THE FASHION ISSUE
CHONTEL DUNCAN
THROUGH THE LENS OF BETH HURRELL
Bathroom, inspired.
Image from Harvey Norman: TOTO Neorest LS Integrated Toilet and Remote Controlled Washlet.
Macgregor HOMEMAKER
INSIDE
12 Chontel Duncan is stripped back and stronger than ever
18 SS26 Trend Report: the next big things in fashion
20 How Brisbane’s Arcina Ori went from start-up to It girl brand
TALENT Chontel Duncan
DIRECTION Kiri Johnston
PHOTOGRAPHY Beth Hurrell
STYLING Victoria Lewis
HMUA Jacqueline Rodgers
22 Talking artistry and legacy with Gail Sorronda and Sarah Gittoes
The architect-turned-artist creating bold, beautiful prints 38 Seoul’s Andy Choi on toxic kitchens and omakase mastery
40 September’s social calendar is filling up: here’s what’s on
42 Horoscopes: let the stars guide your next culture obsession
45 How David the Medium went from law to unlocking the unseen
LEADERSHIP
Director PAUL JOHNSTON
Director TRACY SINCLAIR
EDITORIAL
Editor KIRI JOHNSTON
Deputy Print Editor NATALIE MCGOWAN
Deputy Digital Editor BIANCA LICINA
CREATIVE
Senior Graphic Designer GRACE DE LUNA
Creative Assistant ELLA PASSFIELD
ADVERTISING
Senior Account Manager KELLY BEASLEY
Senior Account Manager VALENTINA TRIFUNOV
Sales Support JACKSON GREGORY
MARKETING + SOCIAL MEDIA
Digital Marketing Manager CHARLIE COLEMAN
Content Producer TAHLIA LEATHART
Content Creator VICTORIA LEWIS
DISTRIBUTION
Adelle Whiting, Carlo O’Brien
INTERNS
Caitlin Finucan, Jordana George, Kate O’Donoghue Sega, Tamanna Wadehra
Chontel wears ZIAH Hardware Tri Top $149, Hardware Petit Bottom $159, AGMES Luna Earrings $895, F+H STUDIOS Rhapsody Double Ear Cuff $120, NEIL VERNON Essie Buckle Pant $190.
ABOVE: Chontel wears SENER BESIM Bared Back Dress $550, DOF STUDIOS Bettina Boot $649.95, VALLEY EYEWEAR Nightfall Sunglasses $260.00, Stylist’s own belts.
OCTOBER DEADLINE: Friday, 19 September 2025
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information is correct at time of publication, no responsibility is accepted by Style Magazines for the accuracy of any information contained in the text or advertisements.
Acknowledgement of traditional owners: We acknowledge the Turrbal and Jagera/Yuggera Peoples, the traditional custodians of the land on which we live and work today. We pay respect to Elders both past, present, and emerging and stand together with the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander leaders of today and tomorrow.
RODA
The past year as Editor has been anything but ordinary, and I wouldn’t change a thing.
This month’s cover muse, Chontel Duncan, is a force of nature. We’d only met a handful of times at events but it was enough to know she was something special. Fierce and unapologetic, yet kind and grounded, she has a way of making everyone feel seen. Beyond being a mum of five, wife, entrepreneur, fitness coach, and trainer, it’s the way she carries herself, strong, tall, and authentic that makes her extraordinary. Having her back on our cover after her first in 2011 feels like a true fullcircle moment.
This issue is an ode to fashion. Not about chasing one look or trend, but about owning your style, your confidence, your individuality. That’s what fashion is all about, how you put yourself together and step out into the world every day.
As always, we shine a light on the businesses and creatives that shape Brisbane, from the boutiques and galleries redefining our streets, to the brands born here, going global. Watching our city evolve is inspiring, and I’m proud we get to tell these stories.
EDITOR
KIRI@STYLEMEDIA.COM.AU @KIRIJOHNSTON
Editors’ L etters
Last purchase: A vintage silver handbag
Favourite piece in your wardrobe: ALOHAS ballet flats
Best moment from August: Eating my way through Singapore and Kuching
DEPUTY PRINT EDITOR
NATALIE@STYLEMEDIA.COM.AU @NATMCGOWAN
Last purchase: Bikinis from The Ruby State
Favourite piece in your wardrobe: My St. Agni jeans
Best moment from August: Our Style x Thrifter event!
DEPUTY DIGITAL EDITOR
BIANCA@STYLEMEDIA.COM.AU @BIANCALICINA
Bridal, Luxury Piercing and Soldered Bracelet Experiences.
STANDING
Viral fitness leader, super-mum, dedicated business owner, and mental health advocate – meet the woman behind the titles, who shows us the real strength in vulnerability. Raw, stripped back, unapologetic – this is Chontel Duncan.
WORDS VICTORIA LEWIS PHOTOGRAPHY BETH HURRELL
It’s not every day you come across a woman like Chontel Duncan. Standing tall at a statuesque six feet and two inches, she doesn’t just enter a room, she commands it, with shoulders back, a warm smile, and an effortlessly magnetic presence.
The self-described “big dreamer” whose fitness empire has amassed a following over one million strong, Chontel is a living, breathing embodiment of the age-old saying “trust the process”.
The Chontel we see today seems to pull off the impossible. A proud Māori woman, mother of five, devoted wife and founder of the cult favourite fitness platform, Neuform, she juggles her chaotic life with style, grace, and wit – and still manages to hit the gym once a day. Strength personified, her killer workout plans and impressive schedule have granted her ‘superwoman status’ in the eyes of many, but underneath the accolades, it’s inside that Chontel holds her innate power. The real secret ingredient behind her strength? Vulnerability.
It wasn’t overnight she built her platform Neuform, her gym HIIT
Capalaba, her loyal fanbase, or even her chiselled abs. “I didn’t start out strong,” she says. It took her time, discipline, rude awakenings, and loss to be standing so tall now.
Stripped back, Chontel is still the girl who remembers all the ways she used to hide herself. Growing up without a structured home life or access to many of the opportunities she gives her children today, a young Chontel “struggled to find her place”. Being the only person of colour among her peers, and also measuring a head taller, meant most of her formative years were spent punishing herself for not fitting into a mould never destined for her. In her words, she was “shrinking herself literally and figuratively”. Slumped shoulders, voice quiet, she was always keeping the peace. She says “I’d bleach my arm hairs, bleach my hair to be lighter, iron it straight because I hated how curly it was. I’d hunch over to hide my height, avoid heels, stay seated when I could… I spent years trying to mute everything that made me different.”
Her adolescent plight to fit in with her peers was then compounded by not having the resources to fully embrace her Māori culture at home. Though deeply proud of her heritage, she wasn’t taught the language or customs, leaving her feeling disconnected from her beloved heritage, and wrecked with guilt. She says, “for a long time, that left me feeling like a fraud in my own culture.”
TALL
Chontel wears NEIL VERNON Brooklyn Coat $270, Chontel’s own bone carving necklace, DOF STUDIOS Bettina Boot $649.95
It was when she found the gym, her safe haven, that she was able to fully lean into her true self. This was when the magic began. “I stopped trying to fit a mould and focused on building a life that felt like mine.” As she built confidence in the weight room, she built it within her until it spilled out into every facet of her hectic life, describing the gym as the first place she felt okay to take up space. “I started to embrace the very things I used to wish away,” she says. Her once dyed-blonde hair eventually returned to its original hue, her flat-iron replaced with natural curls, her posture corrected, and her voice carried further than ever. She even started reconnecting to her roots, learning the Māori te reo language as an adult alongside her children, so they never have to feel the same disconnection she once did.
