At the Grammys, more is more

Summary

Style-ish Podcast Summary: “At the Grammys, More is More”

Hosted by Shameless Media, Style-ish delves into the latest trends in fashion, branding, business, and beauty. In the February 4, 2025, episode titled “At the Grammys, More is More,” hosts Madison Sullivan and Joanna Flem, joined by guest Rhiannon Joyce, explore standout moments from the Grammy Awards, emerging fashion trends, innovative beauty treatments, and practical fashion advice for wedding season.

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1. Grammys Fashion Recap

The episode kicks off with the hosts discussing the dazzling fashion statements made at the recent Grammy Awards. They highlight how celebrities used their outfits to make bold and personal statements on stage and the red carpet.

• Sabrina Carpenter’s Versatile Looks: Madison Sullivan praises Sabrina Carpenter for her three distinct looks, including a striking blue feathered stage outfit and a glamorous gold strap-backed gown. Madison shares her admiration, stating, “She struck me as someone who's quite funny or she's doing a very good job of portraying her Persona... almost like she was method dressing as herself” ([02:08]).

• Beyoncé’s Showstopping Gown: Rhiannon Joyce remarks on Beyoncé’s absence from the red carpet but recalls her stunning gold strapless gown with high gloves, noting the subtle details like Western-inspired sequin stitching as a nod to Cowboy Carter ([03:32]).

• Lady Gaga’s Gothic Ensemble: The hosts express their admiration for Lady Gaga’s gothic, performative black ensemble, applauding her use of an Australian designer and her ability to push fashion boundaries ([04:01]).

• Jaden Smith’s Innovative Headpiece: Joanna Flem and Rhiannon Joyce discuss Jaden Smith’s castle-like headpiece, revealing mixed reactions due to its unconventional appearance and practicality ([02:49]).

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2. Trend Spotlight: The Rise of Man Bags

Transitioning from red carpet glamour, the hosts delve into the growing trend of men adopting handbags, a shift significantly influenced by high-profile celebrities.

• Celebrity Influence: Madison Sullivan emphasizes how male icons like Jacob Elordi and Harry Styles are redefining masculinity in fashion by embracing traditionally feminine accessories. “Jacob Elordi ... epitomizes kind of what a stereotypical attractive masculine looking male can look like and can be rolling around with the Bottega bag or a country road duffel or a Chanel handbag,” she observes ([07:07]).

• Practicality Meets Style: Rhiannon Joyce discusses the practicality of handbags for men, especially at events like weddings, where they serve as essential storage for multiple items without compromising style. “[...] they also look great and they can really elevate a look” ([08:06]).

• Listener Poll Results: The hosts reveal the results of their recent poll, showing that 79.14% of listeners support the man bag trend, while 20.86% are less enthusiastic. Joanna Flem expresses pleasant surprise at the majority’s positive response, interpreting it as a shift towards practicality and style ([13:02]).

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3. Headline: Salmon Sperm Injections – A New Frontier in Beauty

Joanna Flem introduces an intriguing beauty treatment she recently underwent: salmon sperm injections, officially known as Rejuran treatments.

• Overview of the Treatment: Joanna explains that these injections use DNA fragments derived from salmon sperm to stimulate collagen and elastin production, enhancing skin hydration, texture, and reducing fine lines, particularly under the eyes ([14:10]).

• Personal Experience: She shares her firsthand experience, noting minimal pain and visible improvements after the initial treatment. “I am documenting it. I'm just giving it an extra couple of weeks to see if there's any changes...” ([21:06]).

• Industry Perspective: The hosts discuss the treatment's growing popularity, especially in Korea and Europe, and speculate on its potential to become as mainstream as traditional fillers. Madison Sullivan remarks on its non-hyaluronic acid base as a significant differentiator in the beauty market ([22:24]).

• Expert Insights: Joanna emphasizes the treatment's safety profile and suitability for delicate areas like under the eyes, positioning it as a viable alternative to fillers with fewer long-term downsides ([17:09]).

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4. Headline: Copenhagen Fashion Week – The Coolest Event in the Industry

The conversation shifts to Copenhagen Fashion Week, which has garnered acclaim for its forward-thinking approach and sustainability efforts.

• Accessibility and Wearability: Joanna Flem highlights Copenhagen's appeal due to its accessible fashion that resonates with everyday wearers. “It just feels more mainstream. It's not like high fashion... something that I genuinely could apply to my own wardrobe” ([25:29]).

• Sustainability Commitment: Rhiannon Joyce points out the emphasis on sustainability, with brands required to use approximately 50% recycled materials, making Copenhagen a leader in eco-friendly fashion ([31:06]).

• Diverse and Inclusive Runways: The hosts praise Copenhagen Fashion Week for its body diversity and mix of high and low fashion, creating a unique and inclusive atmosphere compared to more traditional fashion weeks ([26:04]).

• Influential Scandi Brands: They discuss key Scandinavian brands like Ganny, Acne Studios, and House of Dagmar, noting their impact on the global fashion scene through sustainable practices and innovative designs ([29:13]).

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5. Listener Q&A: Finding Wedding Guest Dresses Under $500

Addressing listener Jade's query about affordable yet occasion-appropriate wedding guest dresses, the hosts offer a wealth of practical advice and resources.

• Affordable Brands and Stores: Madison and Rhiannon recommend brands such as Perfect Stranger, Elliot, and Faithful, which offer stylish options within the budget. They also suggest exploring Australian brands like Meshki and considering rentals from labels like Orton and Lavan ([39:19]).

• Secondhand Options: Rhiannon Joyce shares her success with purchasing secondhand designer dresses, emphasizing the value and sustainability of pre-owned fashion. “I found this Bernadette dress on a secondhand website. It retails for fourteen hundred dollars. I paid four hundred for it” ([44:10]).

• Sales and Discounts: Madison Sullivan advises listeners to keep an eye out for seasonal sales and discounts, highlighting that high-end brands often have significant markdowns that make them more accessible. “[...] you do get some great dresses that are like pretty heavily discounted” ([41:49]).

• Practical Tips: The hosts encourage versatility in dress selection, opting for comfortable fabrics like linen for summer weddings and embracing rental services to access premium styles without the hefty price tag ([40:30]).

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6. Closing Thoughts

The episode concludes with heartfelt thanks to the guest, Rhiannon Joyce, and acknowledgments of the Shameless Media team. The hosts remind listeners to engage via email or social media and tease upcoming episodes featuring more insightful content on fashion and beauty.

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Notable Quotes:

• Madison Sullivan on Sabrina Carpenter’s outfits: “It was almost like she was method dressing as herself” ([02:25]).

• Rhiannon Joyce on man bags: “More men need to be using handbags and I think they look cool and they can really elevate a look” ([08:24]).

• Joanna Flem on salmon sperm injections: “These are polynucleotide treatments or biostimulators. And as I said, they've been really big in Korea” ([14:10]).

• Madison Sullivan on Copenhagen Fashion Week’s evolution: “It doesn't feel like they're playing dress up” ([27:58]).

• Rhiannon Joyce on secondhand fashion: “It's like this beautiful cycle of fashion... I hope they felt as good as what I did” ([43:36]).

This episode of Style-ish offers a comprehensive exploration of current trends and practical advice, blending high fashion insights with accessible style tips, making it a valuable listen for fashion and beauty enthusiasts seeking both inspiration and actionable knowledge.

Transcript

[Joanna Flem]

Foreign.

[Lucy Hunt]

This episode of Stylish is brought to you by yours only multi use skincare and hair care for sensitive bodies. Available now at over 300 Priceline stores nationwide.

