An inspiring story from MakeupFree Me Day…

I’m often surprised and delighted to hear from friends from distant places who come across my Blog and get in touch as a result of some of the stories I write.

Yesterday though, I was doubly thrilled to hear from my 18-year-old step-niece in Sydney, Rebecca Pearse, who’d read my Blog from last week about the Makeup Free Me campaign. Not only had Rebecca taken up the challenge and gone ‘makeup free’ for the day, she’d raised $529 along the way for the Butterfly Foundation.

Congratulations Rebecca! I am full of admiration for this young woman who took time out from her heavy Year Twelve workload to raise money for such a good cause. Mind you, I’m also pretty envious of someone who looks so totally gorgeous both with AND without makeup.

Rebecca with makeup

Rebecca with makeup

Rebecca without makeup

Rebecca without makeup

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

I wasn’t so successful in taking up the challenge myself… although I did give it a decent shot. With a heavy workload this week in the lead up to heading off overseas, I knew it was unlikely I’d have time to jump on the fund-raising bandwagon full throttle, so I decided just to dip my toe in to test the waters this year, and I vow to do this properly next year!

But I did go for a full DAY without makeup! It sounds superficial, but for me, this is a big deal. Don’t forget, I began working in the TV industry at the tender age of just 20-years old, where a full face of make-up wasn’t just for vanity’s sake, it was an on-air necessity. I learnt all the tips of the trade from our highly skilled make-up staff and still love the artistry involved.

I do though, however, fully support the concept behind the Makeup Free Me campaign – encouraging women in to go ‘makeup free’ for one day to show the world you can step out and be confident about who you are without any artifice.

Especially because the campaign is also about raising funds for that excellent organization – The Butterfly Foundation, which promotes positive body image and helps those with eating disorders.

So here’s how I survived the day…

Hiding from view...

Hiding from view…

First, it was a matter of being brave enough to face the world…

My daughter chased me with the camera until I finally let down my guard…

 

 

Exposed!!

Exposed!!

 

 

 

Yeah, it’s a bit ghoulish… But I went about my day ‘nude-faced’ and became less and less self-conscious as the hours passed by. I was a little miffed by my local doctor though, when I explained my lack of make-up was because of this campaign and he just looked at me and said, ‘Right…’ nodding his head, sympathetically.  I mean, seriously, he could have told a weeny white lie and said,’ But you look fabulous!’ – couldn’t he?

My stumbling block was the evening. With a ‘date’ planned with Fetch, as a ‘romantic evening’ before I head away, I caved. I couldn’t face turning up at the glamorous Stokehouse restaurant without my lippy. I spent hours debating the issue in my head. But in the end, I wanted to have a great night without niggling self-consciousness getting in the way of our fun. So I justified my cowardice by saying it was more important to put my relationship first. Plus, as I said, I didn’t have any sponsors and fund-raising issues to answer to this year.

Next year, I promise to be braver and go the full distance. Really, I will! If Rebecca can do it, so can I.

The Best in Stylish-Casual from De Nimes…

With so many women working from home these days, stylish casual clothes are becoming more and more popular. I mean, who wants to work from home in a business suit?

De Nimes at 877 Burke Road, Camberwell

De Nimes at 877 Burke Road, Camberwell

A great find for the best collection of ‘stylish casual’ in Melbourne is De Nimes boutique in fashionable Burke Road, Camberwell. Owned by Julie Gaudion and Rebecca Smith, the duo have developed a store that stocks an eclectic mix of both high-end and modestly priced ranges to suit all budgets.

 

 

Julie Gaudion and Rebecca Smith of De Nimes

Julie Gaudion and Rebecca Smith of De Nimes

Julie, who also works as a model, jumped at the chance to go into business with Bec. ‘The opportunity came up about a year and a half ago, so I said “yes” straight away. It’s going really well. We’ve got the stock right now. We used to be more expensive but now have a lot more stock that is more affordable.’