“I’ve learned that strength isn’t just about how heavy you can lift, it’s about how willing you are to keep showing up for yourself and others.” And “show up” Chontel does. From a daily 4am wakeup to cooking dinner for the family (her “crew”), she attributes much of her success to her drive and discipline, but also her empathy and openness with those around her. This is the foundation of everything she does, in personal life and in the creation of her Neuform and new Neutrition programs.
To Chontel, the idea behind these platforms was always deeper than just meal plans and workouts, it was meant to be a jumping off point, a safe place to start even when times are tough. She says “I carry a deep softness for people who are suffering in silence… I think this comes from my own lived experience. I’ve been met with kindness and patience in times I didn’t feel I deserved it. I’ve never forgotten that. So now I pay it forward, every chance I get.”
Chontel wears ZIAH Eyelet Fine Strap One Piece $399
“I don’t want to just inspire people; I want to relate to them. I want them to see that you can own your story, flaws and all, and still rise.”
Someone who leads by doing, Chontel encourages others to open up by being so vulnerable online herself. Never one to shy away from life’s messiness, she has built a personal legacy that’s “raw and real, even when it’s uncomfortable”. Detailing the horrific near loss of a child to drowning, and the challenges of not one but two high-risk pregnancies, Chontel has shared her deepest battles with the world, but to her, it’s a freeing process. “I feel lighter... like I can actually breathe.”
It takes a special kind of person to be so raw and honest, but Chontel wants to share the real her, “flaws and all”. She says being vulnerable has taught her that “people don’t connect with your highlight reel; they connect with your truth”.
Now out of the old protective cocoon that hid her from the world, Chontel has emerged in full bloom, taking on a different kind of suit. Going full circle, these days, she steps into her power in a pair of sky-high heels, even layering a sharp shouldered blazer for when she really means business. “It’s like my armour,” she says. But the beauty of her double life means that sometimes, in family mode, a gentle softness is her ultimate power play. She says, “Fashion, for me, reflects where I am and who I’m showing up for at that moment. I love that I get to embrace both sides of myself.”
When thinking of Chontel Duncan, the words ‘strength personified’ come to mind. Though, she possesses a unique kind of strength, one forged only out of years of growth, experience and radical self-love – it’s soft but unwavering, gentle but fierce. Her journey is a hopeful reminder that there is strength within us all.
The Chontel who shows up today, no matter how hard times are, is unapologetically herself, authentic, and free – a woman fully formed but always growing. To those who wish to follow in her footsteps towards true self-discovery, she says, “Remember every strong woman you look up to once doubted herself too. You’re not behind. You’re becoming.”
New names, sharp cuts, big energy.
IN FULL
FASHION
This month, we wear it all.
KIMBERLEY KURDI
SS26 TREND REPORT
The top fashion trends we’ll be spotting, sporting, and obsessing over this spring/summer.
EDIT BIANCA LICINA
PRETTY IN PINK
Red? We don’t know her. Powder pink is officially the ‘it’ colour of the spring.
80S MAXIMALISM
Go big or go home – shoulder pads, bold colour blocks, and exaggerated silhouettes reminiscent of the 80s are back, and we’re so here for it.
ACNE STUDIOS LILLIAN
ALÉMAIS
GUCCI
GUCCI
SAINT LAURENT
ACNE STUDIOS
THE ANTI-SNEAKER
Forget sneakers – flats have just had a major makeover. Loafers, ballet flats, and mules are all the rage and will continue to dominate footpaths and closets.
SHEER ERA
If you can see through it, it’s in. Sheer fabrics and delicate laces bring that effortless ‘je ne sais quoi’, turning subtle transparency into a seriously cool statement.
A.EMERY
The Steele Flat $250
GANNI
Lace Up Ballerinas $695
ST. AGNI
Minimal Perforated
Ballet Flat $359
MIISTA Zita Brown Black Moccasin Loafers $432.81
LMS
The Connie $329
ACNE STUDIOS DIOR
DIOR SAINT LAURENT SAINT LAURENT
THE RISE OF ARCINA ORI
What began as seven unworn dresses and a scrapped trip to Europe has become one of Australia’s most in-demand fashion exports, and Arcina Ori’s Zoe Calodoukas is turning heads.
Before Arcina Ori was being worn by fashion’s favourites and flooding your Instagram feed, founder Zoe Calodoukas was just a 22-year-old with seven dresses and an axed European holiday.
“Arcina Ori came from these dresses that I was supposed to take to Europe,” Zoe says. “Then COVID hit, and I just thought, I’m going to make this into a brand.”
It might sound spontaneous, but Zoe had been chasing big ideas since high school days in Brisbane. “I started my first business when I was 17,” she says. “I had no idea what I was doing –you just figure it out as you go. I’ve made mistakes, I figured it out, and I’ve done things in a way that I think works.”
Fast forward five years and Arcina Ori is now one of Australia’s coolest fashion exports, worn by It girls, influencers, and brides-to-be all over the world. The label’s ultra-feminine silhouettes and stunning sets have gone global, with international sales now making up 64% of total revenue — 40% from the US alone.
“I have heard from girls in the US that they just love Australian fashion,” Zoe says. “It’s different to what you can get in the US. And I think we’ve got some amazing brands here, and I just don’t see that same really ultra-feminine womenswear in the US as much.”
So, how did a self-taught designer break into overseas markets?
“We gifted as much as we could afford to, especially in the beginning,” Zoe explains. “It’s always a gamble, but the beauty of social media is that one gifting can multiply and be one of your greatest investments. You’ve just got to expect nothing in return and go for it.”
Her behind-the-scenes Instagram videos have also become a cult hit. “I always felt like my customers were only seeing the tip of the iceberg,” Zoe says. “Behind each piece there’s a story, and only me or my team knew it. I just thought, what have I got to lose? Let me share my journey.”
WORDS TAHLIA LEATHART
But it hasn’t been all viral moments and photoshoots. “I never studied business, and looking back, I wish I did,” she admits. “I’ve never worked for a fashion label either — so I didn’t even know how a production or warehouse team operated. I learned everything by doing it wrong first.”
Even now, Zoe says her best designs happen when no one’s around. “I don’t actually delegate time to it,” she says. “I’m always most creative when I’m alone, after hours, with my headphones in. I’ll be standing there with a mannequin, letting the fabric drape how it wants to on the body. That’s when the best stuff happens.”
Like the Paloma Dress — one of Arcina Ori’s most iconic pieces. “It’s this black and white dress that flares out I made it with about 12 metres of fabric,” she says. “I love seeing videos of women spinning and smiling in it at their weddings and parties. That’s what reminds me why I do this.”
Zoe has come to embrace a set of guiding principles that shape how she approaches business: “Work on your business, not in it. Hire people better than you. Stay resilient. And always, always back yourself. You should act like your business is going to be huge, because if it happens, you’ll want everything ready to go.”
Considering she started with a handful of dresses she never even got to wear, we’d say that’s advice worth listening to.
DESIGNER DEBRIEF
Two designers, two distinct worlds. We caught up with two of Australia’s most iconic names in fashion.
