melbourne central | Karen Woo Fashion Videographer

Melbourne Central Summer Street Style 2016

December 20, 2016Karen Woo 1 Comment

Ocean’s entire skater look is freaking awesome and I decided to shoot him in the alley way to give it something something.

The pastel lavender colour of Hannah’s suit from @TopShop was a perfect match for her platinum blonde hair colour. I liked how she opted for a @BambaSwim bandage top than a typical tee or shirt to make her ensemble more edgy and cool.

Jay’s outfit embodies the essence of relaxed athletic wear, with a hint of class. I liked how he casually threw a Jeans West caramel brown coat over his all-black athletic wear.

Floral prints are on trend this Spring Summer season, so when I spotted this beautiful Leona Edmiston dress on @DanaBettine, I knew I had to stop her for an outfit snap. Apparently, this was an exclusive Chinoiserie print sourced from a New York print house dated to the 1950s. Zoom in closer to take a good look at the print!

Lin Lin’s overall street style look and colour tones were easy on the eye. I liked how she casually threw on an olive-green robe over her light blue dress. Buttons ran along the side of her dress which turned into a split which I thought was cool.

Rachel looked super cute in her red lippy and ginger hair pulled up into a high pony. I liked the way she tucked her Mojo tee into her high waisted jeans to show off her slim figure.

Dani has a cool swag going on when I spotted her from a far. Her icy blonde fade hair style and Aboriginal print on her sweater was what made me stop and snap.

Kevin had a cool street vibe going on. I liked the look of his Camo jacket and long black tee, and of-course with a mid-length camo jacket from Topman matched with a pair of black Vans high top sneakers.

I really liked Emily’s hair style and flawless beauty look. It made sense after learning that she worked at the Mecca store. I also liked how Emily layered her H&M dress over her navy-blue polka dot shirt for a little pop of colour.

This was probably the most destroyed pair of denim jeans I’ve come across in a while, but I really liked how Crystle kept her @Supre ripped jeans classy by wearing a basic long sleeved top.

Fish braids ✔ Sweater ✔ Vintage suede skirt ✔ There isn’t much I don’t like about Cyan’s chic street style look.

I liked Natasha Pietrobuono two cute fish braids, and a relaxed vibe. She wore a pair of Supre loose fit denim pants with cuffed hems which made her white Converse high top sneakers stood out.

I’d always appreciate a nautical look on a man when he makes it look smart and effortless. Ron wore a casual grey YD jacket over his Uniqlo striped top and chino pants, and finished the look with a pair of Jack Threads shoes from London.

Axel is a singer/writer from Melbourne who was making his way to a busking gig. His mismatched shoes and quirky H&M socks had caught my eye, and with amusement I asked him why. He explained that he couldn’t decide, so let’s help him out – left or right?

Words and Photography // Karen Woo

Melbourne Central Street Style August 2016

September 5, 2016Karen Woo Leave a Comment

It’s that time of the month to snoop out the levels of Melbourne Central to snap up my favourite street style looks.

What I enjoy most about stopping people on their tracks is putting a smile on their faces after complimenting them on how they well they have dressed. It really makes their day.

Thank you Melbourne Central for having me again, and to Jackson Roach for all the captions!

The next time you visit, I’ll be off to New York for fashion week so stay tuned xx

Vellas’ layering really caught my eye. The way she mixes black lace with a form-fitting turtleneck is really unique. Not to mention the way she brightens up a grey jacket with colourful Japanese patchwork! Vella tops off her look in a pair of Adidas Stan Smiths. Tell us, how do you layer when the temperature drops?

Donning cord pants over chinos, this Melbourne gent has given fresh thought to the classic preppy style we know and love. Not to mention the autumnal colours of his check shirt and crisp white low tops, this is one dapper dude on the move!

Even when she’s not in the studio, Chinese designer Mei Lins’ fashion game is always on point. Reppin’ her own designs, I loved the way Mei has given a pop of pastel colour with hand writing on the back of her denim jacket. Her pants are tied in an interesting way as well, that give a unique silhouette that’s still wearable for every day.

We love fashion that tells a story, and that’s what @JaymesMakis’ look is all about. Channeling bohemian vibes, Jaymes’ tribal shawl is from Bali and his jewelry is all hand made from pieces he’s collected whilst travelling. I love the way Jaymes has draped the shawl around his top half to give a cocoon silhouette, and has kept the colour scheme quite nomadic.

With dreams of making it big in Japan, musician Abel has the rockstar look down pat! Putting his best foot forward in a pair of white Common Projects sneakers and all Acne ensemble, we think Abels’ threads are urban street wear at its best.

The only thing more eye-catching than Mary’s bright smile is her tribal print jacket. I love the way she’s mixed this Gorman piece with a vintage maxi skirt and Converse high tops for the perfect urban ensemble.

