Two Blocks @ Melbourne Central

We've just wrapped on an amazing fortnight, bringing the best art, design, fashion and music from the streets and laneways into Melbourne Central.

Live paintings, a brilliant live fashion shoot and a fantastic official festival party were but some of the great activity happening, right in one of Melbourne's busiest hubs.

Here are some pics to show you what went on. You can see full galleries of the festival party and the fashion shoot at our Flickr site.

Linda Farrow and Lizzie Fortunato - ARRIVE AT GRACE BOUTIQUE

Melbourne boutique Grace has expanded its offering with two new and exciting collections in store now.

The collections include Linda Farrow vintage – known for producing luxury eyewear for leading fashion designers - encompasses over 200 styles inspired by the 70’s and 80’s and has established itself as one of the most exciting brands in fashion today.

The section collection is Lizzie Fortunato; a jewellery range inspired by textures and patterns of the American west, features hand covered leather beads, crystal studded collars and hand embroidered bandana style necklaces.

Visit Grace at 595 Malvern Road Toorak to view these beautiful new collections!

Jenny Bannister, doing it for the kids!

Renowned Melbourne designer Jenny Bannister has offered Melbourne Girls Grammar students her beautifully designed dresses as part of the school’s annual fundraiser parade.

The lucky 15 students were treated to their very own personal fitting and styling session at Jenny’s flagship store in Chapel Street - where the excitement was through the roof.
Jenny Bannister will be the guest speaker at the school’s fashion parade this week, where she will talk to students about the inspiration, passion and dedication that is involved in constructing a garment.

For further information on Jenny Bannister’s designs visit: http://www.jennybannister.com.au/

AMPR loves Tracey Lee Hayes

We had some new AMPR team photos taken this morning by the amazing Tracey Lee Hayes. She impressed us when we worked with her on Eat Street and didn't fail to impress again today.

Even though none of us were very comfortable being on the otherside of the camera she made us feel relaxed and made the experience as enjoyable as possible.

Stay tuned as they'll be up on our website soon but in the meantime don't forget to check out her portfolio at www.traceyleehayes.com

Zoe Elizabeth Bikini Queen - Summer 2009

We Love: The Zoe Elizabeth New Summer 2009 Collection

Made from the highest quality 100% cotton fabrics, each Zoe Elizabeth bikinis are in bold signature prints, displaying designer swimwear with a twist.

This summer must have for any cossie lover!

AMPR is expanding

AMPR is very happy to announce the appointment of three new team members...

Karla Dawes joins us as an Account Executive in the fashion department. She has over three years of industry experience and has already impressed us all with her strong work ethic, efficiency and good humour.

Alexandra Gibson has come on board (only yesterday) as AMPR’s Office Manager. She’ll manage day-to-day duties, assist the team and be the cheerful girl on the other end of the phone.

And last but not least, Lauren O’Hara joins us as an Account Coordinator, working specifically on Kmart. She will be based at Kmart headquarters but will also join AMPR in the office for a day or two each week.

All girls can be reached via e-mail (first name@ampr.com.au) or on our office number (03 9537 3311).

Forever New showcases its Spring collection at Spice Market

On Monday night Forever New previewed its Spring fashion collection titled ‘Exotic Goddess’ to media, VIPs and staff at Melbourne’s newest hot spot - the exclusive Spice Market in Beaney Lane.

The opulent Middle Eastern inspired venue was the perfect fit to showcase the Forever New collection; which features stunning Grecian style maxi dresses in opulent prints and jewel tones, bold accessories and body con dresses, creating a unique look of modern glamour.

On the night, Melbourne’s young fashion elite were treated to a selection of mezze style dishes of Middle Eastern flavours, designed and overseen by renowned MoMo Executive Chef Greg Malouf, while listening to the rocking sounds of DJ Andy Murphy.

Kudos goes to the male models dressed in ‘Troy-like’ outfits, which made a few hearts race on the night!

Favourite dish would have to be the delicate jeannie bottle arancini stuffed with haloumi – delish!

Tanning Tips from California Tan

Beat the winter blues with a sunless tan that will help you survive the dreary months. Just because the weather is bad, it doesn’t mean your tan has to be! Here are the top tips from Califonia Tan:

Tanning Preparation

• Exfoliate your skin with PRIMER at least 2 hours prior to sunless tanning application to smooth skin for even tanning results. Spend a little extra time on knees, elbows, feet and hands.


• Shave at least 6 hours before your sunless tanning session. Wax at least 12 hours before.


• Do NOT moisturize skin at least 2 hours prior to your sunless tanning session. Lotions can create a barrier, preventing the absorption of sunless tanning solution and products.


• Remove makeup prior to sunless tanning application for best results.


• Wear dark, loose fitting clothes. Sunless solution washes out of most clothing, but the immediate cosmetic bronzer could wipe off on lighter clothes, giving a temporary appearance of discoloration.


• Do not wear wool, nylon or silk during or after your sunless application for at least 8 hours as bronzer may react with these fabrics and could cause staining.

Looking after your Tan

• After your sunless tanning applications, wait at least 6 hours before you shower. This will allow time for the self-tanning reaction to occur on the skin. Leave overnight if possible.


• Do not moisturize until after your first shower. This could effect the immediate reaction of the sunless solution on the skin and cause streaking.


• Do not swim after your sunless tanning session. Immediate contact with water, chlorine and salt water could effect the immediate reaction of the sunless solution. Also, keep in mind that chlorine and salt water may dry your skin and cause your sunless tan to fade faster.


• Wait at least 6 hours before you exercise. Excessive perspiration could effect the immediate reaction of the sunless solution on the skin.


• Do NOT exfoliate straight away unless there are areas you want to remove. When you do exfoliate, remember to do so gently and evenly to preserve an even, sunless tan.