[Madison Sullivan]

This is Stylish, the podcast for all things fashion, brand, business and beauty. My name is Madison Sullivan Thought and today I'm joined by my usual co host, Joanna Flem.

[Joanna Flem]

Hi.

[Madison Sullivan]

Hi. And our beautiful Annika is off at the moment, which means it is time for our favorite fill in to join us, Rhiannon Joyce. Welcome.

[Rhiannon Joyce]

Hello. Thank you for having me.

[Madison Sullivan]

If you haven't listened to Stylish before, Rae is head of business development for Shameless Media. For those of you who have, you know, she's our bad gal. Riri.

[Rhiannon Joyce]

Yes. And I forced my way into the studio.

[Joanna Flem]

She's badly.

[Rhiannon Joyce]

How are we?

[Madison Sullivan]

We're good. It's Grammy's day today.

[Rhiannon Joyce]

It's Grammy's day. We're not in the office all day. We're all enjoying it.

[Madison Sullivan]

I'm so jealous. I've had it on at home and the amount of I've wanted commentary from others. So Twitter or X now I should say has been where I've gone for my conversation and seeing what people's theories are on people's outfits.

[Joanna Flem]

And I've been on TikTok for most of the afternoon sussing it out. There's been some interesting outfits.

[Rhiannon Joyce]

It's interesting because I haven't seen any social commentary yet. I've only just been watching what I've seen on tv so I feel like I've missed a bit because certain celebrities generally get more airtime. So.

[Madison Sullivan]

Yeah.

[Rhiannon Joyce]

What have you seen online?

[Madison Sullivan]

I mean, Sabrina Carpenter wore J.W. anderson. I've got so many theories on that because I would have thought if Jonathan Anderson was staying at Louisville, she would have worn Louisville. But she wore J.W. anderson, which is his name brand. So that fueled my speculation. He is off to Dior for those who maybe didn't know that rumor. But she also had, I think it was a 50 carat diamond like dangling off her back. It was insane. But I actually just loved all of her looks. She had three looks, great looks. Like her on stage look was just so her like the blue and the feathers and the fun and then she had a gold light, beautiful strapped back. I mean the Grammys are still going. So all I know right now is she won best pops of song that I don't know.

[Joanna Flem]

Yeah, she's surprised.

[Madison Sullivan]

A pop album. Sorry, sorry. Sabrina. Not just the one hit wonder. Full album.

[Rhiannon Joyce]

Yeah. I loved her stage presence in her performance I watched the whole thing. She has great presence on stage. I said to Eilish, she should be in musicals. And Eilish was like, she was. And I was like, oh, that makes sense.

[Madison Sullivan]

She strikes me as someone who's quite funny or she's doing a very good job of portraying her Persona. But what I loved about her red carpet look is, like, it's not something I would wear, but it was so her. It was almost like she was method dressing as herself.

[Rhiannon Joyce]

Yeah, I loved it.

[Joanna Flem]

Agree.

[Rhiannon Joyce]

Who did you like, Joe?

[Joanna Flem]

I really liked Gracie Abrams.

[Madison Sullivan]

Yeah.

[Rhiannon Joyce]

Chanel.

[Joanna Flem]

Yes.

[Madison Sullivan]

I assumed.

[Rhiannon Joyce]

I think it was.

[Joanna Flem]

Yeah, she looked beautiful. Loved the makeup.

[Madison Sullivan]

Yeah, the makeup, yeah.

[Joanna Flem]

Yeah. What did we think of Jaden Smith's headpiece? I didn't see that he was wearing, like, it was a castle on his head.

[Rhiannon Joyce]

Right, okay. Can you give me a bit of a description? Because I didn't see it.

[Joanna Flem]

So imagine like a toy castle, like the size of a cat.

[Rhiannon Joyce]

Okay.

[Joanna Flem]

On his head.

[Rhiannon Joyce]

That is not what I. I don't know why. Okay, I'm gonna need a visual. Visual cue after this, but. Okay. Right, yeah, no comment for me, because I haven't faced.

[Joanna Flem]

Was in the middle of it. So it was like, oh, okay, he popped it over his head, but then he could see through it and it was like a black castle.

[Rhiannon Joyce]

Right.

[Joanna Flem]

I would love to know what you're imagining in your head.

[Rhiannon Joyce]

I'm not imagining anything. My brain is honestly not processing.

[Madison Sullivan]

Do you know who else I loved but they didn't walk the red carpet or that. I haven't seen a red carpet photo yet. Is Beyonce.

[Rhiannon Joyce]

I don't think she did, no.

[Madison Sullivan]

She had this incredible gold strapless gown and quite high gloves on. And it was beautiful bedazzled, but it was kind of like Western stitching was kind of emulated through sequin, which I thought was a really nice nod to Cowboy Carter. Although when she was making her acceptance speech, I did notice that the wire from the cupping had popped out on both sides.

[Rhiannon Joyce]

And I was like, wardrobe malfunction. Okay. My favorite Lady Gaga. She looked incredible.

[Joanna Flem]

Did you see her look?

[Rhiannon Joyce]

The black? Very gothic, just very performative. And I love that about Lady Gaga. When she shows up to red carpets, you know that she's really going to push the boundaries. Also, I don't know if we know she actually wore an Australian designer, so just incredible. What an amazing moment for someone from Oz. Yeah, I loved it, but she looked incredible.

[Madison Sullivan]

She really did. And Chapel Rowan as well. I mean, I just think the way that they show up, they're wearing a lot more than a Versace dress. And I'm not. I'm not hating on Versace. I'd probably go and wear a Versace dress. But it's just that kind of thing where you're right, they're pushing the boundaries. They're serving an absolute look. It's head to toe. It's not what you would expect. It is fashion.

[Rhiannon Joyce]

Do you know what it is for me? I say Lady Gaga and Chapel Road as storytellers. They're such good storytellers in their music. And then you just see that really come to life in the music videos, the way they show up on red carpet. So, yes, it's not wearable in real life. And yes, a lot of people will be like, oh, that's not for me. I don't like it. But I love that they push the boundaries with storytelling and they bring that to life in what they're wearing.

[Madison Sullivan]

It's cool. Yeah, yeah, Very cool.

[Joanna Flem]

Yeah. Very much their personal brand.

[Rhiannon Joyce]

Exactly.

[Madison Sullivan]

Yeah. Same with Sabrina. I can't imagine her wearing like a slick back bun. That girl's whole DNA is blow waves.

[Joanna Flem]

Yes, yes.

[Madison Sullivan]

Every time I've got my air at home, I go harder. Go more Sabrina.

[Rhiannon Joyce]

See, I'm the slick back bun girly.

[Madison Sullivan]

One more too. And it was actually an on stage look, but it was. I think it's boozy. Who sings Tipsy? Everybody at the club. Yes. Shaboozi. Sorry. He looked incredible. I was like, this is such a good fit. I don't know if that's what he'd worn on the carpet or that was just his fit for his performance, but he looked sensational. And I was like, that is a look if ever I've seen.

[Joanna Flem]

That's another one I'm going to have to look up.

[Rhiannon Joyce]

Well, that's enough Grammy's chat. I feel there's honestly going to be so much more online. I need to get on the socials and watch and listen.

[Joanna Flem]

It'll be the coming days we see more come out.

[Rhiannon Joyce]

Yeah, I've just been so busy at work.

[Madison Sullivan]

Chronically online evening is loading.

[Rhiannon Joyce]

Seriously.

[Joanna Flem]

All right, that is enough Grammy's chat for today. So on today's episode, we are going to explore the salmon sperm injections that I had the other day and my recent experience how Copenhagen Fashion Week became the coolest fashion industry event. Pat McGrath finally releasing those glass skin masks that we saw on the Margiela Runway last year. And we'll be answering a question from a listener who wants to know, where can you buy wedding guest dresses for under 500 these days. That is a great question.

