them, but it’s possible Santa was one of my primary motivators for having children. Merge this love of the most deliciously commercial holiday of the year with an obsession with throwing theme parties, an extreme attraction to summer and cocktails served in coconuts, and the anticipation of much-needed…

1 THANK GOD FOR AIR-CONDITIONING AND THREE PER CENT ELASTANE. Because it’ll be hot. There’ll be food – enough to stretch out even your most reliable stretchy pants, in fact. Particularly if you’re from a big Lebanese family celebrating Christmas on the Gold Coast like me. 2. LEARN TO SAY “YES”. If Mum says, “We need to get up at 5am to make 25 dishes in time for lunch,” say, “Yes.” 3. ALSO APPRECIATE THE VIRTUE OF SILENCE. Mum (again) might impose a phone ban during Christmas lunch. If you see her using hers to take a snap of the feast she’s prepared, say nothing. 4. CELEBRATING WITH 15+ LOVED ONES? Secret Santa it. Heck, I can’t even be bothered with that. I’ve made it a tradition to re-gift the…

Forget everything you know about eveningwear. In fact, forget the term eveningwear altogether. All of a sudden it seems so outdated when you consider the way we want to dress right now. Or at least dress up right now. Because we’re not ditching the concept of fantastically decadent, excitement-inducing, credit card-obliterating fashion to celebrate in – just when and how we wear it. And anyway, this season’s sequins and brocades and laces and embroideries are way too special to only be seen after dark. When it comes to seeing out 2016, there’s no such thing as a dress code. Okay, within reason. What we mean is, have a play with it. If it’s a black-tie event, you’re not about to wear your gym kit, but neither do you have to…

She’s been called – among other praises – “one of this generation’s most vital literary voices”, and her work is adored, admired and respected the world over. In 1997, when Zadie Smith was just 21 years old and still studying for her English literature degree at Cambridge, her first novel – at the time unfinished – was subject to a bidding war between publishers. The author received a six-figure advance for the book, White Teeth, plus a future second novel – such was the belief in her ability to live up to, and exceed, the hype. Now, almost 20 years later, Smith’s fifth novel Swing Time makes its long-awaited debut. Charting the lives of two childhood best friends who share a passion for tap-dancing (and old Fred Astaire films like…

WHEN YOU’RE STARTING SOMETHING, IT’S GOOD TO HAVE LONG-TERM GOALS. BUT THINGS CAN CHANGE QUICKLY, SO HAVING A POSITIVE STATE OF MIND OFTEN COMES FROM SETTING AND ACHIEVING SHORT-TERM GOALS. I started playing netball when I was seven; my best friend at the time did so I naturally joined. My mum was heavily involved in our local club – she still is, actually – so I feel like it was always going to be a part of me. I’ve been around netball courts my whole life. Making my first state team when I was 17 was probably the moment when I realised I wanted to keep pushing myself further and turn it into a career. I debuted for Australia at the end of 2013 so I was really excited coming…

FIAT 500X Pack the car and hit the road on an adventure or a relaxing drive to a destination. The FIAT 500X is packed with control, power and features that include all wheel drive, a 1.4 MultiAir Turbo Engine, 60/40 split-folding rear seats and a fold-forward front passenger seat*. Let the 6.5 inch touchscreen and voice command satellite navigation* guide you while you take in the scenery and enjoy interior comforts such as the leather-wrapped flat-bottom steering wheel and 8-Speaker BeatsAudioTM Premium Sound System*. Find out more at fiat.com.au/ fiat500x *Some features & optional extras specified available on select models in the 500X range at additional cost.…

According to the World Happiness Report, Denmark’s residents are the happiest on the planet – and the secret to their unending joy is fast becoming a global movement: “hygge”. The Danish word roughly translates to “cosiness”, with the wider concept essentially pointing to a way of life that encourages taking pleasure in the small things, being kind to yourself and celebrating the every day. Sorry, adult colouring books, your reign is coming to an end. For the Danes, who experience a long, dark, dare we say bleak winter, hygge-inducing things – a warm bowl of porridge, wine with friends around the fireplace, a good book and a blanket on the couch – make staying indoors feel less like cabin fever. But it’s not just for grizzly weather – getting your…

Try one of these alternatives to classic summer cocktails, as suggested by Michael Madrusan and Zara Young from Fitzroy’s The Everleigh (they wrote a boozy book we loved so much, we put it in our gift guide on p215). If you like margaritas, you’ll love the Toreador 30ml good-quality blanco tequila 22ml fresh lime juice 22ml apricot liqueur 1 lime wedge, to garnish ADD all liquid ingredients to your shaker with ice. SHAKE and strain into a cold cocktail glass. GARNISH with lime wedge. If you like lychee martinis, you’ll love the Sunflower 22ml gin 22ml fresh lemon juice 22ml St Germain Elderflower Liqueur 22ml Cointreau 1 lemon slice, to garnish ADD all liquid ingredients to your shaker with ice. SHAKE and strain into a cold cocktail glass. GARNISH with…

