Currently Coveting :: Snakeskin

1 | 2 | 3 | 4

I'm having a bit of a moment with everything snakeskin right now. I just bought this python shirt + have a pair of ballet flats that have been in high rotation lately.

Here are a few of my favourite picks:

1. Chloe 'Marcie' python tote // 2. Equipment blouse // 3. ASOS belt // 4. Reed Krakoff luggage tag // 5. River Island snakeskin jeans // 6. Tory Burch ballet flats // 7. Linda Farrow sunglasses.

Is snakeskin on your radar this season too?

Don't forget to enter the Shopbop giveaway to win a $100 gift card!

Rachel xo

Shopbop giveaway :: win a $100 gift card!

Hi lovelies! I'm super excited to be hosting a Shopbop giveaway where one lucky person will receive a $100 Shopbop gift card! With the new season just around the corner there are plenty of things on my wish list so I know a $100 gift card would not go astray!

Shopbop has an amazing selection of designers that includes the likes of Rag + Bone, Paige Denim, Equipment, Acne + Helmut Lang, so there is a lot to choose from.

Here are just a few ideas to get you started:

+ These T by Alexander Wang rompers

+ These T by Alexander Wang skirts

+ These Current Elliot jeans

+ This Alice + Olivia faux fur jacket

+ These McQ Alexander McQueen pumps

{How to enter}
+ Be a follower of Little Bits of Lovely through Google Connect 
+ Visit the Shopbop site or the Shopbop Pinterest page + tell me in the comments below what you would spend the gift card on if you won.

{For additional entries}
+ Tweet about the competition
+ Pin your favourite item on Pinterest with the hashtag #littlebitsoflovelyshopbopgiveaway
(leave a comment for each additional entry)

The competition will close next Saturday 8th September at 11:59 AEST + the winner will be announced on Monday 10th September.

Good luck!

Rachel xo

Outfit inspiration {the little mint dress}

1. Mulberry leather jacket // 2. Isabel Marrant Dicker boots // 3. Acne Marlow mint dress // 4. J.Crew cuff // 5. Alexander Wang Rocco bag

So remember the Dicker boots I had on my wish list + my self imposed shopping ban? Well if your following me on Instagram, you'll know that I caved and ended up getting the boots (!) but I'm so glad I did as they are extremely comfortable + I know I will be wearing them all the time.

I'm loving this edgy look with the Acne Marlow dress - such a perfect outfit to transition into Spring with, don't you think?

I'll be back later today with an exciting giveaway so stay tuned.

Rachel xo

Modern Day Style :: Brigitte Bardot

Hi lovelies! Today is the final instalment of the Modern Day Style series + I couldn't more excited to be introducing you to the lovely Sarah from one of my favourite blogs, Chevrons + Stripes, who is sharing her take on a modern day Brigitte Bardot.

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"I`m a girl from a good family who was very well brought up. One day I turned my back on it all and became a bohemian" -- Brigitte Bardot.

1| emilio pucci fedora, 2| matta scarf, 3| fuzzy tiger bandeau bikini, 4| diamond stacking rings, 5| tory burch resin necklace, 6| koli gold sandal, 7| calypso crochet tank, 8| ring necklace, 9| YSL glass ring

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Thank you Sarah!

+ a big thank you to all the amazing ladies who have taken part in the series:

It all started with Audrey Hepburn here.

Then there was Jane Birkin by Gaby @ The Vault Files.

+ Grace Kelly by Viv @ Fashion Truffles.

+ Jackie O by Natalie Merrilyn.

+ Elizabeth Taylor by Annemarie @ Brunch at Saks.

+ Marilyn Monroe by Julie Leah.

I hope you have enjoyed the series as much as I have!

Rachel xo

Thoughts for a new week :: it's the little details

Hi lovelies! I can’t believe tomorrow will be the first day of Spring here! We had beautiful weather on the weekend which was perfect for a day out + about learning photography. I learned so many new things, but need to practise a lot + put everything I learned into action. Baby steps, but watch this space! 