[Rhiannon Joyce]

Right Question.

[Madison Sullivan]

Question.

[Rhiannon Joyce]

Can't wait to get to that.

[Madison Sullivan]

I have our very own Ray Ray's Wedding. So I'm taking notes.

[Rhiannon Joyce]

Take notes.

[Joanna Flem]

Well, before we get into all of that, we're going to do the verdict. So if you've listened to this podcast before, you'll know that's where we poll you on something that's going on, something's going around, a trend, whatever it might be. We get your opinions on it, then we discuss it here and we share the results. So we polled you last week on man bags, but before we get into those results, we're going to chat about it a little bit further. So recently, celebs like Jacob Elordi, Timothee Chalamet, Harry Styles, they've all been spotted wearing what might once have been described as women's handbags. Think like the quilted chain strap Chanel bags, the bamboo handled Gucci bags.

[Rhiannon Joyce]

The Bottega.

[Joanna Flem]

Yeah. Yes, the Bottega. In this lab world and the fashion industry, the man bag, it's more popular than ever. Like, I don't think it's any secret that we're seeing a lot of these very fashionable, very conventionally attractive celebrities wearing the man bag. But is it something that we think can apply to the everyday guy?

[Rhiannon Joyce]

I love that more men are wearing handbags. I think this is something that all men need to adopt. Especially I'm talking to you, Louis Wooder, when we are at weddings. And I know Zara and I have had this conversation when you're at a wedding and your partner looks at you and is like, can you put this in your bag? And you're like, sure, it's one thing. And then all of a sudden they go, oh, and my sunnies. Oh, and my mints. And all of a sudden your bag is bursting at the brim because not only are you holding all of your essentials, but you're also holding theirs.

[Madison Sullivan]

And the wedding card.

[Joanna Flem]

And the wedding card every time.

[Rhiannon Joyce]

It's also, this is just not a wedding thing. But I feel like that's always top of mind for me when this happens.

[Madison Sullivan]

Oh.

[Rhiannon Joyce]

I'm like, more men need to be using handbags and I think they look cool and I think they elevate an outfit. So if you're someone who is a man who likes dressing up and likes, you know, exploring fashion, add a bag into the mix. Because beyond the practicality of it, they also look great and they can really elevate a look.

[Joanna Flem]

Yeah, I'm not Against it. I think there's a bit of BDA associated here. Like, you're obviously very self assured, you're very comfortable in your masculinity to wear what would once be considered a women's accessory.

[Madison Sullivan]

Yeah, totally. And I love what these celebrities are doing to challenge maybe societal norms or concepts that men maybe had that it was not a male or manly thing to carry a bag. Because I don't know, Jacob Elordi to me is the hottest thing since sliced bread. So if Jacob Elordi, who looks like he does and I think epitomizes kind of what a stereotypical attractive masculine looking male can look like and can be rolling around with the Bottega bag or a country road duffel or a Chanel handbag, like crossbody.

[Rhiannon Joyce]

Yeah.

[Madison Sullivan]

I'm like, I love it. I think maybe people are tainted by the societal norms. Or like Kel day night, you know, wearing a. It's not a, you know, satchel, it's a man bag. Or like, I think maybe there's been some media content pieces that have challenged people's thing.

[Rhiannon Joyce]

It's also like the dorky dad when you're traveling. My dad always has that, like satchel.

[Joanna Flem]

Yeah.

[Rhiannon Joyce]

And he's got all this stuff in it. And I'm like. But then I agree. I feel like we need to challenge that norm. I also think historically men have only really worn bags when it's appeared like they're in transit.

[Joanna Flem]

Yeah.

[Rhiannon Joyce]

So whether they've got a duffel bag or. I know a lot of athletes as well when they're showing up and they're doing like their game day fits before they go inside and they go in the tunnel and you see all their work.

[Madison Sullivan]

I love those.

[Rhiannon Joyce]

Me too.

[Madison Sullivan]

They're so also Lewis Hamilton on the ways. Yeah.

[Rhiannon Joyce]

But I've noticed that they're all really investing in cool bags as well that complement their outfit. So I feel like it's moved away from this. It's only socially acceptable for men to have it whilst they're in transit. Whether that be like a duffel bag or an overnight bag or work bag, like correct. Or like a laptop bag. And now it's really starting to bleed into this fashion space. Whether it be, you know, showing up to a game day event if you're an NBA player or. I actually think the best person I can speak about who does this so well is my brother.

[Joanna Flem]

Really?

[Rhiannon Joyce]

Oh my God.

[Madison Sullivan]

Your brother does always have a bag.

[Rhiannon Joyce]

Brother always has a handbag.

[Joanna Flem]

Always very fashionable.

[Rhiannon Joyce]

He is very fashionable and he really pushes the boundaries when it comes to what men are expected to wear, my brother has never been shy. He uses what he wears as a way of self expression. Because if you've met my brother, I don't know if you've met. Oh, yeah, yeah, you guys have all met my brother. But he's actually quite shy and reserved. Very similar to me. No, it's like he uses fashion as a way to express himself and uses it as a way to show his personality. So he usually wears a lot of, like, bright, lots of sets. But I was asking him, I was like, why do you love handbags? And he was like, well, one, they're incredibly practical, so I can put my things.

[Madison Sullivan]

We love a practical king.

[Rhiannon Joyce]

Thank you. We love that. And two, he was like, they always elevate my outfit. So every time I feel like I'm missing something, the handbag just is like the final piece that I add on and I walk out the door and I'm like, I feel great.

[Madison Sullivan]

And I know, honestly, words to live by, like, that's how I feel when I use my handbag. I'm like, yeah, I can wear a tee and a jeans, and if I've got a great handbag with that outfit, I'm like, I feel a million times.

[Rhiannon Joyce]

Exactly. So it's not just celebrities who are doing it. There are everyday people that are out there being more experimental. I'm also seeing a lot more on TikTok in terms of male influences experimenting with bags. Beyond the practicality point. I am here for it. I also think it's not going away. I do think we're going to see this come up time and time again. I know at Paris Fashion Week, there was so much presence of handbags on the Runway, and this was Men's Fashion Week, so it was really cool to see. And I don't think it's going anywhere.

[Madison Sullivan]

Yeah, I think Pharrell with Louis Vuitton as well. We've seen a real fusion of it on the Runway and with their ready to wear collection as well as this, like, celebrity space as well. But I think Chanel are gifting quite a few handbags. I would guesstimate because Timothy Chamberlay has been wearing a lot of them recently. And Jacob Elordi, just, like, I have no notes for him. I just think he's the poster boy for this trend.

[Rhiannon Joyce]

Yeah, he is. He's great. I'm really keen to know what the community thought about this. I feel like it could go either way. I'm going to hope that majority said, like, yeah, I'm Here for it. Because, like me, they're thinking from when you have a boyfriend, from a practicality point of view, it's like, yes, put your stuff in your bag. But then also experimental. It's fun. It's pushing the boundaries.

[Madison Sullivan]

I love that you, like, get your stuff out of my bag. I'd be like, get your shit out of my bag. I don't want to carry your mints in your sunglasses.

[Rhiannon Joyce]

Yeah, it's usually the sunglasses and the wallet and the phone case. Yeah. You know what? It's everything.

[Joanna Flem]

Yeah.

[Madison Sullivan]

But also, there's nothing worse than when a man is wearing a suit and you can see this silhouette of an iPhone. So get a handbag Solves the problem.

[Rhiannon Joyce]

Exactly right.

[Madison Sullivan]

You've got the results. So what did our listeners say?