FRONTBACK: Lets you take simultaneous pics from both sides of the camera – perfect for when your hair is on point but so is the sunset. Price: free on iTunes and Google Play VIDEO MIXER: An even-dummies-can-do-it app that lets you merge multiple videos into one, so you can turn a night out into a RiRi music video. It comes with built-in filters, overlays and music. Price: free on iTunes SLOW FAST SLOW: If you didn't quite nail the hilarity of the moment with your Boomerang, use this app to tweak the timing of videos you've already shot. As the name suggests, you can make them either faster or slower. It's also very effective for slowing a too-speedy timelapse. Price: free on iTunes PERFECT365: Technically, it's a beauty app, but…

Glitzy footwear is a nightwear no-brainer. But we all know the wrong shoe choice can ruin the fun. We’ve found you five glittery options, depending on your commitment to the evening (and dance floor). 12.30AM Block heels for post-midnight dedication. Heels, $1,695, Marni, belinda.com.au 7.00PM Your chicest (and tallest) seated-only stilettos. Heels, $1,690, Miu Miu, (02) 9223 1688 10.30PM A sturdier pump for when dinner turns into dancing. Heels, $3,995, Balenciaga, misslouise.com.au 2.00AM Podium-appropriate kitten heels. Heels, $1,270, Gucci, 1300 442 878 5.00AM Out till sunrise? Jewelled flats are your (dignified) friend. Flats, $1,300, Aquazzura, cosmopolitanshoes.com.au…

WE KNOW WHAT YOU’RE THINKING: DO I REALLY HAVE TO GO TO MY WORK SHINDIG? Can’t I just organise Friday night drinks with the people I actually like? The truth is you should go – if only for an hour. The higher-ups went to the trouble of organising the party as a thank you for your hard work, so it’s best to front up and smile along, get noticed by the right people, then ghost when the sales guys start obnoxiously shouting their drinks orders across the room. BUT IF YOU ARE KEEN TO GET AMONGST IT, or decide after an hour it’s really not so bad, you want to ensure you don’t go too hard, too fast. By all means, end up eating a Vietnamese pork roll in the…

1. THROW TO “THE GREASE MEGAMIX” There’s nothing that heralds the end of a party like “Greased Lightnin’”. Hide the drinks trolley in the rare case this gets things revved up again. 2. PUT IN YOUR OWN NOISE COMPLAINT Yep, it’s a low blow. But who’s to know it wasn’t Mrs Mangel doing her civic duty by kindly asking the police to shut things down? 3. HIT THE SACK The time it will take for guests to notice their hostess with the mostest has retired for the night directly relates to their joviality and number. Be prepared to pick your way through snoozing stragglers come daybreak.…

First, a note from the editor-in-chief: I first met Zoë Foster, pre-Blake, 14 years ago. I was a seasoned and mildly cynical magazine journalist and she had just made the move from writing about boy bands for Smash Hits magazine to being beauty editor of Cosmopolitan. Zoë wafted into the industry like a breath of fresh (Michael Kors-scented) air, catching my attention with both her supremely peppy, quick-witted personality, which I found charming despite my jaded self, and her take on beauty, a topic she wrote about in a way that was completely her own, replacing the beauty lingo and gobbledegook with real talk and pithy puns. I’d soon learn that this shake-up is Very Zoë: it’s not part of her make-up to do things the way they’ve always…

AT A RECENT DINNER PARTY I was seated next to a man I’d met briefly once before. Knowing I was a writer, he told me he belonged to an all-male book club; a generous gesture on his part, as there’s nothing I like more than talking books. In my enthusiasm to provide him with must-reads for his group, I told him, “You’ll have to do The Member Of The Wedding by Carson McCullers.” I pointed my finger. “And you must read The Night Guest by Fiona McFarlane.” I saw him recoil, as if a laser beam had shot from the tip of my extended finger and burnt through his shirt. “You’re an elder sister, aren’t you?” he said in a quivering voice. Big sister issues, obviously. I’m the eldest of…

SOME OF MY BEST PRODUCTS WERE CREATED BY MISTAKE. Touche Éclat was a duplicate of what I was applying as a makeup artist – a drop of light foundation and moisturiser blended on my hand. When I was heading up development at Yves Saint Laurent, I got a sample in the wrong wand. It was meant to have a sponge on it but it came with a brush. It took me three years to convince them to launch it. Baume De Rose was similar. Someone in the lab measured the quantities wrong and doubled the ingredients. I saw it and just knew. It’s the Rolls-Royce of lip balms and is expensive because of the cost of the ingredients, but it’s been incredibly successful. FLAWLESS FOUNDATION COMES DOWN TO HOW YOU…

