https://www.styleyourfashionsoul.com/underthesurface daily 0.75 2026-02-02 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5ff3b8ce22d6d7736e1a4319/1609921725105-C6MMSCN3LYASXZIA43ID/EvaPapadakis-26.jpg https://www.styleyourfashionsoul.com/underthesurface/whats-on-my-passion-palate-november monthly 0.5 2025-12-08 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5ff3b8ce22d6d7736e1a4319/5dd9e504-9d09-4196-92ef-6ebdc346c3d0/Book+I%27m+Reading.png Under the Surface - NOVEMBER: Passion Palette This well written book reads more like a novel than friction and is such an important glimpse into the rise of fashion becoming more accessible and women holding leadership positions in business. Fantastic book for those interested in fashion, women in leadership, the golden age of the department store and New York vibes back in time. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5ff3b8ce22d6d7736e1a4319/4df4be5a-0f51-4547-aa20-800eb43fdac5/Westman%E2%80%99s+vital+skin+drops.png Under the Surface - NOVEMBER: Passion Palette I love Westman’s vital skin drops and their light to medium coverage, evening out your skin tone, giving a dewy, but not shiny finish. For even better results use her primer first. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5ff3b8ce22d6d7736e1a4319/f1e80de9-e478-4562-98f7-4c7228ccf32a/THE+POWER+DUOS.png Under the Surface - NOVEMBER: Passion Palette Her duo blusher combinations are divine too and can be used interchangeably as eye shadow, blush or bronze. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5ff3b8ce22d6d7736e1a4319/91090a20-111d-42a7-ac67-50cce0a68ab1/JONES+ROAD+MIRACLE+BALM.png Under the Surface - NOVEMBER: Passion Palette Jones Road do some great matt finish lipsticks that aren’t drying and lip pencils that look great with her miracle balm that can be used on lips and cheeks. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5ff3b8ce22d6d7736e1a4319/fe272d4e-1624-46ee-9287-84d64326eec4/gathered+satin+midi+dress+VB.png Under the Surface - NOVEMBER: Passion Palette A. Gathered satin-jersey midi dress If you are self-conscious of your midsection or any bumps here and there that you want to camouflage, avoid this material and cut. High sheen/gloss fabrics especially in jersey are very unforgiving and show everything. They tend to add visual weight, so good if you don’t have curves and want to add weight or illusion of curve. Plus the dropped V shape and central rushing will add attention to midsection.. Bear in mind the downwards V elongates your torso and shortens the legs. So beware if you want to elongate your leg. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5ff3b8ce22d6d7736e1a4319/74cd10f1-255d-4234-b912-5fefc83cf4f3/Asymmetric+ruffled+gathered+crepe+midi+dress.png Under the Surface - NOVEMBER: Passion Palette B. Asymmetric ruffled gathered crepe midi dress If you want to minimize your midsection, camouflage any bumps, this cut is your friend, the diagonal ruching and gathering at the side, rather than the centre is very good at flattering a midsection if you feel self-conscious. The crepe material drapes beautifully over curves, but does not cling, while the mat finish wont highlight any lumps and bumps. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5ff3b8ce22d6d7736e1a4319/1763682251521-IEHHN95K294BY764AWDB/Louise+Heeled+Slide+-+Apricot.png Under the Surface - NOVEMBER: Passion Palette - Mlouye Louise Heeled Slide - Apricot https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5ff3b8ce22d6d7736e1a4319/1763682252219-DFZV4HFBVN7LMVUSN3C2/Block+-+Bordeaux.png Under the Surface - NOVEMBER: Passion Palette - Mlouye Block - Bordeaux https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5ff3b8ce22d6d7736e1a4319/1763682259481-9TO940W1SCAY4INPF1CH/Naomi+Baguette+-+Buttermilk.png Under the Surface - NOVEMBER: Passion Palette - Mlouye Naomi Baguette - Buttermilk https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5ff3b8ce22d6d7736e1a4319/1763682264306-IA9U8O41GSW6KAAGX3D1/Sera+Tote+-+Oceania.png Under the Surface - NOVEMBER: Passion Palette - Mlouye Sera Tote - Oceania https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5ff3b8ce22d6d7736e1a4319/c403599a-68b3-48c8-9b70-6de3023d0fa5/Silk+Brocade+Palazzo.png Under the Surface - NOVEMBER: Passion Palette Payal Khandawala Silk Brocade Palazzo https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5ff3b8ce22d6d7736e1a4319/37a4a19d-5f0a-484b-8915-978cb8184dba/Silk+Brocade+Jacket.png Under the Surface - NOVEMBER: Passion Palette Payal Khandawala Silk Brocade Jacket https://www.styleyourfashionsoul.com/underthesurface/belonging monthly 0.5 2025-12-08 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5ff3b8ce22d6d7736e1a4319/c9401206-9e0d-47eb-af80-3fe167343bfc/106-Eva+%281%29.jpg Under the Surface - Belonging ‘Don’t compare your path with anybody else’s. Your path is unique to you.’ -Ram Dass https://www.styleyourfashionsoul.com/underthesurface/the-island-the-space-inbetween monthly 0.5 2025-12-08 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5ff3b8ce22d6d7736e1a4319/a66ddd5e-2623-4b6e-84b2-58132c2b5ffa/Photo+1+.png Under the Surface - The Island - the space inbetween. - Make it stand out Look out across the north East Aegean to Izmir, Turkey. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5ff3b8ce22d6d7736e1a4319/1759772931213-EVQJAA6G81DFXL7PECT5/Photo+2.1.png Under the Surface - The Island - the space inbetween. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5ff3b8ce22d6d7736e1a4319/1759772948573-SH9W2WLK4FNN9GMLLCIA/Photo+2.png Under the Surface - The Island - the space inbetween. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5ff3b8ce22d6d7736e1a4319/10e851e3-f75d-447c-894a-152ab5fae015/IMG_6234.jpg Under the Surface - The Island - the space inbetween. - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5ff3b8ce22d6d7736e1a4319/1751814264324-11HNRHQACRA16QQ0MT5S/IMG_9966.jpeg Under the Surface - The Island - the space inbetween. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5ff3b8ce22d6d7736e1a4319/1751814284135-8Y7P9LYJUVLZITAINMVB/IMG_4405.jpeg Under the Surface - The Island - the space inbetween. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5ff3b8ce22d6d7736e1a4319/1751814541454-ZNNXZCAYA9M80SK8LTGD/IMG_0169+2.jpeg Under the Surface - The Island - the space inbetween. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5ff3b8ce22d6d7736e1a4319/1759772606715-6601GK7WPXP9MZ3NU5M2/Photo+4.1.png Under the Surface - The Island - the space inbetween. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5ff3b8ce22d6d7736e1a4319/1759772597076-WG641UTRE88TL7KPCWUY/Photo+4.2.png Under the Surface - The Island - the space inbetween. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5ff3b8ce22d6d7736e1a4319/a7823ee5-8be6-4c4b-b03f-e9e39408418a/Photo+5.png Under the Surface - The Island - the space inbetween. - Back to Athens I pop on my sunglasses so I can people watch; I still feel dusty from the island. I bought these overpriced branded glasses as soon as we arrived back in Athens. I barely wore sunglasses in Asia, but here in this screeching brilliant light, even I submit to sunglasses some days. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5ff3b8ce22d6d7736e1a4319/ba758d78-6706-46b2-a17d-5d12669cbb28/Photo+5.1.png Under the Surface - The Island - the space inbetween. - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5ff3b8ce22d6d7736e1a4319/1759771598936-PCUVANU6MQJQXGT18VFY/Photo+6.1.png Under the Surface - The Island - the space inbetween. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5ff3b8ce22d6d7736e1a4319/1759771650616-DMEXTX7UGJGSC4Z9U9F9/Photo+6.png Under the Surface - The Island - the space inbetween. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5ff3b8ce22d6d7736e1a4319/3275364b-e00a-47f6-802a-9a2325053cf3/Photo+7.png Under the Surface - The Island - the space inbetween. I walk out onto the balcony and the dog sniffs the air incessantly. A huge plume of black smoke rises from the hill across from our village. My phone signals the short sharp emergency alert sounds for evacuation orders for an area very close to the main town. For the next 6 days the island battles one of the worst fires they have ever had. Five or six fires ignited simultaneously across the island. It approaches the main town. It spreads behind us, where villages are evacuated. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5ff3b8ce22d6d7736e1a4319/5c29b429-1b64-43cb-bd8a-1c62d089e037/Photo+8.png Under the Surface - The Island - the space inbetween. Every 5 minutes or so they come into the bay. The Canadair planes go a bit further out in the bay. The helicopters are very close, like giant insects landing on the water in front of me. They don’t stop until 8pm, after that the visibility isn’t good enough as the sun lowers. We watch them from google maps landing back regularly at the small island airport for constant refueling. They don’t stop. I wonder about the stress on their minds and body. I think of the men on the ground fighting the fire too. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5ff3b8ce22d6d7736e1a4319/ed87ef96-0c22-42fd-9726-c36b08d34afa/Photo+9.JPG Under the Surface - The Island - the space inbetween. - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.styleyourfashionsoul.com/underthesurface/from-asia-to-athens monthly 0.5 2025-12-08 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5ff3b8ce22d6d7736e1a4319/820f29c7-fa91-4119-a8e4-d17313995f7e/IMG_0282.jpg Under the Surface - FROM ASIA TO ATHENS: Reflections On Our Family Move - Make it stand out Nic Imai Photography https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5ff3b8ce22d6d7736e1a4319/8ff681fa-7564-4826-81ca-0e5a3ea23b01/5.jpg Under the Surface - FROM ASIA TO ATHENS: Reflections On Our Family Move - A constant stream of sea traffic passing, fast ferries to Indonesia, working boats chugging up and down constantly doing who knows what. A steady stream of hired catamarans out for the day, the occasional billionaire yacht gliding past, stealthy and shiny, fully staffed all wearing crisp white polos and police boats making their rounds at the allotted times. I feel a lump in my throat. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5ff3b8ce22d6d7736e1a4319/ff2c135f-343c-4526-ad42-17a08de443d7/shutterstock_2463699289.jpg Under the Surface - FROM ASIA TO ATHENS: Reflections On Our Family Move - Make it stand out Shutterstock https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5ff3b8ce22d6d7736e1a4319/c530b00a-fda3-4fcb-94cb-6adca888d14e/hkeva2012.jpg Under the Surface - FROM ASIA TO ATHENS: Reflections On Our Family Move - Make it stand out Melanie Aldridge Photography https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5ff3b8ce22d6d7736e1a4319/0e546601-4c0e-41ca-a958-2b3582c49a16/4.jpg Under the Surface - FROM ASIA TO ATHENS: Reflections On Our Family Move - I remember in those final months in Singapore, I was greeted endless times with rainbows appearing in the most unlikely moments. In all the years I lived in Singapore I never remembered seeing rainbows ever. It surprised me the first time. But I took it as a sign the universe was telling me something. Perhaps it was miracles do happen, or, remember good things are coming, or simply, keep going and don’t forget to look up and see the rainbows amongst the grief. Or, have patience, there is always magic to be found every day. Those rainbows had a million messages for me each time. I won’t forget them. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5ff3b8ce22d6d7736e1a4319/039358f8-d29c-44cd-8857-7acecd706168/TheJoneses-1.jpg Under the Surface - FROM ASIA TO ATHENS: Reflections On Our Family Move - On that last night in our almost entirely empty apartment, I look at the kids as they sleep in a row on mattresses on the floor. Tears prick…what have we done, wrenching these sweet little souls from their life, a life they loved? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5ff3b8ce22d6d7736e1a4319/1751814264324-11HNRHQACRA16QQ0MT5S/IMG_9966.jpeg Under the Surface - FROM ASIA TO ATHENS: Reflections On Our Family Move https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5ff3b8ce22d6d7736e1a4319/1751814284135-8Y7P9LYJUVLZITAINMVB/IMG_4405.jpeg Under the Surface - FROM ASIA TO ATHENS: Reflections On Our Family Move https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5ff3b8ce22d6d7736e1a4319/1751814541454-ZNNXZCAYA9M80SK8LTGD/IMG_0169+2.jpeg Under the Surface - FROM ASIA TO ATHENS: Reflections On Our Family Move https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5ff3b8ce22d6d7736e1a4319/1751814612856-SWV86WTSXG5V9QWGAK59/IMG_0169+2+copy.jpg Under the Surface - FROM ASIA TO ATHENS: Reflections On Our Family Move https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5ff3b8ce22d6d7736e1a4319/1751814694429-NOX0ENM69CI5XRWAYUXX/IMG_4405+copy.jpg Under the Surface - FROM ASIA TO ATHENS: Reflections On Our Family Move https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5ff3b8ce22d6d7736e1a4319/1751814782463-WCIVQTUN8P05HZVHSS6H/IMG_0161+copy.jpg Under the Surface - FROM ASIA TO ATHENS: Reflections On Our Family Move https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5ff3b8ce22d6d7736e1a4319/1751835731913-DCFWIB1BBG748QE89D0D/IMG_9966+copy.jpg Under the Surface - FROM ASIA TO ATHENS: Reflections On Our Family Move https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5ff3b8ce22d6d7736e1a4319/d7efdc9d-6f23-4fb5-b241-439fb2131ae5/IMG_2327.JPG Under the Surface - FROM ASIA TO ATHENS: Reflections On Our Family Move - I think of my ancestors who traveled and left their lives for the unknown, heading to faraway places where they often didn’t speak the language. I also think of those that stayed, stayed in the place they were born, sometimes even the same house. Both have their beauty and their challenges. Coming to Greece isn’t really coming back for me, but in a way it is. I often catch memories as I ride about the city in a taxi, I remember the buses I used to take across Athens as a teenager visiting. The food I liked to buy from the street vendors. I only lived here briefly as a child and went to school for a short while. Before and after that, there were summer holidays and extended stays here and there over the years. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5ff3b8ce22d6d7736e1a4319/41a6921e-2fc0-4cab-9549-36e40f2321c1/IMG_2290.jpg Under the Surface - FROM ASIA TO ATHENS: Reflections On Our Family Move - Make it stand out Me Chios Island C.1983 https://www.styleyourfashionsoul.com/underthesurface/sumptuary-laws-fashion-revolution-is-personal-style-really-free monthly 0.5 2025-12-08 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5ff3b8ce22d6d7736e1a4319/ee0bd115-6065-469f-92ae-e84550f77e61/shutterstock_2569835269+copy.jpeg Under the Surface - SUMPTUARY LAWS & FASHION REVOLUTION: Is Personal Style Really Free? - During Roman times, laws known as Lex Oppia governed the maximum amount of gold a woman could wear and what color their tunics should be. These laws weren't limited to women; men were also subject to these controls. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5ff3b8ce22d6d7736e1a4319/e418bd7c-8c4f-45db-bec9-66f16841d83c/shutterstock_452827114+copy.jpeg Under the Surface - SUMPTUARY LAWS & FASHION REVOLUTION: Is Personal Style Really Free? - The nobility felt threatened by the rising bourgeoisie. How could they assert their status when a merchant might be dressed in the same fine silks and exotic colors? The nobility used clothing and jewelry to signify their rank. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5ff3b8ce22d6d7736e1a4319/08c9c4f8-2d1c-4504-b8a9-46c18806c522/shutterstock_2597417097+copy.jpeg Under the Surface - SUMPTUARY LAWS & FASHION REVOLUTION: Is Personal Style Really Free? - Before Queen Elizabeth I, Henry VIII’s court passed sumptuary laws in British Parliament. One such act was named "An Act against wearing of costly Apparel." It stated, "No man under the degree of a lord is to wear any cloth of gold or silver, sables, or woolen cloth made out of England, Wales, Ireland, or Calais." It further detailed that "Velvet of crimson or blue is prohibited to anyone under the degree of a knight of the garter…" and that no one under the rank of Knight could wear velvet, satin, or damask. https://www.styleyourfashionsoul.com/underthesurface/whats-on-my-passion-palate-8yf9s monthly 0.5 2025-12-08 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5ff3b8ce22d6d7736e1a4319/d55ab794-6c19-4b3e-be1a-9166083ff427/Celine.png Under the Surface - FEBRUARY: Passion Palette My favourite sandal is the clea triomphe gladiator, which comes in a few different colours. Super comfy and stylish. It’s the kind of sandal that looks amazing for your everyday outfits or dressing it up a little too. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5ff3b8ce22d6d7736e1a4319/1dd96ebd-86bd-4229-846e-3b70299a5c4e/Gianvito+Rossi%2C+Amalfi+Slides.png Under the Surface - FEBRUARY: Passion Palette My current every day red carpet favourite, is his flat Amalfi slides, with woven tops, as I love to add texture to my outfits. I love a pair of chic slides on the days I want super convenience in a hot climate, as I am always taking my shoes on and off to enter a variety of spaces and I always drive barefoot. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5ff3b8ce22d6d7736e1a4319/bcdf52fd-4900-4cd6-8d07-3fb096cc3587/Botega+Loafer.png Under the Surface - FEBRUARY: Passion Palette Another favourite of mine for leather goods, it was founded in 1966 by Michele Taddei and Renzo Zengiaro who were inspired by small neighborhood shops, selling leather goods providing quality and craftmanship. The name itself translates to Venetian Shop and has always prided itself on understated luxury with no flashy logos. Its trademark design became the Intrecciato weave, inspired by the local basket making traditions in Italy. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5ff3b8ce22d6d7736e1a4319/279beb00-5228-459e-bb84-9ea03313d64c/Bottega+Venta.png Under the Surface - FEBRUARY: Passion Palette My current favourites are their open back loafers with signature knot in hardware. Most loafers are too tight for my feet, but these open backs are super comfy, and you still get the loafer appearance and slightly tapered toe look with comfort and no squashed feet. I also like the open back, as it gives a casual vibe to a more formal shoe and can easily be worn with skirts and dresses. They are smarter, but still suitable to wear in a hot climate. Perfect for those us living in eternal tropical summer, but yearn for a more structured look. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5ff3b8ce22d6d7736e1a4319/046bcd03-cc9c-40b5-8dd2-ac25870f071d/Groundies+Chelsea+boot.png Under the Surface - FEBRUARY: Passion Palette https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5ff3b8ce22d6d7736e1a4319/22b4a3d5-5849-4161-874a-6534935d60e8/Groundies+Florence+sandal.png Under the Surface - FEBRUARY: Passion Palette Do consider the care and attention you need to give to your shoes to ensure they last. Some brands will offer aftercare services either free or paid. The Italian shoemaker Berluti offers resoling and general maintenance often but not always, free for their shoes (depends on the country). But even if the brand doesn’t offer aftercare, you can find a good local cobbler. This prolongs the life of your shoe, giving you more value for money and the ultimate in helping to reduce wastage and reduce. https://www.styleyourfashionsoul.com/underthesurface/why-do-our-wardrobes-often-fail-to-represent-our-true-selves monthly 0.5 2025-12-08 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5ff3b8ce22d6d7736e1a4319/c59c3a64-ffcf-481f-b36f-1576694d5bc4/Dressed.jpg Under the Surface - ‘Under The Surface’ Vol #2 Why do our wardrobes often fail to represent our true selves? - “If there is a gulf between how we feel and how we look, then it can be broadened or bridged by the clothes we wear.” - Shahidha Bari, Dressed. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5ff3b8ce22d6d7736e1a4319/46d2e1ce-b7fb-4f09-bf19-6bac3842715f/Fashion+Walk.jpeg Under the Surface - ‘Under The Surface’ Vol #2 Why do our wardrobes often fail to represent our true selves? - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5ff3b8ce22d6d7736e1a4319/f741bb4b-b096-42a9-97ec-e0d58070a160/Who+Am+I.jpeg Under the Surface - ‘Under The Surface’ Vol #2 Why do our wardrobes often fail to represent our true selves? As we experience major life challenges or big changes that cause us to question our whole identity – who am I really? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5ff3b8ce22d6d7736e1a4319/80c17867-0355-4d3d-a4c8-b9e4c1342830/Vogue.jpg Under the Surface - ‘Under The Surface’ Vol #2 Why do our wardrobes often fail to represent our true selves? - Let’s face it, we are bombarded with a multitude of messages on what we need to do for our self-care. It’s overwhelming and we don’t need more stuff to add to our ever growing to do list. What’s the point in taking time to consciously cultivate a personal style? When we take time to get curious about what lights us up and we have the courage to express our authentic self through clothing, all sorts of magic happens. When we develop more discipline and stop settling for that will do and only allow pieces into our wardrobe that we truly love, there is a transformation as much psychological, as material. Some people notice significant and concrete changes, they finally get the job promotion, their business levels up, or revenue increases. Others experience a positive shift in a significant relationship, they expand their community, more opportunities seem to appear, or other times a deeper sense of confidence radiates from our being, we just ‘feel’ better.. People often say, ‘you look really well’, but they can’t put their finger on why, it’s because you are expressing your true self. As your eye becomes more discerning, you waste less money on purchases that sit hopefully in your wardrobe yet never selected. Your wardrobe becomes more edited, you end up with less stuff, surely the ultimate in being sustainable. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5ff3b8ce22d6d7736e1a4319/1cf6e786-8916-4e68-ba96-58048c5bfcb4/Americans+Ready+to+Purge+Closet.jpg Under the Surface - ‘Under The Surface’ Vol #2 Why do our wardrobes often fail to represent our true selves? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5ff3b8ce22d6d7736e1a4319/f0e50ca8-10bb-4997-abc6-9c03519ecb00/Eva+Cover+Photo.png Under the Surface - ‘Under The Surface’ Vol #2 Why do our wardrobes often fail to represent our true selves? - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5ff3b8ce22d6d7736e1a4319/c8f50fd7-3a11-44fa-b8de-ee5aa94010e3/With+Baby.jpg Under the Surface - ‘Under The Surface’ Vol #2 Why do our wardrobes often fail to represent our true selves? - More recently, after the birth of my third child, I found the image of me staring back at myself and wondering who this stranger in my bathroom was. Where had I disappeared to, amongst the endless play-dates, swimming parties with kids, kindergarten gossips with mums