Aug 26
Women’s Equality Day. Dresses designed for Independent Women.
26th August is a day proclaimed each year to celebrate Women’s rights. It commemorates 26th August 1920, when votes to women officially became part of the US constitution.
Being a strong, independent woman means being able to find happiness on your own. It means learning to express who you are and who you want to become. What you wear and how you feel in your clothes contributes greatly to your self-esteem. Colours also play a huge part of what makes a woman feel independent.
Red is a colour that can’t be ignored when thinking about empowering yourself. It is associated with strength, positivity and warmth. From iconic red soles of Christian Louboutin’s shoes to the glamorous gowns on the red carpet, this colour is sure to turn heads.
Our Kiara Red is a stunning collaboration between Stokes Thompson and Melbourne designer Hanni. It is silk georgette featuring a lace cut-out on the back as well as small pleating around the waist, giving this dress amazing fall and movement.
Mozelle Red comprises silk georgette and has also been collaborated between Stokes Thompson and Melbourne designer Hanni. It’s pleating over the bust creates a flattering detailed look, while the gathering under the bust gives this dress stylish fall and movement.
Both of these dresses would empower any woman and make them feel confident at their chosen event.
For something a little shorter, why not take a look at our Rose Garden Red, this beautiful knee length dress has been designed and made in Australia. It has a feature neckline and details red lace. It would suit any bridesmaid, cocktail or race day attire.
Red is a versatile colour representing power and prestige. When looking at today’s association between red and power, we continue to see its connection. The Oscars roll out its ‘red carpet’, which is and only made available to the most prestigious individuals who are allowed to grace the walk.
Purple is also a colour not to be overlooked when thinking dignity and purpose. It signifies self-respect and unswerving steadfastness to a cause.
Alicia Iris Long is a unique, floor length gown, made and designed in Australia. It is made of Iris silk and features a V-neck bust and silk sleeves.
This dress is perfect for any formal or ball occasion.
To view our entire range of dresses, visit our online boutique.
Copyright © 2017 Stokes Thompson. All Rights Reserved. Contact Stokes Thompson or phone +61 7 3369 5119.
This article may not be used without the prior written consent from the author. See below for more details…
DO YOU WANT TO USE THIS ARTICLE IN YOUR E-ZINE OR WEBSITE? You can, as long as you include this text copy in its entirety: Do you have a special occasion coming up and need a special outfit? Stokes Thompson Design has a range to suit many occasions. Click here to view our Our Collections.Aug 12
What’s your Style Personality?
There are dozens of personal styles. From the ‘girl-next-door’ to ‘sophisticated’ or even ‘artsy’ attire. Along with many professional and creative styles, which can stand-alone or blend with other styles to create your own unique look.
It’s important to recognise the positives and negatives of your chosen style, and what you want your impression to be from your appearance.
There are four main fashion personalities. Relaxed, Romantic, Classic and Expressive. Most women will possess elements of two or three of these personalities. Relaxed personalities love to wear cool cotton, neutral colours, drop waist dresses and maxi skirts.
Opal Dress is perfect for these personality types. It is versatile, comfortable and cool to wear. This, mostly cream, sleeveless three quarter dress travels and packs well.
Remember, wearing clothes that suit your personality will make sure you are always feeling confident and comfortable in how you look. Your personality is a strong indicator of what types of styles suit you best.
Romantic women tend to wear more frills, lace and ruffles. They gravitate to floral patterns and silks. If this is you, our Hibiscus Champaign is your dress. It is an easy to wear silk chiffon, knee length design, with full-length sleeves and a tie at the neckline. The fabric is designed in Australia and is ideal for evening resort, and special occasion wear.
Classic types prefer timeless pieces. They avoid trends and prints.
Rose Garden Black is perfectly suited to Classic type personalities. It consists of black lace and exhibits a feature neckline. This classic silhouette has been designed and made in Australia.
Expressive are those who love bold articles of clothing and take every chance they get to create unique masterpieces. They love patterns and bright colours, and are never afraid to stand out in a crowd.
Coral Dress is sure to please any Expressive personality. It is a sleeveless, knee-length pure silk dress with vibrant colours and applique feature neckline.
To view our entire range of dresses, visit our online boutique.
Copyright © 2017 Stokes Thompson. All Rights Reserved. Contact Stokes Thompson or phone +61 7 3369 5119.