INTERVIEWS KIRI JOHNSTON
GAIL SORRONDA
The queen of dark romance, Brisbane designer Gail Sorronda celebrates her 20-year anniversary with Chromophobia, and we look back on two decades of artistry that has challenged convention.
How has being based in Brisbane shaped your journey
I think it’s crystalised that we not only belong to a national community but a global one. Consumers are more informed with access to whatever they want online. As a designer based in Brisbane, it’s taught me that it doesn’t have the same limitations it had in the past.
Why was Australasian Dance Collective the right partner now, and how did the collaboration push your work
It’s just about going where the energy flows and it was an opportunity that presented itself. It was kind of cool – the choreographer was inspired by Dreams for the collaborative work and my previous work was titled “In Dreams”. Love how the universe plays tag like that. It pushes your work to another boundary that was yet to be explored.
Movement and duality are central to your collections – how did bringing that into a live performance expand those ideas
I think whenever you do a fashion show, or in this case a dance collaboration, the sensory experience is always an expansion on feeling. Feeling and provoking a response is the currency.
Looking ahead, what do you hope your legacy will be
I hope my legacy reflects my contributions. Each collection is like a receipt documenting time, proof that it happened even when I turn to dust. I would also hope it inspires my daughter to know she can be brave in carving her own path, too.
SARAH GITTOES
Inspired by the ocean and dedicated to pushing the envelope, Sarah Gittoes, co-founder of SARAH & SEBASTIAN, channels fluidity and precision into jewellery that is both refined and attention-grabbing.
Since our last chat a year ago, how have you personally evolved as a creative director and co-founder
As we’ve grown, I’ve found more ways to use the brand as a platform for meaningful change, especially in environmental advocacy. Creativity has always been at the heart of what we do, but I’m now more intentional about channelling that into impact. Whether it’s through storytelling, design, or partnerships, I see my role evolving into one that brings together aesthetics, ethics, and action.
What was the driving force behind the recent rebrand
The rebrand was less about reinvention and more about returning to our essence. We wanted to create a visual and verbal language that reflects our transition into 18-karat fine jewellery and a more conceptual, elevated studio.
Sustainability has always been a part of your ethos. How are you pushing that conversation forward as the brand scales As a recreational diver and passionate advocate for the ocean, marine conservation has become deeply woven into our brand values. The Xanthe Project, which we founded as a philanthropic initiative, continues to be our north star, supporting conservation efforts and using creativity and activism to raise awareness. We’re also committed to transparency and ethical sourcing, and inviting our clients to be part of that conversation through our annual impact report.
THE BOUTIQUE EDIT
From timeless tailoring to bohemian treasures and Mediterranean-inspired slow fashion, Brisbane’s boutique scene is thriving. These are the fashion destinations where homegrown talent and carefully curated labels collide, offering pieces you’ll wear, love, and keep forever.
Miss Opulence in Bulimba is Sarah Hutson’s love letter to colour and craft. Showcasing her SFH Designs alongside unique pieces from local makers, the boutique brims with bohemian dresses, statement handbags, and prints that turn heads. For the style confident, it’s Brisbane’s destination for bold, joyful dressing.
MISS OPULENCE
@SFH_DESIGNS
SFHDESIGNS.COM.AU
SHOP/139B OXFORD ST, BULIMBA
Step into KLEIO Newstead and be transported to the Mediterranean.
Founded by sisters Danielle Kallis and Nikki Mollo, the boutique offers Australians exclusive access to Greece’s most sought-after labels, all made in Greece. With slow fashion clothing and accessories steeped in storytelling, KLEIO is a destination for timeless style and unforgettable finds.
KLEIO BOUTIQUE
@KLEIOBOUTIQUE_
KLEIO.COM.AU
UNIT 2/9 LONGLAND ST, NEWSTEAD
Step inside Astille in the Brisbane Arcade and discover a curated edit of chic, French-inspired pieces you won’t find anywhere else. Designer Sallyanne Astill creates ethically made pieces with precise tailoring and an effortless edge – garments that slip easily into your wardrobe, becoming part of your style story and evolving with you over time.
ASTILLE
@ASTILLE_DESIGNS
ASTILLE-DESIGNS.COM.AU
BRISBANE ARCADE, SHOP 17/160
QUEEN ST, BRISBANE CITY
Reminiscent of small rural boutiques brimming with unique treasures, Fortitude Valley’s Seasons Emporium overflows with luxe coastal and bohemian fashion that you’ll cherish for a lifetime. Each piece is handpicked for its fine craftsmanship and uniqueness, with a special focus on ethical fashion and sustainability.
SEASONS EMPORIUM
@SEASONSEMPORIUM
SEASONSEMPORIUM.COM
SHOP 28/1000 ANN ST, FORTITUDE VALLEY
On James Street, EDITO curates an edit of ba&sh, Vanessa Bruno, Soeur, and more — timeless pieces with a modern twist, minimalist yet playful, refined yet effortless. Each is chosen to outlast trends, for women who dress with instinct and keep their wardrobe close for seasons to come and beyond.
EDITO
@EDITOBOUTIQUE
EDITO.COM.AU
145 JAMES ST, NEW FARM
For over 40 years, Camargue has defined Brisbane’s luxury fashion scene. Stocking a curated edit of the world’s most coveted designers from Acne Studios and Dries Van Noten to Proenza Schouler and Jacquemus — it’s where discerning women discover timeless, directional pieces that transcend seasons and trends.
CAMARGUE
@CAMARGUEFASHION
CAMARGUEFASHION.COM.AU
5/46 JAMES ST, FORTITUDE VALLEY
THE ANTI-CAPSULE WARDROBE
Contrary to propaganda spread by the capsule craze, a wearable wardrobe doesn’t have to be full of just basics. Fashion should be fun, and it should be yours. The anti-capsule wardrobe, a carefully curated collection of wild and whimsical pieces, may just be the secret to personal style that stands the test of time. But don’t take my word for it – we caught up with one of Brisbane’s greatest fashion minds, super-stylist and fashion director, Kimberly Gardner, for rapid-fire insider tips on creating an everlasting (and iconic) wardrobe.
INTERVIEW VICTORIA LEWIS
“Replace the expected with the unexpected — that’s how style lasts.”
What is your secret to curating a wardrobe that’s unique but also wearable
Only purchase when you have an event coming up, head to toe! But also work out how you are going to dissect it to wear every day. Then, experiment with the unexpected. Replace a silk shirt with an oversized cashmere jumper (trés chic), then don with a sequin skirt in the middle of the day. It’s about unusual pairings – high heels with parachute pants et cetera, et cetera.
What is your most unique anti-capsule piece
Every piece. I don’t tend to buy pieces I’ve seen before. This way you can wear your clothes for years.
If you had to pick one... what’s its story and how do you style it
The team at James Street boutique, Camargue, tend to keep an eye out for me on their buying trips. This outfit is from Dries Van Noten SS25. For weddings or functions, I’ll pair with my Marni faux fur slides, and for casual wear, the coat is perfect with pants from previous Dries Van Noten collections.
What makes a unique personal style
Originality!
How did you find your own
Isolation is the best for creativity. Growing up on cattle properties we dressed for every occasion – to go to town, to the rodeo, to the races. It left plenty of room for creativity. Magazines and their beautiful editorials also had a big impact, a complete fantasy I would drift in and out of.
Any tips for others
Find a couple of experts you relate to and ignore the rest.