“I GET MOST OF MY INSPIRATION FROM OVERSEAS TRIPS TO WARM, TROPICAL DESTINATIONS” With greenery dotting almost every room of her Byron Bay cottage, the great outdoors is clearly an integral part of designer Emma McClean’s style aesthetic. “When people walk through our gate, they often comment that they feel like they’ve stepped into a hidden tropical oasis. Whatever we plant seems to grow like crazy and the children shower outside most of the year,” says the founder of cult kidswear brand Children Of The Tribe. The weatherboard home, which McClean shares with her partner Steve and daughters Willow, five, and Coco, two, has undergone an impressive renovation focusing on an open-plan design that maximises indoor/ outdoor living – a major advantage of living in picturesque northern NSW, with its…

ELIZABETH ARDEN Elizabeth Arden’s Prevage City Smart is a first-of-its-kind skin shield, with sunscreen and pollution protection plus a DNA Enzyme Complex to fight the signs of ageing and strengthen skin. Expect a hydrated, younger-looking complexion. $89; elizabetharden.com.au HEIDI KLUM INTIMATES Sweet and feminine with just the right amount of sexy, trust Heidi Klum to come up with the perfect lingerie set. Featuring a hint of delicate tulle, the Angel Kiss bra and briefs are so pretty you’ll want to show them off. Bra, $55, briefs, $30; heidiklumintimates.com.au THE BODY SHOP Stuck for Christmas gift ideas? The Body Shop’s Himalayan Charcoal and British Rose face masks are a sure crowd-pleaser. They’re vegan-friendly, made without parabens, paraffin, silicone or mineral oil, and even come packaged in a…

STREET PEACE & LOVE Okay, we’re not denying 2016 has been a challenging year. But we’re putting all that behind us and determining to wear our heart on our sleeve, and back, and boots… STYLE AMINA MUADDI The Jordanian-born, Milan-based founder and designer of A-list-accredited shoe brand Oscar Tiye talks tripping the light fantastic “The ultimate party shoe is the one you can have a dance-off in while feeling confident and looking good – so a comfortable, beautiful, sexy shoe. We each know our limit with heel height, cut and tip shape – consider these aspects when purchasing a pair because it’s an investment that should make you look and feel fearless. Footwear is meant to have an intense life, not just look pretty in your wardrobe. A…

Anne Hidalgo’s mantra: “‘Wanderer, there is no path, the path is made by walking’ – Antonio Machado.” ANNE HIDALGO, MAYOR OF PARIS, FRANCE Age: 57 Education: Masters in social sciences and diploma in employment and trade-union law WHAT MADE YOU GO INTO POLITICS? My roots – my grandfather was a Spanish Republican and I come from an immigrant background – and also because of my parents, a labourer and a seamstress, who really wanted their children to do well at school. WHO ARE YOUR ROLE MODELS? Feminists who made their mark on society. Iconic figures like Simone Veil, both a thinker and a politician, and historical figures – revolutionaries like Rosa Luxemburg and Clara Zetkin. WHAT PROBLEMS DO YOU FACE IN YOUR…

In the new world of smart watches (a world of step-tracking, text-reading and mood-monitoring), the classics can be overlooked. But if these watches are anything to go by, old-school time-telling pieces are making a comeback. We’re talking textured leather straps, shiny silver links and sleek faces that do just that: tell the time. Once you have one, it’s a matter of training yourself to leave your phone in your bag and glance at your wrist instead. We promise the view is worth it.…

“To get more wear out your party , like Man Repeller’s Leandra Medine and layer it over jeans – great for your style cred, even better for your cost-per-wear equation.” “Bold drop earrings elevate a basic blue jeans look. Rest assured, statement earrings are hanging around, so they’re worth the investment.” “Fashion label Rejina Pyo is a street-style favourite thanks to its mix of hot-right-now colour (Kodak yellow) and shape (big sleeves). Just add a berry lip – the warm colours work surprisingly well.” “Cream layering is the fastest way to summer sophistication. Play around with volume and longer lengths or throw a mannish blazer into the mix.” “These girls know that outfits incorporating bright, bold colours need a focal point – in this case, the waist. Achieve with a…

I don’t know what propelled me,” says founding Garbage frontwoman Shirley Manson of her new, chic, candy-pink dye job. “I woke up one day and thought, ‘I cannot stay red-haired for one second longer!’ My hairdresser didn’t want to do it. But I needed a break from myself. When she pulled the towel from my head and I saw my pink hair, I burst into this huge grin and gasped, ‘I look amazing!’ And I’ve never said that about myself in my entire life.” This is a woman who, since Garbage’s first electro-tinged, trip-hop traced, self-titled album in 1995, has challenged what it means to rock hard and – with her mix of combat boots, acid-bright clothes and black eyeliner – has looked great doing it. With her band, she…