[Rhiannon Joyce]

I don't, actually.

[Joanna Flem]

I do.

[Madison Sullivan]

Oh, sorry.

[Rhiannon Joyce]

I'm really keen to know.

[Madison Sullivan]

You're really keen to know. I was like, are you being. Boy.

[Joanna Flem]

I was surprised by these results, actually.

[Madison Sullivan]

Okay.

[Rhiannon Joyce]

Okay.

[Joanna Flem]

So 79.14% said yes to the man bag.

[Rhiannon Joyce]

Yay. I was.

[Joanna Flem]

I'm surprised by that.

[Rhiannon Joyce]

No, I think the girlies are thinking practical. They're going.

[Joanna Flem]

They are. They're saying, get your shit out of my bag. That's exactly what they're saying. So 20.86% said no.

[Rhiannon Joyce]

No. Okay.

[Joanna Flem]

Yeah.

[Madison Sullivan]

I think they're thinking, get your out of my bag. And Jacob, a Lottie agree, feels also asap. Rocky. I can't believe we didn't mention him. He kind of invented that wheel. He did, yeah.

[Rhiannon Joyce]

He's definitely.

[Madison Sullivan]

Well, I'd say Kel actually walked so that asap. And Jacob could run.

[Joanna Flem]

Okay, now that we've done man bags, time to jump into today's headlines. We're starting with. Why are people injecting salmon sperm into their face?

[Rhiannon Joyce]

Yeah, Jo, why?

[Madison Sullivan]

More specifically, why is Joanna Fleming injecting salmon sperm into her face?

[Rhiannon Joyce]

I was like, there's no way she's getting through this opening one.

[Joanna Flem]

So I'm not the only one doing it. There's a lot of celebs out there doing it. Late last year, Kim K. Talked about getting it injected into her face. And then the year prior to that, Jennifer Aniston revealed that she'd been getting it injected after her esthetician recommended it.

[Madison Sullivan]

So you're in good company.

[Joanna Flem]

Yes. So definitely in good company there. Lots of people are having it done. But also, this has been big in Korea for many, many years. I'm gonna say 10 years. I feel like that's. That's what my dermatologist Told me a significant period of time. So there's a pretty good safety profile in that. It's been done a lot overseas. It has only just recently landed in Australia, particularly the product that I've had. So if you listen to last week's episode or the week before, I can't remember when we talked about it, I had these salmon sperm injections onto my eyes and it's very like flippant to say salmon sperm because it is a little bit more complex than that. We have not milked a salmon and there's a lot more to it than that. So essentially these are polynucleotide treatments or biostimulators. And as I said, they've been really big in Korea, also in Europe since like 2015 I reckon as well. So Rejuran is the brand that I had. And this contains DNA fragments derived from salmon. Yeah, it is from the sperm, but it's DNA fragments, so let's put it that way. And it's a non hyaluronic acid based bioremodeling.

[Rhiannon Joyce]

Right.

[Joanna Flem]

Compound, I guess you could say. So hyaluronic acid has been big in the filler space and that's typically what you'll find in dermal fillers. This is not like a filler. So quite different to everything else that is on the market, but essentially stimulates the production of collagen and elastin. So you can expect to see an improvement in things like hydration, texture, fine lines, that kind of crepey skin. Yeah. And it's particularly good for use under the eyes. So you can't treat the eyes with a lot of things so hard. I feel like.

[Rhiannon Joyce]

Yeah. When people talk about the under eye area, I feel like it always comes with conversation around. It is quite tricky to treat.

[Joanna Flem]

Yes.

[Madison Sullivan]

Yeah. Which is a shame because that's probably the one pain point for me. I think I sent Ray about 47 TikToks last night being like, what are these injections of the under eye area? Like, do I need to get them? I don't know. I've been to an ophthalmologist before because I had to have something cut out of my eye. And I've got to say I did not love having someone poke around that area.

[Rhiannon Joyce]

Yeah.

[Madison Sullivan]

So you're braver than I because I just don't know that even having a needle near there is something I could do.

[Joanna Flem]

Yeah.

[Madison Sullivan]

Never say never because if they get any more hollow and dark then maybe I'm there with bells on.

[Joanna Flem]

Well, I think the thing is that the eyes are the first place where you typically notice the signs of aging. So I think in your. In your early 30s, mid-30s is probably where you start noticing. Oh, actually, I don't think I noticed those lines five years ago.

[Madison Sullivan]

Yeah.

[Joanna Flem]

And I'm not saying that's a bad thing. Nobody has to go and get this done. But as someone who works in the beauty industry, I'm typically one to go and try something first. Yeah.

[Rhiannon Joyce]

Also experimental for you.

[Joanna Flem]

Exactly. Because I reckon 80% of my clients ask about under eyes. Interesting. And I'm not going to go and tell them that under eye cream is going to solve.

[Madison Sullivan]

Yes.

[Joanna Flem]

Their concerns, because I know that that's not the case.

[Madison Sullivan]

Yeah. And I think under eye creams are probably one of the most hotly debated skin care products on the market because I think beauty editors in particular have very strong views of whether they are efficient in treating any of the under eye area.

[Joanna Flem]

Yeah. I'm of the opinion that they can help to hydrate and support that skin because it is very delicate. But if you have considerable concerns, like puffiness, hollowness, significant fine lines, you're not going to see a change. With using an eye cream, you're going to have to go a little bit further than that. But when we look at dermal therapies, like professional treatments, you're very limited in what you can use around the eye because it's such a delicate area and it's so close to your actual eye. So going any closer from where that orbital bone is is actually quite risky with a lot of modalities. Like there are treatments that you can do around that area, but some of them require putting in like a metal eye shield and that is incredibly uncomfortable. So. So I think this is like almost the easy solution, I guess, to those concerns. If you do have under eye concerns, rather than getting something like a filler, which typically has had quite a lot of cons to it, a lot of risks associated. And these days a lot of injectors actually won't treat the under eyes with fillers because that are associated and just the side effects of it long term and the appearance that it has long term, like initially it can look good and then over time doesn't look great. So this is just an alternative solution, I suppose. And what better time to hyper fixate on my appearance than before my wedding?

[Rhiannon Joyce]

We have so many questions. Yeah, I know. So we're like so eager to ask. Yeah. How did you first hear about this?

[Joanna Flem]

Oh, good question. I actually don't remember. It would have been through industry contacts, Right. Yeah, It Would have been through conversations with people.

[Rhiannon Joyce]

See, with social media for me. Yeah.

[Madison Sullivan]

See, I had never heard about this until Joe told me about it.

[Rhiannon Joyce]

Right.

[Madison Sullivan]

And I would like to think I have girlfriends who are quite experimental with things like this. Or usually I'm supposed to tell me about it. Well, you were the first. You're the first girlfriend. But I was like, I just hadn't heard of it. And I was like, well, that's surprising to me because lots of devices and things like that or, you know, skincare ingredients my girlfriends will often pick apart and we'll dissect at a wine bar together. But I hadn't heard of salmon sperm injection.

[Joanna Flem]

That does surprise me that you hadn't heard of it. I felt like you would have been really into that.

[Madison Sullivan]

TikTok's really giving me the golden retriever content at the moment.

[Rhiannon Joyce]

Yes. See, TikTok's giving me a lot of treatment content at the moment. And again, I don't know, back to your point around the wedding, I'm not actively looking at changing my appearance drastically before the wedding, but I feel like what happens is once you start having conversations with your friends, I'm convinced that TikTok is listening to me. But I'm getting so much wedding content at the moment and part of that is heavy beauty focus. So I've seen a lot of this experimental sort of treatments. I've seen the salmon sperm injections. I've seen other hyaluronic acid treatments. So I feel like I'm seeing a lot of it. I'm not really engaging in a lot of it. I'm watching it a bit. But I'm really curious, more so to hear from you, because you had. This is your personal experience and I trust you wholeheartedly as a comparison.