FAST FASHION? SO LAST SEASON
Pre-loved fashion has never been cooler, and Thrifter’s studios are leading the movement in Australia. We caught up with founder Ren Chagoury to see how she’s making second-hand the first choice.
FAST FIVE
FASHION ICK
Buying a whole outfit just to wear once for Instagram
BEST THRIFT FIND
My white lowrider jeans
FASHION ICON
Emma Watson (she is a vocal advocate for ethical fashion)
BEST ADVICE
YOU’VE RECEIVED
Build a business that reflects your values, and the right community will find you
FAVOURITE SUSTAINABLE
FASHION BRAND
Outland Denim
Give us an elevator pitch on what Thrifter is
Thrifter is a circular fashion business on a mission to change the way we shop. We’ve built a community of six (soon to be seven) stores that give pre-loved fashion a second life, keeping thousands of quality garments out of landfill each year and putting millions of dollars back into our community’s pockets. In 18 months, Thrifter has generated 3.5 million dollars for our sellers across our stores and this proves our community is on a mission to do better.
When did you realise that your life’s mission was to focus on sustainable fashion
I’ve always loved fashion. I grew up in my parents’ warehouse, where they made surf wear and I would spend my entire school holidays collecting all the cut-offs to create upcycled outfits. I travelled the world with my parents and saw first-hand the story of textiles across the world. As a teenager, I started to sell my wardrobe at the local markets with my parents which
then grew into me starting a local market once a month for the community to sell their wardrobes. The more knowledge I gained, the harder it became to ignore.
Have you noticed a shift in the way young people shop
Absolutely! There’s a real movement among younger shoppers toward mindful consumption. Platforms like Depop and the rise of thrift culture have made second-hand cool, and Gen Z in particular sees fashion as both selfexpression and activism.
How do you personally balance sustainability and style without sacrificing either
For me, sustainability and style aren’t opposites; they’re partners. I build my wardrobe with timeless, quality thrifted finds and add a dash of trend with preloved statement items. I focus on buying items that are timeless and versatile, and this has created long-lasting, gorgeous outfits.
Curbside snacks, grocery shopping, and the backstreets of Fortitude Valley. Follow Niyah as she runs her errands, all dressed up in fresh looks from emerging Brisbane designers.
OFF-DUTY URBAN
PHOTOGRAPHY KIMBERLEY KURDI
DIRECTION
NATALIE MCGOWAN
STYLING VICTORIA LEWIS
TALENT NIYAH UKO
Opposite page: MYNE NCHNT pants and top POA, Stylist’s own shoes and bralette.
This page: LUCY BANNEY skirt POA, Stylist’s own bralette.
This page:
Opposite page:
LUCY BANNEY corset top and skirt set POA, Model’s own shoes.
CLAUDS THE STUDIO Fish Bone Tee $50, LUCY BANNEY skirt POA, Stylist’s own sunglasses and shoes.
BOUGIE BASICS
It’s time to treat yourself in all areas of your life and the bathroom is no exception. Elevate your daily routine with little luxuries from sleek razors to rich hand creams. These essentials add a touch of elegance to your everyday routines.
EDIT ELLA PASSFIELD
Luxury you’ll actually use daily.
MECCA TATCHA
SKIN, SISTERHOOD, AND SELF-CARE
With HACH Skin, sisters-in-law Michelle and Sibel Alan-Jones are turning shared roots and motherhood into a brand that redefines self-care as a ritual.
INTERVIEW KIRI JOHNSTON
Both growing up in Cleveland, how did that shape your connection
Growing up in the same community gave us shared roots long before we became family. From friends to sisters-in-law, raising our children side by side, and now building a brand together — our relationship has evolved with each chapter.
What were you each doing before HACH Skin
We came from different backgrounds. Michelle trained in beauty therapy and worked as a model, while Sibel built her career in a law firm after completing a double degree in Law and Criminology. Motherhood reshaped our priorities and deepened our conversations around care, identity, and rituals that support women’s lives.
When did the idea for HACH Skin first come up, and what made you decide to go for it
For years we spoke about building something together, and our conversations kept returning to skincare. Not another product full of exaggerated claims, but something clear and considered. When our kids started school, we finally had the clarity to turn the idea into something real.
Why beauty, and why launch with a scrub
We chose a body scrub because it’s simple and transformative. Exfoliation is the foundation of radiant skin, but too often scrubs are harsh. We wanted a formulation that was multi-textured, nourishing, and respectful of the skin barrier. Starting with one product done exceptionally well set the tone for HACH: purposeful ingredients and quiet rituals of restoration.
What was the biggest challenge in bringing HACH Skin to life
Time. We were intentional at every stage — formulation, sampling, design, storytelling. That required patience. It often felt slow, but it was better to do things properly
than to rush. Balancing family life with building a brand was also a challenge, but it shaped HACH. It reminded us who we were creating it for: people who give so much to others and deserve products that honour small moments of care.
Who is the HACH Skin woman, and how do you see her using the brand
She’s someone who gives so much to others and is now ready to reclaim moments of care. Busy and time-poor, she still makes space for rituals that restore her.
As mums yourselves, how does self-care play into both your routines and the brand ethos
As mums, we know how easy it is to put yourself last. With HACH, we want to create products that respect both the skin and the reality of busy lives.
What has surprised you most about starting a beauty brand together
How much we’ve grown. We knew it would be challenging, but didn’t expect the joy in learning and the little wins. We’ve also been touched by the support from our community.
If HACH Skin were a person, how would you describe her
She’d be the friend who makes you feel at ease. Grounded, thoughtful, and quietly magnetic. Elegant without being intimidating, confident without being loud.
Looking ahead, how do you see the brand evolving
We see HACH evolving with the same philosophy we began with: creating products that are thoughtful, purposeful, and deliver. Our next product is already in the pipeline. Beyond skincare, we want to build something with longevity and meaning — a brand that feels as relevant years from now as it does today.
little luxuries
You can’t deny that trinkets, keepsakes, and small decorative pieces quietly upgrade your space and your mood. It’s the kind of detail that makes your world feel a little more intentional, a little more you. Because sometimes (let’s be real – most of the time), it’s the smallest things that bring the biggest joy.
BLUSH
The colour of the moment is here to stay. This dusty pink edit by Domayne curated by our Editor brings a cool, contemporary mood to every corner.
2. 3.
1.
4.
LEFT: DOMAYNE Tarma Accent Chair $699
RIGHT: 1. Chadwick Pink Side Table $199, 2. Aperitivo
Set of 2 Coupe Glass $45, 3. Atlanta Table Lamp $229,
1. VIVIENNE WESTWOOD Heart Lighter $180, 2. ADAIRS White & Gold
ARCHITECT OF ART
A viral TikTok turned Melbourne-based architectural designer Hilary Stephens’ art hobby into the thriving Hilza Studio, where each bold creation is described as a love letter to the viewer.
INTERVIEW KIRI JOHNSTON
How do you approach light in your practice
A lot of my reference to light is inspired by architectural projects or theories; it influences the layers and sequence of shapes or arrangements, which I roughly sketch out. I think about the presence the piece will hold in the space, much like an architectural project. I map it out almost like a storyboard: how will someone think and feel as they approach and how will they feel once they’re in front of it, for example.