John Krasinski was once our goofy Office crush. Then, in 2010, he married Emily Blunt (at George Clooney’s house on Lake Como, no less) and became half of Hollywood’s nicest power couple – and no doubt the world’s most fun parents when they welcomed daughter Hazel, now two, and newborn Violet. Krasinski, 37, comes by his relatable appeal honestly. Raised in the suburbs outside Boston, the son of a doctor and a nurse, he went on to study playwriting, finding a home in sketch comedy. But he’s since proven he can do more than pull faces: he made his directorial debut in 2009 with Brief Interviews With Hideous Men, co-wrote the screenplay for 2012’s Promised Land, starring Matt Damon, and made his New York stage debut this year in Dry…

DESIGNER STYLE Indulge in Italian fashion, explore art galleries and the showrooms of the world’s leading interior designers. DESIGNER DESTINATIONS From the Tuscan countryside to its idyllic islands and historic cities, Italy is an endlessly stylish adventure. DESIGNER TASTE Enjoy the rich & indulgent cuisine of Southern Italy. STATE-OF-THE-ART Incorporating design quality, integrity and technology makes the new FIAT 500X a fun, safe and exhilarating driving experience. For more information visit fiat.com.au/fiat500x IN ASSOCIATION WITH FIAT 500X…

TIME TO GET INTO THE GROOVE Oh, so you’ve spent all year trying to avoid diary-dated catch-ups, brunches and birthday drinks? Us too. But we’re sensing a shift. This season heralds the return of going out, dressing up and getting down – the likes we haven’t seen since the ’80s. They’re sensing it at Louis Vuitton, too, with models at the resort 2017 show holding party-ready, music-playing boombox bags. Because if sequins, ruffles and sparkles don’t get you in the mood, a verse of Beyoncé’s “Crazy In Love” blaring from a luxe metallic speaker bag definitely will. UNEXPECTED TREND: SPACE BLANKETS Wrapped in shiny foil, even the simplest shapes are ready for some revelry. 5 PARTY-STARTING PANTS NOTHING ALLOWS YOU TO WALTZ FROM DRESS CODE TO DRESS CODE LIKE A…

Long before she was pop royalty or the soundtrack to your festive season, and before she was showing you all of her many beautiful sides on Instagram (if you’re not already following her, then we don’t know what you’re doing with your life), Mariah Carey went to makeup school. “I have always been a makeup girl. Over the years, I think I’ve learned that less is really more when it comes to makeup,” she says. Now, the OG pop princess has joined forces with M.A.C on a glitzy-on-the-outside, surprisingly-subdued-and-flattering-on-the-inside collection – so we took the chance to hit her up for her guide to achieving “Dreamlover”-level fabulousness this party season. GET BLUSHING My favourite M.A.C product of all time is Pink Swoon blush. So we created something similar in You’ve…

Laura Collins features and culture editor “Pump Up The Jam” by Technotronic Dannielle Cartisano bookings and style editor “Conga” by Gloria Estefan “And ‘Pony’ by Ginuwine, but that’s not tragic!” Emma Kalfus fashion editor “Creep” by TLC “Or more recently, the Kaytranada version.” Jennifer Kang deputy chief sub-editor “Blame It On The Boogie” by The Jacksons Brooke Bickmore workflow director “Jump” by Kris Kross Janna Johnson O’Toole beauty and fitness director “Hey Ya!” by Outkast “No judgement here, please…” Mahalia Chang digital producer “In Da Club” by 50 Cent “Straight banger.” Amber Elias editorial coordinator “Call Me Maybe” by Carly Rae Jepsen Samantha Wong fashion office coordinator “That Don’t Impress Me Much” by Shania Twain “LOL.”…

There’s something about the younger Hadid sister that makes you think she’s up for a good time. Perhaps it’s her fearless approach to scorching cut-outs and accessorising. Or the supermodel-style confidence. Whatever it is, there are a few vital lessons to be learned here. Take note before you head out. LESSON #1 Try twinning Friends are the perfect party accessory – match moods and outfits for a winning formula. LESSON #2 Value your assets A high thigh split can be turned into an A-grade photo opp with a sultry look and clever hand positioning. LESSON #3 Ditch subtlety A shiny suit, top and jewels are all the more effective when worn together. LESSON #4 Own your isolation When the table suddenly clears,…

Meet the Cooper. With its high but not outrageously high heel, clever ankle strap and perfectly placed platform sole, it’s the only shoe your feet will want to slide into this party season. Sturdy enough to work for the office but stylish enough to head straight out after hours, this modern take on a retro classic is super comfortable, too (thanks to the Pillow Walk footbed that feels just as good as it sounds). Done in creamy neutrals that go with just about everything in your summer wardrobe (tulle and lurex included) we guarantee you’ll think it’s Christmas come early.…