We love the way this gent has brightened up an all navy ensemble with a block panel sweater in autumnal shades.

When it comes to cool, understated style, we can’t look past this fashionistas outfit. Denim is a go-to for most, but we love the way this jacket dons a fur collar for added warmth and pleated pants to complete the look. Tell us, what’s your favourite denim piece?

We love dapper gents who aren’t afraid to set the trend and walk their own path. Opting for a relaxed silhouette, this gents burgundy neck tie adds a twist of colour to an otherwise all white ensemble.

Suicide squad you say? We think Les’s in a league of his own! This punk rocker dons the iconic Rottweiler tee by Givenchy, with zip detailed denim and studded Christian Louboutins to match. Les’s camo jacket by Off White with embellished badging rounds out this loud punk look.

After finding out this fashionista is on the retail job hunt, it’s pretty clear she’s dressed for the role! I love the way Sophie paired her cropped puffer with a high waist pant to give the illusion of longer legs. Opting for a light chambray blue gives this winter look a pop of colour. Tell us, how do you add colour to your winter wardrobe?

Who said winter is all about dark colours! We love this dapper gents’ chambray jacket with floral pocket square to match. Tell us, how do you brighten up your winter wardrobe?

A key look this winter was the bomber jacket, so we love it when fashionistas experiment with different colours like this olive one. Combined with an oversized sweat and indigo denim in a velvet finish, we think this collegiate look is down pat. Tell us, what colour is your bomber jacket?

Keep it fun and playful in a denim jumpsuit like this Melbourne fashionsta! We love the way she’s opted for a darker indigo to complement the season. Tell us, how would you wear a denim jumpsuit?

Melbourne Central Guest Level Street Style

May 13, 2016Karen Woo Leave a Comment

words // JERRY HSIEH
street style // KAREN WOO

Isobel’s effortless look teaches us about the power of staple pieces. Her grey sweater dress and navy suede biker jacket make a winning combo for the colder months ahead and would easily compliment everything else in the wardrobe. The same could be said about her white Stan Smith kicks. A gentle sprinkle of street edge, I say fly.

Aiden’s outfit embodies the essence of autumn. I was instantly drawn to his relaxed fitting trousers, which turned out to be one of his original creations. Sign me up for a pair please!

Why stick to standard black or navy get ups when you can look as fly as Olivia in her business attire? She sets the benchmark of dressing for work with her fit that amplifies personality #businesswearinspo. I especially love her chunky, textured knit and green Camilla and Marc blazer. The silhouette of her look is on point to say the least.

All eyes on Laura as she brings sophistication to the city. Miss dandy long legs shows off her figure tastefully with a fitted burgundy turtleneck and black leather skirt with side tie ribbon detail. Her strappy heels from Mollini add another dimension to her outfit.

I’m a sucker for pastel and so should you! As autumn leaves pile up on the sidewalks, you will start to notice the colours of Mengyi’s casual fit on the streets. Her frayed striped pants elevate an otherwise understated look.

Cathy’s elegant ensemble had me singing praises. The colours of her striped jacket are reminiscent of a painted canvas and blend harmoniously with her maroon flats. She finishes her look with a bold lipstick, chunky gold bracelets and a refreshing amount of confidence! Her outfit shows age is irrelevant when it comes to looking good. Being a tastemaker and understanding what works is the key to standing out from the crowd.

I love the simplicity of her outfit, the contrasting denim textures and blue hues look refreshing against her white under layer and sneakers.

Helen has the layering game down pat. I love the grey knit peaking out underneath her grey coat, which provides a subtle contrast of textures. Helen is also a strategic image sculptor. The funnel neck on her coat helps to elongate the neckline and the cuffing of chinos lends the same effect for her legs.

Jackson’s fit is not only extremely well put together but also endlessly versatile. Navy and brown are matches made in heaven. His quilted navy vest and brown Christian Kimber saddle shoes make a formidable fashion statement.

Jing Jing oozes swagger in her oversized cotton bomber, skinny jeans and pale pink Melisa platforms. The silhouette of her bomber provides a nice point of difference to the same old bombers you see on the streets. Standing tall and feeling good, that’s a mantra everyone should have.

There is a variety of ways to spice up your autumn winter get ups. This season, keep things interesting with non-standard, textured and patterned pieces. David’s spotty white shirt and denim jacket with contrast fleece sleeves would certainly do the trick.

Dean was on his way to a job interview when I pulled him aside for a snap. Is it too early for celebratory drinks? I have a feeling he’s no stranger to making good impressions. The leather jacket is a nice touch and his stylish pair of frames calls for constant eye contact.

Karina is an undisguised master of switch ups. Her pairing of classic pieces such as the striped polo and white denim pants with edgier threads such as the leather wrap and pointy platform derbys create an interesting point of view. Let’s call this one the rockstar on a cruise.