over coffee, endless cupcake baking and sweaty afternoons in playgrounds with a gaggle of kids and mums. I never really grew up with much style guidance, but I did endlessly visit the theatre and frequently go to art galleries from a young age, which was the beginning of my appreciation of colour and the elements of design. My paternal Grandma loved style and no matter her life situation, always appeared well dressed and groomed. It was her armor for the world, it was the image she presented of our family to the outside world, and she had strict codes of conduct. Her style was that of a typical southern Mediterranean woman, glamourous, conservative and meticulous, lots of black and gold. She despaired of me wandering around Athens in my ripped London Denim, whispering to me if I needed money to buy new jeans. Whilst our style undoubtedly evolves, are there foundational elements that always remain part of our expression? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5ff3b8ce22d6d7736e1a4319/5af97f24-f0bd-47e7-ac1d-b3682595c9e2/EvaPapadakis-28.jpg Under the Surface - ‘Under The Surface’ Vol #2 Why do our wardrobes often fail to represent our true selves? - My style is not the same in my 40s as it was in my 20s, but there are common elements and themes from both eras. I see that more clearly as I unearth my style at a deeper level as the years pass. A favourite pair of trousers I have now, is very similar, if not the same, as a favourite pair I wore in my early 20s, but styled differently. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5ff3b8ce22d6d7736e1a4319/cda8d398-1174-4521-9ba9-2180ca144717/EvaPapadakis-63.jpg Under the Surface - ‘Under The Surface’ Vol #2 Why do our wardrobes often fail to represent our true selves? - The colour palette I was always drawn to, is the same since childhood. For many years I experimented with colours, influenced by trends, music culture, peers, fashion magazines and so on. But in later years I gave myself full permission to return to this palette. Coming back to it felt like coming home to myself. Our style mostly certainly evolves and is expressed differently at different points in our lives. Change is ever present. But I also believe we undoubtedly have a style blueprint that is immutable, much like an energetic blueprint. https://www.styleyourfashionsoul.com/underthesurface/whats-on-my-passion-palate monthly 0.5 2025-02-25 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5ff3b8ce22d6d7736e1a4319/5cb829b7-5890-4848-a023-85ec621eea88/Bode_waistcoat.png Under the Surface - NOVEMBER: Passion Palette Fascinating brand started by Emily Adams Bode Aujla. She originally produced one-of-a-kind pieces, from antique fabrics and deadstock, using many crafting techniques like quilting, mending, applique, sashiko and others. Her designs have incredible attention to detail in everything, from stitching to the buttons used. The clothes tell a story, drawing on historical references often. Pieces are priced at the luxury end of the market. There is a real sense of bringing back the artisan world of craft and strong emotional connections woven into each piece. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5ff3b8ce22d6d7736e1a4319/7c17faf3-3786-48ad-a882-33cbccee9951/Lily+Lolo+BB+Cream.png Under the Surface - NOVEMBER: Passion Palette A more natural light cover cream. There are still some questionable ingredients in it, for die hard clean beauty fanatics. But it’s a lot better than the average make up brand filled with all sorts of known endocrine disrupters amongst other things. I don’t wear make-up daily, but some days I like to even out my skin tone, using this product. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5ff3b8ce22d6d7736e1a4319/410768c7-626d-46c1-883b-f0e2a5d9a810/Joy+Costumes.PNG Under the Surface - NOVEMBER: Passion Palette If you are looking for beautifully made, girls dress up princess dresses, check out this small brand. Run by a mother with a background in fashion design, I found her stunning products searching around late one night on Instagram. I needed to find a dress-up-dress, for my youngest daughter and I needed it quickly. Teresita was so sweet and helpful, she has twice sent costumes to me very quickly, from the US to Singapore. So many US brands are completely unhelpful when it comes to shipping to Asia and it gets very frustrating. This has been a pleasant surprise. The dresses have really good workmanship, soft, non-itchy, comfortable to wear, no glitter dropping off and wash well. Plus you are supporting a small mum business. They make fabulous birthday and Christmas gifts for all the little princesses in your life! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5ff3b8ce22d6d7736e1a4319/9b8c500e-0fd2-4217-8c21-f4a4069bb1a7/shutterstock_2256615449.jpg Under the Surface - NOVEMBER: Passion Palette Here are some of my favourite accounts to follow online for learning home techniques: thefacialcuppingexpert anastasiabeautyfascia beautyshamans studio.face360 takeclass.shine https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5ff3b8ce22d6d7736e1a4319/ca3d0302-d9aa-4a3e-8b3a-d8e0586a3841/Screenshot+2024-11-07+at+11.12.29%E2%80%AFAM.png Under the Surface - NOVEMBER: Passion Palette - Cult Gaia Remember for your holiday /Christmas parties, you don’t need to be stuck on black. A sparkly olive/green/khaki dress can be a stunning alternative! This special and unique dress from the insanely gorgeous Cult Gaia is the stuff of dreams and the price tag of princesses. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5ff3b8ce22d6d7736e1a4319/97f58461-738d-49ed-9e45-9a759c183c53/Screenshot+2024-11-20+at+11.14.09%E2%80%AFAM.png Under the Surface - NOVEMBER: Passion Palette - Beyond the Vines Stylish, durable, nylon carry all, their products are very reasonably priced and really well made. I dump my laptop, gym stuff, and any number of random items in mine. The stitching is strong and the craftsmanship solid. Has a top zip, so can be used for travel, diaper bag for mums with young kids, and day to day carry all. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5ff3b8ce22d6d7736e1a4319/e2fcd313-7eba-43fa-a903-7e920b28056f/Screenshot+2024-11-07+at+11.05.54%E2%80%AFAM.png Under the Surface - NOVEMBER: Passion Palette - Cos Fabulous slouchy lightweight jacket to layer over warmer jumpers if living somewhere cold. Or use for aircon and light rain for those of us in the tropics. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5ff3b8ce22d6d7736e1a4319/a2f0bd42-2733-47ff-9586-1ed92ff3f81b/MT482F5F4C-1926_1.jpg Under the Surface - NOVEMBER: Passion Palette - Michael Kors This casual, organic, cotton everyday dress from Michael Kors diffusion line is an absolute winner at 599 SGD! Love the slightly rock vibe with the black / stud like belt. But if that’s not how you roll, you could combine with more earthy, natural, raffia type belt with some nice texture too. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5ff3b8ce22d6d7736e1a4319/64d0dace-dc9f-4439-aa5c-d2e66a96eab7/Screenshot+2024-11-20+at+11.08.56%E2%80%AFAM.png Under the Surface - NOVEMBER: Passion Palette - Faithful online Drapey and ruched light weight khaki dress from Faithfull, with a soft boat neck. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5ff3b8ce22d6d7736e1a4319/8efa0e09-a346-4150-9116-babc2b53a9f8/Screenshot+2024-11-20+at+11.06.22%E2%80%AFAM.png Under the Surface - NOVEMBER: Passion Palette - Cos I am a massive fan of Cos knitwear. They do fabulous cashmere, the quality and workmanship is very good and the price is very fair. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5ff3b8ce22d6d7736e1a4319/15e2ab6e-b53b-4c84-a824-816fd133aff6/Screenshot+2024-11-20+at+11.08.27%E2%80%AFAM.png Under the Surface - NOVEMBER: Passion Palette - Zara Great Zara basics buy here, it’s a tee with padded shoulders in 100% cotton, which we love. Especially if you have rounded shoulders and need some sharp definition to your silhouette, or if you already have square shoulders and liken to repeat your natural pattern. https://www.styleyourfashionsoul.com/underthesurface/under-the-surface-vol-1-the-stripes-rebellious-life monthly 0.5 2024-12-02 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5ff3b8ce22d6d7736e1a4319/e6c5946c-2478-4e42-9616-f5bdb1d74b2b/2.png Under the Surface - 'Under The Surface' Vol #1 The Stripe's Rebellious Life The stripe has a long, mischievous and complicated history in our wardrobes. Textiles have always given us rich stories and provided deeper clues into a society and culture. Prints are often used to signify our position in society, or allegiance to a clan or tribe. This essay focuses on the western symbolism of the stripe, that’s not to say it doesn’t have a story in other cultures, it would simply be too much content for one essay. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5ff3b8ce22d6d7736e1a4319/8005f923-e965-4359-a135-6e60806bd6c3/Pinstripe.jpg Under the Surface - 'Under The Surface' Vol #1 The Stripe's Rebellious Life - As the bus spluttered and chugged its way around meandering small streets, I could feel the watchful eye of the majestic city buildings. Out on the street, we walked briskly in the cold, hundreds of rhythmic footsteps, echoing in shiny black shoes, as statues of historical figures and horses loomed over us. It was here, the pinstripe was birthed, in the hallowed bankers halls and secretive gentlemen’s clubs. A flurry of dark suits, rainmacs, poured down the streets at rush hour, I would see an abundance of pinstripes, from elegantly tailored Savile row suits, to wider more garish stripes,, each style giving information on the possible status and work position of the wearer. Years later, looking at pinstripes in the bright lights of a modern shopping mall in tropical Singapore, all those memories come flooding back as I run my hand over some beautiful Sandro pinstripes. A world and a lifetime away, but this print had the ability to take me back there. As I slip on my new Shona Joy pinstripe waistcoat, I feel the energy of London, of the history around this centuries old print. It has meaning and fullness for me, it’s a part of my culture, my own history. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5ff3b8ce22d6d7736e1a4319/45543329-65c2-412d-bc37-ea921e1718ff/shutterstock_99341999-2.jpg Under the Surface - 'Under The Surface' Vol #1 The Stripe's Rebellious Life - Make it stand out It’s hard to say when we saw a change in attitude around the stripe. As always, history isn’t linear. On and off throughout history, we see the stripe sometimes in a favorable light, other times representing the rogues of society. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5ff3b8ce22d6d7736e1a4319/c2c2f915-4fe8-4f4d-a34b-4829a6d0b9c6/Military+Stripes.jpg Under the Surface - 'Under The Surface' Vol #1 The Stripe's Rebellious Life - Stripes have had a strong association to the military, sporting uniforms and used in coats of arms and flags. Around the late 1700s during the time of the French revolution, we see the stripe move from rogue status identifying the underbelly of society, to the stripe representing the good hard-working people, taking on yet another position in society. Bright red and white broadly striped fabrics were seen on ladies and men’s jackets too. This also coincided with an appetite for Anglomania fashions and lighter fabrics representing the working classes. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5ff3b8ce22d6d7736e1a4319/7062fec9-dd0f-4702-bb1c-d925aa87c4ac/Nautical+Stripes.jpg Under the Surface - 'Under The Surface' Vol #1 The Stripe's Rebellious Life - Nautical Stripes Many associate the nautical stripe most strongly with the French Breton or la marinièr. It became the French navy’s official uniform in an act of parliament in 1858. The French Navy stated, “The body of the shirt will count twenty-one white stripes, each twice as wide as the twenty to twenty-one indigo blue stripes.”² It does however, seem to have been used to denote the sailors at the bottom of the hierarchy, not for the officers, often naming the lower ranks of seamen, zebras, used as derogatory name. Again we see the use of textile and print to denote status. Apparently it was then adopted by French fishermen in the north and onion sellers. The stripe seemed to represent a type of freedom, which was revolutionary and somewhat masculine. These characteristics may have been what appealed to Coco Chanel, as she also came to use the Breton stripe for women in her clothing. She used many traditionally male elements of design for women’s clothing, to give more comfort and freedom as women dressed. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5ff3b8ce22d6d7736e1a4319/7cd6672f-9df8-401f-a35e-894412f74ef1/Rouge+Charm.jpg Under the Surface - 'Under The Surface' Vol #1 The Stripe's Rebellious Life - Rogue Charm 1920s gangsters embraced the pinstripe, channeling their association with the under belly of society from the Middle Ages and the secretive banking world of the city of London – a perfect mix for a gangster. Al Capone went from pinstripe to prison stripe – perfectly illustrating the message of the stripe’s illustrious journey through time. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5ff3b8ce22d6d7736e1a4319/efb66ce2-10c2-45a0-8ad0-01dd922542f2/pexels-cottonbro-6492156.jpg Under the Surface - 'Under The Surface' Vol #1 The Stripe's Rebellious Life - Contemporary Stripes The stripe’s rebellious creative spirit lived on through the beatnik generation in the 50s and 60s. The black and white striped t-shirt became part of the fashion identity worn by the likes of Andy Warhol, James Dean and seen in films like Jean Luc Goddard’s Breathless. The stripe’s bold energy in the sixties was used to create optical illusions, illustrating and playing off the psychedelic movement at that time. 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