By Annette Sanfilippo
Believe it or not, winter is upon us. Yep, who would believe that up until a couple of weeks ago we were wearing bikini tops and basking in the sun on the beach. It’s a bit of shock to the system, and we have had a huge delay in pulling the boots and coats out of the cupboard. So why am I excited?! Winter is the perfect season to pause and immerse yourself in things to keep you warm, cosy, and nurtured.
While it is tempting to stay indoors, there are so many wonderful things to enjoy once we step outside the front door. Some of my favourite winter days start by zipping up my suede boots and picking out a fun coat from my extensive but practical wardrobe. (Some may beg to disagree). There is something powerful about layering up in your winter armour and hitting the streets on an adventure.
Everything about winter is fashionable! Did you know that immersing yourself in the cold can actually trigger the release of endorphins, which can heighten your mood and increase your resilience? We’ll need that extra strength to carry us through the coming months, so now is the time to nourish the mind, body, and spirit.
Let the Mornington Peninsula embrace you with its comforting charm, leading you on stylish escapes and memorable adventures to truly savour. One of our top pastimes is treating ourselves to great food and wine. This season, get ready to be spoiled with some of the finest culinary delights and hospitality experiences the region has to offer. Venues have started creating sensational price-pointed packages, (hello steak night), to keep us coming back over the cooler months. The idea of sharing a meal with a friend, discovering an inspiring art gallery, a truffle hunt adventure, open fireplaces, or quaint candle lit corners for a slow sip or an afternoon tea and treat excites me.
As each new season approaches, we naturally start thinking about our wardrobe, especially now, after the unpredictable weather we’ve had, and a refresh and tidy-up is likely in order. Time to sort the t-shirts from the hoodies and make our favourites more accessible for our seasonal escapades.
Get ready to embrace your inner ‘knit-wit’ this winter, as fashion takes a cosy turn; everything and anything to wear is all about knit one, purl one! If you haven’t purchased merino, possum, alpaca, cashmere or cotton lately, then be prepared. Fashion houses have reimagined their collections with rich weaves and knits, transforming dresses, pants, suits, vests, stockings, and skirts into bold, textured silhouettes. The trend? Wearing it all in monochrome for a sleek, effortless look.
The trend? Wearing it all in monochrome for a sleek, effortless look.
This season’s highlights include wide belts with bold, statement hardware to cinch the waist and add a playful edge. Printed, oversized coats with vibrant pops of colour will define your unique style and quickly become your must-have statement piece. With striking contrasts, bold graphics, and an array of textures, it’ll be hard to stop at just one.
So where to find these pieces? If you haven’t yet uncovered Rosebud’s hidden gem, Detendu, it’s time to explore your new go-to haven for all things knitwear! Owner Tracy Mann, who apart from showing the most amazing old school customer service, has years of experience and is a wealth of insightful knowledge about all her stocked treasures, many made in Australia. Finds from brands like PC Collection, Bridge and Lord, Lamington and Noble Wilde NZ are just waiting to be unearthed. With many unisex styles and some exclusive standout pieces, Tracy will make sure you find the right style and you’re fitted perfectly, and if your size or colour isn’t available, she will contact her suppliers and do the best to get it delivered to the store as soon as possible for you. Now that’s worth supporting.
Some days it’s nice not to brave the elements and it’s ok to pop on the ugg boots and find solace in your own surrounds. Winter helps us hibernate and recharge, and slowing down needs to be a practice we take part in whenever we can. Taking a break from the digital world is quickly becoming the latest trend, with more people embracing the idea of switching off and focusing on themselves. Maybe it’s time to rethink what a “new story” really means – turn endless scrolling into a turn of the page, and lose yourself in a good book instead.
Or pick up a copy of Essence magazine, sit back, and enjoy our stories, and discover the hottest spots, even in the chilliest weather. Eat, drink, and wear the rainbow this season, as rich hues like plum, grape, truffle, and vibrant greens come together to delight all your senses.
Wherever you choose to enjoy the winter season, be sure to embrace the beauty of our peninsula, support some of the incredible businesses, and find a nuanced activity to enjoy. Take a plunge, or simply splash your face with that icy cold water, wake up those endorphins, and head out for some exciting, feel-good shopping adventures.
PS – Tracy, I’m coming for that divine Trelise Cooper quilted long coat!