Local designer Collette Dinnigan has provided red carpet dresses for some of the world’s biggest stars.

She’s been seen on everyone from Angelina Jolie to Aussie supermodel Sarah O’Hare, however one of her designs can set you back thousands of dollars.

It’s just been announced that Dinnigan will join the Designers for Target line, with a range of lingerie called Wild Hearts that will include pieces for under $20.

You can see a couple of snapshots from the collection at the DFT website now, with the range launching in stores on April 17.

Another competition will also be announced on the website when the range launches, so stay tuned.

By Caroline Warnes

Yesterday marked the last day of the L’Oreal Melbourne Fashion Festival and the day belonged entirely to Target.

Held at the waterside location of Central Pier in Docklands, Target hosted an all-afternoon event, including some free attractions outside in the 35 degree sunshine including a concert by The Veronicas.

But it was the action inside that I was excited about - that is, the two fashion shows to launch Target’s new collections (in particular, the latest Designers For Target range from New York designer, Zac Posen).

Having seen the new collection live on the runway, I have to say that the pictures on the site don’t do the collection full justice. The reds and purples are much more vibrant in person, and the materials are much more luxurious.

The collection was presented with a distinctly 1940s flavour with a modern twist - think Cate Blanchett playing Katharine Hepburn in “The Aviator”, if that makes any sense. The wide-legged pleat detail pants (you can see all these at the DFT website) featured heavily throughout the show, teamed with the various blouses in the collection, tucked in neatly - a great look for the office this winter.

Also a great idea for winter is the black Turkish coffee coat, which is a reinterpretation of the classic trench coat. In person it looks very smart and tailored and is priced well at $199.

And then there are the dresses - which were nothing short of spectacular. I was all ready to be wowed by the full-length Ottoman Dress, which has been featured heavily in promoting the collection and closed the show. And while it was indeed stunning, I was actually more taken with another dress in the collection - the Brocade Trim Ottoman Dress, pictured here. It comes in either brilliant red and black and once again I have to emphasise that it is so much more stunning in the flesh than it is in photos. The detail at the back is so unusual and exquisite and the mid-thigh hemline makes it very wearable for semi-formal and cocktail occasions. And once again, the price is right at $179.

I will have photos from the runway show later this week. The full range hits Target stores on April 3.

By Caroline Warnes

Hot New York designer Zac Posen has just been announced as the next Designer For Target.

That is fantastic news for Australian women who love fashion - Posen’s designs are creative and beloved by a host of celebrities, including Natalie Portman and Katherine Heigl - however, the clothes from his main collection also carry the hefty celebrity-style price tag.

Bringing Zac Posen’s range to the Designers For Target collection will bring it all in reach of us mere mortals - pricing is yet to be confirmed but it is likely to be similar to previous DFT ranges, with the most expensive items being around $200.

Zac Posen is a New York born-and-bred designer who took the fashion world by storm back in 2000 when he designed a gown for supermodel Naomi Campbell.

He’s best known for his edgy take on 1940s fashion, and his designs flatter women of all shapes and sizes - whether you’re super svelte or on the curvy side.

You can now view the range online at the Designers For Target website and it will be in stores on April 3.

The Zac Posen collection launches next weekend at the L’Oreal Melbourne Fashion Festival next weekend, and I’m heading down there to report on the range up-close. Stay tuned to the blog next Sunday night for more!

By Caroline Warnes

Here in Sydney, we’ve had some unseasonably heavy rainfall over the past few months.

With the days swinging from sunny humidity to torrential downpours in the blink of an eye, you’d be forgiven for thinking you were actually living in the depths of Kakadu during the rainy season.

Last week alone I managed to ruin two pairs of ballet flats on successive days, thanks to the rain. I am very attached to my ballet flats so this kicked me into decisive action: to buy gumboots.

Last time I rocked a pair of gumboots I was under the age of five and they were made of a rather unflattering plain black rubber. The good news is that these days you can find gumboots that are both fashionable and protective. Some people even go so far as to wear them for a night out as a fashion statement. While this reeks a little too hard of hipster doofus syndrome to me, I am definitely not averse to wearing gumboots on the street when it’s pouring with rain.

Save

If you need some functional gumboots but don’t want to spend a packet on them, your first stop should be departments stores such as BIG W and Target. They always have a range of affordable gumboots in stock.

You can also try Clark Rubber, which specialises in, well, rubber.

Spend

Spend a little more on your gumboots and you can pick some up with a fashionable look to them. Puddle Beach is an online store that specialises in wet weather gear. I bought the paisley boots pictured here for $67 the other day. You can check out more of their range here.

Splurge

If you’ve got cash to burn or really want to make a fashion statement with your gumboots, then you can’t go past Pucci. Yes, the same Pucci design house that is known for its bold, colourful prints. It’s really quite remarkable to see these colourful designs transferred to the humble gumboot. However because they carry the Pucci name, they can be a few hundred dollars.