What about colour
The colours in my works are always extracted from photos I’ve taken while travelling. I derive a base palette from the image and then arrange the colours from dark to light. From there, I follow instinct with colours and layering. Some pieces come together almost instantly, each layer perfectly melting into the next. Others feel like a puzzle I can’t quite solve and I just have to keep chipping away. No two pieces follow the same journey.
You recently did a residency in Ibiza – how did that opportunity come about, and what did the experience mean for you creatively
The wonderful owner of In Between Gallery in Ibiza, Jess, reached out to me via email about creating an exclusive set of prints for the gallery. It was the easiest and most aligned decision. Being so new to my art journey, having my work in a gallery wasn’t even on my radar. I feel forever grateful for the opportunity and honoured to be among such talented artists. There is a magic in the air in Ibiza; energy is everywhere. The experience removed any ceilings or limits I had set for myself, from fear I wasn’t experienced enough or worries about what others might think. It was an invaluable reminder that anything is possible.
While in Europe, what places, colours, or cultural moments inspired you most
I spent much of this trip to Europe alone, and in those forced moments of stillness, I took so much in. I did a lot of sketches and journalling, focusing on what I could see and hear. It really forces you to get comfortable with your own thoughts and intuition, something we can all practice in our home cities. I’m always inspired by the people I meet, the conversations, and the colours! I was amazed by how green Stockholm was, I’ve never seen a green so pigmented, so of course, some green prints are now in the works!
MONTHLY DIGEST
Dig into our roundup of Brisbane ’s hottest new restaurants, cafés, and bars.
GOLDEN AVENUE
@golden.avenue.restaurant
From the team behind hôntô, sAme sAme, and Agnes comes Golden Avenue. Designed for long lunches that roll into lively dinners, the Middle Eastern inspired oasis is the perfect escape from the busy city. Offering a playful menu full of smoky theatrics, skylit interiors, and tiered gardens, Golden Avenue is the place for bold flavours and good times.
SUUM
@suum_brisbane
Tucked away on Charlotte Street and only accessible via QR code, SUUM is an intimate 16-seat omakase where Seoul-born chef Andy Choi distils his Michelinstarred pedigree into a modern Korean experience. Blending tradition with molecular gastronomy, SUUM serves a fluctuating 16 to 20 course degustation for just $180 per person – it’s fine dining without the hefty price tag.
CLARENCE
@clarence.restaurant
Fish Lane’s latest arrival, Clarence, is bringing a taste of France to the southside. After relocating from Woolloongabba, the restaurant continues its focus on seasonal, ingredient-led cooking, paired with an all-Australian wine list. The new venue embraces a brasserie-style format infused with Brisbane’s relaxed charm and Queensland’s finest produce.
WELLINGTON ROAD BISTRO
@wellingtonroadbistro
Offering a warm and inviting atmosphere with timeless charm, Wellington Road Bistro celebrates European flavours, serving favourite dishes from Parisian cafés, Italian trattorias, and Spanish wine bars. Local and seasonal produce takes centre stage in every dish, paired perfectly with a wine list spanning Italian, French, and Australian offerings.
JESSIE PRINCE
OPEN 7 DAYS
SEOUL TO SUUM
Molecular gastronomy, cutthroat Michelinstarred kitchens, and cold emails – meet the Seoul-born chef bringing his wealth of worldly experience to a hidden, private omakase in Brisbane’s CBD.
It was 2011 and Andy Choi had just begun his IT degree at Brisbane’s Griffith University when he made the decision that would change his life. Without telling his parents, knowing they would disapprove, he booked a one-way flight to Switzerland to study at culinary school. “They almost killed me when they found out,” recalls Andy. “They never wanted me to be a chef. They knew how hard it was to be a top chef,” he says.
And yet, after just one semester in Switzerland, Andy – a self-taught home cook who had learned his way around the kitchen at a young age during years at boarding school – dropped out, already familiar with the basics, and instead landed a job at the three-Michelinstarred restaurant Disfrutar in Barcelona.
It’s the kind of story that seems too good to be true: working in the kitchen of the (at the time) 15th best restaurant in the world with no formal training. So, how did he do it? Through an email.
“Do you know the list called The World’s 50 Best Restaurants?” he asks. “I just searched it up and emailed all of the restaurants on the list. At the time, Disfrutar was 15 on the list, and they said, ‘You can come, but you have to work for free.’ So, I went.”
A year and a half of hands-on experience from the greats later, he was on to the next Michelin-starred kitchen: Heston Blumenthal’s The Fat Duck in London – another regular on the list, and one that has even claimed the number one spot.
While he may have been skilled enough to walk away from culinary school after one semester, what Andy learned in these world-renowned kitchens was grit, resilience, and discipline.
“The environment working in European kitchens is different to Korea and Australia,” he admits. “A lot of European chefs will yell at you, swear at you, sometimes
even hit you. If you take sick leave, you get fired. In Australia, you’d get reported. But the chefs are not hitting us or making fun of us for no reason, and because of that, we were always nervous, and we had to do everything properly. It made me really strong, both mentally and as a chef.” Add two years of Korea’s mandatory military service, and it’s no surprise Andy is now a master of discipline in the kitchen.
Another skill he picked up in Europe was molecular gastronomy – an innovative, scientific approach to cooking that defines his latest venture in Brisbane’s CBD: SUUM, a 16-seat, modern Korean omakase hidden away at 119 Charlotte Street, accessible only via QR code. SUUM, meaning “to breathe” in Korean, reflects the seasonal Australian produce he uses, a nod to the fresh air on the farms and the full sensory experience he provides. “Molecular gastronomy is not just tasting food,” Andy explains. “You see, listen, and smell everything. It’s science. I want people to enjoy all of it.”
For Andy, SUUM is his chance to do what he loves: fine dining, Korean cuisine, and omakase, but made accessible. “Normally, people think it’s really expensive and only rich people can go. But I want people in their early 20s to come and enjoy our food too.”
Running one seating per night on weekdays and two on weekends, the menu spans 16 to 20 courses at just $180 per person.
And Andy’s vision doesn’t stop at SUUM. “I want to open at least five more restaurants,” he says. “But first, I wanted to show Brisbane what I can do with my cooking and what’s possible for future projects.”
Exclusive, private, and meticulously crafted, SUUM offers an experience that goes beyond food. It’s the culmination of his global culinary journey – and the first breath of Andy’s new chapter in Brisbane’s dining scene.
WORDS NATALIE MCGOWAN
@SUUM_BRISBANE
SEPTEMBER
SPOTLIGHT
This month’s social calendar is filling fast. With Brisbane Festival running all September-long, here’s the lowdown on where to go and what to see.
GATSBY AT THE GREEN LIGHT
2 – 28 SEPTEMBER
Party like it’s 1925 and enter the glittering world inspired by Fitzgerald’s classic story. Reimagining The Twelfth Night Theatre as a jazz club called The Green Light, aerialists, vocalists, and acrobats will take the stage for a night worthy of Gatsby himself.
LATE NIGHT VICE
4 – 27 SEPTEMBER
Mystery, mischief, and midnight glamour, The West End Electric is bringing debauchery to Brisbane yet again with their latest show Late Night Vice –a cocktail-drenched fever dream of cabaret and chaos. No phones allowed.
WORDS NATALIE MCGOWAN
DANIEL BOUD
BASED ON A MIDSUMMER NIGHT’S DREAM BY WILLIAM
SHAKESPEARE
your cosmic culture curation
Recommendations so accurate it’s almost like they were written in the stars. Here are the culture recommendations we’ve picked out just for you, based on your star sign.