Their target market is women aged between 30 and 50 – a lot of young mums and women working from home. ‘They like a more casual wardrobe with jeans, boots, tops, scarves and jackets. Things they can wear from school drop-off to work.’

 

De Nimes interior

De Nimes interior

 

The boutique’s interior is modern and minimalist, with a few retro touches that I fell in love with – including the giant Farrah Fawcett poster on the walls of the dressing room…

 

 

Farrah Fawcett poster

Farrah Fawcett poster

Luckily my beautiful Blogging model and buddy Rochelle was free to come along when I visited so she road tested a sample of their wares. Here’s some of what De Nimes has in store for the coming season:

Viktoria and Woods Infinity jacket $399, Viktoria and Woods sleeveless black top $199, Angie Mac necklace $49

Viktoria and Woods Infinity jacket $399, Viktoria and Woods sleeveless black top $199, Angie Mac necklace $49

Sundry heart top $119

Sundry heart top $119

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Ilse Jacobsen white shirt $129 and Tiger Tree scarf, $49

Ilse Jacobsen white shirt $129 and Tiger Tree scarf, $49

Sophie Moran long sleeve top $179

Sophie Moran long sleeve top $179

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Ilse Jacobsen royal blue top $99 with Sadie basic tank $19

Ilse Jacobsen royal blue top $99 with Sadie basic tank $19

Fate Popsicle knit $89 with Fate Khaki pants $99

Fate Popsicle knit $89 with Fate Khaki pants $99

Viktoria and Woods white Caspian shirt $259, Fate black:white pants $99.95 and Angie Mac necklace $49

Viktoria and Woods white Caspian shirt $259, Fate black/white pants $99.95 and Angie Mac necklace $49

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Denim is a big part of De Nimes offering and it’s a testament to their dedication that Julie and Rebecca have even used the French definition of the store name as part of the boutique’s decor.

The meaning behind the name of the store...

The meaning behind the name of the store…

De Nimes specialises in a wide range of denim

De Nimes specialises in a wide range of denim

So what are the most popular denim labels with customers? ‘Hudson jeans and Mavi are really big sellers and people also love LTB which has a bit of detailing that customers want. Out most popular high-end fashion brand though would definitely be Viktoria and Woods,’ said Julie.

The brands stocked by De Nimes

The brands stocked by De Nimes

 

Here’s a look at all the brands stocked in De Nimes – an easy way for passers-by to see how many labels one boutique has the capacity to stock.

Perhaps that’s one reason De Nimes isn’t feeling the bite from Internet shopping. Rebecca thinks it’s also because of the personal service they offer. ‘We still have a very loyal customer who loves to come in for the experience. It’s a very relaxed atmosphere and we can help with styling. We like to help coordinate with other pieces in the store.’

 

Yep, that’s one thing the Internet can’t compete with – good old-fashioned hands-on service from REAL PEOPLE with a sense of style.

If you’d like to visit De Nimes, head to 877 Burke Road Camberwell. For enquiries, phone (03) 9882 9335.

 

 

COULD YOU GO WITHOUT MAKEUP FOR ONE DAY?

 

When I first heard about this upcoming MAKEUP FREE ME campaign, I thought ‘Nice concept, but not for me.’ It’s all about encouraging women in to go ‘makeup free’ for one day – NEXT WEEK, Friday, AUGUST 30th  – to show the world you can step out and be confident about who you are without any artifice.

The art of makeup

The art of makeup

Gwyneth Paltrow goes makeup free

Gwyneth Paltrow goes makeup free

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

It’s also about raising funds for an excellent organization – The Butterfly Foundation, which promotes positive body image and helps those with eating disorders.

And while I agree it all sounds lovely, I’m just not sure I’m brave enough to take part. I mean, it’s all well and good for the fresh-faced twenty-somethings out there, but for me? Just the thought of putting my face forward into the world without makeup is pretty terrifying. Okay, so I wear very little make-up to the gym – but at least a coat of mascara and a dash of eyeliner make me feel human.

