Spokes 'n' Daggers

2012-02-07T20:12:00.002+11:00

Inga Eiriksdottir photographed by Terry Tsiolis for Vogue Russia, March 2010. See more here.

Gaby xoxo

All black

2012-02-06T10:29:00.000+11:00

Love the all black styling. Simone Doreleijers by Richard Bernardin for Please! Magazine Fall 2011

Gaby xoxo

Would you like to be the Hopeless Lingerie 2012 Intern?!

2012-02-02T18:31:00.000+11:00

So many exciting things are happening this year, and there is no way I can get through it without an extra set of hands!

Here is what I am looking for -

Must live in Melbourne, Australia

Currently undertaking or has recently completed fashion studies

Available 1 day total per week (This may be split over 2 half days)

The position is for 1 year

Own car preferable

Must be competent with hand sewing, machine sewing and overlocking

Familiar with lightweight and stretch fabrics

Knowledge of professional standard pattern-making and grading

Able to work quickly while maintaining a high quality of work

Basic knowledge of Photo-shop and Illustrator

Responsibilities will include -

Sewing and cutting a range of delicate and lightweight fabrics

Pattern-making and alterations

Grading patterns

Packing and posting orders

Assisting on photo-shoots and events

Updating web stores

Some basic word processing and data entry

Updating social media sites

and much more...!

I currently work alone and this business is very small, so the benefit for the right applicant will be seeing the inner workings of a small business that has reached global status within a few short years. While I expect a certain level of competency in regards to sewing, there will also be a lot of on the job training. This will be a paid position - it will be an intern wage and will be discussed at interview stage.

If you would like to apply please email a resume along with some images of things you have made/painted/drawn/sewn to gaby@hopelesslingerie.com.au.

I will be accepting applications through February and interviewing in early March.

Gaby xoxo

Picture: By Gabrielle Adamidis (me) at the Apollo Theater Harlem

New York City continued....

2012-01-27T02:19:00.000+11:00

Some of my favourite pictures from the trip so far. I started a new blog just for my photos - so I don't clog this up too much with non-lingerie related things! http://gabrielleavril.tumblr.com

Gaby xoxo

New York City

2012-01-21T16:12:00.001+11:00

As some of you might already know I am currently living it up in New York City. We have been here 2 days and have done so much I can barely remember. We have seen Strawberry Fields, a Knicks game at Madison Square Garden, Trump Tower, Times Square, Central Park, 5th Avenue, Grand Central Station, seen a hundred squirrels, caught the Subway, been in about 5 New York taxis, had New York pizza twice, visited Hell's Kitchen, The Frick Museum, JG Melon's, the Fashion District and a bunch of other things.

I have so many photos already and just wanted to share a couple of my favourites - going to wait until I get home to go through all of them. My mind is totally blown at the fabric and trimmings available here, Melbourne SUCKS for sewing supplies!

Tomorrow Brooklyn, then Tuesday Washington DC!

Gaby xoxox

Photos by Cihan Alpgiray

2012-01-14T10:02:00.002+11:00

Beautiful pictures by Cihan Alpgiray for Marie Claire Turkey. So many pieces I've never seen before - loving the puffy broderie anglaise bloomers!

See more here.

Gaby xoxo

Pale Pink Latex

2012-01-12T09:14:00.000+11:00

Caitlin Lomax by Greta Ilieva for Zoo #33 via FGR

Gaby xoxo

Meg Meldrum for Hopeless Lingerie

2012-01-10T22:22:00.001+11:00

I feel incredibly spoiled today - as I get to see two sets of pictures featuring Hopeless! I couldn't wait to share the above picture, shot by Meg Meldrum today at my parents place and around Canterbury gardens. We styled a combination of our own clothes with Hopeless pieces (Omega Knickers pictured here), and managed to get through I think 12 outfits?! Meg takes such beautiful photos - have a look at her blog here - and I am sure I will have more to share very soon! The lovely Elise Hull did a beautiful job with make-up too - the lips seemed to miraculously change between pink and red depending on what outfit we dressed Shannon in - pretty handy!

Gaby xoxo

Portland by Anja Verdugo

2012-01-10T16:45:00.000+11:00

Some months ago I embarked on a number of small collaborations with bloggers, photographers, artists and models around the world. The aim was to spread the word about our various passions and reach fans that we may not have reached otherwise. One of those people was Anja Verdugo from Portland, USA - a multi-talented lady who spreads her wings across photography, curating vintage and design. I had a special collection of fabrics I wanted to make into shapes that have been selling quite well, and I thought it would be a great parcel to send to Anja to translate in any way she desired. Anja has written some beautiful words about how the shoot came together and I highly recommend you have a look at her blog Clever Nettle to see more from this shoot and more of what she does.

I am hoping to have the above sets in store before I head off to New York (next Wednesday!!), if I can get myself organised enough!

Lingerie: Hopeless
Photography: Anja Verdugo
Model: Krystyna Solodenko
Makeup Artist: Stormy Brady
Assistant: Rachel Rector
Styling: All of the above

Gaby xoxo

Sugar and spice and all things nice...

2012-01-09T08:21:00.003+11:00

A new colour-way for a custom wholesale order I finished yesterday - I love doing new colour-ways - it turns this set into something completely new and I actually really prefer it to the original all black!

Click here for the Sophie Knickers, Cheryl Bra and Cheryl Garter Belt.

Gaby xoxo

Chelsea

2012-01-08T09:34:00.001+11:00

These beautiful shots are self portraits of Chelsea wearing Hopeless Lingerie 'Thalia' Knickers. I mentioned here on the blog some time ago that I wish more people would send me pictures - and I am so thankful that Chelsea obliged! I love the high contrast - and am always amazed at how people can take such incredible images of themselves. See more of her pictures here.

Gaby xoxo

Irina by François Berthier

2012-01-05T22:08:00.003+11:00

These are utter perfection. See the full set here.

Gaby xoxo

Photos by Michael Danischewski

2012-01-03T08:55:00.000+11:00

From a test shoot quite a few months ago - so happy to be finally able to share!

Photo: Michael Danischewski

Stylist: Emma Westblade

Model: Tyla Dombroski

All pieces by Hopeless Lingerie except for bras in top and bottom left, and harness in bottom right.

Gaby xoxo

Stephen Shore for Another Magazine

2012-01-01T10:44:00.001+11:00

Last night I saw a banana ride a bicycle with fireworks strapped to to it ride into a swimming pool. Safe to say 2011 went out with a bang and I am ridiculously excited for everything 2012 holds.

I am posting this editorial of course because it is pretty but also because it basically sums up entirely how I want to dress for the year ahead. In the new year I plan on living in vintage dresses, investing in quality pieces that will last me longer than a few months (trying to stay away from ASOS, Topshop and the likes), not buying any more black clothes, and getting fit enough that I feel comfortable in a swimsuit and cut offs. I'm not one to usually make resolutions but on a personal level that's what I'm hoping for. I also want to very slowly introduce some day-wear pieces into the Hopeless range - I've had some ideas bumping around in my head for months now so it would be great to be able to represent my brand a little more in everyday life. Obviously I can't go around showing everyone my knickers so I think it will be nice to have some separates and dresses to compliment the underwear.

