Day 27:: Frocktober - We Hit the Capital

STOP THE PRESS:: 

I just found this in my drafts. PEOPLE. It was in my drafts. What was I thinking?! I must have been completely exhaustipated after a big and busy and brilliant day in Canberra. So here it is. It's late. And I'm sorry. I'll personally pen you an apology note if you'd like. 

We were in the capital and we stepped out for Frocktober - day 27.

Today's outfit:
- vintage frock donated by Georgie Love.
- Country Road cardigan
- Country Road shoes
- vintage scarf
- not sure about tights
- another of my Mum's belts
- Gorman bag

We can now resume regular programming. PHEW! 

Day 31:: Frocktober VS Halloween - BOO!

So, just in case you've never tuned in to PMM before, today marks the last day of this thing I did, this thing called Frocktober. 

Frocktober you say? Or actually, I said it. Yes. Frocktober. What is it? Well this year (my second year) I wore 31 different frocks for the 31 days of October. Hence it's Frocktober.

What the frock for?

To raise much needed funds for ovarian cancer research. Currently there is no screening test. It's a fun way of supporting a very serious cause.

I've broken the barrier of the $3,500 mark - thank you to each and everyone of my sponsors for your awesome support. I am so thrilled! 

It's not too late to sponsor me either! Visit here if you're keen. Every dollar helps!

Today's outfit:

- vintage Simona frock

- orange tarantula - from the Halloween shop

- my own make-up - what?!

- Country Road sandals

Day 30:: Frocktober - Sunshine

Today marks the second last day of Frocktober. It's been one heck of a month, and I don't even know if I will switch to jeans on the 1st of November. I am quite partial to a frock. Just in case you hadn't noticed. 

I must say a massive thank you to each of my sponsors. I really appreciate your support, encouraging words, and for helping fund much needed research into ovarian cancer.  You guys are ACE!

It's not too late to sponsor me! It's not! Even $5 will help. Every cent counts. Ovarian cancer is the leading cause of death of all gynaecological cancers; an insidious disease that often strikes without warning. 

Today's outfit:
- vintage dress a gift from my friend Candice
- Country Road cardi and sandals
- stack of Indian bangles from.. I can't remember where

Day 29:: Frocktober - The Sun Is Shining.

Guess what!? 

Together, you, me and the frocks have raised over $3,000 for ovarian cancer research. 

That, my friends, is incredible. 

Thank you to each and everyone of my sponsors. I really appreciate your support - and that you are as passionate as I am about gyno health. 

BUT we've only got 3 days left - and I just know we can lift the stakes. Please, if you can spare a few dollars, you can sponsor me here - all money goes to the ovarian cancer research foundation. 

Today's outfit:
- vintage dress procured from eBay about 10 years ago
- Trenery heels
- vintage earrings
- my own pose

Day 28:: Frocktober - The Nation's Capital

I am so pooped after our fabulous and memorable weekend in Canberra as part of #humanbrochure - I'll report back later this week. So much to see and do. 

In the meantime, Frocktober is winding up in just three short days.

Can you sponsor me? Will you sponsor me? I'd love to make it to $3,000! SO CLOSE! All money goes to ovarian cancer research - currently there is no screening test. If you donate money, it means you can help fund more research.

Every 10 hours one Australian woman dies due to ovarian cancer. Wouldn't it be incredible to change that? 

YES! 

Please sponsor me!

Today's outfit:
- hat - I can't remember, but Michelle from Hugo & Elsa has the same one in black (much better colour, my white one is the filth)
- dress is vintage and on loan from my sister
- vintage scarf as belt
- shoes - Chucky's

Day 26:: Frocktober - Sweet, Sugar, CandyMan

With only 5 days to go, I'm pulling out some big numbers over the next few days. Today's is a particularly beautiful 1940s (or is it 50s?) cotton frock with a beautiful print. And big shoulder pads. Feminine with a little masculine tailoring. 

I took it upon myself this morning to do the rolls, which took longer than when I did them sitting in traffic. Even with more tools. Quelle frustration. But I finally got them. A bit messy, but no matter.

Tonight we went to the Australian War Memorial - and I walked in and all of a sudden felt like I was about to be mistaken for a volunteer in costume. 

I want you to sponsor me. I want to raise more money for ovarian cancer research. Look at us - we've come so far, but wouldn't it be great to close the deal with a little more? Every penny goes toward finding out more about ovarian cancer - and a screening test. 

