February 7th, 2012
We all know about the so called ‘Summer loving’ (cue Danny and Sandy and hot leather pants) that takes over during this time of year, and it seems like this year is no different. There must be something in the air – cupid’s arrows or pheromones perhaps? Whatever the reason, it’s time to remind your special someone that you expect to be pampered and loved on Saint Valentine’s Day! If they’re a bit clueless, here’s some ideas you can casually drop to inspire them…
Nothing says ‘I like you quite a bit’ like leather goods! Also available in black, it has adjustable straps so you can either hold it or hang it. The unique pin lock keeps your goods safe (with a twist!) – $169.95
Like two vintage salt and pepper shakers in a pod… - $24.95
Jewellery is always a way to a girls heart! The intricate lotus design is hand-carved with as much care and lovin’ as we’re sure your loved one gives you! (Matching earrings are also available if you’re one of the lucky ones!) – $59, and drop earrings $69
Tea (Noun) A soothing, refreshing, fragrant liquid that can be consumed hot or cold. Side-effects include being absolutely addicted to the relaxed feeling that overcomes you.
It’s great when all you’ve done for your Valentine doesn’t go unnoticed! Take a break, take a cup(s) of tea – $9.95
For those who know they’re in for something big, get them to invest in a pony hair clutch for you. Great to show-off that you scored something big! It’s fancy and French! – $289
Regardless of what you do end up receiving, whether it be pampering or pleasuring, we hope you have an amazing Valentine’s Day!
Bao xx
January 24th, 2012
A magical transformation will take place in Northbridge as part of the Fringe World Festival. Submerge yourself in a plethora of art, design, fashion and food with over 45 unique and individual stalls present during the Laneway Night Market weekend. We here at Tu cannot wait to delve into the fresh, hot tacos whilst walking down William Street and doing some shopping during dusk. Hope to see you there!
To celebrate, we will be changing up our Saturday trading times, opening at 12pm and staying open until 8pm!
For more details of what to expect click here
Bao xx
January 3rd, 2012
Illustrati. is a quirky selection of artworks that intrigues and tantalises your visual senses. The original illustrations by local artist David Jaskiewicz are ‘light-hearted, fun and cheeky look at the stranger side of what attracts and excites’ the human psyche. With pieces that are ‘intrinsically’ Jaskiewicz, it explores sexuality and the human form in playful and interesting contexts that leave you wanting more.
These New York vibe artworks have been in our gallery for almost a month, and sadly tomorrow (4th of January) is the last day you’ll be able to catch a glimpse of these get them displayed in your home (they’re guaranteed dinner party conversation provokers!)
Bao xx
December 31st, 2011
2011. What an outstanding year this was for our neighbourhood, our store and our team..
This year was our first in William St and was made up of so many fantastic experiences bringing growth and development to us.
Let’s reflect….
We became the first official stockist of Pocketto Magazine.
We collaborated with a company in Vietnam called Blue Sphere to create a range of mouse purses.
Blue Sphere is a social enterprise company that is committed to allocating a share of its net profits to local Vietnamese health and environmental non-government organisations. You can read all about it in this post.
We launched our Stairwell Gallery and have had three very different but very talented artists showcase their work including the Made of Awesome Collective, Pippa McManus and David Jaskiewicz (exhibition still running, get in quick!)
In July, our store introduced our own fun range of CUSHIONS!
These cushions are all made in house with a filling made up of duck down and feathers. We source the fabric from vintage suppliers and or salvage from curtains and furnishings, giving the end product character while being resourceful.
We participated in the Outskirts Festival in association with OnWilliam and The Perth Fashion Festival.
It has been an absolute whirlwind of a year but we have enjoyed every minute of it.
From our family at tu boutique, we wish you the Happiest of a New Year and cannot wait to see you all in 2012.
With love, Tinka xx
November 26th, 2011
Our second exhibition is over already?! Goodness me, what a fantastic start we’ve had to our Stairwell Gallery!
The response we have had to each exhibit has been brilliant and our team have all loved working alongside the local Perth talent, this time being Pippa McManus.