Gaby xoxo

A Gift for the Holiday Season xoxo

2011-12-31T10:42:00.000+11:00

I am so keen for the year ahead! In the next 2 months I will be moving to a house with a beautiful big backyard, going to New York, and then going to Indonesia - suffice to say I can barely contain my excitement!

I hope your New Year is everything you dream of - to help it get started on the right foot please enjoy 30% off store-wide with the discount code CHEERS - offer available until midnight New Years Day.

SHOP

Gaby xoxo

Picture source unknown

New and Improved 'Jeanne' Knickers

2011-12-27T20:42:00.001+11:00

One thing I don't do enough is make my own Hopeless knickers - I spend all my days sewing orders for customers and when I get time to relax the last thing I want to do is sew for myself! But in the interest of road testing I have been trying to do it much more frequently. One item I do wear frequently is the 'Jeanne' Knickers. They have been really popular since I first released them over a year ago, and I have gotten great feedback about them. However one thing I have found is that given my hips are quite a bit bigger than my waist, the elastic I was using was stretched to capacity going over my hips - and taking these knickers on and off was actually not as easy as I wanted it to be for 'comfy' knickers. (As opposed to sexy ones that you put up with being difficult for how they look!)

I decided to replace the waist elastic with a much stretchier elastic, so when taking these knickers on and off there isn't that same difficulty. I've also added a few new colour-ways, which will soon be joined by matching tops in the next couple of weeks.

You can shop the 'Jeanne' knickers here.

Gaby xoxo

Merry Christmas!

2011-12-25T10:33:00.001+11:00

Just wanted to take this little opportunity to thank everyone who reads this blog and especially those who comment, I appreciate it more than you can know! I hope you have had a wonderful Christmas so far, have gotten some amazing presents and given some even better ones. I am so excited for the New Year - I am moving house in January, then leaving for New York on the 18th, then going to Indonesia in February! It will be rad. You are all awesome. Eat lots and stay safe.

Gaby xoxo

Dominic Clarke

2011-12-22T13:15:00.002+11:00

Beautiful pictures by Dominic Clarke. See more at his Flickr here. Or at his blog here.

Gaby xoxo

Mourning

2011-12-19T15:53:00.001+11:00

Photo: Gabrielle Adamidis (me)

Model: Lulu Wagstaffe

MUAH: Sarah Gibbs

Styling: Alicia Hannah Naomi & Gabrielle Adamidis

Here is the full set from our cemetery adventure a few weeks ago! I feel so much more nervous sharing these with everyone than I do about my sewing - I am at the very beginning of my photography adventure so I find it hard to look past all my difficulties with lighting and so on. That said I am still quite proud of my effort - and of course having such an amazing team took a lot of pressure off!

Enormous thank you's to Lulu, Sarah and Alicia - we had so many hiccups along the way and I am so grateful to have such wonderful friends!

Gaby xoxo

Emily Jane Lingerie

2011-12-19T08:49:00.000+11:00

Recently discovered this really pretty brand - also made in Melbourne! Have a look at their website here.

Gaby xoxo

Angela's Secrets

2011-12-16T20:25:00.002+11:00

'Angela's Secrets' by Mario Sorrenti in The Face, February 2000

Gaby xoxo

Vivienne Mok for Love Sex Dance Magazine

2011-12-15T20:14:00.001+11:00

In love with these beautiful images. By Vivienne Mok for Love Sex Dance Magazine.

Gaby xoxo

Mourning

2011-12-12T14:34:00.003+11:00

Photo: Gabrielle Adamidis

Model: Lulu Wagstaffe

MUAH: Sarah Gibbs

Styling: Alicia Hannah Naomi & Gabrielle Adamidis

Outfit: Rings - Alicia Hannah Naomi, Knickers - Hopeless Lingerie, Waspie - L'amour for Hopeless Lingerie, Bra and Stockings - Vintage, Shoes - Doc Martens

Yesterday we had a whirlwind of a photo-shoot at the Kew cemetery, and I couldn't resist sharing a sneak peek of what we did. I am hoping to do more of these little projects so if you live in Melbourne and want to collaborate let me know!

I have so much to learn in terms of taking photos, the day went from sunny to cloudy every 10 minutes - and it was a little stressful as I had planned and researched for overcast weather photography. Of course I know that comes with experience, but weather aside it was such a fun day and such a great little team.

Gaby xoxo

Red Lace and Skeletons

2011-12-07T08:19:00.001+11:00

Some things I have been enjoying this week, and things I enjoy just in general.

1. A red version of the 'Betty Knickers'. Get your own here.

2. John Willie's miniature book 'Bizarre'.

3. Very tiny Tim Burton merchandise. My house is covered in his little creatures.

4. Freddy, I always enjoy Freddy.

5. Perfect little vintage skeleton earrings I found for an absolute steal on Etsy.

6. VHS horror. I especially love the previews before and after these old movies.

And overall I have been really enjoying taking photos, and my red lace dress that served as a backdrop.

I posted the last of the international Christmas orders yesterday, and now have a frantic couple of weeks ahead getting all the Australia orders done. Somewhere in there I have organised a couple of photoshoots too, so lots of exciting things to look forward too!

Also wanted to give a quick shout-out and thank you to the lovely Lady Melbourne, for including a pair of Hopeless Knickers in her Christmas Gift Guide, and also a reminder to check out Miss Greens Advent Calender Competition - she is giving away a green/eco friendly gift every day in the lead up to Christmas (including some Hopeless!)

Gaby xoxo

The Beach

2011-11-29T16:48:00.001+11:00

I was lucky enough to spend Saturday and Sunday at my Aunty and Uncle's holiday house in Sorrento, and found one of the most breathtaking beaches I have ever seen. Above are a few of my favourite pictures, but I have a full album HERE on Flickr if you want to see more! These breaks are never long enough, I wish I lived somewhere like this where the air smells clean and you are surrounded by nature. City living can be depressing sometimes! I suppose though living in Melbourne I am lucky enough that beaches and forests are not too far away. At the moment I am really hankering for a tropical holiday, dream destination would have to be the Carribean. Where you longing to go at the moment?

Gaby xoxo

Roses and Leather

2011-11-23T09:45:00.001+11:00

Abbey Lee Kershaw by Richard Bush for Vogue Russia

Love these bras so much - wish I could read Russian to find out who is responsible for them. Can anyone help?!

Gaby xoxo

Viva 1974

2011-11-20T19:46:00.001+11:00

Incredible editorial images from magazine Viva in 1974, via Sighs and Whispers - one of my all time favourite blogs.

Gaby xoxo

A Fashionable Fetish

2011-11-17T16:55:00.001+11:00

This editorial is perfection. Found via Jannike Viveka.

We saw my sister off to the airport last night - she is spending a few nights in Paris and then 3 months in London! Longest she has ever been away for :( Can any Londoners recommend the best lingerie haunts? I am sending her on some missions for some blog posts!

I am also planning lots of shoots and projects for the summer to keep me busy, if any Melbourne models, photographers or stylists want to work together let me know!