Locally, Pucci gumboots are stocked by Myer. You can get a feeling for what they look like here.

By Caroline Warnes

It’s just been announced that the next Designers For Target collection will be revealed to the public on February 27.

Following on from the success of the Gail Sorronda and Yeojin Bae collections (remember the lace cutout dress, as pictured here? Sigh), hopefully this next collection will be just as good.

No clues so far on who the designer is, but you can visit the website to enter a competition to guess the identity of the next designer as parts of the picture are revealed.

All you can see so far is a patch of dark, wavy hair so it could be anyone! However by guessing correctly you can a limited edition designer evening gown in either red or black as inspired by one worn by a leading actress to the Emmys.

If this evening gown that’s up for grabs is designed by the mystery candidate, can we conclude that this is a designer known for their glam, formal evening wear? That narrows the choices down considerably… so start researching…

By Caroline Warnes

I always go into a state of mild shock when December arrives for the year.

Although I always have a general vague sense of time passing throughout the year, it isn’t until the final month arrives that I start to panic about clocking up another year, not doing most of the things I resolved to do last year, generally wasting time, etc etc.

But of course, the end of the year isn’t all bad. There’s also the bonuses of having a break from work, spending time with your family and, of course, an excuse for presents.

I personally don’t expect gifts from other people at Christmas, and I definitely don’t ask people to get me certain things (my father, bless him, famously gave me a $20 Caltex voucher one Christmas, and I definitely didn’t ask for that, though naturally it came in handy). I think gift giving should be entirely voluntary, otherwise what’s the point? But I usually do treat myself to one gift at the end of each year. This year I’m tossing up between:

* These Marc Jacobs pumps. I love the fact that they are sexy and feminine enough to wear out at night, but are also practical and demure enough for work. Marc Jacobs shoes are sold at Myer locally. I’d recommend trying shoes on instore rather than buying them online, unless you have bought shoes from that particular designers before. Sizes do vary greatly between designers. They can even vary within a designer’s range.

* This five-piece champagne set from Target. I think it’s a bargain at $49.99. At the start of summer I always have visions of hosting a fantastic cocktail party on a balcony somewhere wearing an equally fantastic cocktail dress, however this never actually happens. In any case, the champagne set would still come in handy.

* A Leona Edmiston dress. I have been absolutely in love with her dresses for years, but have never actually owned one. They are so flattering and feminine. I could seriously see myself buying any of the dresses in her current collection, however I’m particularly enamoured of the Emerald Style.

* A PlayStation 3 games console. My last games console purchase was the original Xbox several years ago and I think it’s time for an upgrade. And seeing as I have an high-definition ready flatscreen at home, I want to play HD movies as well! Thankfully, the PS3 is an all-in-one device and allows you to do that.

* Anything from the Cartier Panther collection. Okay, this one is in no way realistic given that Cartier jewellery tends to be without a price tag, well within the “if you have to ask, you can’t afford it” category. However I can always dream, right? A similarly animal-inspired (and more affordable) option is the Karen Walker Owl Ring. Still not cheap, but it’s an absolutely gorgeous piece of jewellery.

Lastly, I was excited to hear that Evelyn Miles is having a BIG sale for three days only (until Sunday). With up to 40% off new season stock and up to 60% off the already reduced sale stock, my credit card is already groaning in protest…

By Caroline Warnes

When it comes to fashion, arguably nothing makes more of an impact on the trends of the day than movies.

However there are some fashion moments in film that remain memorable far beyond their run at the cinema. Take a look through shops today and you can still see the influence of certain movies years - or even decades - after their cinematic release.

In that spirit, here are some of my favourite fashion moments in movies, and clothes that are inspired by them…

Michelle Pfeiffer, Scarface

I spent the first couple of decades of my life not really getting the fascination with gangster movies. Then I saw Scarface on DVD - starring Michelle Pfieffer as resident gangster moll Elvira - and suddenly I started to understand.

In this film, everything from Pfeiffer’s blunt fringe to her white linen skirt suit screams raw sex appeal and glamour. But most of all, she rocks the maxi dress. And I’m not the only one who thinks so - top Australian designer Wayne Cooper is said to be heavily influenced by Scarface in many of his collections.

Luckily for me, maxi dresses are back this summer. I love them because they can either be dressed up for night time - with killer heels and oversized earrings - or down for day, with flat sandals and minimal accessories.

Most stores have maxi dresses in stock at the moment. Target has several and better yet is offering 20 perent off some dresses until November 21. I also like this floor-sweeping halter from Bardot.

Marie Antoniette

The recent Sofia Coppola version of Marie Antoinette, starring Kirsten Dunst, could be described as bizarre at best - the costumes were probably the most enjoyable part of the movie. It was hard not to drool over the elaborate and colourful 18th-century dresses and powdered wigs. Brocade fabrics made a small comeback after this movie was released.

