Christmas @ TK Maxx

The silly season is just around the corner and it's the perfect excuse to be entertaining (especially when there are gifts involved). 

I recently popped into my local TK Maxx store to stock up on necessities (and trust me, when Christmas decorations are involved, everything is a necessity) for entertaining and hosting on a budget this Christmas, as well as a couple of gifts that will make perfect stocking fillers for my loved ones.

This was my first time shopping at TK Maxx and I was absolutely stunned at the wide range of things that were available for purchase - everything from candles to Christmas decorations to games. I'm not going to lie - I definitely did not stick to the shopping list in my head, but everything I purchased pretty much followed these 3 rules:

1. As long as the house looks and smells festive, your failings in the kitchen will be forgiven (maybe). 

2. Nothing brings people together like competitive games. 

3. There is no such thing as too much gold accents. 

TK Maxx is the perfect Christmas destination to stock up on goodies for hosting and entertaining on a budget, and also for presents and gifts for everyone (how good is it to tick everyone off in the one shop!). Every TK Maxx store has different stock and each store receives several deliveries each week, so it’s a treasure hunting experience like no other, and you are sure to find something for everyone on your list!

I picked up this coffee cup (which came in a set of 6) for $20, the photo frame for $15, and the vase was only $25 and they are all perfect gifts for loved ones!

What are some of your Christmas entertaining tips for styling and gift giving on a budget? 

x Karen

the new biker jacket

For the longest time, I've been obsessed with the leather biker jacket and it was my go-to jacket for all outfits and all occasions. 

This year, I've found myself reaching for my denim jacket so much more than my leather jacket.

Bec & Bridge dress, Frame Denim denim jacket, Chloe boots, Celine bag, Kapten & Son watch, Karen Walker sunglasses

I can definitely see myself wearing this denim jacket throughout spring and it is definitely joining my packing list for my upcoming USA trip. 

x Karen

guess who's back...

After more than 2 years, I'm back blogging!

Just like how I never intended to stop blogging in the first place, once I had stopped, I never intended to start blogging again. I've been spending more of my time on instagram (follow me on @thechicndamned!) but I've recently really missed blogging.

MLM Label dress, Glassons tee, Gucci loafers, Celine bag, Kapten & Son watch

So, I thought for my first post - I'll keep it simple, just like my outfit. 

A simple black slip dress, layered with a white tee and black leather accessories. Minimal fuss.

x Karen

leather theory

Theory jumper, Bassike striped tee, ASOS leather skirt, Celine trio bag in 'rust', Converse sneakers, Karen Walker 'deep freeze' sunglasses

I'm really been enjoying the recent cold chill in the weather. It is most definitely my favourite time of the year (and not just because it's around my birthday). I love watching the trees in my backyard turn into a spectacular fiery hue, except for the Frangipani who is still standing strong and blooming. I've been trying to spend some time cleaning out my wardrobe and so far, all I've managed to do is to dig out a few jumpers and cause a greater mess than before. 

Every year, I try to organise my wardrobe before buying for the new season. It's especially important with the shop on the verge of launching and going live, I can't emphasis how much I've ordered for myself. If I don't familiarise myself with what I already have, I will undoubtedly end up with something new but very similar; I really don't stray away from the tried and tested monochrome. Things like this Theory jumper, which I've had for almost a year and half now, has been on high rotation lately and if I hadn't found it in my winter stack in time, I most likely would have ended up purchasing something in that family. 

I'm really enjoying shopping from my own wardrobe these days. I am so excited to share my "curation" with you guys!

x karen

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science club

A Fine Line 'Science Club' t-shirt, Alice & Olivia 'butterfly' shorts, Superga sneakers, Chanel 'Boy' Bag, Karen Walker 'Super Duper' sunglasses

It's not everyday you find the perfect graffiti wall to take photos in front of, but when I do, it really emphasised the almost-all-white outfit that I'm wearing. It could not be more glaringly obvious that here that colour is has pretty much disappeared from my clothing and can only be found in the background. But I really shouldn't make overarching statements like that because then something like this happens. 

Either way, these photos make me miss the sunshine like crazy because all we've had in Sydney for the past few weeks are rain storms interspersed with random bursts of sunshine. 

x karen

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