The Model and Me: Metalicus Spring 2011

The Model and Me: Ever looked at a model wearing an item of clothing that appeals to you and dismissed the purchase out of hand? Yep, me too. Well, I’m here to tell you that you SHOULD get into that change room and give the object of your desire a try. You may not look like the model (I don’t, I’m a size 14), but you never know, it just may look right for you.

I was asked to be a model recently. Which is hilarious. Because I am not.

And the other models, who were not models either, were not getting my jokes about “modules” as so eloquently termed by blogger Jo Thornely in her very, very funny Australia’s Next Top Model blog posts.

So, I decided to just drink a glass of champers and make the most of it.

Now, I’ve done this gig before, modelling Metalicus for Sunshine Coast boutique, Soul Diva.

And it’s one I’ll continue to do, not just because of the aforementioned champagne or that I think I have tickets on myself. No, I do it because I want to show those present that you don’t have to be a skinny minny to wear this “one-size-fits-most” label.

It really is about choosing styles from within each collection to suit.

One top from the current collection worked so well for me that it’s now hanging in my wardrobe. It’s the Manipulate Tank ($139.95), as shown here on the model.

A model, well modelling, the Metalicus Manipulate Tank ($139.95)

A model, well modelling and generally looking gorgeous in the Metalicus Manipulate Tank ($139.95)

See how it has a kind of upside down u-shape going on under the bust? That, my dear Stylers, works to create beautiful shape in that area and around the waist. The “manipulate” bit comes from the ability to change the position on the ties that dangle down from the u-shape. You can make the top look longer or shorter depending on how you want to work the layers to suit your body shape.

It’s the perfect top for over skinny jeans or a tube-style maxi skirt. And in the “me” photo below, you’ll see it teamed with a Metalicus skirt in the same colour and fabric, making it look like a dress. Genius.

Me "modelling" the Metalicus Manipulate tank in capsicum red

Are you are Metalicus fan? Does the concept of one-size-fits-most layering scare you a little? And importantly, do you think there’s room for a middle-aged, curvy addition to Australia’s Next Top Model?

http://fitelicious.com Amy

Great color, really suits you. I’m feeling the need to go shopping.
Holly

Nikki I love that colour on you! I haven’t ever tried Metalicus before, as a short, curvy size 12-14 with a large bust I have always been wary of the one size fits all brands. But the tank and skirt look so good on you, maybe I’ll have to give Metalicus another look!

http://www.stylingyou.com.au Nikki Parkinson

Not all works for me, Holly, but I can definitely find things each season that do and it’s a label that suits my lifestyle so that makes me happy. Look out this week for my post on Justb. Australia – I do a wardrobe rescue and it has a Metalicus focus this week.

http://www.getinthehotspot.com/ Annabel Candy, Get In the Hot Spot

Sweetie, you have me sold on Metallicus more each time you write about it. You look divine in that outfit, the color is gorgeous much hotter than the pale pink model’s version.

http://www.stylingyou.com.au Nikki Parkinson

Thanks so much, Annabel – and I too like the red best – a much stronger colour and perfect for this season!

http://writingloud.blogspot.com Megan @ Writing Out Loud

Looks fab!

http://www.stylingyou.com.au Nikki Parkinson

Thanks Megan!

http://Skinnyflatwhite.com.au Paula

You look great! Almost good enough to reconsider metallicus!! I find their pieces far too sweaty for Perth.

http://www.stylingyou.com.au Nikki Parkinson

I actually find the wool collection works all year round here – but I’m talking the loose-fitting styles?

http://Www.maxabellaloves.blogspot.com Maxabella

Nice! Love your styling on this top. x

http://www.stylingyou.com.au Nikki Parkinson

Thanks Maxabella. I didn’t buy the whole outfit. Just the top but have already worn about three times so think it must be love!

http://MothersLoveLetters.com Lina@MothersLoveLetters

Love your positivity and energy, Nikki. This is a really encouraging post

http://www.stylingyou.com.au Nikki Parkinson

Thanks Lina … these are some of my fave posts to write. Have a few more ready to roll out in the next couple of weeks.

http://www.baublesbubblesbags.com/blog Norlin

You do look great in that Nikki! Well, I do like some of the stuff from Metalicus, but, I need something that actually hugs my body a little bit more, so I bought this dress from their previous range. And loved how it’s a one size fits most. That way I won’t have to test what my size really is!

http://www.stylingyou.com.au Nikki Parkinson

Haha, Norlin, and your body shape is perfect for that.