We were given the homework of absorbing as much photography as possible to start learning how particular shots have been taken, which has really opened my eyes up to a whole new way of looking at photography. I spent a chunk of yesterday looking at my favourite street style blogs + needless to say I have a far greater appreciation of the technical factors that make up a great shot.

I thought it might be fun to start the week off with a few things I’m reading/listening + watching at the moment - I’d love you to share yours too!

Reading....I just picked up All you need to be impossibly French.

Listening too... Mumford + Sons, I will wait. I've been listening to this on repeat!

Watching...I’ve just downloaded Bill Cunningham’s documentary on New York street photography which I'm looking forward to watching.

Now over to you....Have a fabulous week!

Rachel xo

Image//quote

Outfit inspiration {weekend style}

1. J Crew chambray shirt // 2. James Perse white t-shirt // 3. Alexander McQueen scarf // 4. Current Elliot skinny jeans // 5. Wayfarer sunglasses // 6. Matine clutch // 7. Maximo studded flats.

I just placed an order for these shoes + this chambray shirt so I couldn't help but start playing around with outfit ideas. This would make a perfect outfit for running around on the weekend, don't you think? 

My photography course is on tomorrow, which I can't wait for + I hope to be able to start sharing more of my own pics with you soon!

I hope you have a wonderful weekend ahead,

Rachel xo

Modern Day Style :: Marilyn Monroe

I've been looking forward to today's post as I absolutely adore the lovely Marilyn Monroe. So please allow me to introduce you to one of my favourite bloggers, Julie, who I think you will agree has created an extraordinarily fabulous modern day Marilyn. 

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Hello, everyone! Julie here from Julie Leah: A life & style blog. I'm so happy to be here today participating in Rachel's fabulous modern day style series. When she contacted me about guest posting, I immediately knew I wanted to do an updated Marilyn Monroe. What made her such an icon, aside from her signature beauty mark and sultry glare, was her sensational sense of style. Figure-hugging dresses, perfectly fitted sweaters, glamorous makeup, and striking accessories - that's what we know and love about the original blonde bombshell. Below is my take on a modern Marilyn, complete with her signature scent and iPhone, of course.

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Sweater, ALLOY // Capris, J BRAND // Heels, CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN

Earrings, LOREN HOPE // Bracelet, LOREN HOPE // iPhone Case, KATE SPADE

Lipstick, ESTEE LAUDER // Polish, ESSIE // Perfume, CHANEL // Eyeliner, E.L.F

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Thank you so much for having me today, Rachel!

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See more Modern Day Style posts:

+ Jane Birkin, by The Vault Files

+ Grace Kelly, by Fashion Truffles

+ Jackie O, by Natalie Merrilyn

+ Elizabeth Taylor, by Brunch at Saks

Thoughts for a new week :: finding balance

I have a tendency of gratefully saying “yes” to every opportunity that comes my way, when at times I know I should be saying “no”. The consequences of this have crept up on me in the last week, where I’ve found myself feeling stressed and overwhelmed with all that’s going on. To make it worse I’ve come down with a horrible bug which has left me feeling lethargic, uninspired and unmotivated. Ugh, it is not fun feeling this way!

The reality is that I should be enjoying this time as exciting things are happening. I want to enjoy the process of researching and planning my trip; I want to be prepared and focused for starting my new job in 2 weeks; and I want look after my body which is clearly telling me to just chill out. 

So I’m going to be kind to myself, which means that for the next little while things will be a bit quieter around here while I focus on getting some balance back in my life, and take the time to stop and smell the roses. I will of course be still Pinning, Tweeting + Instagramming and stopping in here when I can.

I know I’m not alone in feeling this way as I’ve read similar posts recently like this + this. As bloggers we are juggling so many things: a full-time job, family and friends, just to name a few, so it’s very easy to feel overwhelmed. 

How do you get your balance right?

Rachel xo

Image via

Most coveted

I'm supposed to be on a shopping ban until my trip, but a girl can dream right? 

Here's what I'm crushing on right now...

1. Equipment Brett Striped shirt // 2. Proenza Schouler's 'PS1' // 3. Isabel Marant Dicker boots // 4. Cat-eye sunglasses // 5. Bassike Leopard wallet // 6. Claire Vivier for Splendid iPad case // 7. Ice midas collar.