Gaby xoxo

Red Velvet

2011-11-15T21:30:00.001+11:00

Love these knickers. Via Johnnys Bird.

Gaby xoxo

Monotone

2011-11-14T21:50:00.001+11:00

Some images I have saved this week from Tumblr - sadly all without sources! The only one I can identify is Audrey Hepburn at top right - but if anyone could help with any others let me know.

Gaby xoxo

Edit: Middle Left is from Claire Pettibones Heirloom Collection

Marie Zucker

2011-11-10T20:53:00.000+11:00

Absolutely in love with the photography of Marie Zucker. You must look at her blog for more of these beautiful pictures.

Gaby xoxo

PS. You may have noticed a few changes around here.... hope you like it! I felt the need for a little tidy up!

New in Store - (well sort of...)

2011-11-08T15:36:00.000+11:00

This polka dot set has been in store for a little while, but I do have a new photo to share!

Find the top here.

Find the knickers here.

Photo: Vlad Savin
Model: Avalon Westcott
MUA: Nataly Tormey
Assistant: Sharyn Mildren

Gaby xoxo

Behind the Scenes at Meadham Kirchoff

2011-11-06T10:47:00.000+11:00

I love a good Behind the Scenes story - as a designer myself getting an insight into how incredible collections are put together are just as exciting as the finished garments themselves. I came across these pictures of Meadham Kirchoff's studio via Rookie, and I highly recommend you look at the rest! Not to mention the rest of the magazine/website, I really love the aesthetic that Tavi has created, there are so many little gems of inspiration!

Gaby xoxo

Four women who inspire me to do what I do

2011-11-04T11:05:00.002+11:00

Before I started Hopeless almost four years ago, I came across two brands that really pushed me to take the leap into the handmade world. Since that time I came across two more who encourage me with their prolific, unique and wonderful brands. They are all very different in their aesthetic, but what they do share is a strong personality behind the brands, that make their clothes speak even louder. I am currently facing the journey of getting things made by a manufacturer, as I can't maintain the current pace of orders and demand, and I am so amazed at how these women do it! Anyway, as I am excitedly looking into a future of more wholesaling and eventually opening a small Hopeless boutique, I will never cease to be inspired by these four brands and the women behind them. I hope they inspire you too!

1. Mandate of Heaven

I came across Mandate of Heaven back during Myspace days, when I found a picture of Katy Perry wearing a playsuit with hearts on the butt. I soon discovered it was handmade by this amazing brand who use mainly recycled and organic fabric. I LOVE how vintage inspired it all is, because it is still modern too, but crazy and amazing and I just want to wear everything. They have a store in New York and are also stocked at Patricia Field. Their blog has literally thousands of pictures, and its pretty easy to get lost in their little world.

2. I'm Your Present

I discovered I'm Your Present some time ago through Fred Flare, which stocked one of the cutest playsuits I had ever seen (a trend in my history emerging? There is just something about a cute playsuit I am a total sucker for). I followed the links and found Kelly, who also handmakes all her garments and sold via this site called 'Etsy'. And then I was like wow, here is a way for me to sell stuff too! I loved how fun her shop was, animal heads, cats, pastels and patterns galore, just such a joy to look through it all. Her Halloween costumes are also pretty amazing, and I am astounded at how her number of orders just keeps growing and growing.

3. Toxic Vision

This is a brand I only recently discovered, but I am so fascinated with everything she does. 80s metal will always hold a special place in my heart, and I love how unashamedly she embraces the trash aesthetic. Its amazing, and I wish there were more people in the world who had the guts to dress like this and even crazier every day. Too many studs, fringing and leather is never enough.

4. Nikki Lipstick

I found Nikki Lipstick through Tumblr, and what impresses me most is her ability to get so many girls to send her pictures of themselves in her pasties and printed t-shirts! Girls all over the world, of all shapes and sizes sending near-naked pictures proudly showing off their pasties. She really does have a true cult following and it is very impressive. (Would LOVE for more Hopeless girls to send me pictures by the way! I know you are out there!!)

So that is my list of four women, all very different to each other and myself who remind me that anything is possible, and that thanks to the internet it is possible to build an empire with passion, hard work and unleashed creativity. I would really love to hear who inspires you! Please let me know in the comments!!

Gaby xoxo

New in Store! Limited Edition 'Amelia' Set

2011-11-01T09:19:00.000+11:00

So I did manage to find some more floral fabric, and made a design that would allow it go a little further than the previous floral set. It is still limited edition, but hopefully those who missed out on the last one will like this one! The black is bamboo jersey and the straps are adjustable, as always they are handmade to order and they are limited to abut 5-6 sets, so don't miss out!

'Amelia' Top available here.

'Amelia' Knickers available here.

Gaby xoxo

Autumn Tones

2011-10-31T12:01:00.003+11:00

Really loving yellows and oranges at the moment, I can't seem to get enough in my wardrobe. The picture on the left is perfection, unfortunately its an unknown source. Top right is a still from the film Alice Sweet Alice. Bottom right via Sighs and Whispers.

Gaby xoxo

Masquerade

2011-10-29T11:31:00.000+11:00

Two of my favourite pictures from the internet this week. Via here and here.

Gaby xoxo

Agent Provocateur 'Home'

2011-10-28T09:55:00.000+11:00

It has been interesting to watch the development of Agent Provocateur since Joseph Corre left, and the expansion into 'Home' is a case in point. This has been up for a little while so many of you may have already seen it - but my goodness is this range breathtaking. I have often thought about doing a range of bedlinen once Hopeless gets big enough - not this style exactly but in the same spirit. Its pretty costly with pillow cases starting at around £99, perhaps something for the Wedding Registry?? See the full range here.

Gaby xoxo

2011-10-25T19:35:00.002+11:00

Nicola Roberts by Catherine Servel for Ponystep + Unknown image

Gaby xoxo

Knickers by Honey Cooler Handmade

2011-10-24T10:16:00.001+11:00

Love these very cute knickers by Honey Cooler Handmade on Etsy - made using vintage and reclaimed fabrics they have just the right combination of vintage and modern that I love so much.

Gaby xoxo

Kate Sylvester: The Secretary

2011-10-22T11:24:00.002+11:00

Kate Sylvester AW12 The Secretary Collection from Garth Badger on Vimeo.

Huge thank you to Marianne for the share via Esme and The Laneway - I am so floored by this and I had to share here too - this is what fashion shows should be about! A performance, provoking, cheeky, beautiful... I am in utter admiration. Love it. The Secretary is a favourite film of mine and although this is quite a literal translation of it, it works so, so, so well.

CANNOT WAIT until I can put on shows like this!!!! How I would love to put all the attendees into a haunted house.....!!

What would your dream fashion show involve?

Gaby xoxo

Rose Smith by Steven Chee for Fashion Gone Rogue

2011-10-17T09:52:00.001+11:00

This is quite old (in internet terms at least) but I somehow missed it despite frequenting Fashion Gone Rogue quite regularly. I really love the layering of lingerie and outerwear, I think its really hard to do well and I just love the styling here.

See more here.

Gaby xoxo

Coming Soon!

