Yarra Trail celebrates 20 years in Australian fashion

Sponsored by Yarra Trail

It’s only when I get a chance to speak to current university journalism students that I stop and think about the twists, turns and technological changes that have had an impact on my career and business life.

I always show the students this photo from my first week as a graduate cadet journalist.

I explain that the thing attached to my ear with a cord is a telephone and that it couldn’t be popped in my handbag and taken out with me. I talk about the typewriter and that it would be two more years until there were computers in this newsroom.

And, of course, I lament the destruction of the ozone layer due to the amount of hairspray required to keep my ‘do in place on a daily basis.

Because, my dear Stylers, this was 1987. Hairspray was not CFC-free, computers were only just starting to become something a home considered buying for the whole family and if we wanted to find out anything about anything we had to talk to someone on their landline from our landline (or pay phone) or speak to them in person.

I share the photo for a bit of a laugh but also as a solid reminder that the communications and media career that these students currently have their sights set on will look completely different in 30 years’ time.

My message is always: be adaptable.

Adaptable is what I had to become as technology changed. And change it did. The seeking out of news and stories was a constant but how we delivered that to readers changed a lot.

My adaptability was very much put to the test when, eight years ago, I left my journalism career to carve out my own business – this business – Styling You.

All of those adaptability skills, honed over 20 years as a journo, have been called upon on a daily basis since.

It’s been a funny thing to be considered a pioneer or a trailblazer in the online blogging world but I’m honoured to have been asked by Australian fashion brand Yarra Trail to be a part of its Trailblazers campaign. (You can read more HERE)

It’s absolute honour to be included in such an amazing line up of Australian women all doing incredible things in their chosen fields.

Yarra Trail celebrates 20 years in Australian fashion. This is no mean feat and, like myself and any other business, has had to adapt and change the way it delivers its product to its customers.

What hasn’t changed is the product itself – and the understanding of the Yarra Trail woman’s fashion and style needs.

The spring-summer 2016 collection is designed to take the stress out of summer dressing. You’ll find a combination of stunning prints, refreshing colour palettes and flattering silhouettes.

The size range is 8-18, with selected items available in sizes 16-24.

For those who love their natural fibres – especially in summer – that’s what most of the garments are made from.

Our motto is “Make Life One Long Weekend” and with this in mind our collections are distinctly casual, perfectly suited to the Australian way of life. We understand women’s bodies and as a result we are renowned for our fantastic fit, this is combined with a wonderful customer focused design ethos, careful selection of materials and our determination to maintain our affordable price points. – Yarra Trail designer Alison McDonald

I’m sharing with you my favourites from the new collection below and read on for how you could win one of four $250 to spend in store or online at Yarra Trail.

Yarra Trail shift dress

Landscape print dress

(I’m wearing size 14)

I love this landscape print, which is exclusive to Yarra Trail, and love how it’s been offset by the navy shoulder and sleeve panel. The lightweight viscose fabric makes it an ideal summer frock that can be dressed up or dressed down. Add a blazer for work. Swap heels for flat sandals for weekend casual. The shift style is so flattering, skimming the hips but still offering shape. I’m wearing size 14.

Yarra Trail tee and relaxed pull-on pant ($129)

Stripe tee

Relaxed pull-on pant

(I’m wearing size 14 in both)

Whenever I see cotton in a tee, I get very excited. Not only is it a beautiful fabric to wear but it washes so well, time after time. And you know my feelings about stripes – you can never own too many. The pant is an ideal alternative if it’s a cooler day or you’re just someone who doesn’t feel comfortable wearing shorts or a skirt in summer. The weight of this soft lyocell fabric is ideal for spring-summer.

Yarra Trail shirt and short

3/4 sleeve textured stripe shirt (online an selected stores)

White relaxed short – available in selected boutiques only

(I’m wearing size 14 in both)

I’m not normally one to wear pink but when I do I wonder why I don’t wear it more often. I’m in love with this cotton shirt (there’s 2% elastane for comfort) because it’s the type of shirt I can wear in summer when I want to keep sun-safe when out and about. The linen shorts are longer than what you see below because I’ve cuffed them to suit my preference in length. These are the shorts to try if you’re looking for a pair of shorts for summer but want a longer length that is still flattering on the leg.

Yarra Trail is available online at www.yarratrail.com.au or phone 1800 629 308 | For a stockist near you, click HERE.

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WIN

To celebrate its 20th anniversary in Australia, Yarra Trail is celebrating fellow Australian female trailblazers.

They would like to hear from you. Who has been a trail blazer in your life?

Head to the Yarra Trail site and share your answer HERE for a chance to win one of four $250 Yarra Trail vouchers.

(Full terms and conditions here)

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So tell me, do any of these pieces fit your spring-summer 2016 wardrobe? Did you use a little too much hairspray in the ’80s?