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TRY: Getting to these Melbourne gigs.

The novelty of being able to enjoy live music again is yet to wear off for us. There’s nothing more quintessentially ‘Melbourne’ than spending Friday nights at a gig or sunny afternoons at a music festival in the Yarra Valley. With some of the world’s biggest artists touring Australia in the next couple of months alongside a host of incredible local acts, we decided to put together a gig guide to keep your calendar booked right through ’til March.

Julia Jacklin – The Forum, Feb 28th & March 1st
The darling of the Australian indie pop scene, Julia Jacklin has wooed audiences since 2016 with her direct lyrics, dreamy vocals and captivating hooks. She’s currently touring her new Aria-nominated album ‘Pre Pleasure’, which explores themes of adolescent confusion, new love and family ties. Balancing playfulness and emotion in perfect harmony, we think it’s her best yet.
Book tickets here.

Aus Open Live Music – Kia Arena, Jan 27th – 29th
Catch the likes of BENEE, Thelma Plum, Flight Facilities and Montaigne at the Australian Open Finals Festival. Vanessa Amorosi will also be headlining the Friday night for the ultimate early 2000s throwback. Tickets can be purchased for an additional $5 with your ground pass or for $34 on their own – steal!
Book tickets here.

SummerSalt Yarra Valley – Rochford Wines, Feb 4th
Kick back in the afternoon sun – crisp Pinot Gris in hand – and enjoy the sweet sounds of Australia’s favourite indie artists, both local and international. Amongst lush vineyards and rolling vines, you’ll be treated to a stellar show by the likes of Angus & Julia Stone, Ben Harper, Middle Kids and more. Esky optional, picnic chair essential, little ones welcome.
Book tickets here.

NGV Friday Nights – NGV, Every Friday Until April 14
Check out the groundbreaking exhibition, Alexander McQueen: Mind, Mythos, Muse, before having a boogie to some of Melbourne’s best DJs and bands in the NGV’s Great Hall and Garden. Noteworthy acts include Banoffee, Electric Fields, Mabel, Afrodesiac and Kee’ahn. Setting the backdrop is the NGV’s 2022 Architecture Commission: Temple of Boom – an ode to classical architecture and Ancient Greece.
No need for tickets, it’s free!

Fred again.. – The Forum, Feb 1
Fusing samples from the unlikeliest of sources (from Youtube clips to his personal FaceTime conversations) with ethereal synths and percussive beats, the London producer known as ‘Fred again..’ has cultivated a unique sound cementing him among the world’s favourite DJs. Catch him at The Forum or headlining Laneway Festival on Feb 11 to experience the transportive qualities of his otherworldly sounds.
Book tickets here.

SIT: Back at the beach with these hot accessories.

For what feels like the first time in eons, Melbourne’s summer has actually been (touch wood) consistently pretty good this year. And with many a beach day hopefully still ahead of us, some solid accessories are essential to ensure you don’t end up a sandy, sunburnt mess come March. We’ve put our heads together and compiled a handy list of covetable beach-wares, made by some of our favourite Australian designers.

1. Beach Towel – Baina
From luxury textile manufacturers BAINA, this 100% organic cotton towel in a delightful checkerboard print is a beachside staple. It’s soft, durable and perfectly sized for lazy days on the sand.
Shop it here.

2. Lounger Chair – Basil Bangs
Serious beachgoers know that laying on a towel is uncouth – lounge chairs are where it’s at. Try this gorgeous rattan one from outdoor accessory extraordinaries Basil Bangs, complete with a water-resistant seat.
Shop it here.

3. Umbrella – Sunday Supply
Take the hassle out of vigorously reapplying sunscreen by investing in a good beach umbrella. We’re obsessed with this golden beauty by Sunday Supply – ideal for the sand or your outdoor dining table.
Shop it here.

4. Beach Pillow – Hommey
The beach accessory you never knew you needed, Hommey’s inflatable, Terry towelling beach pillow makes beachside lounging just that little bit comfier. Be warned: sunbathing may all to easily turn into a siesta.
Shop it here.

5. Sunscreen – Ultraviolet
A day at the beach – or anywhere outdoors for that matter – isn’t complete without a high quality sunscreen. Extreme Screen by Ultra Violet is our personal favourite, an SPF 50+ body sunscreen with a divine coconut scent that is 4 hours waterproof and also moisturises your skin. Quadruple win.
Shop it here.

6. Beach Tent – Basil Bangs
Another one from our faves from Basil Bangs, this breezy beach tent has you sorted from morning ’til evening. Best of all its super easy to set-up and pack-down, and is light weight to carry.
Shop it here.

7. Sunglasses – Halcyon
A modern take on the classic 1950s cat eye frame, these glorious toffee-toned specs remind us of Sicilian sunsets and Riviera boat rides. They’re from Aussie brand Halcyon, who use Italian acetate in their vintage-inspired design. What’s more 10% of all profits go to Headspace.
Shop it here.