This article may not be used without the prior written consent from the author. See below for more details…
DO YOU WANT TO USE THIS ARTICLE IN YOUR E-ZINE OR WEBSITE? You can, as long as you include this text copy in its entirety: Do you have a special occasion coming up and need a special outfit? Stokes Thompson Design has a range to suit many occasions. Click here to view our Our Collections.Jul 28
A Day in the Vineyards? What to Wear to Specified Outings
When it comes to fashion, practice makes perfect. Sometimes picking out the right outfit can be a stressful affair. Choosing what to wear everyday can sometimes lead to fashion fatigue. The more time you can spend on planning your outfits, the easier it will become to plan them quickly.
To help you decide on the right attire to wear to a specified occasion, first think of the correct colour scheme. For example, if you are dressing for an occasion in Spring, try pairing two different pastel shades. Remember, these base colours are only a starting point. Don’t restrict your entire look on only two colours.
Our Coral Dress is perfect for any Spring event. It comprises a feature applique at the neckline, is sleeveless, knee-length and constructed from pure silk. It is sure to be a winner at any beach/resort or special occasion.
Winter colours are typically white, black, navy blue, and red. Steer away from beige, orange and gold. Choose from our stylish range of Rose Garden Black, Rose Garden Red, Sophia Black or Sophia Cobalt to complete your stylish winter look.
On most occasions, ample time is given to you to decide on what you’re going to wear to the specified event. Plan your outfit the night before. It can often be a struggle to decide what to wear on the day of. Be sure to check the weather conditions for your outing too. There’s nothing worse than choosing the right outfit for the wrong condition.
Many times the weather will be dependent on the clothes you choose to wear. If you are to attend an outing in humid conditions choose an outfit that will fall away from your body, and that will touch your skin as little as possible. Opt for a long flowing dress instead of tight jeans. Avoid synthetic fabrics at all costs.
If your outing sees you heading out in colder conditions, dress in heavy layers. Cover all exposed skin with warm fabrics like wool, cashmere, fleece and flannel. Consider bringing a second, fetching pair of shoes to get changed into, if the event permits. If your tights aren’t warm enough, double up. If your light cardigan isn’t enough, bring along a fleece for when the sun goes down.
Tip: Changing a style may be as subtle as substituting different shoes or accessories.
In the event it is possible there could be a fluctuation in temperature wear extra layers and bring extra items. A pair of socks, some gloves and a beanie could be all that stands between grief and comfort.
Still worried about hitting the mark? Stash some dazzling earrings and a pretty scarf in your bag to dress up any outfit!
To view our entire range of dresses, visit our online boutique.
Copyright © 2017 Stokes Thompson. All Rights Reserved. Contact Stokes Thompson or phone +61 7 3369 5119.
This article may not be used without the prior written consent from the author. See below for more details…
DO YOU WANT TO USE THIS ARTICLE IN YOUR E-ZINE OR WEBSITE? You can, as long as you include this text copy in its entirety: Do you have a special occasion coming up and need a special outfit? Stokes Thompson Design has a range to suit many occasions. Click here to view our Our Collections.Jul 14
Keeping Warm in the Cooler Months without Losing your Style
At this time of the year, it’s important to wear the appropriate amount of layers in clothing, to help regulate heat. Thermals, socks, jackets and vests will assist to keep the heat in. Remember to wear scarves and layer your clothes to keep you warm. These will trap body heat. Always have a base layer. Then accessorize from there. Footwear is important too. Wearing footwear that keeps your feet warm will definitely help to keep the rest of your body warm too. For those chilly days and nights, wear a longer coat to repel the wind.
Gloves are a must. But don’t just buy the first pair of black leather gloves on sale. The fabric they are lined with play a critical part in whether you keep your hands toasty or have them turning blue. Swedish brand Hestra’s master glove cutter, Niklas Magnusson recommends you buy one pair lined in cashmere or wool for regular cold days and a second that are lined in fur or shearling for when the temperature drops to minus conditions.
When you want to stay warm, but feel there is no need for bulky overcoats, a beanie is the perfect accompaniment. Wear it slightly back on your head, so not to cover your face.
Over-the-knee socks will make any dress look utterly stylish during these cooler days. They are an adorable alternative to tights.
Don’t blend in with a boring black jacket. Why not stand out with an unexpected pop of colour. The colour of the moment is pink, so look at purchasing a stylish pink jacket to wear over your desired dress during this season.
Socks are a must have addition to any winter wardrobe. Some winter days are still warm enough to sport a bare leg. All that is needed here is your favourite pair of socks to be added for that extra warmth of comfort.
Don’t be afraid to wear that little lace dress. Worn under a turtleneck, this peek-a-boo style is sure to turn heads at your next winter date night. Our Rose Garden Black is perfect to achieve this look. Also available in Rose Garden Red.