2011-10-15T10:16:00.001+11:00

I spent most of yesterday at a house in Eltham where one of my best and oldest friend lives, shooting some new bits and pieces for a small limited edition range, and Vlad did a sneaky edit last night. I am so thrilled with this one, and can't wait to show you more!

Bra and Knickers: Hopeless Lingerie
Photo: Vlad Savin
Model: Avalon Westcott

MUA: Nataly Tormey

Assistant: Sharyn Mildren

Gaby xoxo

Daisies 1966

2011-10-05T16:33:00.000+11:00

Daisies 1966

Thanks to Tumblr I recently came across some stills of this film, and wow, what a treat. It is one of the most visually appealing things I have ever seen. Its quirky, cute, strange and everything in between. One of those films that spurs a million photo shoot ideas.

As everything goes in waves I am currently trying to break free from a wave of no creativity, into one of letting myself go and experiment and make some crazy things. I found myself recently missing being creative, and then remembered, duh, you run your own business, you can do what you want! I really have been so absorbed in sewing orders and other menial tasks involved in running your own business I forgot why I started this all in the first place! Anyway, I'm excited to make some things that have no purpose, that probably won't sell, that will take hours and hours to make and may or may not be beautiful, for the sake of exploring ideas, colour, form and texture. Don't get me wrong I am not abandoning sewing everyone's orders - just making sure I schedule in some time to let myself do my favourite things. Otherwise what's the point!

Would love to hear from other friends who run their own businesses - do you schedule in creative time? How do you keep things balanced?

Gaby xoxo

New In Store! Polka Dots and Freddy Krueger!

2011-09-27T18:56:00.000+10:00

Two new pairs of knickers in store, really excited about these two! The other day I was thinking about making something new, and thinking about what I wanted more than anything - and the first thing that came to me was Nightmare on Elm Street knickers. So here they are, my dreams coming true. All puns intended. Coming soon.... Kitten knickers!

Find the polka dot knickers here - Find the Freddy Krueger knickers here!

Gaby xoxo

Paolo Roversi

2011-09-21T17:03:00.000+10:00

Beautiful shots by Paolo Roversi for Another Magazine. Originally scanned here.

Gaby xoxo

The Eyes of Laura Mars

2011-09-17T20:07:00.001+10:00

The Eyes of Laura Mars 1978

An amazing film from 1978 - about a fashion photographer who sees crimes through her camera. Stylistically it is amazing, and this has to be one of the all time best lingerie in film moments. The photos in the film are actual Helmut Newton shots - so for that alone this is worth it.

Gaby xoxo

Coming soon....

2011-09-12T10:35:00.000+10:00

Found some very amazing sheer polka dot fabric recently, these will be coming to the store very soon!

Gaby xoxo

Electric Ladyland

2011-09-11T18:52:00.000+10:00

Beautiful editorial from Numero Tokyo 2008. I especially love the styling, the mix of latex, bright colour and neutrals. It's all really unexpected and that's what attracts me so much. Originally scanned here.

I have been thinking about experimenting with latex for some time now - I hope I can find the time soon as I think it would be really interesting. As usual everything is crazily busy, and I have so many exciting things happening I struggle to go to sleep at night as things run through my head! I love it though and wouldn't trade it for the world! Stay tuned!

Gaby xoxo

HAPPY 3RD BIRTHDAY GIVEAWAY!

2011-09-05T15:42:00.001+10:00

I can't quite believe it has been 3 years already, it seems like I have done so much, but still have so much more I want to do!

In celebration of Hopeless Lingerie's 3rd Birthday, which is this coming Wednesday, I have decided to run a giveaway! The prize will be TWO pieces of YOUR CHOICE from anything currently in store! There are a few ways to enter, and the winner will be drawn at random this Sunday the 11th of September at 6pm.

1. Leave a comment on this post - 1 Vote

2. Tweet about Hopeless Lingerie and this giveaway, and leave a link to your Twitter - 1 Vote

3. Share this giveaway on Facebook - making sure to tag the Hopeless Lingerie page - 2 Votes

4. Blog about Hopeless Lingerie and this giveaway, and leave a link to your blog post - 5 Votes

So the maximum votes anyone can have is 9 - you can enter in one or all of the above ways!

Good luck, and thank you all so much for your support!

Gaby xoxo

GIVEAWAY CLOSED!!

Congratulations ALEXANDREA BARRET! I will contact you via email shortly! <3

Thank you so much to everyone who entered! In total there were 138 entries overall, thank you so much for sharing with your friends!!

New work by Vlad Savin

2011-09-03T15:48:00.000+10:00

I've been meaning to share these for a while - beautifully feminine shots by Vlad Savin. See more at his website here.

Top picture features the 'Sophie' Knickers - available in white, black, coral or red.

Bottom left 'Betty' Knickers

Bottom right 'Phoebe' Bralette and 'Phoebe' Knickers

I know I say this pretty much every post but things are just getting more and MORE busy! Can't believe its been so long since the last post - I love blogging so much but I have just been working so hard at filling orders there is little time for anything else. I have also had quite a few events and parties to go to, which is keeping me away from the internet - which is actually a really good thing! The most exciting thing is a new partnership with a very special lady - which will see structured shape-wear in the Hopeless store very soon. When I started this business structure was something so important to me, but given that I have had such success with the simpler sleepwear pieces I seem to be following that route more so than I originally planned. This has meant I have such little time to actually work on developing patterns to suit a bigger bust. But anyway, enough of this ramble, have to get back to these orders!!

Gaby xoxo

Hopeless Lingerie - NEW IN STORE! Floral Babette & Jeanne Set

2011-08-19T13:34:00.000+10:00

I nearly died when I found this fabric. Knew it would be perfect for this set! It is super soft & light-weight, and the colours are really rich.

Find the top here.

Find the knickers here.

Gaby xoxo

Abbey Lee Kershaw

2011-08-16T17:36:00.000+10:00

Loving the layering of lingerie and hardware here

Gaby xoxo

Hopeless Lingerie - New in Store

2011-08-10T14:22:00.002+10:00

1. 'Daphne' Limited Edition Polka Dot Knickers

2. 'Sophie' Silk Knickers

3. 'Lulu' Bamboo and Mesh Garter Knickers

The obsessive compulsive perfectionist in me is really excited by doing new product shots, something that has been lacking from the shops for a long time! Having things neat and tidy is so exciting! The cutting out of the knickers with the picot edge elastic is pretty time consuming though, so I am trying to keep it to one every couple of days. I am also excited to show some different colour-ways in the simpler silk knickers, coming soon I will have the 'Sophie' Knickers in raspberry pink, red, lilac and coral.

Gaby xo

The Witches of Eastwick

2011-08-09T09:08:00.000+10:00

The Witches of Eastwick 1987

This is right up there with some of my favourite 80s films, and fashion wise Susan Sarandon completely steals the show. The 80s always makes me feel better about my frizzy fluffy hair. Sadly my only copy is not very good quality so I had to make these shots smaller than I would like, but I will definitely have to see if there is a Blu-Ray out there of this film. Reigniting my love affair with socks and heels for sure. Also now really desperate to do a photoshoot with hundreds of pink balloons.

