It’s a New Year and now is the perfect time to rethink your style and decide what your wardrobe will say about you in 2018. After all, you know what they say: “New Year, New Me!” When it comes to fashion, committing to resolutions can help reinvent your personal style.

When choosing your resolution, keep in mind that you want to announce something that is achievable. Some examples are: “In 2018, I want to step out of my comfort zone and wear bold new trends” Corals, apricot tones and blush pinks are the new trend colours of 2018.

Coral Dress is sleeveless, knee length right on trend! The vibrant colours and applique feature at the neckline will have you looking and feeling fabulous. Its soft, flowing silhouette is simply stunning and perfect for Summer.

If colours aren’t your attraction, then look at silhouettes. Clever drapery will dominate in 2018.

“I’ll wear clothes that I feel good in, and not what others think I look good in

After all style just isn’t about what you wear, but how you feel.

Mozelle Tiffany is sure to succeed in this style resolution. This beautiful Mozelle dress is a collaboration between Stokes Thompson and Melbourne designer Hanni consolidating Tiffany Blue Silk Georgette.

This gorgeous silk georgette strapless dress features small pleating over the bust to create a flattering detailed look. Small gathering under the bust gives the dress amazing fall and movement.

“Incorporate Lavender in your look” .. purple looks great on every skin tone, so this is definitely a trend to try!

Alicia Iris Long is perfect for those wishing to give lavender a go. It is comprised of Iris silk and details a feature neckline and V-neck bust. This stunning floor length gown has been designed and made in Australia.

If you feel you would like to incorporate lavender a little less, our Grace Antique Ivory is ideal, giving you just that little extra pop of purple.

Eclipse Dress will also give you a subtle purple introduction. This dress integrates Black and White mesh sequins. It is knee length and embodies purple Thai silk contrast sleeves and bodice panels. This is an exclusive one-off garment for each size. It travels well, and is ideal for a cocktail party or any other special occasion.

To view our entire range of dresses, visit our online boutique.

Whatever your Christmas plans, ’tis the season to be jolly! Glitz and glamour are a must to be incorporated into the Festive Season. Remember to consider the weather, and take into account your outerwear so as not to get caught out in the cold.

Twist fronts are great to wear this time of year, after all, you’re the best present, so why not wrap yourself up like one?

Sophia Black and Sophia Cobalt are simply stunning. They feature a V-Neck wrap, sleeves and pockets, making them perfect for any cocktail or evening occasion. Sophia dresses are made from 100% silk, comprising a knee-length hem.

Green is an excellent colour to wear throughout the Christmas season. Green like a Fir tree, starred because you’re fabulous!

Our Rose Garden is constructed with Marrakesh Green graduated pure silk, bears a side split above the knee and embellishes an emerald silk Dupion contrast detail at the neckline. Alicia Sea Foam is available for those wishing to wear a shorter style. It is also constructed from Marrakesh Green graduated pure silk and displays an aquamarine sequin contrast at the bodice. It incorporates pockets at the waistline. They both holler Party! Fashioning a fitting complement for any Christmas celebration.

Keep in mind that the Festive Season is all about partying. So classic Red’s and Black’s are always welcomed.

Mozelle Red is a Gorgeous Georgette strapless dress, which features small pleating over the bust to create a flattering detailed look. The gathering under the bust also gives this dress amazing fall and movement. Ideal wear for when your three courses in. For a shorter option, you can’t go past Rose Garden Red. It’s feature neckline and red lace knee-length design is sure to keep you feeling fabulous throughout your Christmas festivities.

For that little black number, Rose Garden Black is ideal. It’s all about the fit. It has been designed and made in Australia and is a timeless silhouette to wear during the holiday season.

For that After-5 Festive Function, Rose Garden Black Lace is sure to be a winner. This floor length lace dress is super versatile and provides that luxury feeling from top to bottom.

To view our entire range of dresses, visit our online boutique.

With over 25 different types of handbags it’s no wonder you may need some tips on how to pick the right one for the right occasion. Handbags play a crucial part in creating your perfect statement style. There are two main categories of bags. Those for day and those for night, and there are four purse styles every woman should own!