WORDS NATALIE MCGOWAN
ARIES
(MARCH 21 – APRIL 19)
Bold and adventurous, Aries are drawn to anything fast-paced and exciting. Together , starring Dave Franco and Alison Brie, is the horror movie everyone’s talking about – and it’s right up your alley.
WATCH: TOGETHER
LEO
(JULY 23 – AUGUST 22)
Leos live for drama, joy, and feel-good moments, which is why Freakier Friday, the highly anticipated sequel where Lindsay Lohan and Jamie Lee Curtis reprise their beloved roles, is the perfect nostalgic Leo watch.
WATCH: FREAKIER FRIDAY
SAGITTARIUS
(NOVEMBER 22 – DECEMBER 21)
Adventurous and free-spirited, Sagittarians live to explore new cultures and perspectives. Anthony Bourdain’s Parts Unknown is a perfect passport to the world, feeding both your curiosity and your wanderlust.
WATCH: ANTHONY BOURDAIN: PARTS UNKNOWN
TAURUS
(APRIL 20 – MAY 20)
Grounded and comfort-loving, Taurus craves life’s simple pleasures. What’s more comforting than a cookbook filled with recipes from some of Australia’s best bakers? The Baker’s Book is a treat you’ll love to get your oven mitts on.
READ: THE BAKER’S BOOK BY RUBY GOSS
VIRGO
(AUGUST 23 – SEPTEMBER 22)
Analytical yet quietly romantic, Virgos appreciate beauty in detail and meaning in structure. The documentary Fire of Love – a stunning ode to volcanologists Katia and Maurice Krafft – delivers both precision and poetry.
WATCH: FIRE OF LOVE
CAPRICORN
(DECEMBER 22 – JANUARY 19)
Ambitious and ever-curious, Capricorns love to learn. The hit podcast Ologies satisfies with in-depth yet approachable explorations of everything from volcanoes to Victorian slang – perfect brain fuel for a Capricorn.
LISTEN: OLOGIES
GEMINI
(MAY 21 – JUNE 20)
Quick-witted and playful, Geminis thrive on humour and clever takes. Seth Rogen’s latest project, The Studio , a satirical dive into Hollywood, is exactly the kind of witty entertainment you’ll love.
WATCH: THE STUDIO
LIBRA
(SEPTEMBER 23 – OCTOBER 22)
Libras will fall head over heels for Emily Henry’s Great Big Beautiful Life Equal parts romantic and reflective, it’s a story about love, loss, and second chances. It’s exactly the kind of nuanced emotional journey Libras thrive on.
READ: GREAT BIG BEAUTIFUL LIFE BY EMILY HENRY
AQUARIUS
(JANUARY 20 – FEBRUARY 18)
Visionary and thought-provoking, Aquarians are drawn to futuristic ideas and unconventional narratives. Ted Chiang’s Exhalation is a masterful short story collection that dives into technology, humanity, and possibility.
READ: EXHALATION BY TED CHIANG
CANCER
(JUNE 21 – JULY 22)
Deeply intuitive and emotional, Cancer signs gravitate to soul-searching stories. Brianna Wiest’s The Pivot Year offers a reflective guide to bridging the space between where you are and where you want to be.
READ: THE PIVOT YEAR BY BRIANNA WIEST
SCORPIO
(OCTOBER 23 – NOVEMBER 21)
Intense and magnetic, Scorpios crave art that feels raw, moody, and all-consuming. Willoughby Tucker, I’ll Always Love You by Ethel Cain, is hauntingly emotional and made for your depth, Scorpio.
LISTEN: WILLOUGHBY TUCKER, I’LL ALWAYS LOVE YOU BY ETHEL CAIN
PISCES
(FEBRUARY 19 – MARCH 20)
Dreamy, romantic, and deeply emotional, Pisces find solace in music that feels like poetry. Laufey’s new album A Matter of Time is a lush, melancholic album that tugs at the heartstrings in true Piscean fashion.
LISTEN: A MATTER OF TIME BY LAUFEY
FRAME OF MIND
From boundary-pushing exhibitions to bold emerging talent, these Brisbane galleries are redefining the city’s creative scene. Whether you’re a collector, curator, or a curious eye, consider this your entry point into the spaces where culture, conversation, and art collide.
Ideally located on Wandoo Street, within the hum of the James Street precinct, Studio Gallery Brisbane is a two-level, sun-filled space and one of five galleries across Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane. Representing over 130 artists, Studio Gallery houses Australia’s largest stockroom, featuring more than 2,500 carefully curated contemporary artworks.
STUDIO GALLERY
@STUDIOGALLERYGROUP
STUDIOGALLERY.COM.AU
7D WANDOO ST, FORTITUDE VALLEY
Tucked into the leafy suburb of Red Hill, Side Gallery is a small, curated space that champions both established and emerging artists. Featuring mixed mediums, the exhibitions include paintings, photography, and sculptures by artists who push the boundaries of contemporary and modern art in a thought-provoking and intimate setting.
SIDE GALLERY
@THESIDEGALLERY
SIDEGALLERY.COM.AU
7 EMMA ST, RED HILL
Showcasing artists from Queensland and beyond, Revival Art & Design is a contemporary gallery presenting fresh exhibitions each month, alongside services such as art advisory and in-home consultations. Now relocating to a restored, character-filled building in Albion, the gallery will open its doors on Saturday, 4 October with a showcase from Amber Simpson.
REVIVAL ART & DESIGN
@REVIVAL.ART.DESIGN
REVIVALART.COM.AU
UNIT 3/17 GREG CHAPPELL ST, ALBION
With over 28 years of experience in the art industry, Mitchell Fine Art showcases an impressive selection of Aboriginal and contemporary artists in its modern gallery space. With an “art is for everyone” philosophy, the gallery hosts an annual calendar of exhibitions, openings, and artist talks, providing an immersive experience for visitors.
MITCHELL FINE ART
@MITCHELLFINEARTGALLERY
MITCHELLFINEARTGALLERY.COM
86 ARTHUR ST, FORTITUDE VALLEY
A proudly Aboriginal-led notfor-profit, Aboriginal Art Co empowers First Nations artists by connecting consumers with authentic and ethically sourced Aboriginal art and products. From fine art to homewares, each piece is part of a mission to support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander creatives through cultural, creative, and economic platforms.
ABORIGINAL ART CO.
@ABORIGINALARTCO.AU
ABORIGINALART.CO
89 GREY ST, SOUTH BRISBANE
ONESPACE is a contemporary art gallery representing and selling Australian art, with a strong focus on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists. Through thoughtfully curated exhibition programs, the gallery explores a diverse range of themes and media from painting, photography, printmaking, textiles, sculpture, and installation. ONESPACE @ONESPACE_AU
ONESPACE.COM.AU
25A BOUQUET ST, SOUTH BRISBANE
Ahead of Noosa Open Studios this October, Noosa local and exhibiting artist Mitchell English invites us into his colourful world, where the ocean remains his ultimate muse.
CHASING
WAVES
When you’re creating in your studio, what keeps you motivated
The older you get, the more you realise your greatest asset is time – or rather, how little of it there is. I don’t regret “wasted” time, though. Surfing, for example, is the most beautiful waste of time I know. I have a thousand paintings in my head I want to create, but I know time will win in the end.