[Madison Sullivan]

Does the entire Shameless, obviously, and rightfully so. What about this serum?

[Rhiannon Joyce]

I'm like Jojo, I'm like the shameless girls. Book an appointment. This is myself included. Book of console Ray.

[Madison Sullivan]

Absolutely veiled Joe up in the corner of the wine bar at our Christmas party. Being like, I'll just talk you through what I'm currently doing. How's it going?

[Joanna Flem]

I did do a full consultation for you, pretty much. Is it going well?

[Rhiannon Joyce]

Yeah, really well. I bet my skin's looking pretty good.

[Joanna Flem]

You look glowy.

[Rhiannon Joyce]

So why did you want to do this?

[Joanna Flem]

Well, I'd started noticing a bit of hollowing under my eyes, which became a little bit more noticeable to me probably over the last, like 12 months, I reckon a little bit more fine lines. I just wanted, like, My makeup to sit a bit nicer and also just for that darkness to be a little bit improved. I'm very realistic with outcomes. I'm like, I'm not expecting to look like a brand new person. I think that's really important. When you go and have treatments like this done, they're subtle, and that is why we're looking at all these celebrities going, fuck, they look good, but what have they done exactly. Good.

[Rhiannon Joyce]

You can't put your finger on it. And it also seems to be like a slow burn. Like, it feels like when you look at celebrities, first of all, it's always women, unfortunately, that we're looking at. But when you're looking at that aging over years, it's very much. You're seeing it subtle sort of improvements or changes, and then all of a sudden you're like, oh, my God, you look like 25.

[Madison Sullivan]

Yeah.

[Rhiannon Joyce]

And they're 40.

[Joanna Flem]

Yeah. So it's over. Two to three treatments is recommended a few weeks apart. So my next one is at the end of March just because I couldn't get in a little bit earlier with what's going on in my life. But I'm hopeful to see some more results at that point. I feel like I've noticed some slight textual changes under the eyes, so we'll see how that goes. But it wasn't painful for me. I had some numbing under the area, but I did.

[Rhiannon Joyce]

The photos also looked a little scary.

[Joanna Flem]

Yeah, I did scare a lot of people with the photos. I'm sorry.

[Madison Sullivan]

It was a jump scare in the slap, for sure. I was like, jesus, Okay.

[Joanna Flem]

I sent a photo of myself to the Shameless group chat. I was like, guys, just an update on the salmon sperm. But I did scare a few people on Instagram as well. But I am documenting it. I'm just giving it an extra couple of weeks to see if there's any changes prior to my next appointment, and then I'll post a little bit more about it. But I didn't find it painful. I did have a friend that went and did it, and she also documented it. Lily Brown on YouTube posted about it, and she found it very, very painful.

[Madison Sullivan]

Right, okay.

[Rhiannon Joyce]

So.

[Joanna Flem]

And she messaged me afterwards and she was like, oh, my God, did you die? I was like, no, it was fine.

[Rhiannon Joyce]

Do you consider yourself someone who has, like, a high pain threshold? Yeah. So do I.

[Madison Sullivan]

So we don't trust you.

[Rhiannon Joyce]

Yeah, I'm. I'm really good with needles. I don't.

[Joanna Flem]

It is pain, in my opinion. If I'm not hurting in a facial. It's not for me.

[Madison Sullivan]

Jo, do you think it's going to become more mainstream than filler or as mainstream as filler?

[Joanna Flem]

I think it is going to become the new filler.

[Madison Sullivan]

Yeah.

[Rhiannon Joyce]

Really?

[Joanna Flem]

My words.

[Madison Sullivan]

Can you get it in your lips?

[Joanna Flem]

You can't get it in your lips. As far as I know. You can have it in a lot of other areas of the face. I have heard that Profilo, which is a hyaluronic acid based biostimulator, is more effective for hydration. And yeah, for textural and hydration concerns, but especially for the under eyes. Rejuran is apparently the way to go as I hear from my dermatologist.

[Rhiannon Joyce]

Right. I'm interested to see how this progresses and obviously, Jo, you will keep us up to date.

[Joanna Flem]

I absolutely will. Stay tuned and keep posted, guys.

[Madison Sullivan]

Okay, so enough about man bags and salmon sperm. Up next, we're discussing how Copenhagen Fashion Week became the industry's coolest event. But first, let's hear a word from today's sponsor.

[Lucy Hunt]

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[Madison Sullivan]

Okay, from man bags and salmon sperm, we are exiting the male innuendo domain and our next headline is how did Copenhagen Fashion Week become the industry's coolest event? And I think it is undeniable that in recent years, Copenhagen Fashion Week has become known as the cool fashion week, revered for its forward thinking scandi girl, street Style and innovative creative energy. And inevitably, you know, that creative energy really coming through. And it first debuted in 2006 and has really evolved and taken on a life of its own into a world leader when it comes to platforming both fashion, but also slow fashion. And it's been really celebrated for having more body diversity on the runways than other global fashion weeks as well. I mean, no denying, Scandi fashion has taken over the airwaves. And by airwaves, I mean the TikTok death scroll. We've got brands like Ganny, we've got Romaine, we've got Copenhagen street style really just taking over. What do you guys think? Do you think Copenhagen Fashion Week is the coolest fashion week in the calendar?

[Joanna Flem]

I think it's just the most accessible.

[Rhiannon Joyce]

Yeah.

[Joanna Flem]

It just feels more mainstream. It's not like high fashion. It's fashion that we could all wear and take inspo from. It also feels very Melbourne to me. I think Melburnians do like to, I guess, play a little bit more in that Scandi kind of space with dressing. I feel, also because we do get a true winter here in Melbourne in the southern states, whereas other areas of Australia, they don't get the chance to wear the big coats that we get to wear. So I like that. It feels familiar to me. It feels like something that I genuinely could apply to my own wardrobe. So I love that about it.

[Rhiannon Joyce]

I think for me, what makes it really cool is that you see a lot of people who are in the industry, whether they're buyers, whether they're designers or creators, they show up to these events at Copenhagen Fashion Week. And I feel like whether it's an illusion or if they actually are wearing their own pieces, you know, when you see a lot of celebrities show up to fashion weeks, particularly the larger ones like Paris or Milan, celebrities are wearing head to toe, one designer. So that is not attainable for me. What I like at Copenhagen is that you see celebrities, you see these designers show up and they're wearing pieces, as you said, Joe, that feel attainable, but I also think very wearable. And that they shopped their own wardrobe.

[Joanna Flem]

Yeah.

[Rhiannon Joyce]

And I think that's what makes it really cool. It's looking at their outfits going, they didn't just get gifted. This entire look, it feels more eclectic. It feels more like they're honoring their own personal style. I also went through a couple of articles and saw a lot of the images that were supplied in. A lot of the writers that were covering Fashion Week in Copenhagen were saying that a lot of people were Wearing vintage.

[Joanna Flem]

Yeah.

[Rhiannon Joyce]

So I think that also adds to the cool factor and adds to that uniqueness of people showing up the mix of high, low as well. And I just think they do it so well. And I loved your point, Joe, around the Melbourne reference, because I do think we have those full seasons. And Melbournians proudly love to be known for being fashionable. And, you know, we get a bad rap. Everyone says, actually, as I say that everyone says Melbournians wear black. As Mads and I sit here wearing.

[Madison Sullivan]

Black head to toe in the middle.