The September issues

My favourite magazine month is September, which is traditionally the biggest issue of the year for publishers, and I always look forward to seeing who lands the highly coveted cover position. 

With the exception of Australia, celebrities dominate this years' covers, which I'm not necessarily against, but it is a clear signal that celebrity pull power is not showing any signs of slowing down. My favourite cover has to be US Vogue with Lady GaGa, shot by Mert Alas and Marcus Piggott. Close second though is Australian Harpers Bazaar, featuring Constance Jablonski, who was chosen by newly appointed editor Kellie Hush.

French Vogue created three different covers featuring Lara Stone, Kate Moss + Daria Werbowy, who are each wearing the same Dolce & Gabbana dress + shot with a dark background. This is an interesting move from Editor Emmanuelle Alt and I'm keen to see which one will perform the best.

I have to say I was disappointed with the Australian Vogue cover, which was the first for new Editor, Edwina McCann, who recently took over the helm from long-standing editor Kirstie Clements. 

Which is your favourite September cover?

{US September Issues}

{UK September Issues}

{Australian September Issues}

{Vogue Paris}

Modern Day Style :: Elizabeth Taylor

Hi friends! I'm so excited to be introducing you to Annemarie today, whose blog, Brunch at Saks, is a firm favourite of mine + is always filled with not only gorgeous fashion + decor, but also the prettiest entertaining + DIY ideas. Annemarie's blog was one of the first I  followed when I started blogging, so to have her guest post today is an honour. 

Thank you Annemarie!

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Hi lovely readers! Annemarie here from Brunch at Saks. I was so excited when Rachel asked me to be a part of this post series because, first and foremost, {little bits of lovely} is one of my favorite blogs, and secondly, the gorgeous Elizabeth Taylor is one of all-time favorite movie stars. While Liz seemed to stay on top of all things trendy, I think it was her superb choices in stunning evening wear and dazzling jewelry that really launched her into the worldwide fashion icon she so lovingly became. There were so many looks to choose from when I was creating this style board inspired by her, but ultimately I went with something I thought would be both fun and classic to wear for a night out. 

Here's what I put together:

first photo credits: 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 |

1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 (shown in miss dior "cherie") | 7 (shown in "norma")  | 8 (shown in "dragon") | 9 | photo

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See more Modern Day Style posts:

+ Jane Birkin, by The Vault Files

+ Grace Kelly, by Fashion Truffles

+ Jackie O, by Natalie Merrilyn

House tour :: for the love of gingham {and leopard!}

Have you read the latest issue of Matchbook yet? If not, I seriously think you need to immediately! I don't know about you, but each month I think Matchbook keeps getting better and better. 

My favourite feature in this month's issue was Editorial Director, Katie Armour's 

San Francisco home which she describes as a "mess of everything I love".

I really love that Katie didn't stick to one style, but rather mixed pieces she loved that somehow came together to create this modern, stylish home that oozes with personality. Her clever "mess" of bold colours, textures and fabrics all work together in mis-matched harmony and make it incredibly unique.

After this I think I'm going to be just slightly obsessed with gingham!

What are you loving about Katie's home?

Rachel xo

All images via Matchbook

5 reasons to exercise + feel good

I've been more than slack on the exercise front recently + always manage to find an excuse as to why I can't work out. But I know I need to get my act together + shake off these winter blues because summer is going to arrive before we know it. And given that I'm headed to the South of Spain next month, where the temperatures are still going to be lovely and warm, I need to make sure I'm in good shape!

So starting this week I'm going to get back into my exercise rhythm, aiming to commit to a regular exercise schedule of 4 times a week for at least 45 minutes. I know how good I always feel after I have exercised, so I really just need to make the time + do it!

Here are a few reasons to put those running shoes on + get moving...

1. Exercise gives you energy. Yep, strange but true, the more energy you expend on exercise will actually help feel more alert and energized throughout the day. Exercise  = energy. 

2. Brainpower. Research has shown that exercise improves a person’s memory more than those brain games you read about on the Internet.

