We connected over fashion but also have so much in common! I loved chatting with Shannon about careers, motherhood, and our own wardrobe and lifestyle changes. Scroll down for detailed tips from our chat and links to shop our recommendations!

Make sure you follow Shannon’s instagram @livingforstylesydney, and to book a session with her or join her private styling group » livingforstyle.com.au

WARDROBE GO-TO ITEMS!

{4:18min}

One of the most common questions Shannon and I get from women and wardrobe dilemma’s = is cool-casual outfits. Looks that are quick to put together and can go from school drop, to work, to groceries, to kids sport, etc! Here are her top items she recommends for go-to pieces:

* GOOD JEANS! That fit well and are comfortable, you’ll have these for years. Shannon’s fav pair » My top picks »

* KNITWEAR. “You don't need to iron it, looks elevated, and you can bring in some colours”. Love this tip from Shannon, and agree it can be a great way to add a pop of colour to your winter outfits. SHOP coloured knits! »

* A GREAT BLAZER… I couldn’t agree more - a blazer is that ‘throw-on-and-go’ item that takes an outfit from drab… to fab - in an instant! Shop 10 fab blazers »

SPORTLUXE LEISUREWEAR TIPS

{6:05min}

It’s cold, sometimes muddy, and often early morning starts! We share some fab tips for staying stylish (and warm!) on the sidelines…

* A GREAT COAT » instantly elevates you activewear! Throw on your leggings, jumper and sneakers, and add a beautiful warm long coat. Try camel or grey over black activewear… and add a cap for bed hair! Shop GREY coats » NEUTRAL coats » COLOURED coats »

* STRIPE PANTS » Is the coolest alternative to leggings or trackies. There are so many options available - just add a chunky knit or hoodie, sneakers and oversized coat. SHOP stripe pants »

SHANNON’S FAV BRANDS

{8:04min}

Scanlan Theodore, Kivari, and Saba - which I also adore for work wear, knits and suiting. I also love the fits for petite! Here is the link to the 100% wool trench coat I mentioned - TAP to shop »

Other brands Shannon loves includes Witchery, Country Road, and Seed Heritage.

WINTER SHOES & COATS - MUST-HAVES!

{9:25min}

Shannon’s tips for shoes for Winter - boots and sneakers. Wear the boots to dress up outfits, or style with sneakers to dress down a look.

BOOTS: If I was to recommend one pair of boots for Winter - I would say a black pair. It’s the most versatile colour whether it’s ankle or knee highs, heels or flats. It’s also a great time to shop boots as many of them are on sale in July! SHOP black boots »

SNEAKERS: And to dress down casual style, sneakers are a must! It could be plain white to go with everything… SHOP white sneakers » OR have fun with colour and stripes. It’s hard to own just one pair of kicks when they are so comfy and practical! SHOP coloured sneakers »

COATS: Are an investment for Winter but so important for staying warm! If you could only get one colour, I would recommend grey or a neutral. Shop GREY coats » Shop NEUTRAL coats »

Or you want to add some fun to your Winter style, try a colour like Burgundy, Khaki or even Navy! Shop COLOURED coats »

It was so fun to chat with Shannon, she is so lovely and a world of knowledge - we could talk all day! Follow her via Instagram @livingforstylesydney.

I’ll have another guest very soon on my podcast, and a new blog dropping next week with lots more fab Winter fashion tips!

Happy styling,

P xx

TIP NO. 1

Flip your wardrobe… Now don’t freak out, I don’t mean the everything… just a re-jig! Get your high Summer items - linens, shorts, frocks, sandals - and anything that can’t be layered for cold weather. Move these to the back of your wardrobe, the kids closets, or hubby’s! THEN move your Winter items front and centre.

NOW you clearly have in front of you the pieces that create a variety of looks... and you’ll get ready quicker because you can put together outfits easier!

TIP NO. 2

Create a shopping list. By doing a re-jig of your wardrobe, you also get a refresh on what you own… and what your missing! Write down 3-4 items you may need, and then when you go to shop in store on online - you will now be more direct going to those exact items. Save time, shop smarter!

TIP NO. 3

Try something new! It doesn’t have to be five completely new things - just one item can change up the way you style outfits, and refresh you look! Add a new shade to your wardrobe like rich burgundy, luscious choc, or warm khaki.. or add print like snake or leopard.. or try texture like a woven belt or lace skirt!

Even in the coldest Winter months, you can still be playful and have fun with fashion! Scroll down for style inspo and shopping links…

Add Burgundy

A warm coat, chunky scarf, or cool kicks…

Add Khaki

Casual style trousers, a cosy knit, or cool jacket…

Add Snake

A cool bag, boots, or chic belt…

Add Leopard

Flats or heels, bag or belt!