[Joanna Flem]

Of summer, we'll have everyone know.

[Rhiannon Joyce]

I think we know that Jo is not wearing black right now. But usually I do like to play with a lot of color. I know you do, Mads. Jo, you like your colors a certain way. But I would say a lot of Melbourneians do really play with colors and patterns and textures and. And explore different ways that they can elevate their outfit. And I think that is very similar to what.

[Madison Sullivan]

Yeah.

[Rhiannon Joyce]

They wear at Fashion Week in Copenhagen.

[Madison Sullivan]

Yeah. I think there's an element for me as well that I think Fashion Week has evolved, particularly New York Fashion Week. It feels like it's gone from off duty, straight style to dress ups. And I'm not saying anyone looks bad. I think they look phenomenal. It's just not something you can emulate or that you would potentially want to emulate in your day to day life. And I think the magic of maybe Copenhagen is for all of those reasons, that it is their personal style, that it is them shopping their own wardrobes, but it just doesn't feel like they're playing dress up. And I think that's maybe why the popularity has been what it is. And I hope that it stays that way and that magic stays there, because I think New York Fashion Week, when I think back to it, you know, 15 years ago, when I was buying, like, print Vogue and cutting pictures out, that that's what I loved about New York Fashion Week. It felt like people on the way getting off the subway and going to a show that they just happen to be at. And I think now read exactly to your point. They're like head to toe designer. It's a look. Or they've got a stylist. And it's like theatrics now, because it feels contrived. Totally. And it is. These people have businesses now out of this. And it's gone from blogging days to, like, tick tocks and Instagrams. And I think it kind of just got carried away.

[Rhiannon Joyce]

Yeah. Can you guys think of Any brands that really come to mind, like a Scandi brand, that you're like, they are dominating this cool factor.

[Joanna Flem]

I mean, I would have said Ganny.

[Rhiannon Joyce]

Yeah.

[Madison Sullivan]

I think, yeah. Ganny feels like it's not as niche now. It feels like it's become part of the mainstream. I think the minute that a brand kind of is on net, a porter or they're doing collabs with a brand like Levi's, they've hit the main stage. And I. That's not a criticism. I think Ganny's an incredible brand and what they've done in terms of sizing, inclusivity and materiality and sustainability, I think they are one of the best in class in the industry right now. But. But it's who I would say, because I think personally, my personal style doesn't gravitate towards those designers. So I'm not going to sit here and pretend to preach. But I think Ganny has entered the main stage as a Scandi IT Girl brand.

[Rhiannon Joyce]

Yeah. I think the OG Scandi brand for me is Acne Studios.

[Madison Sullivan]

Yeah.

[Rhiannon Joyce]

They've been around for so long, I feel like they're still very relevant.

[Joanna Flem]

Always forget their same.

[Rhiannon Joyce]

I know.

[Madison Sullivan]

They just feel like they've, like, so catapulted out of that. Like they feel intrinsically UK to me. Yeah. Like their look and feel.

[Rhiannon Joyce]

Yeah. I mean, I love Acne Studios. It's definitely on the more expensive side, but I've invested in quite a few pieces over the years and they just have such relevancy amongst most generations, I would say. I feel like they're having a moment with Gen Z as well. You know, the iconic scarf that's like that tartan sort of print and they've just bring that in various colors. I like that they still play with color quite a bit. I also love House of Dogma. They're more on the classic silhouettes, lots of tailoring, but they have beautiful pieces. And that's another reason why I think Scandi brands do really well, is because, yes, you have your Ganny and yes, you have your Acne Studios, who are known for playing with colors and texture and really pushing the boundaries in terms of the design. But then you also have a lot of brands like Sax Pots and House of Dagmar, who are known for really great tailoring and really great investment pieces. And also that sustainability piece is really important to Scandi brands. I know at Copenhagen Fashion Week, it is expected that brands have about 50% of their materials recycled. Yeah.

[Joanna Flem]

Wow.

[Rhiannon Joyce]

So a lot of what they're creating, they have to actually use recycled materials.

[Joanna Flem]

Amazing.

[Rhiannon Joyce]

Yeah. So I think a lot of the designers are really investing in that sustainability commitment compared to other.

[Madison Sullivan]

Yeah.

[Rhiannon Joyce]

Designers who show up at other fashion weeks as well. I think that's also part of that cool factor and why a lot of people really resonate with the brands.

[Madison Sullivan]

Yeah. I mean, I know we're not doing this well, but if you do want someone who is Australia based who does Scandi dressing very, very well. Ellie Whittle is an incredible content creator from Sydney, and I feel like she does Scandi dressing so well. And I know she went to Copenhagen Fashion Week Week. Want to say last year or the year before. And I was like, oh, my God, she fit in so well. And I think she's just like the epitome of Scandi dressing and does it very, very well. Yeah.

[Rhiannon Joyce]

There's some really good creators out there. We should do a little carousel of our favorite.

[Madison Sullivan]

Yeah.

[Rhiannon Joyce]

Creators who dress Scandi inspired.

[Joanna Flem]

Let's do that.

[Rhiannon Joyce]

Yeah, let's do it.

[Joanna Flem]

Now, TikTok has been feeding this content into me the last few days, and I really want to see if it's on your feeds. The Pat McGrath mask.

[Rhiannon Joyce]

Everywhere.

[Joanna Flem]

Everywhere. I cannot get away from it. I feel like this is a masterclass in delayed gratification, because we last saw this on the Mason Margiela Runway last year. So this is a year ago that this was seen. And normally brands would churn something like that out. Like, when there's hype around it, it would be churned out immediately.

[Rhiannon Joyce]

Well, usually it's done before it's actually hyped. So it's very intentional.

[Joanna Flem]

Yeah.

[Rhiannon Joyce]

They use those. Those PR moments to then generate awareness for a product and then push it out. So it's the illusion.

[Joanna Flem]

Absolutely.

[Rhiannon Joyce]

That it's viral, but yeah.

[Joanna Flem]

Yes. And online at the time, everyone was, like, desperate to know how this glass skin for the Runway show was created, which is. It's very artificial looking. It's reflective. It's completely. It looks like AI. Yeah, it does, because it is a mask that you put on your faces. I wouldn't even consider it like a typical skincare product because it is something that's sits on the surface of the skin. But anyway, a year later, Pat McGrath has debuted the Glass 001 artistry mask, and a select group of beauty editors and content creators were invited to try the mask, which. I want to talk a little bit about the ingredients because there's nothing really groundbreaking in there, if I'm being honest with you. There's glycerin that's a hydrator. Pretty standard.

[Rhiannon Joyce]

I don't know what that is.

[Joanna Flem]

It's a humectant ingredient, so it draws moisture into the skin, so it can draw moisture from the lower layers of the skin to the top layers. It's got allantoin, which is another hydrating ingredient, soothing ingredient. It's got rose water. And then they haven't listed the ingredients anywhere else so far that I could find. There are obviously gonna be other ingredients in it, probably a lot of water, I would say. But you're meant to layer this on, like, layer by layer, and then at the end of you using it, you peel it all the way off. Something tells me that's not amazing for barrier function, because that would be a form of exfoliation. Peeling that mask off, I can't imagine that comes off EAs, given that it has, like, almost a lacquer appearance.

[Rhiannon Joyce]

Right. And do you apply the makeup on before you put the mask on?

[Joanna Flem]

Well, I believe you do.

[Madison Sullivan]

Yeah.

[Joanna Flem]

Yeah. So you put that over the top of your makeup, which I would say.

[Madison Sullivan]

Is the innovative format of that, because I can't think of a single thing that you put on when your makeup's done, aside from a setting powder, or setting this.