I was browsing the Wheels & Doll Baby website recently and saw they actually have a range named after the famous French queen (click on the La Pin Up - Fashion section to check them out - the Marie Antoinette Bra Dress is pictured here). The satin fabric used in these pieces wouldn’t have looked out of place in the film.

A word of warning: Wheels & Doll Baby designs are pure rock and roll fantasy (celebrity fans include Debbie Harry) and are not for the faint-hearted or the demure!

Uma Thurman, Kill Bill

Was I the only one who wanted to be an elite assassin codenamed after a deadly snake after watching Uma Thurman slice and dice her way across two countries in Kill Bill? I also wanted a yellow tracksuit. For a microsecond. But then again I am easily influenced. In any case, if anyone could make a yellow tracksuit look fashionable, it was Uma starring as The Bride. She even looked good wearing a wedding dress whilst being shot in the chest to the duclet strains of Nancy Sinantra’s “Bang Bang (My Baby Shot Me Down)”. She was just that cool in Kill Bill.

To get an identical yellow tracksuit, you’ll need to hit eBay, or you can find the creme de la creme of tracksuits - Juicy Couture - at Myer.

For something a little less “look at me, I’m wearing a yellow tracksuit”, the shoes Thurman wore throughout the movie were Asics Onitsuka Tigers and they can be found at several shoe retailers around the country. There is even a standalone store at Westfield Bondi Junction.

Audrey Hepburn, Breakfast at Tiffany’s

Come on - how could I not include that black dress of Breakfast at Tiffany’s? I’m going to go against the grain and say the movie itself isn’t a favourite of mine, however there’s no denying that Hepburn’s ankle-length black cocktail dress, pearl choker and cigarette holder ensemble as Holly Golightly is one of film’s most iconic fashion moments.

The original dress was made especially for Hepburn’s waspish 20-inch waist by Hubert de Givenchy (she was his design muse), however you don’t need to pay a fortune for a basic black cocktail dress. If you’re looking for versatility, you can’t go past the famous Sacha Drake Ultimate Black Dress. This little number can be worn 10 different ways - as a halter, one-shoulder, twisted halter or strapless dress, amongst others. Wouldn’t that take the headache out of coming up with exciting new outfits for the party season?

By Caroline Warnes

I am a regular gym-goer. I honestly wish I could say I enjoy the thrill of springing out of bed at 5.30am on a cold morning to get to an RPM class. It would make life a lot easier.

In reality, this is not the case. And let me be the first to say that I find anyone who does love leaping out of bed at the crack of dawn to go for a run around the block mildly annoying. In my world, that sort of behaviour is best left for Olympic athletes and bootcamp instructors.

No, for the majority of us, exercising can be a chore from time to time. Of course, there are those days when you’re full of beans and can’t wait to work off some energy (happens about once a decade for me), but most days simply aren’t like this. Once you’re actually exercising, it’s okay, but finding the motivation to get started can prove to be quite the challenge.

For me, having nice workout gear makes it so much easier to get out of bed and get to the gym. After all, no one gets excited about wearing tattered old trackies and your boyfriend’s cast-off VB t-shirt.

The good news is that you don’t have to spend a fortune to find decent workout gear. I’ve found that some of the most affordable - and durable - leggings and sports tops come from the discount department stores, such as Target and Big W. Big W’s cotton rib tanks are perfect for sports, and you can pick up two for $16.

Personally, I also find Supre is great for gym gear. Although it can be quite a task to actually enter a Supre store - particularly given the fact that the space left to squeeze between racks of clothing indicates that the shop is meant for someone at least half my age - once you get inside, it’s worth it for the Sporte range. I have a pair of Sporte leggings that I bought for $25 over a year ago and they’ve lasted better than some of my more expensive workout clothes.

While you can scrimp on your workout clothes, keep in mind that you should never, ever go cheap with your footwear. Always invest in quality shoes, depending on your needs. Visit your local sporting goods shop - such as Rebel Sport, Foot Locker or Amart AllSports to get professional advice on your runners. After all, your feet have to carry you around for a long time, and destroying them with cheap shoes won’t pay off in the long run.

Last but not least, if you are interested in health issues and live in Sydney, don’t forget that the Mind Body Spirit Festival is on at Darling Harbour until this Sunday, November 11. This year’s festival is particularly exciting - special guests include Allison Dubois (she’s the psychic on whom the Medium television series is based) and celebrity witch (yes, there is such a thing) and singer Fiona Horne. If you’re in Melbourne, the MBS Festival rolls into town on November 23.

By Caroline Warnes

When it comes to shoes, I am something of an extremist.

