AMI means friend , it also is the initials of Parisien designer Alexandre Mattiusi , who has a pretty impressive design background having worked for both Dior and Givenchy. HIs own label , established in 2011 is a collection of easy pieces that don't try too hard , with an emphasis on quality

We unpack so much GOLD each week, but we never want to overload your eyes, and we want to save some magic for when you walk into our stores.

So we thought we would create The Standard 6 each week.Starting with me ( Jen ,from our Gertrude Street store in Melbourne )

Choosing our 6 most loved pieces.

Next week will be Orlando's turn because we all want to know what his elite sartorial choices would be….

And keep an eye on the blog for some guest appearances by stylish locals!

Ok , Lets begin...

There comes a point in your life when you realise that fast throw away fashion is no longer relevant to you. British label Studio Nicholson is our very favourite when it comes to luxurious simplicity.

One of our favourite things about Gertrude Street is how it comes alive again as the sun goes down.

The twinkly lights at Enoteca, the cosy atmosphere across the road at Belle's Diner...

And tonight the whole street will be buzzing... literally, for the opening of the Gertrude Street Projection Festival!

Sometimes the littlest things create the biggest impact. French designers Marie Macon and Anne-Laure Lesquoy create hand embroidered adornments that can transform the mundane into the sublime.

Ok, its fashion week , and what are you going to wear ? Anything goes really , as long as you wear it with style and attitude and of course a pair of Spektre Sunglasses…yep seen on just about every fashion bunny from Paris to Milan and New York in between!

Carven's heritage is Parisien Haute Couture from the 1940's, whilst its past spirit remains , its now something quite different.

Menswear was introduced in 2012, and the s/s14 collection evokes the style of an artist in the South of France. who knew socks and sandals could be so chic…thats the French for you !

Two years in discussion, over a year of searching, multiple flights to Victoria (thank goodness for air miles! ), pounding the streets of Melbourne, near misses and gazumping ( which ended up being a blessing in disguise ! )

New Season Sessun is here, its effortless French chic; woven coats with matching pumps ( not too high ofcourse ) , navy suede boots and swinging raincoats. A little silk dress that skims the knees , a bomber jacket that is a little bit Jackie O, slouchy pyjama style trousers.... we love it all.