3. Sleep. Fact: people who exercise sleep better at night. 

4. Exercise helps to improve your mood. Working out stimulates chemicals in your  brain that leave you feeling happier and relaxed, which reduce the risk for anxiety and depression when you exercise regularly. 

5. Exercise improves your self esteem. When you commit to exercising regularly you are doing something that is contributing to your overall health and well-being, which in turn will help you feel better about your body.

How do you keep motivated to exercise + keep up a regular schedule?

Rachel xo

Image // quote

Happy weekend!

Happy weekend friends! I'm in countdown mode for my trip now, its only 6 weeks to go! I picked up my passport this week, plus I'm picking up my camera on the weekend, which means I can start to experiment before I go on my course in 2 weeks time. 

I'm also trying to find an apartment in Paris, so if you know any good sites to look at please let me know!

Do you have any exciting plans?

Here are this weeks' lovely picks....

+ Sophie made the loveliest video of her ultimate day out in London - I will be following these great suggestions when I'm there!

+ The new Cire Trudon store London looks incredible + is my idea of heaven; I can't wait to visit. 

+ I loved this simple DIY for making pretty teacup candles.

+ This recipe for homemade chocolate Oreo ice cream looks decadent + delicious!

{Weekend reading}

+ Rue

+ Lonny

+ Matchbook

+ In case you missed it...

+ I guest posted over at A Diary of Lovely sharing my dream holiday destination.

+ Wednesday Workspace {in the details}

+ A 'pinch me' moment.

+ Modern Day Style series: the elegant + chic Jackie O.

+ Thoughts for a new week :: the best is yet to come. 

Have a lovely weekend!

Rachel xo

Image credits: 1 | 2 | 3 | 4

Guest post {a diary of lovely}

I'm over at A Diary of Lovely today sharing my dream holiday destination,
which is of course Paris!

Rachel xo

Wednesday Workspace {in the details}

Today's swoon-worthy workspace belongs to designer + store owner, Jenni Kayne who gave The Coveteur the inside scoop.  I'm loving the mainly white space mixed with with the occasional burst of colour.  But it really is the details - the fab ghost chairs, the art, flowers + inspiration wall - that make this space pop; don't you think?

Oh + I couldn't help but notice the more fashionable details like the Hermes bag + leopard scarf - how lovely!

What details are you loving in Jenni's workspace?

Rachel xo

All images via The Coveteur

A 'pinch me' moment...

Hi lovelies! I found out today that I was named on Mashable's list of top 20 fashion accounts to follow on Pinterest. Wow, what an honour to be amongst amazing people who I look up to, like Nina Garcia, Erika Bearman, Emily Schuman, Glamour Magazine + Kate Spade!


They named black + white, streetstyle + editorials as the best board picks, so I thought I'd share a few of my favourites from each....

I'm still in shock. 

Thank you so much Mashable!

Rachel xo

Modern Day Style :: Jackie O

Hi lovelies! Today I'm thrilled to be introducing you to one of my favourite bloggers, Natalie, whose blog is a constant source of style inspiration for me. I was so excited when I saw her post + I know you will be too as I think she has captured Jackie O's signature style perfectly! 

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Hello Little Bits of Lovely readers! I'm Natalie from Natalie Merrillyn and I'm thrilled to contributing on Rachel's gorgeous blog. I absolutely love the idea of re-envisioning a classic icon for today, and Jackie O. is definitely one of my favorites. Her timeless elegance is something I strive for.

ONE Milly Eyelet Cotton Dress | TWO Karen Walker Number Six Sunglasses | THREE Noelle Brooke Polka-Dot Swimsuit | FOUR Kate Spade Portola Valley Janine | FIVE Christian Louboutin Lady Bombay Patent Leather Flats | SIX Jackie: Her Life in Pictures by James Spada | SEVEN Carolee Jackie 8mm Three Row Pearl Necklace | EIGHT Sugar Paper Ensley Avenue Monogram

Thank you so much, Rachel, for having me today!

xo

images 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7

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Seriously amazing, yes?

Thank you Natalie!