Ian stays easy in his everyday street look. As the temperature begins to drop, make sure you snatch up a versatile coat like Ian’s black one so you can brace the cold. I also like a good checkered shirt, it is my go to for lazy Sunday hangs.

Melbourne Central Guest Level Street Style 2016

March 4, 2016Karen Woo Leave a Comment

Here’s that time again where I got my camera out to spot my favourite Melbourne Central’s shopper’s looks, just in time for VAMFF next week!

Looking forward to seeing you all xx

Want to know what understated elegance looks like? Well look no further. Adam has just arrived from England and brought along a slice of Euro-chic with him. His blue and white stripe t-shirt, navy chinos and white kicks are staples needed in everyone’s summer wardrobe.

Sarah’s impeccable fits is super modern and chic. A white ribbed knit, black trousers and white leather sneakers are versatile staples that are a perfect base for layering. For example, we can throw on a smart fitted blazer, or a cropped leather jacket, or even long vest to add substance to this basic look.

Boys, its time to fold away your skinny jeans and chinos for a pair of wide legged trousers. Wide legged trousers are becoming increasingly popular in the fashion realm; they allow unrestricted movement whilst ensuring comfort. I love Jerry’s pairing of a cropped shirt, which maintains a balance of proportions.

Elka reminds me of a modern cowgirl in the best way possible. I love her denim jacket tied around her waist to show off her waistline and it creates a nice contrast of colour to the black corduroy overall worn underneath.

Now if this look ain’t fly, I don’t know what is. Niu Niu’s choice of denim overalls and Marc Jacob flatform derbys are playful and cool at the same time. They also capture the essence of street wear, just like what her sweatshirt says.

There is nothing I enjoy more than an effortless look like the one Lori has put together. The loose trench coat paired with cuffed light denim and white converse kicks are great for casual hangs and outings. The look is the perfect reflection of the everyday Aussie girl.

I appreciate the reinforced pattern’s on Jun Gyu’s bomber zip-up and t-shirt. They make great examples of what I consider ‘’elevated-basics.”

Dapper gents alert! Adrian’s look encapsultated Melbourne’s booming menswear appreciation. The light blue open collared shirt screams summer and the pin and pocket square adds a nice splash of colour to his cream double-breasted jacket.

Fringes on fringes, from the hem, to the bag to the last detail on Cynthia’s pair of loafers. Cynthia may not be a dancer but the fringing compliments her movement as she waltz across the streets of Melbourne.

Yeezus himself would most likely nod to Josh’s street steeze. Black on black is a classic combo, but it could also get a little tiring. Josh keeps it 100% with a pair of distressed denim and the red bomber makes the outfit lens-catching.

Accessories are where it’s at to turn a simple outfit into a great outfit. The indigo bandana tied around Anna’s neck and round sunnies are cute tidbits that we can draw style inspiration from.

Sophia’s pin-strip overalls and denim shirt is a fun and quirky match. However you are probably just like me, I can’t stop looking at her cute Charlotte Olympia loafers!

The back of Yolanda’s denim shirt says ‘London, Paris and Berlin’ – three of the worlds undisputed fashion capitals. She’s putting Melbourne on the map with her funky street fit. I love her knitted dress that is styled with white sneakers, and a white cap worn backwards. Her pink Furla bag is definitely an eye-catcher.

Terri keeps it cozy in her loose trench and voluminous trousers. Her tribal necklace and neutral sliders are great additions.

Images by KAREN WOO

Words by JERRY SHIEH

Kendall + Kylie X Forever New collection launch preview

November 17, 2015Karen Woo Leave a Comment

This was Forever New‘s first ever collaboration with any designer or celebrity, and to collaborate with one of the most influential Celebrities on the planet such as Kendall + Kylie, it’s a huge deal. You can either diss them or love the Jenner sisters, but you have to admit they are both incredibly successful business women, and I have massive respect for that.

Today, I had the privilege of being one of the few along with the other well known Melbourne bloggers to see and touch the limited edition, 19 piece capsule collection at Melbourne Central Forever New store. Raquel Ryan, a well known Melbourne Stylist talked us through the collection and I was pretty surprised by the quality, design and cut of the fabrication. Price ranges from $79.99 and up to $249.99 and the collection is limited to selected stores in Melbourne such as Melbourne Central, Highpoint, Westfield Doncaster and Chadstone Shopping Centre.

To be honest, I haven’t walked into a Forever New store in years because I am not into the whole floral and girly thing, but now I have to say, I’m converted. Every piece is wearable and layerable and that’s what I love about styling and dressing up for the day. I ended up purchasing a black body suit from the Kendall + Kylie collection and a pair of stripe navy culottes. See my instagram post here on how I styled it.

Anyway here are some of the highlight from today’s launch.

Huge thank you to Bastion Collective and Melbourne Central for inviting me to the exclusive preview of the collection.