8. Beach Bag – Gunes Swim
Throw all your bits and pieces in this adorable tote by Gunes Swim, a Noosa-based beachwear label championing sustainable materials such as recycled Nylon and versatile, day-to-evening designs.
Shop it here.

APPRECIATE: Frida Kahlo – The Life of an Icon

If you’re a fan of multi-sensory art exhibitions (think Van Gogh at The Lume) and happen to be in Sydney over the summer, don’t miss this immersive biography experience coming to The Cutaway in Bangaroo. Delving into the life and art of one of the most influential artists to ever live – the fierce and formidable Frida Kahlo – the revolutionary exhibit features everything from 360 degree projections of her artwork to a virtual reality system, live music and flower crown-making classes. It’s the very embodiment of a sensory feast.

A symbol of feminine strength who continues to inspire generations of creatives, Kahlo transformed her ongoing physical pain into some of the most important artworks of all time – including her signature self-portraits which combined bold colours, iconography, natural imagery and elements of traditional Mexican painting.

Kahlo was feminist pioneer who has become famous as much for her activism and multifaceted life as her artwork itself. Rejecting gender stereotypes and conventional beauty standards, she brought in a new wave of artists who used art to explore deeply personal experiences, particularly in regards to women’s issues.

Co-created by the Frida Kahlo Corporation and renowned Spanish digital arts company Layers of Reality, this futuristic yet soulful exhibition uses state-of-the-art technology to connect audiences to the artist’s essence in previously unimaginable ways.

Book your tickets here.

EDUCATE: Yourself on Australia’s coolest converted motels.

The word ‘motel’ has long been synonymous with the daggier things in life – from downtrodden brown brick buildings to ‘80s polyester bead spreads. This last year, however, has seen a huge surge in the ‘motel makeover’ trend, with some of Australia’s most unlikely roadside motor inns being transformed into slick and sustainable boutique stays. We’re all for it. Infused with just the right amount of nostalgia, here’s a list our favourites on the east coast for your next mid summer escape.

1. Sun Seeker, Byron Bay
Last year, Jess and Dave Frid reimagined one of Byron’s oldest motels into contemporary boutique accomodation imbued with the spirit of holiday nostalgia. Complete with thoughtfully crafted rooms, California-style bungalows and a peaceful poolside lounge area, this beachside oasis is sustainably designed at every touchpoint – from recycled materials to solar power, composting and beyond. The perfect blend of retro charm and designer sophistication, Sun Seeker is Byron Bay accomodation at its most considered.
Book your stay here.

2. Mysa Motel, Palm Beach
Bringing a dose of Palm Springs to the heart of the Gold Coast, this destination motel transports its guests back to another era through pastel tones, breeze block walls, neon signs and towering palms. Each of the seven rooms has its own theme (we love ‘The Merillo’) and features beautifully restored vintage furniture and all the necessary luxuries. After a lazy day at the beach, enjoy martinis by the magnesium mineral pool in true Slim Aarons style.
Book your stay here.

3. KYAH, The Blue Mountains
Nestled amongst the world heritage-listed Blue Mountains, Kyah Boutique Hotel is an 80s motel-turned-elegant retreat designed to connect guests to the beauty of the surrounding landscape. Split across the three wings, the stylish rooms feature plush beds, minimalist finishes and minibars stocked with sustainable goodies. Idyllic grounds reveal tennis courts, a produce garden and a Japanese cherry Blossom tree, while the in-house restaurant, Blaq, offers locally sourced dishes create by award-winning chef Mate Herceg.
Book your stay here.

4. Astor, Albury
For many of us, Albury brings to mind dreary overnight pitstops on the drive up to Sydney. But who says layover can’t be a little bit luxe? Formerly a stock standard 1960s motor inn, Astor Albury has been lovingly restored into a Palm Springs-inspired destination offering everything you could ever need on your travels. As much a hospitality hot spot as it is a motel, The Astor has its own vibrant, 28-beer-tap bar with a menu of gourmet pub meals, chic interiors and zesty cocktails.
Book your stay here.

5. Motel Molly
Set in the charming surf town of Mollymook on NSW’s breathtaking Shoalhaven region, Motel Molly is another recently converted beauty. Stylish and serene with a decidedly playful spirit, this generously restored accomodation balances a relaxed coastal feel with a hint of high design. Underpinned by a genuine sense of craftsmanship, here, the beauty is in the finer details – whether it’s the handmade imported ceramics found in every room or the gorgeous Mediterranean tiling detailing the ensuite vanities. Offering sweeping views of the coastline and a sun-soaked pool area, Motel Molly is the stuff of Australian road trip dreams.
Book your stay here.

6. Berry View Hotel, Berry
A mid-century marvel in one of NSW’s most beloved country towns, Berry View Hotel is something of a must-visit – especially if you’re road tripping up the coast. Offering mesmerising views of the hinterland and lush garden outlooks, each of the rooms are individually styled with charming little details – providing a personal and quirky accomodation experience. A palette of warm ochre tones ties together the interiors, decor and external design while leaning into the retro vibes.
Book your stay here.