HOW DO YOU MOTIVATE YOURSELF? Excitement for the idea, coffee and various pastries. DAILY HABIT YOU SWEAR BY? Tongue scraping. Once you’ve done it you will be so disgusted with yourself up until that moment. HOW DO YOU FEEL ABOUT FAILURE? Positive. It’s a chance to learn and grow, and is never a coincidence. Failure for the win! Or something. YOU’RE UP YOURSELF AND YOUR LAST BOOK SUCKED: HOW DO YOU REACT TO AND RESPOND TO CRITICISM? Not all trolls are equal – some are sincerely demonic – but I’ve found that if I respond with humour, or in earnest, they usually calm down. They just want to be heard. WHICH AUTHORS/PODCASTS/THINKERS INFLUENCE YOU? You’ll only remember two names, so I’ll keep it tight: I listen to the Tim Ferriss…

la la land A JUMBLE OF VARSITY DETAILS, BRIGHT TEXTURES AND TROPICAL PRINTS, THIS SURFY-SPORTY FUSION IS MADE FOR WANDERING LA’S STREETS TILL SUNDOWN. stomp around Lace-up brogues are so much more fun for summer when splashed with bold colour and metallic embroidery. hoop dreams The jewellery staple gets an XL shake-up – with added baubles for good measure. dancing queen TAKE SILK, BOWS AND SEQUINS BEYOND THE DANCE FLOOR WITH DENIM AND KITTEN HEELS. IT’S ALL IN THE MIX. texture to try: liquid metal Skimming the body in longer lengths, it’s surprisingly flattering and a foolproof evening fabric. pleats please The ladylike go-to gets a playful two-tone rework.…

“baking” (also known as “cooking”) This technique has been a professional secret forever, but recently became mainstream. The idea is to layer a heavy application of translucent powder over concealer and leave it for a few minutes, so your body’s natural heat can warm it up and “bake” the concealer into any creases for a smoother result. Warning: this is extremely camera-friendly, but it’s too heavy for the naked eye. Save this trick for selfies only. TRY IT Apply a thick layer of creamy concealer in an upside-down triangle under your eyes as well as on your T-zone (forehead, nose and chin). Blend the edges into your pre-applied foundation. Pat loose face powder over your concealer and allow it to “bake” for five to 10 minutes. Dust away any excess…

It’s as predictable as the corny one-liners – there’s always an awkward fitness date on The Bachelor or The Bachelorette. Watching two nearly naked strangers perform tantric yoga is about as cringey as it gets (thanks, producers), but take away the cameras, the mortifying voice-overs (“I just can’t wait to see this sensitive side of him”) and, yeah, maybe the tantric bit, and working out with a partner can actually be hugely beneficial. A study conducted by the Department of Kinesiology at Indiana University in the US found that couples who went to the gym together had only about a six per cent dropout rate, compared to couples who worked out separately – they had a dropout rate around seven times that. “Training together gives you a common interest and…

New South Wales BERMAGUI: Don’t head to “Bermy” if you’re trying to bounce back from a Christmas dietary blowout; its food game is strong. There are plenty of cafes, not to mention the world-class gelateria Bermagui Gelati Clinic, where you can indulge your tastebuds after a morning swim at the famous Blue Pool. Head to Fishermen’s Wharf and look for Blue Wave Seafood to pick up locally sourced Eden Smokehouse mussels before joining the nearby crowds to watch the pelicans fight for fish heads. About a 20-minute drive from the town centre, in neighbouring Murrah, you’ll find Airbnb property Indigo Couples’ Retreat, which, despite what the name suggests, is actually big enough for 10 guests and comes complete with a fire pit, teppanyaki barbecue, wood-fired pizza oven and infinity pool.…

#01 Gigi Hadid joined forces with Tommy Hilfiger for his see-it-buy-it AW16-17 runway collection and together they created the ultimate all-ages gift: this nautically minded silk bandana. Scarf, $89.95, Tommy Hilfiger: Tommy X Gigi Collection, 1300 348 885 #02 New Melbourne label James & Irisa is in the business of making opals cool again. The dainty gold bands and precious stones have your sister writ en all over them. Rings, from $489 each, James & Irisa, jamesandirisa.com.au #03 The easiest way to do Kris Kringle bet er is with a crowd-pleasing drop. We suggest this South Oz shiraz, which is as vibrant on the outside as it is inside thanks to the work of celebrated artist David Bromley. McLaren Vale Shiraz, $29.99, Bromley By Wolf Blass, wol› lass.com #04 Channelling…

how to BE A BETTER DECISION-MAKER   with Michelle Gibbings, change and leadership expert and author of Step Up: How To Build Your Influence At Work You have to make decisions in order to progress. If your decision-making is ineffective, you’ll either make limited progress or progress that takes you in the wrong direction. Get it right with these easy tips. KNOW YOUR BIAS: Bias pervades decision-making because we don’t make decisions on facts alone. The brain takes shortcuts and discards information that doesn’t fit with its world view. Be curious and invite different opinions. DON’T SILENCE THE DISSENTERS: Be alert to when the person raising the dissenting idea is being ignored. Hearing their opinion will broaden your perspective. GET DELIBERATE: It’s easy to get distracted, so be clear…