http://www.themummyautobiography.com Miss Pink

Again, you look fabulous Nikki. Way better on you than the model!

http://www.stylingyou.com.au Nikki Parkinson

Oh, you’re lovely! xx

http://ilikeiwishiheart.com Heidi

You look fab, I would be more likely to take a second look from your picture Nikki, it just looks better on you. Heidi

http://www.stylingyou.com.au Nikki Parkinson

Thanks Heidi, that’s lovely of you to say. I think it also looks great on a size 8 as it’s a style that can help create curves if you don’t necessarily have them.

http://www.eleanorfromthecommentbox.blogspot.com Eleanor

That’s lovely on you, both the colour and the style!

I reckon it would be a bit harder for me to carry off because I’m a size 14 but with smaller breasts, I’m worrying that the upside down u-shape might accentuate my stomach area. But now I’m really curious to try it on and see.

An interesting “aside”… Metalicus is very popular with observant Jewish women as the pieces allow them to layer under dresses and tops which normally wouldn’t be “modest” enough. The tradition is for very observant women to cover their arms to the elbow and not show cleavage. I’ve seen some very funky and inventive young fashionistas wearing the latest styles while remaining “modest” thanks to Metalicus. Thought you’d get a kick out of that.

Thirdly – I’ve never heard the phrase “tickets on myself” before and I love it! Is it specifically Aussie?

http://www.stylingyou.com.au Nikki Parkinson

My stomach area is where I carry most of my *curves* – the ties make it easy to manipulate around that!! And I loved hearing about your “aside”. Layering would so help get a balance between observance and fashion. Thanks for sharing. I’m not sure if “tickets on myself” is Australian … probably is

http://www.eleanorfromthecommentbox.blogspot.com Eleanor

Oh hooray! You’re back! With “Model and Me”!

I haven’t even read the post yet, I just had to comment first.

I missed you.

http://www.stylingyou.com.au Nikki Parkinson

So was I missed?! That’s nice to hear. Was having a little bloggie break with Mrs Woog and her kids and enjoying some school holiday time with my youngest.

http://www.wheresmyglow.com Glowless

I’ve got some Metallicus tops that I used to wear under my work uniform for warmth… I know, how sad. I’m normally really wary of one size fits most unless it’s a wrap dress so the adjustable ties have piqued my interest. Looking fab as always x

http://www.stylingyou.com.au Nikki Parkinson

Glowy, you know how to make a girl feel good x And don’t worry, I’ve got plenty of Metalicus that are my underneath for warmth items. Love that they don’t bulk me up.

http://domesblissity.blogspot.com Anne @ Domesblissity

To be honest Nikki, I’m not familiar with the Metallicus brand (until I read your blog) but that outfit looks fabulous. You’d be a far better host than those cronies on ANTM. I don’t like Sarah Murdoch and Charlotte Dawson? You’re way beter than them.

Anne xx

http://www.stylingyou.com.au Nikki Parkinson

Thanks Anne, you know how to make a girl feel good!

http://claireyhewitt.blogspot.com claireyhewitt

It just doesn’t work on me.

And I am finding that Mini doesn’t work much on Popps either, the dresses are ok, but the cardigan style tops are no good. They may work for Immy who is a much leaner body type.

Tends to make me look either pregnant or caterpillar like.

http://www.stylingyou.com.au Nikki Parkinson

Oh, I know that caterpillar feeling, Claire! I certainly can’t wear everything in the Metalicus range but there’s a fair amount that works for me – particularly in tunic style tops and dresses. Most cardigan styles are too small for me, unless a draping styling.

http://www.getawayguru.com.au GetawayGuru

Metalicus are one of my favourite brands. Great for easy packing in a travel wardrobe and the ability to layer means you can extend the number of looks from one or two pieces.

My wardrobe is full of great pieces. Started with their basics (in black and greys)and now getting more adventurous in my colours and combinations so I love the piece/s your modelling here Nikki!

http://www.stylingyou.com.au Nikki Parkinson

You’d also love the maxi skirts they’ve done this season too! I always love the colour injection they bring but this season seems to be the best for a while.

http://www.mummyofstyleandsubstance.com.au Kellie

Gorgeous! Love the tunic!

http://www.stylingyou.com.au Nikki Parkinson

Thanks Kel, it’s quickly become a fave!

http://everythingisedible.com Louisa

I think you look gorgeous!

http://www.stylingyou.com.au Nikki Parkinson

Ah, thanks Louisa.