Gaby xoxo

Starting from Scratch - Part 7 - Costing

2011-08-08T17:00:00.003+10:00

Photo: Jo Duck for Hopeless Lingerie
Model: Lulu Wagstaffe
MUAH: Sarah Lea Cross
Click here to shop the 'Omega' Cami
Click here to shop the 'Omega' Knickers

I really cannot believe its been 6 months since the last ‘Starting from Scratch’ installment. As I have mentioned a lot lately things have just been so busy, I barely have time for the blog! I managed to get (almost) up to date with orders over the weekend so thought it would be a good time to write about this really important topic.

People often comment about my pricing, and I hear constantly that my pieces are too expensive. It is hard to hear that sometimes people don’t think your work is worth the price you name, but that does not mean I will change my pricing structure. That is because I believe my price is fair for my time and skills. I also live in a city with a very high cost of living, and I want my business to make a profit, so that I can keep doing it and make a living from doing it.

I am happy (and perhaps a tiny bit nervous) to be completely transparent about this because I believe it is so important, and I see many small business owners and crafters selling themselves so short, especially on Etsy. Have faith in yourself and what you do, and price accordingly.

With that in mind here is an example of my costing formula. This is how I was taught to do it in Fashion School, and this is at the low end of the scale in terms of profit margins. Most luxury brands will have a mark-up somewhere in the realm of 1000% to 1500%. (See a book I have mentioned previously by Dana Thomas ‘How Luxury Lost its Lustre’ for more on this issue).

I am going to use as an example an imaginary pair of knickers that include silk, mesh, 2 different types of elastic, and garter clips.

Item	QTY	Cost per Unit	Total
Time	1 Hour	$15 per Hour	$15
Silk	.30m/3	$15 per Metre	$1.50
Mesh	.20m/4	$12 per Metre	$0.60
Elastic 1	1m	$1.35 per Metre	$1.35
Elastic 2	1m	$0.30 per Metre	$0.30
Slides	4	$0.30 Each	$1.20
Garter Clips	4	$0.70 Each	$2.80
Label – Logo	1	$0.16 Each	$0.16
Label – Size	1	$0.04 Each	$0.04
Label – Care	1	$0.08 Each	$0.08

Materials Cost: $8.03

Total Cost: (Materials + Time) $23.03

Wholesale Price: (Cost x 2) $46.06

Retail Price: (Wholesale Price x 2) $92.12

Although this is the pricing structure I currently use – there are actually a few things I am not doing. Something that I do not add in (this is because I worry about items being completely unaffordable) is overheads. That is anything that does not directly relate to an item, but is still a business expense. For example; photoshoots, bills, stationary and so on. I also pay myself below minimum wage. But you can imagine what my prices would look like if I paid myself a higher wage, so for this stage of the business I am happy to pay myself that amount. It is enough to keep me going. I am sure there are other things people could point out that I should be adding onto the above list.

Wholesale is a large part of my business so I have to make sure when I do sell wholesale, I am getting enough money, this is what really drives up the retail price. I think that a lot of Etsy sellers do not think about this, hence the very low pricing I see so often.

I would love to hear your opinions about this, and I really hope it helps a few of you.

Gaby xoxo

Repulsion 1965

2011-08-07T09:20:00.000+10:00

Repulsion 1965

Gaby xoxo

Laura Neumeister

2011-08-01T16:31:00.001+10:00

These beautiful shots are part of a set by Laura Neumeister. Click here to see more of her work and the full set.

The Thalia Cami, Thalia Knickers, Tina Knickers & a special lace edition of the Shelly Knickers are featured.

Gaby xoxo

Photographer: Laura Neumeister, www.lauraneumeister.com
Hair and Make-up: Raeoni Davies
Stylist: Rachel Harris
Model: Christina Dietze @ Chadwicks

REVENGE - Hopeless Lingerie July 2011

2011-07-29T08:13:00.000+10:00

Here it is! The new range - REVENGE. Above is a selection of my favourite shots - for the full set check the website here, or the Facebook album here. All pieces will be in store over the next week.

Love to know what you think!

Gaby xoxo

'The Mirror' Revisited

2011-07-22T15:12:00.000+10:00

I am absolutely thrilled to see the end result of this little collaboration. Amy Oram of Teeki Designs coordinated it all and I happily supplied some pieces from 'The Mirror' collection along with a few others. Its always so wonderful to see your pieces through someone else's eyes, and I am so in love with what this team has created. To see the full set please look at the Hopeless Facebook page here! Everyone involved is listed below.

Gaby xoxo

Headpieces, hairclips and flower sash - Teeki www.teeki.com.au
Bouquets and flower arrangements - Wild Lotus Florist http://www.wildlotusflorist.com.au/
Bridal "hand in hand" cape - Kristi Bonnici http://www.kristibonnici.com.au/
Lingerie - Hopeless Lingerie http://hopelesslingerie.com.au/
Shoes - Wanted Shoes http://www.wantedshoes.com.au/
Accessories and props - stylists own

Stylist - Amy Oram teeki_@hotmail.com
Photographer - Amy Nelson-Blain http://www.amynelsonblain.com/
Makeup - Make up by Megan www.makeupbymegan.com.au
Hair - Rachel Ann's Mobile Hairdressing rachel_ann_hair@hotmail.com
Models - Amber Bernauer & Brooke Lazarus

Say what you will about Lindsay....

2011-07-19T16:10:00.000+10:00

....but this is one beautiful bra. Photo via Touchpuppet. Landscapes via But does it float.

Gaby xoxo

New In Store!

2011-07-18T16:37:00.000+10:00

I've had these fabrics for ages and felt like doing something fun today - so made some cute Limited Edition knickers. There will be less than 10 of each available as I only have a small amount of fabric, so if you are thinking of getting them be quick!

Find the Junk Food Knickers here.

Find the I Love You knickers here.

Gaby xoxo

Inspiration - Delicate and Grotesque

2011-07-11T10:18:00.000+10:00

Making a concerted effort recently to be more creative, and not just wear myself out by only sewing orders - a huge part of the reason I am getting the next range made by someone else! The above is inspiration for a new project - or one part of it at least. I am excited to challenge myself by making some pieces that are much more about art than practicality. There are plenty of practical pieces in store at the moment and I am really missing making things that are more detailed. As usual I like to challenge myself by finding inspiration in both the beautiful and the macabre.

All of the above images via Google Images and Tumblr. Forgive me for not being able to source properly, I have so many hundreds of images saved its impossible to remember where they all come from!

Gaby xoxo

Behind the Scenes - Raspberry Silk

2011-07-10T12:05:00.000+10:00

Some behind the scenes shots of a wholesale order I was working on over the past few weeks. Made me realise the shop is definitely very jersey heavy at the moment, will work on rectifying that ASAP - the problem is where to start! I get so excited with new ideas but have such a tough time actually deciding which to act on - I have sketch books filled with plans for new styles but so little time to actually make them. Hopefully that will change soon as I work with a sewing helper to get all the orders done!