1. Crossbody Bags. These are extremely popular and come in various styles and sizes. A medium size will allow you to carry all your essential items without weighing you down like larger bags tend to do. If you are just going to stick with one of this style, then 8″ x 10″ or slightly smaller is a perfect choice. Choose a neutral colour like brown, black or white.  These bags suit both day and night attire matched to a medium level of dressiness.

Alicia Platinum is a beautiful knee-length dress comprising a feature neckline and V-neck bust. It has silk sleeves and would most definitely suit a crossbody bag. It has been designed and made in Australia.

Alicia Sea Foam is a below the knee-length dress which is very versatile to many occasions. It consists of an aquamarine sequin contrast bodice and pockets at the waistline. It is made of Marrakesh Green Graduated pure silk. Also ideal for any crossover purse.

2. An oversized bag. Oversized bags are your go-to bag. They fit everything in them and are great for traveling, mums with kids or working women. These bags are an essential staple no matter what your life stage. These bags are to accompany casual wear. They are not an evening accessory. Oversized is casual. Small is dressy.

Rose Garden is versatile enough to be worn with an oversized bag. This dress was designed as part of the Stokes Thompson’s Spring Summer Collection 2013. It is comfortable to wear, sleeveless and easy to maintain.

3. A Clutch. You will never need more than one or two of these in your cupboard, but they are a necessary item to own.  For dressy occasions, these are the only appropriate bag. Never wear formal wear with a bag slouched over your shoulder. Clutches come in many various sizes and shapes. Some will be as little to only carry your lip-gloss and keys, whilst others will be large enough to act as a regular purse. Size does not matter when it comes to a clutch.

Alicia Iris Long, Aurora Navy Long, and Juliette Black are but a few of our stunning formal gowns in our collection ideally suited to clutch purses.  They are perfect for bridesmaid, formal or ball dress.

4. A Tote Bag. This bag also fits into the casual range. They are perfect for carrying groceries, library books or a picnic lunch. They come with many various patterns and cute sayings. They are great to add a touch of uniqueness to your otherwise casual day.

To view our entire range of dresses, visit our online boutique.

At various times throughout the year evening temperatures can drop without much warning. Jackets are an obvious choice to wear over your clothes in regards to keeping you warm when traveling between your desired destinations.

There are certain style jackets that better suit certain style dresses. Below are some tips that will help you understand which jackets pair best with your chosen silhouette.

Ruffled minis are the perfect accompaniment for a Fit-and-Flare coat. Wearing a jacket that nips in at your waist and flares out at your hips won’t restrict this type of dress. In turn it also won’t cause any unwanted creases.

Alicia White Lace is the perfect dress to wear under a Fit-and-Flare jacket. It comprises a V-neck bust and feature neckline. It’s has been designed in Australia and it’s lace sleeves make this dress ideal for any formal function or cocktail occasion.

Full Skirts require an A-Line Coat. A structured coat that sits just under the waistline works well to frame a fuller skirt. Our Octopus Dress is a stunning three-quarter length silk chiffon kaftan style dress. It yields contrasting brown silk godets at the hemline and highlights wide, silver trim sleeve cuffs.

Fitted dresses are best matched to Tailored coats. Tailored jackets keep your polished look feeling chic and stylish. You simply can’t go past a dressed up tuxedo jacket to wear over your next cocktail design. Evening Sky Champagne, Rose Garden Black or Red would all look amazing under this type of jacket.

Evening Sky Champagne is sleeveless, cool and comfortable to wear. It features a ruffle champagne bust and travels well. Rose Garden Black is an elegant lace, knee-length dress ideal for any cocktail party. Rose Garden Red is a stunning red, knee-length dress with a feature neckline. It has been designed and made in Australia.

Your Floor-Length number needs some Layers.

Estelle is collaboration between Stokes Thompson and Melbourne designer Hanni. It envisages a cutout bust, cutout back and featured stitching. Layers work best with this type of extravagant dress. A furry vest over a jacket will allow you to remove the jacket and leave the vest on for extra warmth when required.

Minimal dresses are a must for Maximum coats. Knee-length dresses look stylish under any menswear-inspired coat that hits the ankle. This look would also escort a pair of gloves.

Cream and Ivory Vintage is the perfect dress to wear under a large coat! This dress was designed as part of Stokes Thompson’s Spring Summer Collection 2013. This knee-length cream and viscose vintage style dress is very versatile. Ideal for parties and beach resort events.