Noosa has a thriving creative community – what’s it like to be part of it
How would you describe your artistic style
I think a critic once summed it up best: “With over 30 years of painting under his belt – and a lifetime of chasing waves – English’s art is a visual love letter to the Australian coastline.” That feels true to what I do. My work is deeply connected to the ocean and the landscapes I know and love.
What’s your creative process when starting a new piece
Time of day matters, and sometimes, so does a glass of wine. I always have music playing in the studio, anything from house to classical. If I get stuck, I’m not afraid to procrastinate; I’m very good at it. I also try to keep my phone use to a minimum, unless I’m using it for music or a podcast.
My studio is in the industrial area of Noosaville, which is unlike any other “industrial” precinct I’ve seen. Light industry sits alongside artists, coffee roasters, and fashion designers – all in a tropical setting. There’s a real creative energy here, partly thanks to more affordable rents compared to Brisbane, Sydney, or Melbourne, which draws in people who need space and light to create.
What are you most looking forward to about Noosa Open Studios
Artists tend to be solitary by nature. Sometimes I can go a whole day without speaking to anyone. Noosa Open Studios is the opposite of that. I get to open the roller door, welcome people in, and share my world. I’ll talk for hours to complete strangers, united by a love of art. It’s a chance to connect in a world that can often feel disconnected.
The Medium
the medium who sees it all
Witty and magnetic with a gift that defies reason, David the Medium is taking his talent national, and Australia is entranced.
I first crossed paths with David the Medium earlier this year. Our introduction was brief, but he had a magnetic energy you don’t forget. The next day, seeing him on stage at his Brisbane show, I understood the pull. He had the audience in stitches with his wit and humour, then moved them to tears. Sharp, hilarious, and disarmingly real, David doesn’t fit the psychic mould, yet he is undeniably grounded and tapped into something bigger.
What makes his story even more compelling is the path that led him here. Before stepping into mediumship, David Stevens was in a different world entirely – working in corporate law while studying counterterrorism on the side. He describes himself back then as a “relatively normal young man” in his early 20s, sceptical yet open-minded. Friends often told him he gave uncanny advice, but only later did he realise those instincts were his intuitive gift. It wasn’t until another medium sensed his energy that David acknowledged his ability, swapping legal briefs for spirit messages and carving a path that felt more like a calling than a career move.
more about holding up a mirror. He spoke about crossroads and transformation – the caterpillar-tobutterfly stage. He saw creative ventures sitting just beyond my comfort zone, waiting to be shaped into something more. His words felt both prophetic and practical: don’t limit yourself, everything you want is seeking you. Push forward. Carve your path. Grab life by the balls. He spoke of a curtain opening on a new chapter, a moment of release and reinvention. And while some of it felt destined, the message was clear: it’s all driven by me.
What makes David stand out is the way he delivers it. He’s not just passing along messages from the other side; he’s translating them into something we can actually use. He keeps it light, funny, and approachable, even when the subject matter runs deep. He challenges you, grounds you, but also reminds you of possibility.
“DON’T LIMIT YOURSELF — EVERYTHING YOU WANT IS SEEKING YOU”
I went into his show alone, not knowing what to expect, and walked out deeply moved. The atmosphere was electric – laughter, tears, gasps, moments of disbelief – a shared experience of people watching the unseen come into focus. For me, someone who’s always been curious about the spiritual, it was confirmation: David is the real deal.
A few months later, I was lucky enough to score something nearly impossible: a private Zoom reading with David. He’s notoriously hard to book. For an hour, he tuned into me, drawing in what he called my “spiritual mafia” – a strong ancestral presence surrounding and guiding me daily. The session was less about fortune telling and
It’s easy to see why he has a cult-like following. On August 8, during the Lion’s Gate manifestation portal, he hosted an online workshop with hundreds of people tuning in from across the country on a Friday night. His shows sell out, his readings are booked months in advance, and yet he still manages to connect with each person in a way that feels intimate.
Now, David is taking his gift national with his first standalone tour, the Coming Home: Reunion, across all capital cities later this year. After seeing him live, I can say this: his shows are more than entertainment. They’re an experience. You’ll laugh, cry, gasp, and walk away feeling just a little more open – to spirit, to possibility, and to yourself. For me, his reading was a reminder that life is limitless if you choose it to be. Sometimes it takes someone like David Stevens to hold up the mirror and ask: where do you want to be?
WORDS KIRI JOHNSTON
TANYA MACHEDA
SHOW SOME SKIN
After months of trousers and tights, bare-leg season has returned, along with your favourite skirts, shorts, and breezy dresses. But just as you’re ready to show some skin, you may notice a new accessory you didn’t ask for: fine red or purple lines on your calves.
Common as they are, spider veins can still feel unwelcome. Before you reach for the coverups, here’s what every style-savvy woman should know. These veins aren’t always just cosmetic –about 30 per cent are caused by underlying vein issues. If varicose veins run in your family, book a quick ultrasound before jumping into treatments.
And while lasers may be your go-to for facial veins, legs are a little more complex due to increased pressure. That’s why sclerotherapy – injecting a targeted solution into the vein – remains the go-to option. Today’s advanced formulas deliver
smoother, longer-lasting results than the old saline approach.
For those with spider veins on both legs, plan ahead: multiple sessions may be needed due to safe treatment limits, so timing matters if summer is calling. And while the results can be impressive, they’re not forever. New veins can appear, so think of touch-ups every few years as part of your ongoing beauty maintenance, like regular facials or a colour refresh.
With the right prep, you can step into your own summer wardrobe confidently – strappy sandals, sun dresses, and all.
TAPPED OUT
Feeling anxious, stuck, or just a little “off”? Emotional Freedom Technique (aka EFT or tapping) is a simple selfsoothing tool that blends modern psychology with ancient acupressure – and all you need is your fingertips and a few intentional words.
EFT Tapping in 5 Steps:
1. Name what’s bothering you
Start by getting clear on the issue you want to work on – maybe it’s anxiety before a big meeting, fear of flying, or self-doubt. Naming it helps bring it into focus.
2. Rate the intensity
On a scale of 1–10, how strong is the feeling right now? This gives you a baseline to track your progress as you tap.
3. Set your setup statement
Create a phrase that acknowledges how you feel while showing self-acceptance.
Try: “Even though I feel [fear/anxiety/ sadness about X], I deeply and completely accept myself.”
4. Start tapping
With two fingers, gently tap through these points while speaking your setup statement out loud:
• Side of the hand
• Inner eyebrow
• Side of the eye
• Under the eye
• Under the nose
• Chin
• Collarbone
• Side of the ribcage (underarm)
• Top of the head
As you move through the points, it’s okay to acknowledge other fears or thoughts that surface. Once those feelings have been given space, follow with positive affirmations that shift your focus towards calm.
Example script:
“Even though I feel nervous about this job interview, I deeply accept myself.”
“I’m worried I’ll make a bad impression.”
“But I choose to feel steady, calm, and confident.”
5. Check in Pause and rate the intensity again. If it’s lowered, keep going until it feels manageable. If not, tweak your setup statement to better reflect how you’re feeling in that moment.
LINUS BELANGER
DESIGN MEETS CITY
A design-led boutique stay in Melbourne’s CBD, Hyde blends bold architecture, luxe interiors, and a rooftop worth the hype.
WORDS KIRI JOHNSTON
LOCAL FAVOURITES
MATCHA: Matcha Kobo
COFFEE: Hikari, Bakemono Bakers, Bench Coffee Co.