The woman helping to promote it all is Merissa Matthew, who gave up a high profile marketing job about a year ago when she decided she’d rather ‘make a difference’ in our society. Negative body image is an issue she’s passionate about.

‘The campaign is not about makeup being bad but rather it’s about encouraging women to step out in confidence and show the world that beauty is more than just skin deep,’ said Merissa.

Cynical me had to ask, ‘But surely a lot of women are saying, HELL NO!’ ??

Funds raised go to The Butterfly Foundation

Funds raised go to The Butterfly Foundation

Nup. Merissa says it’s exactly the opposite. ‘Women absolutely love the Makeup Free Me concept and the positive body image message that is being promoted. Many women have jumped straight into the challenge whilst others have been a little hesitant. But that’s absolutely fine; it’s supposed to be challenging – to encourage us to stop and reflect on where we find our self worth,’ she said.

 

Well, I don’t value myself according to the foundation I put on my skin – I just think it looks a helluva lot better with the foundation on it. That’s all. And yes, I CAN do without foundation, but giving up mascara??? Hmmm… I’ll have to think on it. And if I DID go makeup free, should I post a blog and show everyone? EWWWWWWW…..

Merissa admits there are some women who HAVE said ‘No’. ‘Yes, some women who have said that they don’t feel comfortable going makeup free for the day and that’s okay. I recently received some really great advice from Travis Garone, founder of Movember. He said to me “Movember welcomes all but Movember is not for all.” He then proceeded to say that I must always remember that not all women will get involved and that I need to be okay with that. Wise words indeed, but I guess I shouldn’t have expected anything less from such a great man.

But let’s get to the WHY part of the campaign. And this is the bit where, if like me, you were initially reluctant, you might start to change your mind.

Merissa explained the facts and figures. Here are TWO that stood out:

– 90% of Aussie girls aged between 12-17 are on a diet of some type. (yep, that’s NINETY per cent!!!)
– Only 4% of women around the world can call themselves beautiful.

Merissa found these statistics shocking. ‘I had to ask myself the question as to whether I sat in the 4% of women? If I’m being honest, I would have to say that I probably fall into the 96%. I am on a journey, however, in discovering my value in who I am rather than what I look like and I want women and girls across the world to walk in this knowledge as well.’

Except that Merissa sent me through a photo of herself without makeup and well, HELLO, she’s stunning. I really hope she’s a long way into that journey because Merissa, if you read this, you ARE beautiful!

Merissa Matthew, Founder Makeup Free Me

Merissa Matthew, Founder Makeup Free Me

I had another question, which is a bit superficial. Why the hell pick a FRIDAY when most people go out that night of the week and might decide NOT to do the campaign for that reason?

‘That’s a great question,’ said Merissa. ‘The reason a weekday was chosen was because we wanted to ensure that we didn’t just hide away, makeup free in our homes on the weekend (which might be tempting). Specifically we chose a Friday because it gave us the extra challenge as most of us do head out and socialise with our friends.’

Right. Merissa is big on those challenges… Could I? Will I? Should I??

Hang on, surely it’s going to be an annual event. Could I do it next year instead? Is it going to be an annual event?

‘That’s definitely the plan. Now that the foundations are in place we can focus on increasing awareness each year and encouraging more Australian women and girls to participate. We also know however that negative body image is not just an issue in Australia. Our ultimate goal is to expand to other countries so that we can empower women and girls across the world to develop and nurture positive body image (but let’s not get ahead of ourselves),’ said Merissa.

And what about some fun stuff? Are there any events taking place? If I’m going to be going around scaring people without makeup, it would be nice to get together with some other nudie-faced chicks so we can all feel self-conscious together.

‘We have the Makeup Free Me Girls Night event on the Friday at Rivers Edge in Melbourne,’ said Merissa. ‘Whether women are registered for the campaign or not, we’re encouraging them to join us. Tickets are only $55, which includes canapés, drinks, giveaways and lots of entertainment.’