Gaby xoxo

Ashley Camisole in White Chiffon

2011-07-08T16:36:00.000+10:00

Photo: Gaby Adamidis

Model: Lulu Wagstaffe

Outfit: Hopeless Lingerie

I recently had an order for the Ashley Camisole in white and thought it was much too pretty to miss a picture opportunity, so the wonderful Lulu popped over this morning on her way to a casting and we had a 10 minute shoot. The camisole took me 7 hours to make - 6 of those hours are spent hand-sewing the hundreds of chiffon petals. I actually quite enjoy this kind of detail work, and think I might have to include more such things in future ranges. I feel like most of what I have been making lately has been the simple jersey stuff - very practical but quite as dreamy as this one here! I also sneaked (snuck?!) in a pair of knickers from the new range - which is only a few weeks away.

Gaby xoxo

Miss Woody in Hopeless Lingerie

2011-07-01T08:34:00.001+10:00

The beautiful Miss Woody in the black Cheryl Garter.

Visit her blog to see many more pretty pictures!

Shop the Garter Belt here! Enter the code MISSWOODY at checkout to recieve 20% off!

Gaby xoxo

Happy Birthday to me!

2011-06-28T16:00:00.001+10:00

It was my birthday on the 24th June and here are some of the treasures I got from friends and family. I feel so lucky to be surrounded by people who know me so well - pretty much all my loves are covered here!

So many exciting things are in the works in Hopeless land - there really are not enough hours in the day. To give you an insight I am working on releasing the new range, organising sewing help so orders won't take so long to ship, a shape-wear range designed for girls with a bigger bust, latex, limited edition colourways, a new web store and so much more!! Here is hoping I can organise myself well enough to keep it all running smoothly!

Gaby xoxo

Behind the Scenes

2011-06-19T18:41:00.000+10:00

We shot a new range on Friday - and I think these pictures are going to be my favourite so far! I cannot wait to show everyone. But first I have many many many customers patiently waiting for me to sew their orders and I do want to get on top of those before this one comes out. I have so many exciting things going on and so many ideas, one of which is getting some sewing help so I can concentrate on the designing and art direction side with all of this. Hopefully things will fall into place very soon and there will be no more waiting 6 weeks for your Hopeless knickers!

Gaby xoxo

Sighs and Whispers

2011-06-13T10:11:00.000+10:00

I discovered a brilliant blog a few months back - Sighs and Whispers share so many incredible vintage fashion scans - and lots of lingerie too! The above are from Vogue - go and look at more here.

Gaby xoxo

Linda Garters and Phoebe Bralettes

2011-06-11T09:48:00.001+10:00

Things are absolutely hectic at the moment - so much to do I can barely comprehend it! These made up part of a wholesale order I posted earlier in the week - the Linda Garter turned out so pretty in white! Click here to shop the Linda Garter. Click here to shop the Phoebe Bralettes (bottom right).

Gaby xoxo

Photographer - Neil Krug

2011-06-08T09:51:00.000+10:00

Love these shots - and how they look like stills from a 70s film. The photographer is Neil Krug, found via Jannike Viveka.

Gaby xoxo

Russ Meyer 'Supervixens' 1975

2011-06-06T09:50:00.000+10:00

An old favourite. I found this along with 33 others ('M' from previous post included) at a closing down video store a few weeks back. Russ Meyer films are a brilliant source of vintage lingerie inspiration - not to mention the bevy of beautifully curvy women. I would love to base a look book around this scene. Every still could be a great picture!

Gaby xoxo

Fritz Lang 'M' 1931

2011-06-04T16:40:00.000+10:00

They don't make films like this anymore.

Gaby xoxo

Boudoir by Anne-Constance Frenoy

2011-05-25T09:19:00.000+10:00

Absolutely smitten with this set of pictures. Shot for Ben Trovato. Find more here.

Gaby xoxo

Blood and Black Lace

2011-05-23T13:46:00.001+10:00

Mario Bava - Blood and Black Lace - 1964

Unfortunately the only copy I have of this film has Spanish subtitles - but that doesn't really bother me too much as I still managed to screencap the amazing visuals without them. Obviously this film pretty much combines all my most favourite things - 1960s, vintage fashion, horror, vintage lingerie - what more could I ask for! These stills really do speak for the themselves. I will probably post some more over at Hopeless Dinosaurs over the nest few weeks. And thank you to those here and on Facebook & Twitter who have let me know your favourite sorts of posts! It seems like its a pretty even spread so I will just keep going as I have been, and just try and be a bit more regular with it.

Gaby xoxo

Layering

2011-05-22T11:08:00.001+10:00

Love the styling and layering in these shots. Found via Jannike Viveka,

The business of general life has gotten in the way of regular blogging lately - but also I have been exploring and soul searching about what I want this blog to be. Thinking about my favourite blogs - they are mostly filled with original content, so in turn I have been wanting to feature more original content here. As much as I would love to have a new photo-shoot or new styles to put up here every week the truth is the majority of my time is spent filling orders, and organising photo-shoots is expensive and time-consuming! Sadly I was not blessed with the genes of a lingerie model so that is out of the question - but I am thinking harder about ways to maximise original content here.

Possibly ironic that this comes with a reblogged post - but inspiration is okay too, I just want this blog to be more original. I would honestly appreciate feedback from my regular readers, or those passing by as well - what sort of posts do you enjoy most here? What would you like to see more of? Perhaps a challenge for me?!

Gaby xoxo

DIY 3...

2011-05-16T17:37:00.000+10:00

The last of the shots from the other week. Obviously more artistic than showing garments, but these are probably my favourite. Credits as per post below.

Gaby xoxo

DIY Continued....

2011-05-08T00:20:00.000+10:00

Some more from yesterday.

Gaby xoxo

DIY

2011-05-07T12:07:00.001+10:00

I spent yesterday afternoon with a wonderful team of girls shooting some alternate colourways and other samples I didn't have pictures of for the online stores. I have to thank our model Shohan, who was a joy to work with and made my job as photographer relatively easy. Makeup by Sarah who to my delight did the most beautiful yellow eyes which I am so in love with. Hair by Natascha who created perfect romantic waves. And of course the best assistants ever Domi and Alice, who carried, ironed, dressed, cooked and were a huge help.

Though I have been taking photos for a little while now I really wanted to push myself and try and get a good grasp of aperture, shutter speed and ISO instead of relying on the automatic setting on my SLR. It has been a huge learning curve as I am a complete amateur photographer, and having worked with so many great photographers I have a high standard for how I want photos to turn out.

We shot from about 4pm and had a very overcast day, and I had hoped for some really dark and moody images so I set the camera up to hopefully achieve this. Looking at the images on my computer now while I am mostly happy with how they turned out given my very limited knowledge there are two areas I think I would work on/change next time. I ignored all advice from tutorials/blogs/photography sites to shoot in RAW, as I only had one card and though it couldn't be that important. I also decided to shoot on a very high ISO setting despite advice that there would be a lot more 'noise' in the picture if I did so. Thinking I wanted the pictures to have a dark, dirty, noisy finish, as this might be a more realistic goal for me than a perfectly flawless glossy image.

So while I am really happy with composition, location, Shohans really great modelling and the styling, I know there are more technical areas of the image that I need a lot more practice with. Which brings me to post production - another area I have very limited knowledge about. I tried to do as little editing as possible, only slight blemish healing, surface blur and curve adjustment, but this was where I really saw how I could have benefited from RAW and a lower ISO setting.