Majority of my readers are female.
So majority of you have ovaries.
Doesn't it concern you that there's no screening test? A pap smear doesn't detect ovarian cancer. 
Please sponsor me this Frocktober. 

Today's outfit:
- my sister's vintage frock
- Chuck Taylors
- I still recognise that I need a snood if I'm to look like a factory worker

This song has been stuck in my head all day. Now we can share it. Though, admittedly, this one is much better. I do love this song. These ladies kill it.

Let's Talk About... Ovarian Cancer

Super cute frock from Shabby Apple

As you may have noticed, I've been participating in Frocktober for the second year - and documented my month here on my blog (and Instagram, and Facebook). It's a fun month, though - believe it or not - hard work maintaining momentum to continue frocking on. You might not believe me, but some mornings, those jeans call me. And if you're not sick of seeing me, I certainly am.

Trust me mother frockers. It is tough.

But there is a serious side to Frocktober. Despite the frippery and the frivolity, Frocktober is all about raising awareness and money for research into ovarian cancer. 

The figures are startlingly high - one Australian woman dies every 10 hours due to ovarian cancer. At present ovarian cancer is commonly diagnosed at advanced stage with only 20-30% of women surviving beyond five years, compared to more that 90% when the disease is detected and treated early. 

There is no screening test. 

A pap smear does not detect ovarian cancer. 

From the OCRF website

Early stage ovarian cancer may not have obvious symptoms but the following may occur:

• Vague abdominal pain or pressure
• Feeling of abdominal fullness, gas, nausea, indigestion – different to your normal sensations
• Sudden abdominal swelling, weight gain or bloating
• Persistent changes in bowel or bladder patterns
• Low backache or cramps
• Abnormal vaginal bleeding
• Pain during intercourse
• Unexplained weight loss

The majority of women who experience one or two of these early symptoms do not have cancer. However, it is important that you seek medical advice if the symptoms are unusual or persist. For further information, visit OCRF or call 1300 OVARIAN.

Day 25:: Frocktober - When Breathing Is Overrated. Send In The Acid Brights.

Listen up, gather in close, I have something to tell you. And no. I am not pregnant. This dress is a little too close for comfort to my rib cage. They're very intimate today, and breathing is restricted to shallow breaths. I feel a bit Jane Austen, except, not. 

This is one of my favourite vintage frocks, hand-made and impeccably finished. And the fabric is fabulous - that wild acid bright floral, coupled with a beautiful cotton. AYE AYE AYE!

Today's outfit:
- vintage frock
- Country Road sandals

I'd really, really love it if you could sponsor me! Take a look at me, I'm an everyday hero (did you get that reference Dad?). I'm raising money for research into ovarian cancer. 

Currently there is no screening test. A pap smear does not detect ovarian cancer. Ovarian cancer is the leading cause of death of all gynaecological cancers; an insidious disease that often strikes without warning. At present ovarian cancer is commonly diagnosed at advanced stage with only 20-30% of women surviving beyond five years, compared to more that 90% when the disease is detected and treated early. We can help change this by funding more research! 

You can read more about Frocktober here. 

Day 24:: Frocktober - I Say Gatsby. You Say Potato.

Well we are on the home straight party people. Only 7 days until I am free to get back into my denim. I know it's going to feel odd. It did last year. So let's take this thing home. Let's raise as much money as we can.

You might be thinking, well I can't, or what difference will $5 make? It does make a difference! Every bit counts. Every bit helps. 

I'd really, really, really love you to sponsor me this Frocktober. 

Today's outfit:
- dress - EP by Easton Pearson
- shoes by Trenery
- vintage necklace
- Charleston - our own

Day 23:: Frocktober - Laura Ingalls Called

And she wants to cast me as a lead in the movie of 'Little House on the Prairie'. I know, right?!

Today's outfit: 
- vintage frock 
- belt - yes yes
- Country Road boots
- can't remember where the tights are from, am pretty sure you don't care either

In case you've just tuned in, I'm doing Frocktober - wearing a different frock every day for the month of October. Why? (I hear you ask.) To raise money and awareness for ovarian cancer. With only 8 days to go - now's a great time to hop onboard and sponsor me to help fund research. 

Day 22:: Frocktober - Frock 'n' Froll

Today's awesome vintage frock is brought to you by the wonderful Australian pioneer of online retail, Georgie Love. 

I think Tiny is a bit over Frocktober - look at her here, ruthlessly dragging me away from the camera. 

