New Favourite

Massimo Dutti is my new favourite store. It has been said " it is the European answer to Ralph Lauren". Owned by Inditex, one of the world's largest fashion distributors, who also owns Zara . I first discovered this store in Milan and on a recent trip rediscovered it in Kuala Lumpur. They stock classic European fashion with a preppy touch. The stores are beautifully merchandised and combine clever colour combinations with the latest trend being plaid blazers with leather elbow patches. Lilac is teamed with browns and camels effortlessly in a way only Europeans can do. If Zara is coming to Australia I hope Massimo Dutti will soon follow.

Rose St Trading Co.

One of my favourite shops in Melbourne is Rose st trading co in Armadale. Kate and Alex, the owners, have exceptional taste and fill their shop with gorgeous jewellery, cashmere jumpers, home wares, linen and furniture . It is very Melbourne and tucked away like a hidden treasure in a little street off the beaten track. Some of their new jewels included aquamarine beads mixed with fresh water pearls, sterling silver balls and hearts. Well worth a visit if your heading to Melbourne. We have some of their new jewellery arriving soon to Cottle House.

Their new upstairs room is filled with beautiful blankets and bedlinen, all in lovely taupe's, powder blues and pale pinks. I wish I lived closer.

Shopping in Melbourne

For the last week I have been shopping for my shop Cottle House at the Melbourne Gift fair. I am very excited about all my purchases and look forward to sharing them with you. On my last day in Melbourne I did a dash around some of my favourite haunts and discovered a few new ones. The new Ralph Lauren inspired Seed shop in Hawksburn village is a visual treat.

Wicker, flowers, aged oak furniture, lots of white tongue and groove walls, sisal rugs on dark stained timber floors. This shop has many of my favourite ingredients for a gorgeous interior. It has lifted retail to a new level.

The clothing is gorgeous too. For effortlessly, casually, chic clothing they really know how to put things together in style.

I had my husband double parked out the front but couldn't resist trying on this pretty shirt. Apologies for not arranging it better before I took this photo, I was in a rush. Sally-Annx

Daylesford Organic

As it's the Queen's birthday long weekend, I thought I'd do an English posting.

One of my favourite stores I have ever seen is Daylesford organic in the UK. In fact they have several. I stalked every one of then. If I could have moved in I would have. The farm shop was my favourite in Gloucestershire.

I thought we'd never find it. We drove around and around tiny country lanes in the hunt for this gorgeous place and it did not disappoint. Passing elegant young ladies on their beautifully groomed ponies we finally arrived.

The understated elegance of Daylesford is an absolute treat. Simple furniture, beautifully presented organic produce and homewares, delightful staff, all set in the gorgeous English countryside. An experience not to be missed!

Happy long weekend,

Sally-Annx