Australia Day – The Smart Casual
Australia Day long weekend is usually a relaxed, barbeque kind of weekend. For many of you it marks the end of the holidays. Even for those of you already at work, it is an opportunity for a relaxing break before the New Year really kicks in.
Relaxing weekends like this are all about being casual and comfortable but we need to understand that the definition of casual is not carved in stone, or does not necessarily represent sweat pants or ratty jeans. Casual can mean different things to different people and what is acceptable casual depends largely on the environment – think of the difference between a bar patio and a camping trip. Casual though can also be fashionable and comfortable, regardless of where you start or end the day.
French Connection white jeans $129.95 with taupe top $149.95 and lace-up flats $129.95
Some of the looks displayed in today’s blog are wonderfully flexible because they can be dressed up, or down, simply by the accessories you choose. And as I always say, your shoes will go a long way towards helping set the tone.
Going to a barbeque for some will mean you reach for a simple casual maxi, while some of you may be more inclined for shorts and a t-shirt. Others still may opt for a nice day dress. With all of these remember that flip flops can work beach side and a quick change to a nice wedge or heels can take that same outfit to the next event of the day with no fuss.
David Lawrence left $279 and right $259 Both dresses are suitable for most shapes and up to a size 16.
You can dress up your whole look with a quick swap of one piece as well. Perhaps shorts and a nice top for the beach and then throw a skirt in the car for a quick change before you hit the bar in the evening. Or a tank or t-shirt for the warm, sunny day to be covered by a sweet, flowing sweater for the evening.
Country road top $99.95, sandals $129, bag $99.95 and shorts $79.95. Country Road have 25% off all shorts at the moment!
Country Road left $179 and right $149 Both dresses great if the weather turns a bit cooler. I love the Grey knit….versatile with layering options!
One of the things I love about Australia is the diversity of choice to match every occasion. Virtually anything goes because it all changes widely according to what you do!
French Connection dress $149.95 and white sneakers $129.95
I am a big believer in wearing what you love and feel comfy in, so if a pair of white jeans, white sneakers and a simple but edgy knit is your thing…..do it. If your patriotism is best represented by the green and yellow, by all means, have some fun and show your true colours. 🙂
Or you may like to go the red and blue? Dress from Country Road $$99.95
Weather of course, will impact your outfit choice so keep that in mind when selecting your outfit 🙂
Veronika Maine $299 – larger cut, great for most shapes apart from an hourglass!!
What are your plans to celebrate the day? Or maybe your not celebrating at all and will just enjoy a day off work?
One big question in topic which I would love to receive your opinion – Should we change the design of our Australian flag?
Hi Cindy
Another great blog… I am pretty patriotic and traditional so I would like to keep the current flag!
I love the Veronica Maine dress and the White jeans…
Question re white jeans – white jeans on a size 16 /18 – they can be quite unforgiving in clinging to lumps and bumps – any suggestions to help these become more flattering to the larger figure?
As always I love when ur emails arrive – always gets me thinking!
Happy Australia day to you and Cal…
Sue
Hi Sue, glad you enjoyed the blog 🙂 White Jeans…….look for a thick Denim, not too much stretch as then it is too thin. Wear white jeans, perhaps a longer top or even A Symmetrical tops. and nude shoes to elongate. Thanks so much Sue and Happy Australia Day also…….I am with you on the flag:)
Hi Cindy,
Thanks so much – great outfits. But of course, I like your outfit the best. Can you please tell me where you bought the pants and top?
Kind Regards, Louise
Great Louise!! Top is Sass and Bide and the pants are quite old faves from Zara! 🙂 xo
Hi Cindy, you’re looking gorgeous as usual. Australia Day is huge in WA. They don’t tend to celebrate NYE much but go all out for Australia Day. Homes decorated like Christmas, fireworks, beaches packed with people etc. Quite refreshing. p.s. Veronika Maine dress is divine. xx
Hi Gail……Wow really!! I had no idea!! For me, sadly, it just represents a day off…..However I have been at Torquay a few times and I must say, the beach area really does go all out with lots of flags and Australia Day activities! I hope you enjoy yours…..It sounds like great fun!! xo