A quick run through of this lovely lady…
After buying her first Paris Vogue at the age of fourteen, Pippa McManus dedicated all of her time to learning everything she could about the fashion industry. McManus began studying Fine Arts at the Western Australian School of Art and Design in 2000, then crossed over to the school’s three year Fashion and Textile Design course. In her early career she was mentored by Perth street artist Stormie Mills in a year long project located in North Perth, commissioned by City of Vincent. To follow an exhibition of the artists’ work was held at the Perth Institute of Contemporary Art.
McManus has worked with quite a few designers, artists and retailers of the fashion industry, including; Aurelio Costarella (New York Show Illustrations and Media); Linneys (2009 Campaign); Zara Bryson (in store installation); Frankii (in store installation); Chatswood Chase (department in store installation); Anya Brock (Claremont Quarter exhibition); Claremont Quarter (Fashion Fortnight Spring Summer ’11 campaign); and Olympian Eamon Sullivans new café Louis Baxters (in cafe installation).
And while she is not busy creating, McManus blogs about her creating. The blog, Workable Fixative was recently named in the Top Ten Fashion Illustration Blogs by respected fashion news website Fashionista.com and was nominated as a finalist in the ‘Creative’ category of the WA Fashion awards.
The Seeing Double: Solo Exhibition received an outstanding response from the public. I thought that I would let others to the talking by linking blog posts, write ups and videos. If there are any that I have missed, feel free to hyperlink in the comments section below.
Emma Bergmeier, of Dropstitch posted here.
John, of Cut & Paste posted a write up and interview here.
Karen Cheng, of Karen Cheng’s Fashion and Life Blog, posted here.
Donna, of Style Hunter, posted here.
Nadine and Kari of Modern Girls in Vintage Pearls, posted here.
You can read Pippa’s own reflection on the experience here.
***
We would like to thank Pippa McManus for the fantastic experience that our store has had working alongside her and wish her all the best on her future endeavours.
With love from Tinka. x
October 15th, 2011
Is it just me or are there about 10000000000 birthdays during the month of November?
Seriously, not a weekend will go by where I don’t have a sibling/friend/relative
so distantly related your unsure if there is even DNA connecting you celebrating
their day of birth. Lucky for me and lucky for anyone out there with the same predicament,
tú is well stocked with jewellery, bags, gift wares and home wares to suit any person.
And all this is on top of our selection of women’s wear!
Let’s explore…
Dorothy & Evelyn Tea-light Candle Holder – $39.95
Cutest ornament ever, pair this with some vanilla scented candles and you’ve got a simple, elegant gift.
Dorothy & Evelyn Owl Vase – $29.95
Flowers make a great birthday gesture but why not take it one step further
and give this lovely vase with some thoughtfully selected flowers from Beans & Bunches.
Guaranteed approval!
Babushka Doll Measuring Cups – $19.95
Cute, practical and comes in two colours; white and red!
Also quite festive for early Christmas gifts although that’s a whole other blog topic!
These cups have measurements of 1/4 to 1 cup inscribed and are charmingly easy to store and display.
Mary lou for tú Teacup Necklaces – $59
The absolute sweetest pendant on a long length chain.
It’s simple enough for the recipient to wear with any ensemble
although quirky enough to be really appreciated as a gift.
Assorted Geena Wong Clutches – $119 – $149
Simple style with the option of picking a colour to suit the recipient.
These Geena Wong clutches are made of eel! How’s that for a gift with a bit of trivia?
Her Ego Metal Heart Bag – $129.95
This bag is made from the softest leather and is very wearable.
The chain can be doubled over to adapt the length. Perfect for day and night wear!
Candles – $29 – $39 for un pictured larger size.
Not your typical scented candle! These are hand poured in Australia and come in the most delicious fragrances:
green tea, citrus and sage, lime, basil and mandarin and sage and pomegranate.
Hutch Melbourne Necklace – $59.95
My particular favourite from the selection of Hutch Melbourne Jewellery,
these necklaces are designed and made in Australia.
What are your go to presents for Birthday Season?