This issue of ELLE is published by Hearst/Bauer Media (Bauer). Bauer may use and disclose your information in accordance with our Privacy Policy, including to provide you with your requested products or services and to keep you informed of other Bauer publications, products, services and events. Our Privacy Policy is located at www.bauer-media.com.au/privacy/ It also sets out how you can access or correct your personal information and lodge a complaint. Bauer may disclose your personal information offshore to its owners, joint venture partners, service providers and agents located throughout the world, including in New Zealand, USA, the Philippines and the European Union. In addition, this issue may contain Reader Offers, being offers, competitions or surveys. Reader Offers may require you to provide personal information to enter or to take part.…

BORN: Niš, Serbia. LIVES: New York. SEE HER: Embracing Cali-cool culture (and some pretty amazing Chanel pieces) on p147. OUT & ABOUT BAR: Tropical 128 in New York, which is half-tiki bar, half-pool hall. RESTAURANT: Nix in New York. I love the cauliflower tempura with steamed buns. DRINK: A well-made Moscow mule. HOTELS: Badrutt’s Palace in St Moritz, Switzerland, and Chateau Marmont in LA. CULTURE STOP: The Met in New York. MAINTENANCE MAKEUP MVP: Chanel Rouge Coco Stylo lipstick and Lancôme Définicils Mascara. SKIN SAVIOUR: La Roche-Posay Toleriane moisturiser. SCENT: Bulgari Jasmin Noir. NAILS: OPI’s Malaga Wine. SPA: Russian & Turkish Baths in New York. WARDROBE JEANS: Skinnies from J Brand or Frame. LINGERIE: Calvin Klein. SHOES: Nike Air Jordans and Vans. BAG: Balenciaga. SUNGLASSES: Classic Ray-Ban Wayfarers. STORE: Saks…

There’s something about slipping into an Armani gown that feels akin to paying off your student loan and finally making partner. So you can imagine the feeling of stepping into a couture piece from the lofty Armani Privé line. Only, in the inimitable style of the house, this season’s black velvet and Swarovski crystal embroidery was worn with flat slippers and jumbo earrings that swung as the girls skipped towards the runway. After all, parties are for grown-ups, too.…

the hvn girl The dresses are made to be worn to work, then updated for evening with a swap of accessories, makeup or heels that she has stashed in her bag. favourite hvn holiday piece The Morgan Dress in silver [below] because I’m a sucker for anything that sparkles. party dressing I definitely have fun with it. Even if I’m wearing a day dress, I’ll add earrings, a bright red lip or give my hair some attention (which is rare). dj-ready shoes When I first started, I used to give super-high heels a go. Now I’ve gone down a couple of inches and I’m all about a block heel. after-dark face I love M.A.C Lipstick in Ruby Woo – it goes with everything. Or a liquid cat-eye with glowy skin.…

#6 STEALING BEAUTY From cutting-edge streetwear to the highest couture, Italy has always reigned supreme in the world of fashion. Italians are well known for upholding the tradition of “la bella figura” (cutting a beautiful figure), a concept that extends right up to film and fashion icons such as Sophia Loren, Isabella Rossellini and Monica Bellucci. The likes of Diesel, Dolce & Gabbana, Versace, Gucci and Fila provide style and fashion inspiration to all walks of life, on a global scale. 7. AMORE Italian designers are widely acknowledged as leading trendsetters in interior design and the art of creating beauty within the home, whether it’s a sophisticated, rustic, modern or exotic look, they’ve mastered it all. 8. VINO ROSSO Enhance the experience of Italian cuisine with a beautiful glass of…

blank space It’s about time someone named a fragrance after you (or your cat – whatever you prefer). To celebrate its 10th anniversary, Byredo is giving you the honour of christening its latest scent. The woody, balsam blend (softened with notes of violet) comes with an empty label and a sheet of letter stickers – literally a blank canvas. Have at it. ahead of the curve Get perfect curl and volume with M.A.C’s genius InstaCurl Lash mascara. Simply twist the cap to change the shape of the wand so the bristles perfectly hug your lash line, giving you a bespoke bend every time. reserve blend The latest from Kiehl’s is a custom-blend serum tailored to your precise skin concerns, which are determined by a thorough evaluation. The active ingredients (which…

Parrot MiniDrone Mambo BEST FOR: Teenagers who don’t care about capturing moments but will happily spend the whole day shooting tiny balls at your head. ITS SCHTICK: It’s got a cannon (for shooting aforementioned balls) and a grabber to carry objects (it’s not super-practical, but it sure is fun to try). Download the app to operate. $200; harveynorman.com.au 3DR Solo Aerial Smart Drone BEST FOR: Clever types who you ask for help when your laptop isn’t turning on or your phone is “doing a weird thing”. ITS SCHTICK: This drone is autonomous, meaning it can automatically capture amazing footage. It’s also sold as an open platform, so techie types can fiddle with the hardware and software. $1,099; harveynorman.com.au GoPro Karma BEST FOR: Anyone who gets out…