I would like to practice taking photos more as I really feel like it completes the creative process from the initial design, pattern making, sample making and the final presentation of the product. Though it is hard to be responsible for so much. Of course a large part of this journey is the fact that good professional photography is expensive, and given the small size of my business if I can do it myself sometimes, it might help.

Anyway I would really appreciate honest feedback about the pictures above, I have 10 or 15 more that I will post over the next week or so and put into the shop, but I think I need to space out the editing as it stresses me out too much!

Gaby xoxo

Scouting

2011-05-05T22:00:00.000+10:00

Despite the mountains of sewing, spreadsheets, invoices, receipts, washing, dishes and folding I am surrounded by all I seem to want to do is take pictures at the moment. I guess its a somewhat useful type of procrastinating, as pictures for Hopeless are important!

Both photos by me.

Model: Claire Radbourne wearing Hopeless Lingerie.

Gaby xoxo

Simple Compostition

2011-05-02T09:28:00.001+10:00

First Shot by Vlad Savin, Model Tara McIvor

Last Shot by Me, Model Claire Radbourne

Both wearing Hopeless Lingerie

Everything Inbetween via Madrepadre

I have most definitely caught the photography bug, and I am dying to get more practice. I think it is to do with completing the creative process (or perhaps just being a control freak), but I find it incredibly satisfying to be able to frame and shoot how I want my pieces presented - I have such a close relationship with everything I sew, from the initial idea, to the pattern, toile, fitting and final product, I feel like it is a natural progression in completing the journey.

That said - if any models reading this would be interested in working TFP to help me practice - email me! Unfortunately there are some constraints (eg. being able to fit my samples) but please let me know if you are!

Other than being very distracted by photography I am juggling a billion things as usual, 6 wholesale orders on the go, a long list of retail orders, getting some financial plans in place, preparing the new range - little time left over for blogging sadly. But a reminder I do update little Hopeless Dinosaurs more frequently than once a week! Tumblr definitely lends itself to blogging on the go.

Gaby xoxo

Behind the Scenes

2011-04-25T10:06:00.000+10:00

Behind the Scenes at a shoot yesterday. We had the most beautiful location and the weather was pretty much perfect! Looking forward to seeing the shots from the real photographer (clearly where the model is looking haha).

Photos: Gaby Adamidis

Model: Claire Radbourne

Styling: Gaby & Domi Adamidis

Outfits: Hopeless Lingerie

Gaby xoxo

Yarn over Movement

2011-04-22T09:03:00.000+10:00

Beautiful. Find here.

Gaby xoxo

Thalia Set - All Black

2011-04-15T17:37:00.000+10:00

I am in the process of making up a few pieces from 'The Mirror' in black - and the first of these is the 'Thalia' set. I am going to get some on body pictures but for the moment I couldn't resist sharing a sneak peek. It is for sale here & here.

Gaby xoxo

Lingerie in Film: Videodrome

2011-04-09T09:40:00.000+10:00

Videodrome.

Great film with great cinematography, I love how the colours carry through the film. I have been watching a lot of David Cronenberg and John Carpenter films lately which make for quite a strange headspace - especially when trying to go to sleep! I find its a good distraction from the everyday stress of running your own business though - mixed in with some good 80s comedies of course.

Gaby xoxo

Behind the Scenes

2011-04-04T09:10:00.001+10:00

Things have been absolutely hectic lately, working on wholesale orders, custom orders, marketing plans and the new range - lots of exciting things in the pipeline but feeling a little overwhelmed at the same time! Behind the scenes shots of a few things I am working on, its exciting to be starting to sell some of the new range too. As a special thank you to my readers here who I feel like I have neglected lately - enter the code SPOKES at checkout on http://hopelesslingerie.bigcartel.com for 20% off until 9pm tonight!

Gaby xoxo

Made by Niki

2011-03-31T20:41:00.000+11:00

Stunning.

Gaby xoxo

Valerie and her Week of Wonders

2011-03-27T17:58:00.000+11:00

If you follow me on Tumblr, Twitter or Facebook you are probably sick of me talking about this film! But for those of you who haven't seen any screenshots yet, I am still blown away at how beautiful/creepy/visually stunning this film is. Read more about it here.

Gaby xoxo

Garter Straps

2011-03-25T20:04:00.000+11:00

1. New Garter Belt in store - an all black 'Cheryl'. Photo by Vlad Savin. Model Avalon Westcott. MUAH Sarah Gibbs.

2. But does it Float.

3. Smitten with this painting by Catherine at See Creatures.

Gaby xoxo

French Vogue....

2011-03-22T14:59:00.001+11:00

So in love with the French Vogue editorial - shot by Mert & Marcus. Totally in line with the 70s/80s vibe I am keen on at the moment.

Gaby xoxo

Brian De Palma - Carrie

2011-03-20T17:58:00.000+11:00

I have been on a huge Brian De Palma trip lately - I love the way he shoots films. His subjects often involve murder mystery and thriller elements, and I just love the way each frame makes such a beautiful still. The above stills are from Carrie, this week I also watched Body Double and Blow Out. I am feeling the 70s/80s aesthetic so much more lately, perhaps because the whole Mad Men vintage glamour has been EVERYWHERE lately - I still love it, just looking for something different.

Gaby xoxo

The Mirror at The Butterfly Club

2011-03-15T15:34:00.002+11:00

A few shots from the little show we put together at The Butterfly Club in South Melbourne on Saturday night. Plenty more shots in the Facebook album here. Huge huge thank you to everyone who made it down, I hope you had fun, and I will definitely do another before the year is through!!

All things in the Hopeless world are going swimmingly, things are growing faster than I ever imagined. Orders are piling up though so I best get back to the sewing machine - sorry to everyone who is waiting I am going as fast as I can!!

Photos 1 & 3: Alice Giblin
Photo 2: Jane Daly
Photo 4: Marianne Rutherford at Esme & The Laneway

Gaby xoxo

New Hopeless Lingerie 'The Mirror'

2011-03-13T14:51:00.000+11:00

Here it is! The new bridal range - 'The Mirror'.

"The first of four seasonal ranges for 2011 - 'The Mirror' is an all white collection designed for honeymooning brides. Not to exclude the rest of us all pieces are also available in black. This range was inspired by the character Tony in Terry Gilliam's Imaginarium of Dr Parnassus. The duality of good and evil is explored in this film and this is picked up in the black trims and hints of something harder, combined with traditional romantic elements."

I have wanted to do a bridal range for so long - and this really speaks a lot about where I am as a designer right now. I have spent the past few years embracing frills and bows, but am yearning for something a little harder, and I think this collection really illustrates a movement to something a little different. This bridal range is very different to what I may have designed a year ago (probably would have been much more romantic), but still I hope I achieved a good contrast between where I have been and where I am going.

Shop at Etsy in USD here.

Shop at Big Cartel in AUD here.