With love from Tinka xx
October 13th, 2011
Sous Les Pavés, meaning Under the Pavement; a call to liberty and imagination.
Designed and made with love from France.
Sophie Lagreula and Catherine Tisserant both had an early passion for design and decor of tableware and linens.
With similar parallels in life (working with tableware and porcelain, adornment of the bijous, love of Paris)
the collaboration was inevitable. Over a coffee on an autumn Paris day; Sous le pavés was created.
The girls spoke of an envious fun bag, relaxed but elegant and something different.
They recognised that in today’s world, people are more aware of recycling and sustainability.
With this in mind, the designers decided to make gorgeous bags from an array of
textiles (vintage and recycled leathers) not usually considered for high fashion bags.
To embellish their creations, they discovered a stamping company that supported their ethos for unique design.
In a small amount of time the label has grown with a cult following.
We are delighted and proud to be a stockist of the incredible Sous Les Pavés bags.
Visit the tu store online or in person to view the entire selection.
October 12th, 2011
Gosh, it wasn’t long ago we held the launch night for the Made of Awesome ‘Masked’ Exhibition,
a first for both the team of artists and for our stairwell gallery. With the exhibition finishing up on the 16th of October
I thought I’d reflect on the experience of creating the stairwell gallery as well as launching our first exhibition.
So what prompted the Stairwell Gallery? Well it was a combination of many ideas; as a store we wanted to create
a special and unique space for people to come and ponder. As Perth enthusiasts, we wanted to provide
opportunity for locals artists to showcase their works to the public. With our unique stairwell that hosts beautiful
sunlight and essentially leads to nowhere the idea of a Stairwell Gallery was born.
Collaborating with the Made of Awesome Collective came as a result of Popsicle,
an annual event for the Perth Fashion Festival. The team of artists were passionate and talented,
making the experience enjoyable from both perspectives.
The official launch for both the Gallery and the Exhibition was a complete success.
We are excited and optimistic about the future for the Gallery and upcoming collaborations and exhibitions.
If you haven’t had a chance yet to view the ‘Masked’ exhibition I’d definitely recommend a trip into our store
before the 16th. For those who have, what are your thoughts and reviews of the Gallery? We’d love to hear!
With love from Tinka. x
October 4th, 2011
Pocketto is bringing publications back to print. It’s 139 pages of intricate art, obscurely interesting articles
and remarkable photography in a hard cover book. Don’t be fooled by the simplicity of its cover,
it hides the Melbourne-based magazine’s innovative and absolutely funkalicous insides.
We’ve got the first ever issue of this bi-annual magazine, so you can start up this collection from scratch!
Interesting reads include an exclusive interview and photos with talented songstress Kimbra,
adventures of an insomniac, (such as the tale of Russian housekeeping which somehow diverges into
details of the sexual advances of an 80 year old leading to a reference to necrophilia
and ends with weed and superpowers…) and also a guide on how to be an ‘Australian Hipster.’
What more could you want?
For $19.95, it’s jam packed with absolute goodness and you can get it right here at Tu!
Bao xx
October 4th, 2011
Unique boutiques, funky laneway bars, and café culture – yes, I am describing this isolated city of ours.
With the influx of new establishments popping up over the last couple of years, it’s been hard to keep up.
Thankfully, the lovely Urban Walkabout team have decided to help us out, creating a guide to all the local hotspots.
To celebrate the new Urban Walkabout Perth city guide, a launch party was held at Venn on Queen Street,
which I was lucky enough to attend. Live entertainment, delicious canapés and drinks whilst being
surrounded by the entrepreneurs featured in the guides were only a small part of what was a great night.
What I absolutely adored though was the little souvenir we got to take home at the end of night
– a little sketch of our footwear by the illustrator of the Perth guides, Pippa McManus.
Only Sydney and Perth guides have been created by Urban Walkabout, and it’s great to see that our little city
has slowly developed into a cultural hub with its hidden secrets that can discovered by tourists and Perthians alike!
If you want to check out more, visit the Urban Walkabout website here.
Bao xx
photos sourced from: Urban Walkabout