To view our entire range of dresses, visit our online boutique.

Spring is most often associated with bright, sunny days, blooming flowers and the chimes of wedding bells! When planning your wedding colours, think outside the box. Give those pastels a refreshing look by following the latest wedding essentials for colour trends. These include pairing pastels with contrasts. For example, sky blue marries well with brown, lavender with lime green and coral with latte.

Our Opal Dress is a perfect example of how well contrasting colours look together. Whether you are the Mother of the Bride, a close Relation or a respected guest, this dress is sure to make an impression at any Spring wedding.

Bold, bright and vibrant colours are also very much in season. Remember to only select one or two of these colours to carry throughout your wedding to create an elegant impression.

Coral is fast becoming a most popular colour choice for many Spring Wedding themes. The colour coral represents the sunset and the colour scheme Solstice, comprises of Coral, Custom Peach, Grecian, and Ice. The depth of colour in this colour scheme is simply stunning. Coral hues and starry-night blues sing relaxed evenings by the lake. Pairing bold tones with corresponding lighter shades creates an irresistible earthy palette that is perfect for outdoor, rustic weddings.

Coral Dress has been designed and made in Australia and especially suits the Solstice palette to a T. This sleeveless, knee-length pure silk dress features vibrant colours with an applique feature at the neckline. This soft, flowing, coral coloured dress incorporates an invisible zipper closing at the back which will have you looking sensational and thoroughly loving wearing this dress at your next Spring wedding.

Spring is, in no doubt, one of the most favorite times of the year. The flowers are blooming, the weather is warming and love is in the air. A perfect time to day “I do”. Pantone’s Colour of the Year for 2016 was Rose Quartz and Serenity, and with most brides now incorporating such colours into their dresses, our Grace Antique Ivory would make any Spring bride look and feel beautiful. It embellishes a stunning feature waistband, which subtly incorporates hints of the quartz colour.

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…

Women possess unique attributes when it comes to individual looks and styles. By choosing clothes that match your skin tone, eyes and hair colour, you are able to enhance those personal features. Let’s take a look at what it takes to find the right clothes to make you look your best.

Most of us often wear certain clothes more than others. When you take a closer look at your wardrobe, you may notice a similar colour palette appearing. Although women’s skin colours come in many different shades, there are only two undertones: Warm and Cool.

These undertones are what you should look at in determining the right colours that suit you. Turn your hand palm up, and look at the veins on your wrist. If they are blue or purple, then you are a cool tone. If they appear green or have a yellow cast, then you are a warm tone.

Knowing your colour tone, and choosing the right colours for your tone, can dramatically change your entire appearance. The right colours can leave you looking youthful and healthy, whist the wrong colours may leave you looking aged and lusterless.

The colour red is generally used as the basis to identifying your colour. Wearing different reds will help you find the right colour for you.

Warm based reds include scarlet and orange red that have traces of yellow. Warm colour tones look great wearing warm based reds. You can never go wrong buying clothes in the colours of orange, watermelon, coral, yellow, dark leafy green and peacock blues. Mix up your wardrobe with taupe, yellow and rose gold, but steer away from cool blues in your purchases.

Rose Garden Red, Kiara Red and Mozelle Red are all warm based dresses.

Cool based reds are those consistent with fuchsia, cherry and raspberry. Cool based reds incorporate blue tints, like those found in peppermint, evergreen, and powder blue. Cool toned woman look their best wearing royal or navy blue, gray and black. When out shopping, buy colours that remind you of the water and sky. Avoid all yellow hues.

Birds of Paradise, Alicia Iris Long, and Coral Dress all exhibit cool based reds.

As rule of thumb blue eyes will compliment earth tones, taupe, slate, grays, rose, purple/violets, silver and turquoise.

Brown eyes suit greens, gold, blue, pink tones, copper, bronze and champagne.

Green/Hazel eyes should elevate to orange undertones, golds, khaki, mocha/warm browns and plums

Complementary Hair colours for warm skin tones are: Caramel, Red, Strawberry blonde, dark brown and mahogany.

Cool skin tones look best with platinum, ash-blonde, jet black and burgundy Hair colouring.

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…