Photos: Josie Lee

Model: Lulu Wagstaffe

MUAH: Jess Kramp

Gaby xoxo

Revenge of the Nerds

2011-03-11T09:51:00.000+11:00

So with the release of the new range only 2 days away - time has already come to start designing the next. I am sure I mentioned this before but I have decided to release 4 small ranges this year rather than 1 huge one (like last year - The Hunted) to keep things a little more manageable for me! So the next one is based on Revenge of the Nerds, and I am really excited about doing some things that are a bit different.

Blogging has been a bit scant lately as I have also been planning a show of the new bridal range - scheduled for tomorrow night - and I am pretty nervous! Hope to get back into it soon I have so many things saved up to post!

Gaby xoxo

www.hopelesslingerie.com.au

2011-03-05T10:43:00.000+11:00

So this is pretty exciting - we have a website now! Go and have a look and let me know what you think! www.hopelesslingerie.com - You can see all the previous ranges, and in the future we will move the blog over there and have a proper shop too. I have spent most of the week working on it, hence the slow updates here, and also show the new range on Monday - so also have been preparing all the costings and other bits and pieces for that too. I have also had a few guest blog posts to do, and also organising a small show of the new collection next Saturday! Stay tuned on Facebook for more details on that....! Phew, now to get back to all the orders waiting to be sewn!

Gaby xoxo

Behind the Scenes

2011-02-27T11:17:00.000+11:00

1. Working on a huge wholesale order at the moment, thankfully all the cutting is now done. Its always hard when there is one of each size and colour! My wonderful interns Alice and Maria have been really great, I think Hopeless is going to reach exciting new heights this year as a result of their help!

2. I have had these illustrations Caitlin Shearer did for me some time ago now waiting to get framed, and they look so beautiful all together. I have 2 more to pick up and then I can take a picture of them all together. Caitlin's work is just getting better and better, her blog is an endless source of beauty and inspiration. If you don't know about her already go and look!

3. A vintage Playboy I found at Camberwell Market a few weeks back - I remember thinking about blogging about it but I don't know if I ever did? I have a sneaking suspicion I may have already - sorry if I you have already seen it haha, this cover is just so good!

4. A friend alerted me to this amazing vintage lingerie set on Etsy recently and I had to buy it to add to my collection. Vintage lingerie is like a reference library for me, my collection is quite small so far but its all really special. One day I have will have a room for it all.

5. Another friend gave me this beautiful teacup and saucer as a thank you, and I love it so much! My house needs more of these pretty things!

6 & 7. The bridal/honeymoon range we are shooting tomorrow - I am excited and nervous as usual. I always get worried before releasing a new collection about how it will be received. I always want the next collection to be better than the last, but you just never know how it will go!

Gaby xoxo

Black and White

2011-02-23T08:20:00.000+11:00

1 & 3. Saga Sig.

2. But Does It Float

Gaby xoxo

Colour and Inspiraton

2011-02-20T09:58:00.000+11:00

1. Rodarte's Inspiration Wall for their most recent collection

2 & 5. Lonely Hearts Lingerie

3. Theo Altenberg

4. The Loved One pop-up shop

Gaby xoxo

Starting From Scratch - Part 6 - Presenting Your Product

2011-02-18T15:13:00.000+11:00

First of all apologies that there has been a bit of a break from this series – so much has happened over Christmas and the New Year I have barely had time to breath! One major exciting thing is that I have quit my part-time job at the electrical store (Clive Peeters) in order to spend more time on Hopeless. It's a little scary particularly in regards to the financial side of things – but it is also very exciting, and I really felt like I was ready to take the leap!

So back to the topic – Presenting your product. I really wanted to make a point about how important it is to present what you are doing professionally, but at the same time that you don’t need to break the bank to do it. Right from the beginning of Hopeless I knew having really great pictures was going to be a major key to success.

Once I had made my first range I got in touch with friends and friends of friends to help me put my first shoot together. I was very lucky to be able to find some amazingly talented people who were also starting out at the time, and were happy to help me put the whole thing together for a price that was manageable for me at the very beginning. The other thing to note is that I didn’t choose just anyone – I made sure my team, and my photographer especially had the right aesthetic for my product, and was someone I could trust to cover all the technical aspects that I didn't know enough about.

Thanks to the internet the world has become a lot smaller – and everyone has access to budding young photographers, make up artists and models who are often willing to do TFP (trade for print) to expand their folio and just gain experience. If you have an amazing product and a great concept, then it is worthwhile asking about TFP. But at the same time never presume that someone will want to work for free for you – it is usually best at the outset to let the photographer, MUAH or model know that you are working within a budget – even if that budget is $0. Always be upfront about all financial position, agree upon a price and what that price will involve right from the start. This includes time, how many shots/looks, what sort of shots they will be, if lighting is required, if the location needs to be paid for and any other details that might affect your budget. Some models, photographers and make up artists are also happy to work for ‘contra’ – that is where instead of money you give them some of your product, or a combination of both.

Photographers, models, MUAH's and stylists fees will all vary greatly usually according to experience. Photographers generally charge an hourly rate for the shoot itself, or have a half-day or full-day fee. This can range from under $100 to the many $1000's. If the photographer has to hire lighting or other equipment you will also be charged for this too. Photographers will also then have an editing/retouching fee, which can be by the hour or per photograph. This is again why it is good to agree from the start exactly how many shots you want. Models are usually paid by the hour - and will often charge a higher rate for lingerie or swimwear. If a model is agency represented - be prepared to pay more costs on top of the hourly fee depending on how the images will be used. Some agencies will provide models on a TFP basis if they need shots to build up their folio. If you do ask an agency about this make sure you have a great photographer behind you. Make up artists and hair stylists charge on an hourly basis, and usually stay for the whole photo-shoot to do touch ups when necessary. Some beginner make up artists and hair stylists will be happy to work for a 'kit-fee', which covers the cost of the products they use for the shoot, and sometimes also travel costs. A stylist is not always needed when you are just wanting to show your product, but if you are wanting to accessorize they can be a great help. A stylist will usually charge for the hours it takes to go and pick up samples to use for the shoot, their time on the day of the shoot, and the time it takes to return the samples. The same applies if they are going and finding things from op shops or making things for the backdrop or other things that will take time. On the day of the shoot it is great to have the help of a stylist as an extra set eyes making sure garments are sitting correctly, underwear isn't poking out, dressing the model and so on. (But this is usually a job I do myself.)

These are all things I have learned the hard way, sometimes things have ended up being much more costly than I imagined, and sometimes I do not get what I had hoped for at the end. The best thing you can do is be prepared, supply as many reference shots as possible, be clear about your budget and your expectations.

Once you have at least one great series of images, it will be much easier to find people willing to work with you. The first one is always going to be the hardest, scariest and most exciting – and after that you get into the swing of it all.

Gaby xoxo

Photo: Hopeless Lingerie 'The Hunted'
Photos: Jo Duck
Model: Lulu Wagstaffe
MUAH: Sarah Lea Cross
Assistant: Dominique Adamidis

The Lake and Stars

2011-02-16T10:18:00.000+11:00

Still in love with these pictures from The Lake and Stars last range. Cannot wait for the new lookbook after spying the new range over at Frou Frou Fashionista!!!

Gaby xoxo