For me, they have to be either fabulous stilettos (usually reserved for the weekend so I can take them off if needs be) or comfy flats. I don’t like kitten heels. Wedges are not for me. I must be in either extreme comfort or glamorous discomfort at all times.

However, this season’s 15-centimetre Yves Saint Laurent “Tribute” heels (pictured here) scare me. Just looking at the photo makes my arches cry out in protest. And this is coming from someone who owns a pair of the most ridiculously high Jimmy Choos in existence. Granted, they have spent most of the last four years sitting in my cupboard, as I can’t walk around in them for more than 45 minutes without either falling over or otherwise making a fool of myself. Particularly after a few drinks. I know this from experience.

So, in short, you should expect to see copies of these ankle-breaking YSL Tributes in stores soon. However, don’t expect to see me wearing them. This summer I have decided to embrace flat shoes as much as possible. Honestly, my feet have had enough of heels for now.

Anyone else who loves flat shoes will be happy to know that there are plenty of glamorous options around at the moment. If you want something ultra-affordable, I’ve been really impressed with the quality of shoes from stores such as K-Mart, Target and Big W in recent times. Big W has some canvas ballet flats that would be perfect for going casual on the weekend for under $15.

If you’re willing to go over the $100 mark, I noticed some pretty and stylish Steve Madden patent flats in Myer earlier this week in this season’s hot colours such as electric blue and candy green. If you’re looking for something that will last several seasons, you can’t go past red patent.

Nine West also has plenty of flat styles this year, in both casual and dress. At $89.95, the Caro style is a bargain.

Last but not least, who can go past the humble thong in the summer months? For a different take on it, how about the Ipanema range from Brazilian company Grendene, which boasts supermodel Gisele Bundchen as its spokesperson. Hey, I may not have Gisele’s looks, but at least I can wear her shoes!

By Caroline Warnes

It’s hard to believe that the Spring Racing carnival has rolled around once again.

Although in some states we won’t be seeing any live racing throughout the spring - courtesy of the dreaded equine inflenza - the all-important Melbourne carnival is still going ahead, culminating with the Melbourne Cup on November 6.

If you’re going to the track for any of the big races, you need to have a fabulous dress and hat for the day. If you’re going to more than one, you need more than one fabulous dress and hat (did you know that it’s a major faux pas to recycle your outfit within the same racing season?). Even if you’re not going to any races, chances are you’re doing something to celebrate on Cup Day and still need a new frock.

All these new outfits can get very expensive. However the good news is that there are some options around that look good and won’t send you bankrupt.

Designers For Target
Designers For Target has been a godsend for fashionable fillies who love a bargain. We’ve seen collections by top designers such as Stella McCartney, Josh Goot and Alice McCall at affordable prices.

The latest collaborations are with Yeojin Bae and Gail Sorronda, two local designers with cult followings for their standalone collections. I am in love with the collection by Yeojin Bae in particular - the colours are so vibrant and the dresses in the collection would be perfect for any Spring Racing event - and all for under $200. I am planning on buying the Cut-Out Lace Linen Dress in violet very soon.

Gail Sorronda, on the other hand, is best known for her work with black and white. If you’re attending VRC Derby Day on the Saturday before the Melbourne Cup, Gail Sorronda could be right up your alley, given that black and white are the traditional colours of the day.

Chain store chic
Chain stores are also a goldmine for affordable dresses come Spring Racing.

Shops such as Bardot and Witchery have some lovely dresses for well under $200. Bardot’s Broderie Hem Dress would be perfect for Derby Day at just $129.95, while Witchery’s Pleat Shoulder Silk Dress would be a winner on Cup Day with a wide-brimmed hat.

Go vintage
If you’re looking for something that special outfit that no one else can possibly have, then your best option is to go vintage. The good news is that with vintage shopping, you can sometimes stumble across an outstanding bargain. The bad news is that it takes a fair amount of leg work to find it!

Unless, of course, you know the best vintage stores to hit before you head out for a day of vintage shopping. If you’re in Sydney, try Surry Hills Markets (they run in Shannon Reserve on the first Saturday of every month) and Grandma Takes A Trip. Shops worth checking out in Melbourne include Retrostar and Circa. Over in Adelaide, there are some interesting vintage clothing shops in the Rundle Mall area.

Another bargain hunters’ secret is to hit the op-shops and charity stores in the affluent areas of your city, such as Sydney’s North Shore or Eastern Suburbs. Often you’ll find something designer and in good condition that has been discarded by its original owner (because it’s so last season, daaaahling). I once saw a brand new pair of Jimmy Choo heels in my size in a second-hand clothing store in Neutral Bay for just $250 (that’s 75% off the original price). The only problem was they were bright yellow, and at the time I found them it was all about blacks, browns and pastels. Given the fluro trend that’s emerging this season, suffice to say that I am now kicking myself…

By Caroline Warnes