Today's outfit:
- vintage hand-made frock from Georgie Love
- belt - hi Mum
- shoes - Country Road

There's still time to sponsor me! Come hither! We're aiming to raise awareness and funds for ovarian cancer research.With 265 mother-frockers fundraising - we've raised almost $132,000 - but we want to raise more! Please help!

Day 21:: Frocktober - Another Frocking Gangnam Style Reference

Sometimes I do dumb stuff. Like figure out the steps for Gangnam Style and then rehearse on the footpath and allow the Doctor to photograph me doing them.

I'm not the most adept choreographed dancer. But I'll give myself bonus points for enthusiasm.

Today I tore apart our bedroom in a bid to tidy it up. It doesn't make sense does it? And Matt walked in, saw our boudoir and said: "Oh Lexi". And walked out again.

Then my Mum and sister dropped in and saw it and asked where we were sleeping tonight.

I had this idea when I started Frocktober that once I had worn a dress it couldn't go back in the wardrobe. This was a HUUUUUUGE and dumb mistake because it created a mountain of worn dresses, combined with the accompanying accessories and, well, that was a recipe for disaster, friends.

I excel at making messes, ask Matt, ask my Mum and Dad, ask anyone. And once I start breeding a mess, I find it hard to take back control. But I have reclaimed our bedroom, all the frocks are washed, hung back up in my wardrobe, and this week's menu of dresses is ready, hanging neatly on the curtain rail.

At the end of the week we're heading to Canberra, and I hear it's going to be a wee bit chilly. I am not prepared for this as I have worn all my Winter dresses. Things are about to get a heck of a lot more interesting around here.

Not that it could get anymore interesting than me dancing Gangnam Style on the footpath.

Friends, I give you day 21.

Today's outfit:
- Country Road jersey shift (Sophie Holt, I promise, I didn't buy the whole shop)
- thrifted scarf
- Saltwaters from Lady Pinwheel

Please sponsor me here. With only 10 days to go - time is running out! By donating you can help fund the Ovarian Cancer Research Foundation.

Good night and good luck.

Day 20:: Frocktober - Why Is A Zebra Called A Zebra?

With only 11 days to go, I knew I had to get down to business - particularly with dresses that I have been procrastinating on. Such as this one, made of: Lobal poly. Wow. I love lobal poly. Said no one. Ever. 

A hideous man-made fabric made back in the 70s I believe. With a fabulous non-breathing quality, I knew it was just perfect for a steamy Sydney day. Perfect to sweat my day away. Aye carumba.

Today's outfit:
- vintage stripey maxi-dress from eBay a loooong time ago
- flats - yep. You already know.
- necklace - a gift from a dear friend

Please consider sponsoring me here! I am hoping to reach $2500 to go towards funding research into ovarian cancer. $5 is all it takes. Plus anything you donate is tax deductible. It's a cinch!

Day 19:: Frocktober - Colour Play

Today is Friday. Fridays are almost always good. Yes? Yes they are. Because it leads us into the wide world of weekends. 

I won't keep you today - I'm here just to check in and prove I frocked up. You're here to check I frocked up. Now we can frocking well get out of here and on with our weekends. 

BTW - what are you up to this weekend?

Today's outfit:
- vintage dress from eBay about 212 years ago
- Country Road cardi and sandals
- silk scarf from Calico + Ivy

Sponsor me here. Please! Yes please! Help fund research into ovarian cancer screening. That would be very good. I'm trying to make it to $2.5k. Only 12 days to go. Can you help me reach this goal? 

And of course - a really MASSIVE thank you to everyone who has chosen to sponsor me for this cause. One Australian woman dies every 10 hours from ovarian cancer. Wouldn't it be great to change those figures? 

Day 18:: Frocktober - I've Got Spots

And I'm not talking about that pimple on my cheek. I think I need a spray tan, and I need one fast. Look at me, Casper's older sister, BOO!

It's day 18 - only 13 to go (heck, I've got to come up with some new frocks to get me through the days).

Today's outfit:
- vintage dress from some French lady's wardrobe
- Country Road sandals

For more information on Frocktober go here. Sponsor me here. 

Day 17:: Frocktober - Puberty Blues Called. They Want Their Extras Back

Holy Toledo. Excuse the ugly tired head, but this is the best I could muster this morning. I had way too many Bloody Marys when Judy and Martin came over for some cabanossi, devil's on horseback, cheezels and the obligatory key party. 

Crikey! We've hit the $2k mark people! We're through! We're on the way to the next however much we can rally together. I've got 14 more days to make my mark - with you of course. 

If you're interested in sponsoring me for Frocktober, and donating money to fund research into ovarian cancer, head here. 