TREATS: Piccolina Gelateria, LeTAO, Kumo Desserts
SHOPPING:
Emporium Melbourne, Incu, Marais
There’s staying in a hotel, and then there’s Hyde Melbourne Place. Positioned on Russell Street, the boutique property feels every bit the design-led city escape you hope for in Melbourne — bold, stylish, and unapologetically original. As someone who has slept in my fair share of hotel beds, I can safely say this one belongs in a league of its own.
Designed by Fitzroy-based architects Kennedy Nolan, Hyde is more than a hotel — it’s a “complete design.” From architecture to interiors, every detail has been carefully considered. The deep red brick façade grounds the building within its streetscape, while inside, clashing tones, timber accents, and a tactile warmth create a space that feels distinctly Melbourne.
I’m a sucker for a room that gets the balance right between comfort and character, and Hyde nails it. The oversized windows frame the city skyline, while terrazzo-tiled bathrooms, rich Jarrah timber finishes, and Jardan furnishings whisper understated luxury. The communal spaces lean moody and intimate — perfect for events or simply sinking into a velvet chair with a nightcap.
But let’s talk about the rooftop. Mid Air, the hotel’s restaurant and bar is already a fixture on Melbourne’s dining circuit. Chic yet approachable, it’s one of those spaces that makes you want to stay a little longer than planned. For us, the joy was in rolling straight from dinner back down to our room, no tram required.
The hotel feels effortlessly tied to its city close to Chinatown, laneway murals, and a caffeine hit on every corner. Melbourne’s energy is at your doorstep, whether you’re ducking out for gelato at Piccolina, matcha at Kobo, or shopping at Emporium and QV. What makes Hyde so enjoyable, though, is the intentionality. Every element, from custom furniture by Australian designers like Volker Haug and Zachary Frankel to the use of sustainably sourced West Australian Jarrah, reflects a considered approach. It’s cool without being try-hard, luxe without being sterile. For design devotees, urban explorers, or anyone who loves a hotel that feels part of its city rather than set apart from it, Hyde Melbourne Place delivers. You check in for the bed and mini bar, sure — but you leave with an appreciation for architecture, artistry, and the way a space can shape your stay.
driven by luxury
From Melbourne streets to Mornington coastlines, this was no ordinary road trip.
WORDS KIRI JOHNSTON
An Aston Martin weekend isn’t something you turn down. So when the invite landed in my inbox, I quickly agreed to fly to Melbourne and take the DBX707 for a spin. It delivered exactly what you’d hope for: presence, power, and a drive worth remembering.
I’ve been around some incredible cars lately, but Aston Martin hits different and I knew it had always been my partner’s dream drive.
We picked up the luxury SUV from the Richmond dealership in Melbourne. Iridescent Green on the outside, Synapse Orange leather on the inside. Everything about it felt intentional — the stitching, the curves, the weight of the wheel. Pure British engineering, unmistakably Aston.
From the passenger seat, I had it pretty good: heated seats, panoramic roof, the kind of comfort that makes you forget you’re even moving. Meanwhile, my partner was living out his dream behind the wheel, exhilarated by the V8’s power.
We cruised through Toorak, stopped in Armadale for shopping, then shot down to Mornington in what felt like half the time. Lunch at the Hotel Sorrento rolled into a night’s stay at the InterContinental Sorrento — timeless luxury to match the drive. The next morning, we wandered Pt. Leo Estate’s Sculpture Park, vineyards spilling out to the horizon.
On the way back, it was finally my turn. Safe, sharp, powerful — the DBX707 felt as solid as it was smooth. The leather interiors were stitched to perfection, tech-packed without ever feeling overdone. You feel the muscle, but also the elegance. It commands attention without being loud.
Road trips are my love language — windows down, aux cord ready, new places to explore. This weekend had all of it, wrapped in a car that turns heads for good reason. And I could easily get used to it.
STATUS: DO NOT DISTURB
Two words to describe my stay at Mondrian Gold Coast? Utter bliss.
WORDS NATALIE MCGOWAN
After a long week, pulling into the greenery-lined valet area immediately put my mind at ease. Despite the dreary conditions outside, our spirits were high as we got settled into our home away from home for the night: an ocean-view suite with a private balcony on the 15th floor.
With truly unbeatable views of Burleigh Heads beach and interiors that balance quirky personality with luxe sophistication, I was in heaven – and its name was Mondrian Gold Coast.
Here, it’s the little touches that elevate a stay: Le Labo bathroom products, a welcome note paired with local artisanal chocolates, and a signature room scent I’m still kicking myself for not taking home. You don’t even need to leave your room – with a stocked pantry and bar, you’d be pretty content laying low in your suite for the night.
But alas, dinner reservations were made, so we headed to Haven on the third floor, which shares the level with magnesium plunges and the hotel pool. Overlooking the beach, the pool area is speckled with green-and-white striped lounges and private cabanas, plucked straight from a cool Euro beach club. While I wasn’t quite game enough for a winter swim, the view alone was enough to tempt me.
Back at Haven, we were greeted by Executive Chef Aaron Teece. Having served as Margaret Thatcher’s private chef and cooked for a royal or two, believe me when I say you’re in good hands. The menu leans seafood-centric, celebrating fresh, modern Australian flavours – you really can’t go wrong with any choice.
Afterwards, we headed down to LITO on the lobby level for a nightcap that didn’t disappoint, before retiring to our suite for bed. Maybe it was the plush mattress or the relaxing sounds of the
ocean just outside my door, but I had one of the deepest sleeps of my life here.
One of the true perks of a Gold Coast stay is watching the sunrise over the water. We left the curtains open, letting nature be our alarm clock for the morning, and woke up to the sun filling our room.
The morning began with a quick breakfast at LITO, followed by a wander through the boutiques of James Street, before heading to Ciel Spa for their signature bio-wellness treatments. Robe and slippers on, I was shown to my first session: the red light and polythermal light bed.
I’ll admit, I’m sceptical when it comes to wellness treatments that promise a long list of health benefits. Plus, I get bored easily, and the idea of lying still for 20 minutes with bright LED lights penetrating my skin’s surface didn’t sound very enticing to me. Nevertheless, I was curious to see what the buzz was about, and the moment I slid in and felt the warmth, I drifted into instant zen. It’s possible the light therapy lovers are onto something here...
That bliss carried into my next treatment: the zero-gravity dry float. If you, like I once did, are wondering “WTF is a zero-gravity dry float?”, picture lying on a warm water-filled membrane that cradles you like you’re floating, without a drop of water touching you. Add meditative music and a weighted eye mask, and I was asleep within minutes. After my back-to-back treatments, I practically floated out of Ciel Spa. Consider the sceptic converted.
Sadly, checkout came too soon, but I left with a promise to return in the near future – ideally with sunnier skies, so I can claim my spot by that irresistible pool.
JUSTIN NICHOLAS
Here’s to wandering cobblestone streets and rolling cliffside vineyards. Roaming the catacombs of the Eternal City. Uncovering the Pearl of the Adriatic. Falling in love with the City of Light. Tracing the footsteps of Medieval knights. From the Amalfi Coast to the Grecian Isles, delve into the infinite wonders of this storied region. Here’s to unlocking doors to the past. To taking the untrodden path. To Finding More.
MYKONOS, GREECE
PALERMO, ITALY