Shop lots more of my Winter fashion tips via my LTK Page »

So will you be doing a little re-jig your wardrobe? I’d love to know - comment below if you found these tips helpful! And I’ll have a new blog talking knitwear coming soon - make sure you subscribe to get it straight to your inbox!

Happy Styling!

P xx

This week I’m talking all things business and bling with Lydia Kirkland from GIMME - the cult accessories brand everyone’s talking about!

PS - get 10% off full price, discount automatically applied at checkout! Shop »

MEET LYDIA

Lydia is a self-confessed jewellery fiend and accessory queen. After co-founding GIMME in 2017, she officially took over the brand in 2023… relaunching it just weeks before giving birth to her second bubs (superwoman, right?!). Since then, she’s grown GIMME by 400% in a year!

GIMME’s mission is to deliver high-quality, classic and on-trend designs at an inclusive price point. But more than that - Lydia wants accessories to uplift you. Whether it's a claw clip or a killer earring, GIMME pieces are made to boost confidence and complete your outfit.

You’ve probably seen GIMME popping up in ELLE, Broadsheet, Mamamia. As well as worn by Aussie style icons including Holly Kingston, Leigh Campbell along with international celebs including drum roll… Katie Perry! And make sure you follow the GIMME Instagram page for the happy vibes - Lydia is so clever with her posts and videos, they are SO catchy and so fun!

MY GIMME PICKS

Here are a few GIMME goodies I wear and love, starting with the Gimme Coffee cap… this sold out wihtin days of launching, and I managed to grab one and have worn it all Summer! TAP to shop »

The LISA heart earrings are one of the best sellers! Get both the silver and gold pair as a bundle (save $20!) and hen you can mix’n’match the gold hearts on silver hoops, or vice versa… or wear them as just the hoops with no heart. The most verstaile earrings eva! TAP to shop »

TAP the video below to see how I’m wearing the LISA heart earrings:

I also have the ALLEY earrings in gold, I love how these are a smaller, easy to wear stud - but it honestly is so hard to choose there are so many gorgoeous styles, beautiful bling, and fun caps to choose from!

STYLING TIPS

Add a cap - It instantly adds personality to an outfit AND is ideal for bad hair days!

Go bold - A statement earring can do wonders for a simple outfit. Chunky shapes are making a huge come back, and are perfect to take an outfit from drab to fab!

Statement - Keep it to one statement piece for the perfect look. If you're going big with earrings, go lighter on the necklace - or vice versa. Let one piece shine!

Layered - Mix chains with pendants or pearls for a high/low look thats modern and super chic!

H&M FAB FINDS

You can hear by my reaction (and see my suprised face!) when Lydia says her grey vest and matching trouser are H&M - they are such fab finds!! I honestly thought they were high end brand, they are such a steal! I’m also a HUGE fan of H&M, you can get so many great items - and many under $100… here a few of my favs I saw recently! TAP to shop »

Can’t wait for you to hear this episode - it’s packed with Lydia’s brilliant tips, fun stories, and a reminder that accessories can be such a great way to take an outfit from drab... to FAB!

Happy Styling,

Penelope x

They are one of the hardest working items in a wardrobe, but can also be so frustrating to shop! Ahhh jeans. There are so many styles, fits, colours,brands… BUT I’m here to help!

AND I have an amazing guest, FiFi Milne - also known as @shopwithfifi. I met her at an event back in April 2023 and we’ve been chatting fashion ever since!

FIFI’S FAB TIPS

She is a world of knowledge! She is a must-follow on Instagram and subscribe to her newsletter. I love the tips she shared during our chat:

* FiFi’s numero uno shopping tip: always try on outfits with shoes - “You’re not going out with barefeet”! So always try items with shoes to get the complete look.

* FiFi’s thoughts on skinny jeans: get rid of the old pairs you used to wear, but be aware they are slowly coming back but with a different look #watchthisspace

* FiFi’s tips for new jeans: the barrel leg! It’s the modern jean shape that has been ‘lurking’ for a while… and now filtering down into high street brands and everyday style. See links below to shop the look!

Cerese Life $129.99 | Rolla’s $139.95 | Witchery $179.00

MY TIPS TO SHOP JEANS

* ALLOCATE TIME: and just shop jeans!! Allocate at least an hour, 2-3 key shops for your ideal size and budget, and don’t be distracted by other items, sale racks, etc. JUST shop jeans and you will try on more styles & sizes - and a better chance of finding the best fit!

* COMPLETE THE LOOK: Wear items you would regularly outfit with jeans, eg if you love a tshirt and sneakers, wear that, or if you love heels take them with you! Style the whole outfit so you know how the jeans will look & feel.