[Joanna Flem]

And I think that's why they say put layer by layer and kind of let the one dry, and then you put the other one so you're not moving everything else. Else underneath.

[Madison Sullivan]

Yeah.

[Joanna Flem]

But, yeah, it is an interesting look. Personally, I don't think it's something that I would try.

[Rhiannon Joyce]

I wouldn't try, but I admire it. I think I like the experimental nature of it. I also like that in the context of a Runway show, I think it's really cool. It's different in everyday life. If I saw it, I will probably be like, whoa. But in a good way. Where I'm like, I respect that.

[Joanna Flem]

Yeah.

[Rhiannon Joyce]

But I probably wouldn't do it myself, Matt.

[Madison Sullivan]

Yeah. I mean, what's so interesting to me about this is she told Days that she decided to great the mask after being inspired by the viral reactions.

[Rhiannon Joyce]

So people were creating videos.

[Madison Sullivan]

Yeah. So people were reacting to the Margiela looks, which I have to say, working in the beauty industry at the time, our conversations in the office were like, oh, my God, those makeup looks are incredible. Like, that is skin. Like, we're back. Like, this is makeupy makeup back. But that skin first approach is just breathtaking. And it's funny, she was saying she was watching all the videos. I've got a quote here. It said, I watched every single one. I really Wanted to create something that honored their enthusiasm while making that radiant glass skin moment accessible to everyone, not just for the Runway or social media. What I do find funny about this is that it's very hard to develop and get a product to market within 12 months. So, Jo, it's interesting that you mentioned, like, not a lot of these ingredients are innovative, but the format is really innovative to me. So I'm not here to say that Pat McGrath is not telling the truth, but I'm like, surely this conversation was happening before the show, going, what if we could. And I'm working on the show.

[Joanna Flem]

Yeah.

[Madison Sullivan]

Because 12 months just isn't a lot of time.

[Joanna Flem]

Yeah.

[Madison Sullivan]

To go from idea to development, stability testing, which is when you have to make sure a product. Like, you know, we spoke about the little jar that says, like, 12 months. Like, that takes time to make sure you're testing all of those things. So I'm amazed if she did get this to market in 12 months or if this was an idea. They did the show, and then they're like, all right, Runway speaker.

[Joanna Flem]

Yes.

[Rhiannon Joyce]

Yeah.

[Joanna Flem]

It could have potentially been an existing product prior to the show, and they have labeled it as a Pat McGrath product.

[Madison Sullivan]

Yeah. Which is an uncommon.

[Rhiannon Joyce]

I mean, the PR girl in me is like, it was a test and learn now that you've.

[Madison Sullivan]

Yeah. For sure.

[Rhiannon Joyce]

And they're, like, testing the market, see what the response is, and hit go. But again, that's not taking away from the impact in the moment that it had. At the end of the day, people can plan for virality, but it has to go viral.

[Joanna Flem]

Yeah.

[Rhiannon Joyce]

So it was pretty cool.

[Joanna Flem]

If anyone that hasn't seen it, it looks like what swimmers put in their hair. A synchronized swimmer, that lack of stuff, and you can, like, put your nails on it and make a noise.

[Rhiannon Joyce]

It also reminded me of, like, weirdly, like, what an Android would look like. Like a robot. It's not too niche. Like I robot.

[Joanna Flem]

I'm not gonna lie. It does look cool, but, like, it's not something that you would wear day to day.

[Rhiannon Joyce]

No.

[Joanna Flem]

I can't imagine people wearing it to work. Also, it does limit your facial movement as well. That's correct. Because it does dry, like, hard. So.

[Rhiannon Joyce]

So you can't really speak.

[Joanna Flem]

No.

[Madison Sullivan]

Yes.

[Rhiannon Joyce]

So not sure about doing that for.

[Joanna Flem]

Yeah. Good for a fit check. That's about it.

[Madison Sullivan]

Listeners. Is it just us, or is Valentine's Day becoming less about romantic relationships and more about platonic ones? I know in our team, February is a super busy time in our group chats as we share Links to gift ideas and recipes for Galentine's day dinner parties. Michael Hill is well and truly on board with this direction. And this year they're encouraging us to take a special moment for love.

[Rhiannon Joyce]

Love.

[Madison Sullivan]

By reflecting on our most treasured relationships and showing gratitude for the special people in our lives. From the sister who helped us through a tough time to the friend who's always there to debrief last night's date. We love the Open Heart Huggies as a special something for our girlfriends or that perfect to me from me gift with the most stunning collection of fine jewelry Michael Hill makes for a meaningful Valentine's Day gift and a fun surprise for your celebratory dinner. Dinner. Take a moment for love and shop Valentine's gifts in store or online at. Michael Hill. Thanks so much to Michael Hill for making this episode of Stylish possible.

[Joanna Flem]

All right, well, it's time for opinions, please, now. So today's submission is from listener Jade. I'm very excited to discuss this, Mads.

[Madison Sullivan]

Oh, Jade, this is so well timed.

[Rhiannon Joyce]

Right now and so relatable.

[Madison Sullivan]

And I'm sitting here with two brides, so let's get their hot take. Hi, stylish girlies. I'm in a bit of a pickle. As you probably know, wedding season is upon us. I'm in my mid-30s, which means I have a handful of weddings in the calendar. This is all super exciting. Who doesn't love a wedding? Preach. But I'm struggling to find the wedding guest dresses that are occasion appropriate and well made. But under $500. Everything I've been really drawn to so far has been way out of my budget and I need some inspiration. I'd love to hear if you have any suggestions. Here, here. Thanks so much. Jade P. S. Love, love, love the show. Jade P. S. We love, love, love you.

[Joanna Flem]

Yes. Seriously, I've got so many.

[Rhiannon Joyce]

Yeah, your list is great.

[Joanna Flem]

Yeah.

[Madison Sullivan]

Okay, so take it away.

[Joanna Flem]

Deep dived. I was like, what have I got in my wardrobe? And also I did go back and look at some of the outfits I had and then I went and looked on their websites. I'm like, oh, my God, their prices have gone up.

[Rhiannon Joyce]

Yes.

[Madison Sullivan]

Yeah.

[Joanna Flem]

Did you find the same thing?

[Rhiannon Joyce]

I found the exact same thing, like.

[Joanna Flem]

Some that I put on my list. And I was like, oh, just double check. And I was like, oh, my God. Okay, yeah, immediately off.

[Rhiannon Joyce]

Immediately.

[Joanna Flem]

Enough. So I do have a list for you, Jade. Now, first one, which I think is going to be the most affordable is Perfect Stranger, a label that is based in Australia. As far as I am aware, they've got a store in Melbourne Central. I think they've got another store, maybe Chatty Odd news, which is a UK based brand.

[Madison Sullivan]

Yes. They're actually launching a bridesmaid collection.

[Joanna Flem]

Are they?

[Madison Sullivan]

Yeah. The brand founder is incredible on Tick Tock. If you just want to see an insight into owning a brand and how she started. I think she's like an A class marketing example of using her own platform. But she's spending a lot of time on TikTok talking about the bridesmaid collection. Yeah. I mean usually a bridesmaid dress is pretty applicable for a wedding.

[Joanna Flem]

Yes, absolutely. Elliot was another one with A in the middle. You've never heard of Aliat?

[Rhiannon Joyce]

I haven't.

[Madison Sullivan]

How's it spelled?

[Joanna Flem]

E double L, I A double T. I think.

[Madison Sullivan]

Yeah. No, I don't think I have.

[Joanna Flem]

Okay. Pretty popular brand. I think they're Australian as well. To.

[Rhiannon Joyce]

Yes, I know Toja Rome have a.

