Here at Ruby Assembly, we’re no fashion snobs. Cotton On or Chanel – it’s OK by us. That said, we have always had a soft spot for Missoni. Since I was a little girl, bright Jenny-Kee style knits have always caught my eye. I can remember one particularly chic early 1980’s red and grey koala jumper lovingly knitted by my Yiayia for my 6th birthday. Having lived in chilly climes for most of my life (the Dandenong Ranges, Hobart, Ireland and Scotland, darling Melbourne town) being warm is important to me – and knitwear always provides that cosy comfort, particularly so if it’s wool. Today’s blog celebrates one of those rare fashion finds where a piece of clothing with real personality finds its way into your arms. Readers – meet my vintage, heavy wool, fully-lined, Joseph-and-the-Technicolor-Dream-Coat Missoni jacket. With cute hood for sneaking around in – an added delightful benefit. 

I found my Missoni manna-from-heaven coat at Dear Gladys, the retail store for valuable charity Fitted For Work. Last August I re-acquainted myself with sewing at Dear Gladys, which at the time also ran beginner’s sewing classes. You can read about these classes by clicking here.  Managed by Mel, it’s a treasure-trove full of vintage fashion carefully chosen with a discerning eye for the gaddabout lass around town.

I love the tapestry of colors here, and the weight of the jacket. It is also fully reversible, with an interior of soft dusky pink cotton which is quilted.

These photos were taken on the balcony of the Ruby Assembly office at the Nicholas Building, which is fortunate enough to enjoy a balcony with expansive views of St Paul’s Cathedral, Federation Square and Swanston Street. I really enjoy writing in this space, which has a definite air of whimsy about it – and the building itself is full of other creatives, so it buzzes with a certain magical energy. Like the Faraway Tree, but with less Angry Pixies, Pop Biscuits and Dame Wash-a-lots.

Also wearing Mel booties from Lady Petrova, Country Road tunic dress and Dinosaur Designs resin jewellery.