* WEAR A DASH OF MAKEUP: It lifts your mood and motivation to try on jeans - in those tiny change rooms and terrible lighting. A dash of blush and mascara makes you feel less washed out and more ‘styled’ for the day.

* GET TWO SIZES: In the one style when your going to the change room OR shopping online! Your less likely to give up quickly if one style one size doesn’t fit, or there is no shop assistant to help,

* HALF SIZES: You may find you are in between two sizes, so consider brands that do half sizes. I love Levi’s and find the store staff so helpful - they specialise in denim, have SO many fits & lengths, and the staff know the product so well.

* SHOPPING ONLINE: Have a measuring tape handy! Often brands will share the 3 key measurements that will help you work out the best fit/length - the inside leg, front rise, and leg opnening. See my video above to watch my tips!

* ELASTANE: This adds stretch. So if jeans are 100% cotton they be a more rigid fit and feel, but if they have 1-2% elastane, and even a dash of nylon, they have more stretch. MY TIP = I highly recommend 1% elastane, it’s the perfect amount!! eg. Levi’s wedgie.

BRANDS TO SHOP

JEANS Brands: Citizen of Humanity » Paige » Mother denim » Levi’s » Rolla’s » Lee » Abrand » Neuw »

High End fashion brands: Anine Bing » Camilla and Marc » Viktoria & Woods » Bassike » SIR » Henne »

Mid Range fashion brands: Dissh » Country Road » Witchery » Trenery » Assembly Label » Ceres Life » Seed Heritage » Unison »

Fab Finds: Cotton On » Uniqlo » Atmos & Here » Dazie »

For Curvy: Commonry » City Chic » Levi’s Curve » Atmos & Here »

For Petite: Saba » Seed Heritage » Unison » Cotton On » Uniqlo »

STYLES TO SHOP

Scroll down for my top picks for jeans. There is a style for everyone! Invest in a designer item, or snap up a fab find…

MY THREE FAVS:

(1) A straight leg, mid-rise, in a mid colour blue - I love my Levi’s! (2) A wide leg, high rise, in dark denim full length - love my Rolla’s! (3) And a relaxed fit, relaxed leg, full length in a light shade - I have these Camilla & Marc jeans in my shopping cart!

Levi’s Wedgie (cropped) $149.95 | Rolla's Sailor (long) $169.95 | Camilla & Marc Argento $380

JEANS THAT FEEL LIKE TRACKIES??

Yes please!! A trend that I’m loving hitting denim is elastic waists!! From designer brands like AJE to fab finds like AERE, these are soooo comfy and yet oh-so-chic!

AERE $130 | COS $159 | Country Road $179 | Aje $199

TRENDING IN JEANS:

Contrast panels of denim popped up last year in designer brands and street style, and is slowly filtering into high street brands this year. Have I bought a pair - yes! It’s such a fun way to update your look switching out classic jeans for something ‘edgy’….

Bassike $495 | Viktoria & Woods $390 | Citizens of Humanity $358 | Mother Denim $483

PREVIOUS PODCASTS

Elevated Everyday Style - Tap to listen »

Ins & Outs for 2025 - Tap to listen »

I hope you enjoyed my chat with Fifi as well as lots of tips and shopping links! Have a question on jeans?? Pop it in the comments below, I’m here to help.

And I can’t wait to share my next podcast - I’ll be chatting accessories with a fabulous guest who has one of the coolest Australian jewellery brands!

Happy Styling,

Penelope x

This week is all about wardrobe essentials - pieces that can mix’n’match to create numerous outfits, but can also be worn casual to dressy, around home to work style! Scroll down for the 10 fab items that can be essentials ALL year around…

THE TOP 10 ESSENTIALS

1. Shirt Dress 2. Trousers 3. Jeans 4. Midi Skirt 5. White Top 6. Black Top 7. Blue Shirt 8. White Sneakers 9. Black Shoes 10. Tan Shoes

ABOVE: Shirt Dress; Black Top; White Top; Blue Shirt; Tan Pant; Black Skirt; Jeans; Black Shoes; White Sneakers; Tan Shoes

BRANDS TO SHOP

High End: Camilla and Marc » Viktoria & Woods » Scanlan Theodore » Saba »

Mid Range: Country Road » Veronika Maine » CUE » Elka Collective » Dissh »

Fab Finds: Forever New » Portmans » Atmos & Here » Uniqlo »

THE 3 B’S

Blush: Takes you from feeling drab.. to FAB in an instant! My favourite is by NARS » and comes in a stick to give your cheeks for instant glow - I use it as a lipstick too!

Bling: Take your outfit from ok… to STYLED with great accessories! Textured gold hoops, a statement necklace or layered bracelets can make your outfit complete. I love to shop Gimme » and Arms of Eve » for fab pieces and great quality.