[Joanna Flem]

Few good options as well, depending on how dressy the wedding is. Like if it's a little bit more of a casual wedding, I feel they'd have some great options.

[Madison Sullivan]

Yeah.

[Joanna Flem]

Significant other are a really good option. And buy Nicola as well.

[Rhiannon Joyce]

That's a solid list. Again, we're going to have to put this all in the show notes. I've got a couple to add.

[Madison Sullivan]

Yeah.

[Rhiannon Joyce]

We did talk about this in the Shameless office and a few of the girls had some really good wrecks. Some of them that came up. Meshki came up quite a bit.

[Madison Sullivan]

Yeah.

[Joanna Flem]

Okay.

[Rhiannon Joyce]

And I think they're really, really trying to elevate their look in the last few collections that they've done, the price point is still reasonable. So under that 500, which is what we need it to be. I also really love Faithful. The brand. I don't know. It really depends on the wedding. If it's a black tie wedding, I'm going to say no. But if it's a cocktail wedding or more of a casual look and feel, you could probably get away with some of the dresses in a formal setting. But they have really nice patterns and really nice fabrics. Also great for a summer wedding because usually they're linen and it's a bit more comfortable. There's nothing worse than going to a wedding in 30 degree heat and wearing silk looking down, going.

[Madison Sullivan]

To light color.

[Rhiannon Joyce]

I don't want to stand up because I just know there's patches everywhere. So I always try and opt for linen when it's a bit hot. So I'm not too stressed about that. Mads, do you have any good ones?

[Madison Sullivan]

I do, I've got a couple. I think Misha Collective do some pretty good ones as well. I think they're kind of known, I think back to when they first started it was probably like more what you wore to the club but now they've like got some good dresses that I know a couple of girlfriends have worn. Another great label is entire Studios but honestly if you just want to troll, I always go to Revolve because you can shop via your price point and I think there are some great labels on Revolve that kind of sit that 3,350mark if you're looking for that. I also think there's a lot of great Australian brands that are now offering rentals through their websites. So Orton and Lavan both offer rentals on their current and new season.

[Rhiannon Joyce]

Great idea Matt. You should have saved that for the swap.

[Madison Sullivan]

Yeah, sorry. Well no, we've got to help James. So I actually met the Lavan founder recently. We went and had a glass of wine together because I think we just had like a parasocial relationship and she was saying she does it for some of the collection pieces that are a little bit more event ready wear sort of thing. So I think that's a great alternative. And I also think there's nothing worse than feeling priced out of a brand and I think Oryton do a really great job of it. I know I love an Oryton maxi dress.

[Rhiannon Joyce]

I have so many, I've worn so many over the years.

[Madison Sullivan]

So love when they go on sale and they do sort of like their 20, 25% off. And that's probably another thing that I would say. I think even when I was having a look today because I've got so many weddings coming up, I feel like Katherine Heigl without the bridesmaid part. Like I'm gonna have 27 dresses but I think Christopher Esber there were some amazing dresses that were like pretty heavily discounted and I mean given I run a social series called Sales Fairy I think don't always assume that a brand that is sitting over $500 is never gonna be attainable. Like I think Camila and Mark Christopher Esba do some pretty epic sales once, twice, three times a year. I'd hawk out for those as well and just try and nab them when yeah they're going discounted.

[Rhiannon Joyce]

There's also the option to rent.

[Madison Sullivan]

Yeah.

[Rhiannon Joyce]

So if you are someone who wants to have access to those brands that are more expensive but you know you're not going to wear it More than once. Renting is such a great option. I've done that a few times. I did that as a bridesmaid to one of my friends weddings because I knew I wasn't going to wear the dress again.

[Joanna Flem]

Smart.

[Rhiannon Joyce]

So I rented it. Obviously you have to be a little bit more mindful of how many drinks you have so you don't spill them.

[Madison Sullivan]

Yeah. But secondhand market too, because I know that you wore arguably one of my. This is a big call. One of my favorite rejoice looks was the dress that you wore to our very own Zara's wedding.

[Rhiannon Joyce]

Yes.

[Madison Sullivan]

And I remember taking annual leave days from my full time job and I got a taste of what it was like working at Shameless because it came in for three days when we were ideating stylish and Ray was like doing a live unboxing and it was the most beautiful dress.

[Rhiannon Joyce]

Guys, this is probably one of my better wins on the apps when it comes to shopping secondhand. So this was a beautiful Bernadette gown. This was a full formal black tie weddings. So it is quite hard to find formal black tie outfits that are under that 500 mark. I found this Bernadette dress on a secondhand website. It retails for fourteen hundred dollars. I paid four hundred for it. Yeah. That is still expensive.

[Joanna Flem]

Yes.

[Rhiannon Joyce]

But for what it was and also how that dress made me feel, I've never felt more beautiful.

[Madison Sullivan]

Well, I've just told you, you've never looked more beautiful either.

[Rhiannon Joyce]

But honestly, it was such a wonderful off is.

[Madison Sullivan]

Yeah.

[Joanna Flem]

That's huge when you consider how much it was. That's a bug.

[Rhiannon Joyce]

Yes.

[Madison Sullivan]

And then do you want to tell the listeners what you did with it after?

[Rhiannon Joyce]

I got a dry clean and then I sold it again for the same amount I paid it for. So I basically netted out $0. Wow.

[Madison Sullivan]

The dress cost me $0.

[Joanna Flem]

Incredible.

[Rhiannon Joyce]

But this is the thing. It's like this beautiful cycle of fashion. It's like I had this beautiful moment in this dress. It was so special and I loved it. But I knew I wasn't going to wear it again.

[Madison Sullivan]

Yeah.

[Rhiannon Joyce]

And I was like I to set this frame, someone else got to wear that beautiful dress to an event and I hope they felt as good as what I did and I hope they went on and sold it to someone else as well. Let's keep this beautiful.

[Madison Sullivan]

Do you know I actually did that with my formal dress in year 12. I bought an Acne Studios dress that I saved so much for because my mum was like, I'm only giving you 150 for this dress, so I saved for the rest and I sold it. So it cost me 20 bucks to wear Acne Studios. So shout out to the Spice Girl that wore it on the press tour. I think it might have been Sporty Spice when they announced they were coming back, because I definitely used the photos of her in it to sell it on ebay.

[Rhiannon Joyce]

Absolutely. Have to be resourceful.

[Madison Sullivan]

Okay, so I think we've given a pretty solid wedding guest dress. Yeah.

[Rhiannon Joyce]

I hope Jade's happy with that.

[Madison Sullivan]

Yeah.

[Rhiannon Joyce]

If not, we need to include a couple in the show notes, though, because we did reference a few.

[Madison Sullivan]

Yeah.

[Rhiannon Joyce]

But so many good options. Good luck, Jade. I know it's hard.

[Lucy Hunt]

Yeah.

[Madison Sullivan]

I'll be taking notes for some upcoming weddings, but that is all for this week's episode of Stylish. Thank you so much for joining us. Us. And of course, thank you very much, Joe, and thank you very much, Ray, for being here.

[Rhiannon Joyce]

Thank you for having me.

[Madison Sullivan]

We always love having you.

[Rhiannon Joyce]

Thanks.

[Madison Sullivan]

And remember, you can drop us an email anytime@style-ishameless media.com or you can slide into our DMS over at Style ish au. And we can't forget to thank the beautiful, shameless media team, head of podcast Lucy Hunt and senior podcast producer Kate Emma Burke. We will be right back with you you next Wednesday.

[Joanna Flem]

Bye. See you guys.

[Rhiannon Joyce]

This podcast was recorded on Wurundjeri land.

[Joanna Flem]

Always was, always will be aboriginal land.