ELLE’s fashion director Rachel Wayman explains why this is the statement-making, anti-sequin alternative to after-dark dressing (and helps you find the perfect style). LACE BRA “A lace bra isn’t for the faint-hearted. Layer under a two-piece suit for a chic use of underwear as outerwear.” BUSTIER “An entry-level piece for those who aren’t quite ready to commit to the boudoir vibes of lace. Team with high-waisted, wide-leg trousers and your tallest heels for an elongating shape.” CORSET “Laced-up details aren’t going anywhere. With its corset-inspired shape, this piece is best modernised by layering over a white tee.” CROPPED TOP “An easier, relaxed-fit crop that’s ideal with a full skirt for sunny afternoons that turn into balmy nights.”…

1. BE INSPIRED BY THE CUT-OUTS OF AW16-17. 2. PICK A BODY PART. 3. COMMIT (LIKE, REALLY COMMIT). SHOULDERS TWO SLICES OF FRESHNESS AMID A HIGH NECKLINE AND OTT BEADING. CHEST SWAP OUT A PLUNGING NECKLINE FOR A CLEVER CUT-OUT. STOMACH TEAM YOUR FAVOURITE PANTS WITH A SLIVER OF MIDRIFF OR A BELLY-BARING TUNIC. LEGS A THIGH-HIGH SPLIT WILL BALANCE OUT A COVERED SHOULDER. ALL LIMBS KEEP A SKIN-FLAUNTING LBD SEXY YET SWEET WITH GROWN-UP RUFFLES.…

And yes, you’d want it to be for that price. But hear us out... This is one of those forever pieces that will outlive every item in your wardrobe and decrease incrementally in cost per wear. To prove its versatility, we’ve styled it with four occasions in mind (which, incidentally, also work with your trusty LBD back home). Now just RSVP yes. YOUR WORK CHRISTMAS PARTY, WHICH YOU’LL POLITELY BACKDOOR ONCE THINGS START TO GET MESSY. Earrings, $650, Oscar De La Renta, pierrewinter finejewels.com; bag, $899, Furla, furla.com; choker, $229, Amber Sceats, ambersceats.com; heels, $475, The Kooples, thekooples.com.au CHRISTMAS LUNCH WITH YOUR EXTENDED FAMILY WHO INSIST ON QUESTIONING YOUR RELATIONSHIP STATUS. Top, $179, Kate Sylvester, katesylvester.com; sunglasses, $210, Ray-Ban, sunglasshut.com/au; bag, $3,405, Tod’s, (02) 8203 0901; trainers, $265, Senso, senso.com.au…

IT’S RARE FOR TODAY’S HASTILY WHATSAPPED INVITES TO CONTAIN A CLUE TO DRESS CODE, so arriving under- or over-dressed to at least one event is almost certain. Still, there are few forms of sartorial shame as acute as entering what you thought the string of emojis meant was a casual barbecue (cue sundress and sandals), only to be handed a flute of Bolli by a gloved waiter. Somehow everyone else knew to dress as the dancing lady in floor-length scarlet Dolce, but don’t let your mistake show on your (blushing) face. Take a long sip of fizz, smile at each horrified onlooker then lie. Just this once. Simply explain to the nearest partygoer that, of course you knew this was formal, but you’re so in demand you have to hop-skip…

“STOVEPIPE OR CIGARETTE, SLEEK AND CROPPED OR FLOWING WIDE-LEG, METALLIC OR EMBELLISHED – EVENING PANTS WERE EVERYWHERE FOR AW16-17” Each party season adds another item to the list of Things I Will Never Do Again. From 1996, my first year at university: never stash your taxi money down the side of your knickers, because you’ll forget it’s there and be reminded only as you watch it swirl down the one toilet on the party boat. (Or, for brevity, never go on a party boat.) From the 2003 Christmas season, to which I brought a nine-week-old baby: never force your lactating self into a Bra From Before and an inaccessible sheath dress, because 11pm will find you breastfeeding in a restaurant’s storage cupboard, naked from the waist up, with your foot…

DON’T LET THE KIDS WIN Julia Jacklin Inspired to start singing lessons after watching a Britney Spears documentary as a tween, Blue Mountains native Jacklin released her debut album to huge acclaim late this year. It’s a blend of indie, folk and country sounds that achieves complete likeability (and listenability). MY WOMAN Angel Olsen The US singer-songwriter’s 2014 album, Burn Your Fire For No Witness, ripped our hearts open with its bare teeth and solidified her as one to watch. My Woman has been described by Olsen as a record about the “complicated mess of being a woman”. Prepare to be floored. NOTION Tash Sultana This all-round overachiever from Melbourne sells out shows and creates viral homemade videos thanks to her talent as a multi-instrumentalist, vocalist and beat-boxer. She redefines…

