I first heard about Monette when I was listening in on a conversation at a fashion event. I overheard a fashion insider commenting on Monette’s amazing shoes. ‘I seem to be hearing about Monette everywhere at the moment’ was the comment. She was not kidding, from Marie Claire, Shop til you Drop and The Age, everyone has been talking about Monette’s fabulous shoes.

Melbourne Fashionista spoke to Jacqui, designer for Monette about what she bought recently…

Vintage Shoes, Book by Caroline Cox

My Mum bought me this book as a present. She came across it at Borders. It is a beautiful book with lovely images and goes through 100 years of shoe history.

Chelsea Flower, Beaded Silk Tie Dye Vest

I don’t get much of an opportunity to shop here in Melbourne because I am always so busy. But earlier in the year I went to New York for a holiday/work trip for two weeks. I went with my girlfriends and did all the touristy things like going to the Rockefeller Centre and the Brooklyn Bridge - it was freezing! I really enjoyed shopping in the lower eastside around Soho and Nolita. There are lots of independent shops and boutiques around there and less department stores. I also used the time in New York to research for Monette. I get inspired by people on the street and their personal style. I also get ideas from music. For example music can make me think about an environment and what people would be wearing in it.

While was there I saw this vest in a shop called To the Max (I think). I didn’t buy it at the time because it was quite expensive, but I kept thinking about it. So I ended up having to go back to get it! It is so soft and so pretty. I wear it mostly with jeans but sometimes over dresses as well.

Reese, White Felt Riding Hat

This is a great bad hair day hat. I bought it when I was in Hong Kong at the end of last year. I was there for work for two weeks, mostly checking production and ensuring the shipment was all perfect. Between the three of us who own the business, My Mum (Liliana) and Annette (a family friend)  we take turns to go to Hong Kong twice a year to do quality assurance on our production.

Vintage Necklace from New York  

I found this in a vintage shop on my New York trip as well. I like how it has an aztec feel about it and is quite a statement piece. My trip was pretty tiring, the place we were staying at was on top of a club so I didn’t get must sleep. At the airport I was so tired I lost my gloves - I think I just got up and they must have fell onto the floor from my lap and I didn’t even notice.

Monette, Carrie Patent Shoe

This shoe is my own personal favourite from our current winter range. It goes with everything and I love the bow. Our current winter collection is quite chic with clean lines and little bit edgy. I wear these with tights as I have white legs at the moment.

Lusso de Bello, Purple Leather Bag

I got this bag in New York as well. I love the bright purple colour. I love how it seems to match everything I have, or perhaps I just make it because I want to use it all the time! I bought it from a boutique near where we were staying. It is a great size and has a bit of boho feel about it.

Monette, McKenzie Ankle Boot

This boot is also from our current winter range as well. We have had so many calls about it and people are still calling. My girlfriends all love the boot too. I wear them all the time with tights and a dress, and sometimes with shorts and tights. As I am not very tall I don’t wear them with pants much - for shorter people I think ankle boots look better with a skirt or a dress. In terms of summer footwear - my tips are cut out, chunky heels and bright colours.

Images below from Monette’s Spring/Summer 09/10 range in stores soon for summer.