Blazer: I recommend black as it instantly creates a polished look, and can go from day to night. Splurge on a Camilla & Marc » style you’ll own for years; or my fab find by AERE » it’s 100% linen with cotton lining and oversized, relaxed fit.

SHOP MY TIPS!

Scroll down for my top picks for my TOP 10 essentials, from brands I LOVE! Invest in a designer item, or snap up a fab find…

Scanlan Theodore (on sale $390) | Country Road $220 | Atmos & Here $109.99

SHOP shirt dresses »

Dissh wide leg $169.95 | Country Road straight $220 | Atmos & Here $109.99

SHOP trousers »

Anine Bing $430 | Scanlan Theodore $280 | Levi’s 501 $159.95

SHOP jeans »

Atmos & Here $79.99 | Veronika Maine $269 | Atmos & Here $89.95

SHOP midi skirts »

Henne $169 | Seed Heritage $49.95 | Showpo $89.95

SHOP white tops »

Scanlan Theodore $200 | Forever New $109.99 | Saba $199

SHOP black tops »

Viktoria & Woods $240 (made in Aust) | Henne $169 | Camixa $99.90

SHOP blue shirts »

Splurge! Saint Laurent | Comfort - Frankie4 $169 | Leather - fab find! $109.90

SHOP sneakers »

Comfort - Frankie4 $259.95 | Tony Bianco - $199.95 (30% off!) | Fab find - just $25.00!

SHOP black shoes »

Michael Kors $219 | Tony Bianco $179.95 | Country Road $179

SHOP tan shoes »

LAST PODCAST: Ins & Outs for 2025 - Tap to listen »

I hope you enjoyed my detailed tips and shopping links! I’ve got so much more to come - next week is all about DENIM and the following week is deep diving into ACCESSORIES… including some fab guests.

AND I’m taking suggestions for March topics for March - I’d love to know what you guys would like to hear in Penelope Style Files… Comment below!

Happy Styling,

Penelope x

Welcome to my very first podcast for Penelope Styling! I’m kicking off the year with one of my favourite fashion topics… TRENDS. But don’t get hot flushes thinking you’ll need to invest in a whole new wardrobe! These tips are to get your mind ticking about ways to give your wardrobe a little ‘refresh’ for the year, not an overhaul.

My super power is converting new season catwalk shows and designer fashion into simple, relatable tips. First up let’s talk what’s out for 2025…

OUTS

Bubble Skirts: Came in strong for Spring in cute dresses and skirts, but not all brands jumped on it as it’s harder to style. A micro-trend that’s already fading out!

Crochet: So fab in dresses and matching sets - but works better in warmer months. If you own it, wear it, enjoy it! But if you haven’t bought it yet, hold off for new textures…

Pastels: Lemon and butter shades came in for Spring like rays of sunshine in cottton and linen fabrics. These will be back with pastels for next Spring, but watch for the darker hues and heavier fabrics this Autumn!

IN’s

Sheer and Lace: We saw so much sheer last year in tops, dresses and skirts - and it’s here to stay, with the intro of lace! Stick to darker shades, and add a blazer for outfit perfection.

Suede: Is coming in hot for texture this Autumn Winter! I’d recommend a jacket, bag or shoes. And use a spray protector to keep it in best condition! Tap to shop »

Mocha: Is Pantone’s colour for 2025 - from lighter shades of latte and almond, to rich dark choc tones. I’m loving this trend… choc is the new black!! Tap to shop »

Burgundy: Another colour that is rich and delicious in suede, leather, knits and silks. Works beautifully back with all the dark shades of choc, navy, charcoal and black.

Boho to Preppy: Totally opposite trends but both on the horizon! Boho style leans into hankerchief skirts and dresses back with boots, suede jackets, and lace details. Preppy is all about boat shoes, polo collars, wide stripes and classic jeans.

SHOP THE LOOK

Scroll down for some of my top picks for some of these trends coming in … And make sure you subscribe to get more of my helpful tips for each texture, colour and theme as they roll in strong for the year!

How pretty is this lace shirt! Buy it and wear it now with white, denim, and black.

If I was going to buy one lace item… it would be a lace black dress. And this one by a well known Australian brand is currently on sale 30% off! LOVE…. Wear it now with shoulders out and strappy shoes, or layer it for cooler weather with an oversized black blazer and flats.

Obsessed with this choc suede bomber jacket, it is SO luxe… I’m tipping this sells out soon!

OH so luxe and versatile - a slouchy, relaxed suede bag. LOVE!

Tick the burgundy colour, along with suede too! With these gorgeous dark red ballet flats, with mary-jane strap detail…