These photos were taken a month ago by stylist and photographer extraordinaire Meagan Harding for Melbourne-based fashion label Micky In The Van. Designer, boutique owner, as well as one of the most beautiful souls I’m privileged to call friend, Estelle, had envisioned a photo shoot featuring ladies that embody her label’s unique, confident and feminine qualities. She hand-selected a group of women she considers to have “style, authenticity and a personal sense of leadership.” Amongst this formidable roundup of bloggers, writers and fashion PR, I’m chuffed and honoured to be included alongside Leeyong, Kyra, Marianne, Cheryl, Sophi, Dasha, Iolanthe and Estelle. No wonder I’m wearing such a big grin.

As you can imagine, trying to round up a group of uber-busy fashionistas for a day-shoot is no easy feat. But when we received the brief from Estelle, we immediately cleared our calendars. That’s a testament to what a wonderful designer and person she is. It was such a fun day, we bonded over cheese, strawberries, carrot cake, and memorable tales from 2014. And if it weren’t for Winston’s refusal to go down for a morning nap, I’d say the day was pure bliss. Why did I think it’d be a good idea to bring a baby to a photo shoot?! Thankfully, my Mom came to the rescue and whisked the crying baby far far away…

It was a real treat to be under Meagan’s artstic direction. I’d always known that she’s a talented photographer, but to see her work in real time and to be photographed by her was another story altogether. She is beyond! In fact, I think that Meagan is the “most esteemed and formidable” of us all. Personal stylist, photographer and fashion podcaster (Meagan and Cheryl are the creators of “Melbourne in Fashion” podcasts), she serves as a mentor for many and she challenged all of us to get out of our comfort zones. “I don’t want any blogger poses, I want to see the other side of you. One that people haven’t seen before!’ She declared. And she triumphed. Not many of us have leaped into the air, engaged in yoga poses or literally bent over backwards for our blogs. But for Meagan, we wilfully obeyed.

Micky In The Van ‘Mon Colette’ Coat Dress / Edenborough Evans Cuff / Miss Sixty Sandals

The only reason why I didn’t look ridiculous in this photo is because this Micky In The Van ‘Mon Colette’ coat dress is so comfortable and chic, and also because Meagan is a genius. The last time I did knee ups would have been in high school during gym class… But you’ll be happy to know that I’ve done a few more of them lately thanks to X Box Fitness. Maybe I should feature more action-packed moves like this in my future blog posts. After all, it would do the clothes more justice, and show off my “unique, confident and feminine qualities”. I’m sure that Meagan would approve. Right, Estelle?

To read our interviews with Estelle, head over [HERE], and while you’re at it,  have a look at the latest Micky In The Van designs.