Of course all the proceeds go directly to the Butterfly Foundation and Channel 10’s, Natalie Hunter will be guest MC for the night.

Tickets can be purchased at http://www.makeupfreeme.com.au/events.

And if you’re interstate or overseas, why not organize your own Girls Night Out with a fund-raising game attached – and see if you can meet the challenge – NO MAKEUP for just one day.

If you’d like to register to take part, go to: http://www.makeupfreeme.com.au/register

I’m still thinking about it. But I AM leaning towards doing it. What do you think?

Watch this space.

 

 

The new ladies in Doctor K’s life…

I’ve had to endure my husband having many relationships with different women over the years. Of course, he’s had his on-screen Neighbours wife, Susan, for more than 18 years and that’s been easy because Jackie Woodburne is such a wonderful human being and good friend.

Then there was Nicola Charles (Sarah) and Natalie Bassingthwaighte (Izzy) who were love interests on the show for a spell and also both gorgeous, so I can’t complain. Natalie has also become a close pal.

Jackie Woodburne, Fletch and Natalie Bassingthwaighte

Jackie Woodburne, Fletch and Natalie Bassingthwaighte

But now, not only is Fletch surrounded by stunning women on set, he’s embarked on a musical project that means he’s going to be working closely with THREE beautiful and highly talented young women. I mean, really, if they weren’t so damn nice, I might be feeling a little bit over it all…

Alan first met The Pacific Belles when they came along to a regular gig where his band Waiting Room was playing at The Elephant and Wheelbarrow in St Kilda. From there, Alan learnt about their unique musical style and plans for a collaboration grew. You see, The Pacific Belles aren’t any old girl group. They’re a retro swing trio that emulates the harmonies of The Andrews Sisters from the 1940s.

The Pacific Belles performing at The Paris Cat in Melbourne

The Pacific Belles performing at The Paris Cat in Melbourne

 

We went along to The Paris Cat in the city one evening to see them perform and were blown away. Not only is their repertoire tight, pitch perfect and entertaining – they mix up the old with the new – even singing a jazz influenced version of Wonderwall. Impressive.

 

 

Laura Monaghan (pictured above centre) – better known as ‘Betty Belle’, is the lynch pin of the group and the mastermind behind the concept. She firmly believes she was born in the wrong era, which probably accounts for their authentic sound. ‘I came over to Australia from the UK and I’ve always wanted to sing in a trio,’ she said. ‘I love singing harmonies so I thought, “Let’s do a 1940s singing trio.” That’s the music I’m really passionate about. It’s a glamorous era. I love the fashion, the lipstick, the hair – everything.’

The Pacific Belles

The Pacific Belles

 

They’ve definitely got the look down pat. Quick frankly, listening to them sing downstairs at The Paris Cat, I really did feel like I’d been transported back to another era…

 

 

 

They’ve already built up quite a following in Melbourne – playing at functions, popular venues, weddings and events. Tonight they’ll be performing at the launch of Melbourne’s Fringe Festival with shows booked during the festival as well.

A vintage tea party with The Pacific Belles

A vintage tea party with The Pacific Belles

‘Our next public performance dates will be during the Melbourne fringe festival at Madame Brussels on the 22nd of September and then again on the 5th and 6th of October.  Our show is called Sing, Swing, Get in The Mood and we’d love everyone to come along for the afternoon tea and a show.’

As for Fletch’s new musical collaboration with The Pacific Belles, that’s under wraps for the moment, but I’ll give you a hint. It might have something to do with Christmas…

Fletch and Belles

Fletch and Belles

They make a good team, right? Oh, and the Pacific Belles will be back at The Paris Cat in November. In the meantime, they’ve also got an album and video clip to finish. Ultimately, they’d like a hit song in the UK charts. I can’t wait to hear the finished product!

The Pacific Belles

                                The Pacific Belles

For Bookings and enquiries please contact Betty Belle –
Tel: 0448 698 900
Email: thepacificbelles@hotmail.com