This is the perfect time of year to wear those over-the-knee boots. Worn with a mini, they create the stylish effect of cosy chic.
Evening Sky Champagne and Evening Sky Black are the perfect style to wear with this style of winter footwear.
Remember, a thick sweater can sometimes be as cosy as a coat.
To view our entire range of dresses, visit our online boutique.
Copyright © 2017 Stokes Thompson. All Rights Reserved. Contact Stokes Thompson or phone +61 7 3369 5119.
This article may not be used without the prior written consent from the author. See below for more details…
DO YOU WANT TO USE THIS ARTICLE IN YOUR E-ZINE OR WEBSITE? You can, as long as you include this text copy in its entirety: Do you have a special occasion coming up and need a special outfit? Stokes Thompson Design has a range to suit many occasions. Click here to view our Our Collections.Jun 29
20 Tips Every Girl Should Know
When caring for your gorgeous garments, shoes and accessories, there are a few tips that every girl should know. Here is a list of our top 20.
1. How to remove deodorant stains
Tip. If black makes up most of your wardrobe, then this tip is for you! Baby Wipes are a handy tool for removing those pesky white deodorant marks in a flash.
2. How to eliminate yellow sweat stains
Tip: Spray lemon juice to the areas prone to sweat stains before washing.
3. Hairspray for Hosiery.
Tip: Spray your tights with hairspray to prevent them from running.
4. Chewing Gum
Tip: Use ice to remove chewing gum from your clothes. Get that gum as cold as your can for easy removal. (this trick will also work for furniture and hair!)
5. How to remove red wine stains
Tip: Use white wine to remove a red wine stain. Pour a little white wine on the stain so the red doesn’t set in.
6. DIY closet space
Tip: Create double clothes hangers
7. Caring for Cashmere.
Tip: Despite what the tag says, Cashmere is always best washed by hand. Dry it in a salad spinner to get rid of the excess water in seconds.
8. Stopping Mohair from Shedding.
Tip: Fold the garment and place in a zip lock bag. Freeze the bag for a minimum of 3 hours.
9. Removing Oil Stains
Tip: If you get an oil stain on your favorite handbag, simply coat the area with baby powder and leave overnight. The stain should be gone by the morning. If it is still visible, repeat until it is completely gone.
10. Get Organised
Tip: Always organise your clothes starting with the lightest going to the darkest. Your eye will follow the colour and in return help keep you organised.
11. Stay Organised
Tip: Cut your closet space by 25% with this one simple rule. As yourself this: “If I were in the store right now, would I buy this?”. If your answer is no, then out it should go.
12. The Neck Method
Tip: If you don’t have the time to try on pants in the store, place them around your neck. If they comfortably meet at the back, then they will fit.
13. De-Fuzzing Fuzz
Tip: The best way to de-fuzz a sweater is by using a pumice stone.
14. Getting out of a waxy situation
Tip: If you get wax on your clothes, lay a piece of wax paper over the top and run an iron over it. The heat will loosen it up and come right off when you remove the paper.
15. Keep those Flowers in Bloom
Tip: Adding a dash of vodka to the water in your vase will extend the life of your flowers.
16. Keep that Colour
Tip: When you really love that shade of blue of your jeans, add 1/2 cup of distilled white vinegar to the final rinse cycle of your wash. This will maintain the colour of dark jeans.
17. Stop that Squeak
Tip: To stop squeaky shoes, remove the inner sole and apply Vaseline before replacing it.
18. Stretch those Shoes for a Better Fit
Tip: Fill two freezer bags with water and place into each shoe and place in the freezer. As the water freezes it will gently expand your shoes.
19. Shop till you Don’t Drop
Tip: When shopping for a wedding dress or other major event, make sure you have your makeup on, have the proper garments underneath and your hair is semi-done. This way you will get a better sense of how it will all look.
20. Last but not least! Blot DON’T Rub.
Tip: When something has spilled onto to your clothes, never rub. Wiping or rubbing will actually ingrain the stain further into the weave.
Copyright © 2017 Stokes Thompson. All Rights Reserved. Contact Stokes Thompson or phone +61 7 3369 5119.
This article may not be used without the prior written consent from the author. See below for more details…
DO YOU WANT TO USE THIS ARTICLE IN YOUR E-ZINE OR WEBSITE? You can, as long as you include this text copy in its entirety: Do you have a special occasion coming up and need a special outfit? Stokes Thompson Design has a range to suit many occasions. Click here to view our Our Collections.Save
Jun 16
Which Necklace works with which Neckline?
Pairing the right jewelry with your chosen neckline certainly makes a difference! Your necklace needs to compliment the neckline of your dress. Here are a few examples to help you accessorize correctly.