Today's outfit:
- vintage dress I found once upon a time at an oppie for 50cents
- Lee Mathews silk slip. Not 50cents
- Trenery heels
- bangle - a gift

Day 16:: Frocktober - I'm In The 'Hood And I Need A Snood

We are over half way people. Past the point of no return. I'm into Frocktober and there's no turning back. I'm very grateful that so many people have sponsored me so far. You are ace. 

If you're thinking about it (and it is tax deductible, and it does accept PayPal), you can go here. It's super duper easy and all funds go towards research into ovarian cancer. Currently there is no screening - and every  10 hours one Australian woman dies from it. 

Are you sick of seeing my frocks? Bored by my vintage goods and chattels? Only 15 days to go lovers!

Today I totes went feminine, and as Matt said, I reinvented myself with a very rustic 40s 'do that came to me after a discussion with Christina of Hair Romance fame, and Candice at Super Kawaii Mama. Thanks ladies for the tips. It was done while sitting in the traffic, sans tools, 5 bobby pins and with my hands. 

How you like me now?

Today's outfit:
- my sister's awesome vintage frock
- earrings - a gift from my lover
- Country Road sandals from last season

Day 15:: Frocktober - Is That Wedding Bells I Hear?

Oh sweet love! Tiny proposed to me today. Almost newd, on the footpath, with a cigar box and a vintage diamante necklace. She's a little bit avant garde, a little bit cray cray - but my Lord. I love that girl like there's no tomorrow. 

Rather than donning my wedding dress today (I couldn't bear full length all day - sorry to disappoint) I went a little bit bridal with this vintage number I picked up at the Bondi markets approximately 203 years ago. 

The woman in the know, Kelly Doust, tells me it's an 80s rehash of a 20s shape. And who am I to argue. 

And my oh my, I love this frock. So floaty and feminine. Much like the nightie I wore as a veil ( Does my bun look big in this?), and then Tiny wore as her frock. 

Today's outfit:
- vintage frock from Bondi markets
- Country Road cropped cardi
- vintage diamante necklace
- my wedding earrings
- Trenery heels (I've told you once, I've told you a thousand times, the only company to make shoes that fit me)
- And Tiny is wearing a vintage nightie that I do believe once was worn by my Mum (thanks Mum!)

Thank you to ALL OF MY AMAZING sponsors. I am so stoked that we have hit over $1800 - and we're only half way. I am truly chuffed and will stay away from my jeans! It's hard work! It truly is! 

Can you spare $5 and help me stay out of jeans for Frocktober? All funds go towards ovarian cancer research. 

Day 14:: The Half-Way House And I'm Stomping Grapes

Are you shocked? Tiny and I are. We're just plain plum loco for the fact it's almost half-way and we're still frocking hard core frockers. 

We've been stomping grapes like there's no tomorrow, and singing everything. Because quite frankly, we're the stars of our very own mega-musical. 

Today's outfit:
- vintage dress on (permanent - HA! don't worry she never reads this - she'll never suspect a thing) loan from my sister - thank you!
- Country Road cardi
- Saltwater sandals from Little Pinwheel
- silk scarf from Calico + Ivy

If you'd like to sponsor me and help fund the Ovarian Cancer Research Foundation, please go here. You can even suggest a theme for me. Go on. Do it! 

Day 13:: Frocktober - Vintage Is Calling Me

The sun was shining. The birds were singing. This morning I rose early to go meet my sister and check out the markets together before she started work. 

Plus I went to look at the new range of Liberty Art Fabrics that have just landed in store at Calico + Ivy. Holy toledo - they are beautiful. Of course they are. They're Liberty. But the heavier weight means there's a whole new world opened up in crafty projects. (See my snap below of Kate's installation.) Ahoy!

Another day, another dress, hey?

Today's outfit:
- Country Road cardigan
- vintage dress that I've only ever managed to wear twice since owning it for about eight years (big fail on my part)
- belt, Mum's
- necklace - Alexandra Blak
- Donna Sgro tights
- Country Road flats (because CR are the only company that make shoes big enough for me - sad story)

If you're mighty interested in sponsoring me, I'd be mighty interested in having you as a sponsor. All money goes towards research for ovarian cancer screening. Currently there is none.

(Photo taken by my sister at Calico + Ivy, Balmain. If you've not been before (to Balmain or Perth), whether you're crafty or not, you should take a look, it's an enchanting store full of fabrics, yarns, giftware, amazing books and incredible hand made jewellery).