There’s a rumour out there on the world wide web about the story behind the creation of Google Maps. The story goes that the development team were presenting what they considered to be an early prototype to Google senior management when founders Larry Page and Sergey Brin supposedly said, “It’s already good enough, ship it.” The team naturally complied and the rest, of course, if you’ve ever been lost in the shady backstreets of an outer-lying suburb and needed a guiding hand, you’ll know is history. I’m relaying this story because, right now, I’m having trouble handing this article over. I’m struggling to “ship it”, so to speak. I’ve tweaked and teased. Copied and pasted. Command Z-ed more times than I’d like to admit. It’s safe to say I reached…

There’s one certainty at Milan Fashion Week. It-girls may come and go, heel heights may rise and fall, favourite gelato flavours may fluctuate, but the Emporio Armani show is a comforting constant. Held at the Armani headquarters in the Armani Teatro, a feat of modern architecture at via Bergognone 59, the show draws the city’s movers and shakers, international press and celebrities alike. Each season the show-goers fight through the Milanese traffic with their invitation in hand (don’t even think of getting past security without one) to weave their way through the increasingly frantic street-style scene and take their place in the stadium-style seating – front row if you’re “someone”, bird’s-eye view if you’re someone else. As the younger, more fun diffusion label of Giorgio Armani, which shows a few…

From left: Cream Cleanser, $44.95, Kora Organics, koraorganics.com – “It cleans but also rejuvenates and replenishes dry skin.” Pure-Castile Liquid Soap in Lavender, $12.95, Dr Bronner’s, drbronner.com.au – “You can wash your body, face, hair and even your dog with it.” Gradual Tan In Shower Tanning Lotion in Golden Glow Medium, $39.99, St Tropez, sttropeztan.com.au – “I apply it in the shower and then by morning, I have a no-streak natural bronzed colour. It’s the best!” Badlands Dry Shampoo Paste, $46, R+Co, 1300 725 122 – “This instantly tames and styles with a great natural texture.” Age-Defying AHA Facial Exfoliator, $54.95, Kora Organics, koraorganics.com – “It’s nice and gentle – unlike a lot of others I’ve tried.” Perfectionist Youth-Infusing Brightening Serum + Concealer, $55, Estée Lauder, esteelauder.com.au – “One end…

“Find something you enjoy – if you don’t like running, try something else... And don’t be too hard on yourself. You’re doing better than the person on the couch” GO PRO  Want to step up your workout game from amateur to professional-level? Try these fitness-kick essentials... I knew it wasn’t great. I’d had a nausea-filled pregnancy and then a baby and the chronic sleep deprivation that can often come along with those magic little bundles of milk and dribble. And somewhere along that wobbly old line, aside from the whole growing-a-human thing, I had inadvertently kind of just stopped using my body. Like, it was functioning, but not exactly working. The grand old girl was still transporting me from A to B – from an office chair to my house,…

GEOMETRIC BEAUTY Inspired by geometric lace patterns, these designs profile fashion’s ongoing love affair with geometry. Sterling silver bangle $159 (available in PANDORA Concept stores and the Online store only) . Sterling silver ring $149. Sterling silver earrings $99 VINTAGE ALLURE Rediscover antique jewellery styles with a contemporary twist. Sterling silver bracelet with charm and spacer clips $296. Sterling silver ring $99. Sterling silver earrings $119 MODERN SENSIBILITIES Channelling the glamour of the past, PANDORA rings can be worn alone or stacked for added impact. Sterling silver rings from $49…

SEXUAL APPEALING DEAR E JEAN, I’m a bride of one year and already my husband and I are in a rut. We work, we come home, he sits on the couch playing computer games, I sit on the couch watching him, and then we go to sleep. I can’t remember a time when I’ve come home and we’ve done anything else. We rarely have sex. I feel so unwanted, ignored and lonely. I realise he’s not overly affectionate, but he never holds me and looks at me with adoration in his eyes. This is heartbreaking, because I was a virgin on our wedding day. I had so many wonderful boyfriends and opportunities, but I chose to wait for him, and he for me. He tells me that he finds me…

PARTY-HOPPING When to stay and when to leave STAY: The self-appointed DJ just started playing obscure ’90s bangers. LEAVE: You don’t know many people there, and your friends are at another party across town. STAY: You’re tipsy enough to feel like MJ on the dance floor, sober enough not to attempt the Moonwalk. LEAVE: Everything is a bit blurry, and that last shot isn’t going down too well. STAY: It’s almost midnight and the chances of you screaming “Happy New Year!” from a taxi are high if you leave now. LEAVE: They’re out of booze. MARIAH-APPROVED Four ways to use glitter that are only appropriate on December 31 1. You know those OTT glitter eye makeup looks you re-’gram but don’t think you could ever pull off? Well, as Rod…