Scoop necklines require you to where pendants with volume. Scoop necklines are necklines, which have the scoop shape dropped significantly below normal limits.
Grace Antique Ivory has the perfect cut to display a moderate pendant.
It is floor length and has been designed and made in Australia.
It is a floor length design featuring a waistband and georgette sleeves. It is easy to wear, making this dress ideal for any bridesmaid event or evening ball.
A choker should accompany a strapless dress. Our Holly White and Mozelle Red are perfect, elegant, styles that are ideal choices for any choker style necklace.
Chokers are perfect for day or night wear. Diamante, Faux leather and chain chokers are only a few of the designs that are on the market, making it easy for you to find your perfect statement piece.
V necklines require a V shaped pendant. This means your necklace should taper down, giving it a silhouetted V shape.
Sophia Black and Sophia Cobalt are perfect for this type of necklace design.
Lastly, Cowl necklines need no necklace at all. They simply require some feature earrings. Dresses that comprise a cowl neckline instantly add drama and flatter many body styles.
Our Dusk White Long is a long, cream, silk dress ideal for parties and beach resort occasions. It is perfect to show off any stylish pair of earrings.
To view our entire range of dresses, visit our online boutique.
Copyright © 2017 Stokes Thompson. All Rights Reserved. Contact Stokes Thompson or phone +61 7 3369 5119.
This article may not be used without the prior written consent from the author. See below for more details…
DO YOU WANT TO USE THIS ARTICLE IN YOUR E-ZINE OR WEBSITE? You can, as long as you include this text copy in its entirety: Do you have a special occasion coming up and need a special outfit? Stokes Thompson Design has a range to suit many occasions. Click here to view our Our Collections.May 29
Evening Attire – What to Wear After 5
Have you ever heard the term ‘After Five Attire’? In simplified terms, this is just another way of saying ‘Semi-Formal’ wear. Dressing appropriately for these types of events simply means to step up your workday style a notch.
Semi-formal dressing for women means ‘not too dressy’, therefore you aren’t required to wear floor length or formal dress. Simple black dresses and knee length dresses with heels are perfect After Five attire.
When choosing your outfit, keep in mind to:
look for fabrics such as chiffon, satin or silk. These will help differentiate from your normal office daywear. pair your dress with heels. not wear anything too revealing. If your dress has a shorter hemline, make sure is has sleeves and a high neck. If the neckline is lower, make sure the hemline is lower. Find a dress with a fit that flatters you. Detail necklines and silhouettes that best suit your body. accessorize with a little bling. One or two statement pieces are enough for you to not overdo it. “Keep accessories simple”. carry a clutch.
Rose Garden Black and Sophia Black are perfect little black dresses for After Five Wear. Both are knee-length and would accessorize well with a touch of bling. Rose Garden Black is black lace and embraces a feature neckline. Sophia Black is beautifully made from 100% silk and consists of a feature V-Neck wrap. These dresses have been designed and made in Australia.
Remember, colours are acceptable After Five attire, as long as the fabric has some sheen.
Crystal Amethyst is a shorter, sequined dress, adhering to the “After Five” guideline: shorter hemline, higher neckline.
This dusk pink silk shantung dress embosses pleating detail above the waist with a sequined bodice and bust.
Evening Sky Champagne has been designed and made in Australia. It is constructed from high quality champagne polyester nylon sequin material and features a ruffle champagne bust.
Rose Garden Watermelon features a beautiful silk georgette drape detail at the back with contrasting sleeves and feature neckline. It is knee-length and is ideal for any After Five event.
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May 15
Fashion Trends | Latest Fashion Trends for Autumn
The cooler weather is almost upon us! Although, whilst Autumn in Queensland lasts a little longer than in some other parts of Australia, the nights and mornings are fast becoming chillier at this time of year. As the days continue to shine, Autumn attire is more than fitting to continue to wear through until June.
Pretty layers and layers of ruffles have seen this year’s Autumn fashion gain popularity. These dresses look great with knee-high boots and dark accessories. Our Hibiscus Champaign is the perfect Autumn dress to accessorize with. It comprises a full-length sleeve with tie at the neckline. The fabric is designed in Australia and is made from silk chiffon.
Autumn evening attire prompts the need to start ‘wrapping up’ at night and as the temperatures drop, a jacket or coat will be required to keep you warm, but nothing too bulky underneath just yet.
Black Opal is a below the knee length silk dress with black polyester microgette contrast ruffled sleeves. It is designed and made in Australia for easy wearing. Perfect for Autumn eveningwear.
