The Model and Me: Mela Purdie Spring 2016

There are certain pieces in my wardrobe that always survive my bi-annual wardrobe edit.

Mostly these are basics with a few “I simply-cannot-part-with” show-pony items. And if you were to do an audit on the labels that represented the basics side of the edit equation, you’d find a heavy smattering of Mela Purdie pieces.

I was first introduced to this Australian label by Zambezee Boutique and Mela herself … way back when I was in my former career as a jouro and fashion editor.

In fact the first Mela Purdie piece to call my own is still in my wardrobe, 10 years on. TEN  years.

Yes, if I’m going to recommend higher-end labels and brands here on Styling You, I only do so if they’ve been tried and tested by me for incredible wardrobe longevity and versatility.

I know it’s not in everyone’s budget but I also know from the Facebook page and group that many women are long-term fans like I am because the investment has been worth it.

This week, I’m featuring a dress from the Mela Purdie Spring 2016 On the Move collection.

The model

Mela Purdie Frill Bell Dress in string (size 6-20) | Mela Purdie Breeze wrap in white

and me

Mela Purdie dress (I’m in size 16 but could fit a 14) and wrap*  | Mollini heels

This dress that has the number one magical quality I always look for in a dress, that dress-up, dress-down-ability.

That is how I singularly get the most wear out of my the pieces in my wardrobe.

If most of them can be worn thrown over a swimsuit and also blinged up with heels then I’ve always got something to wear.

The fabric is one of Mela Purdie’s trademark fabrics – mousseline – a 100% technical polyester. Don’t let the word polyester fool you though. This is a fabric that breathes like a silk but comes with easy-care benefits that make it a winner.

All my Mela Purdie mousseline pieces are simply washed in the machine in a laundry bag, hung out to dry and popped back in my wardrobe. No ironing, no fuss.

So, it’s not surprising that Mela pieces always make it into my suitcase for travel.

I love the colour of this dress – the light grey is a beautiful neutral for spring – and the relaxed style drapes beautifully for a luxe, effortless feel.

It’s a style that would be suitable for breast feeding with its button-down front.

I do love the breeze wrap as I find a lightweight spring/summer scarf so handy when it comes to styling when the heat is on. It adds another layer and interest and also offers sun protection if wrapped across the décolletage.

So tell me, are you ready for spring? Are you a Mela Purdie fan? 

* This piece was gifted to me for editorial consideration. Full disclosure policy here. Full disclosure policy here. 

Online style program

This Friday, September 2, I’m launching the first Styling You online style program. 

In a nutshell, the six-week online style program is designed to give you a clear road map for the season ahead.

It will be based on a 30-piece capsule wardrobe that can be adapted for any lifestyle, budget, shape, size or age. I’ll show you how.

You’ll be helped to “shop” your wardrobe for alternatives to my suggestions and I’ll have links to buy for those wanting to mindfully and consciously update their wardrobes with a solid plan for the season ahead.

I’ll also be hands-on in the dedicated Facebook group* supporting this program, taking you through each day, plus being there to personally answer your specific style questions.

It will be like having your own personalist stylist on speed dial, except it’s 2016 and no-one answers their phones any more!

To be first in the know, make sure you’re signed up to the Styling You email list.