This Autumn/Winter will see colours of lavender, fuchsia, reds and midnight blues predominately take place.
Eclipse Dress is an exclusive one-off garment. Perfect for that unique, individual feel. This knee-length dress ticks all the Autumn fashion boxes, is designed and made in Australia and travels well. It incorporates Thai silk contrast sleeves and bodice panels.
Rose Garden Red is a beautiful knee-length dress, has been designed and made in Australia and adheres to this year’s Autumn/Winter colour scheme. It has been constructed from red lace and features a stunning silk georgette drape detail the back.
Evening Sky Black‘s midnight blue contrast neckline and bust is sure to make a statement this Autumn/Winter.
This cocktail party dress is fashioned with knee-length sequin material and a pure silk dupion gathered frill detail at the bodice. This easy-wearing resort style dress is ideal for any special occasion or cocktail party.
Apr 28
Tea for Two Tuesday – Dresses designed for High Tea.
A High Tea is the perfect occasion to dress up with some of your favourite ladies and enjoy an afternoon of delicious food. It’s the perfect occasion to dress up and look as dressy as the sweets in front of you. You want to feel exquisite when you are seated at your table of finger sandwiches and tiered cakes accompanied by exquisite French champagne or tea served in fine China.
High Teas are commonly organised outings these days, and whether you have decided to High Tea in your home, a café or in a luxurious restaurant, you are sure to indulge in a glamorous afternoon. Here’s what we suggest what to wear.
For High Tea attire you can’t go past a lace number. Rose Garden Lace White is an elegant floor length dress with a feature neckline. It has been designed in Australia and would be an ideal choice to wear to any High Tea gathering.
Alicia Platinum, with sheer silk sleeves comes to straight to mind when talking High Tea. It is a platinum silk knee length dress with a feature neckline and V-neck bust. It is perfectly suited for High Tea and would be sure to be make any wearer feel exquisite.
Diva Foam Short has been collaborated between Stokes Thompson and Melbourne designer Hanni. It is a gorgeous polyester silk dress, which features a hand beaded bust and fan cap sleeves. The small gathering around the waist gives this dress amazing fall and movement. Making this a perfect design for any High Tea. Note: it also comes in a floor length design (Diva Foam).
Wrap dresses are also in fashion when it comes to thinking of what to wear to a High Tea.
Sophia Cobalt is made from 100% silk. This dress features a knee length hem, sleeves and pockets. The front consists of a feature V-neck wrap, making it a perfect dress to wear to your next High Tea. It also comes in Black (Sophia Black).
To view our entire range of dresses, visit our online boutique.
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Apr 14
Hairstyles. What to wear with that Updo?
Dress first, Hair second. This is the general rule of thumb when deciding on what hairstyle will match with your outfit. Here are some tips to consider so you avoid those side-swept curls with your one-shoulder dress.
When considering what outfit to wear, you also think about what accessories, handbags and shoes to wear with it. The same goes for your hair. Different hairstyles play a major role in aiming to look great from head to toe and it can become quite clear that different outfits require different hairstyles to wear them well.
Lace dresses are perfectly matched with your loose, romantic updo. The lace keeps your hairstyle looking romantic and takes it from an ordinary dress to a fabulous ensemble.
Alicia White Lace is the perfect dress to match for an updo hairstyle. It is Australian designed and comprises a V-neck bust and feature neckline. Its lace sleeves are perfect for any Bridesmaid, Formal or Cocktail dress. Its knee length design is suitable for day or evening wear.
Kiara Red has been designed in collaboration between Stokes Thompson and Melbourne designer Hanni. It consists of a stunning back detail and is ideally suited for updo styles to showcase the lace cutout feature. It is a gorgeous silk georgette dress with small pleating around the waist to give it amazing fall and movement.
By sweeping your hair to the opposite side of your one-shoulder gown it will balance out any misconceptions. As demonstrated with our Lara Cobalt, one-shoulder design, this beautiful dress is another collaboration between Stokes Thompson and Melbourne designer Hanni. It is a gorgeous silk georgette dress featuring hand-beaded diamantes.
Halter neck dresses are already sorted for neck detail, so wear your hair high or in a loose bun to add romantic charm.
For turtleneck and sweetheart gowns, a sleek ponytail drawn back will look great and draw people’s attention to the dress style itself.
A strapless dress always looks great and with a fully exposed shoulder and neckline you will need to lift your hair off this area. A mid bun is the ideal partnership for any strapless design.
Remember, in addition to finding your perfect dress, your hair can really make or break any style.
To view our entire range of dresses, visit our online boutique.
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