Boy & Co.

I'd heard a lot about the magical 'Boy & Co.' which promises a menu made up exclusively of fries and milkshakes, so a trip down to Glenferrie Road was much too enticing to pass up when I was over in Melbourne's Eastern suburbs visiting friends. 

From the moment you walk in, the setting is reminiscent of a 1950s diner, with booths perfect for groups, and an outdoor seating area in their backyard courtyard which would be lovely on a warm summer day. The food delivers the goods as well. I got the chilli fries (substituting the meat for extra cheese sauce) and stole a few of my friend's salt and vinegar fries too. While very moreish, they were similar to Lord of the Fries, so if even a plate of fried goodness doesn't convince you to make the trek across town, LOTF provides a perfect alternative. 

And yes, while the fries were very good, it was the milkshakes that will have me coming back. From traditional flavours like Blue Heaven - aka The Heisenberg, to the "pimped" Britney Spearmint and Cereal Killer (it's Crunchy Nut blended with ice cream, and yes, it's amazing), the consensus was that the milkshakes were the real winner.

You can stare at photos of their fries by clicking on the social media links below, but if you rather see them in the flesh, you'll find Boy & Co. at 224 Glenferrie Rd in Malvern.

Facebook /boyandcoshakes

Instagram @boyshakes

- Miriam

* Thank you to Claire for the use of her photo.

Jewish International Film Festival.

I spend 40% of my time at the cinemas living on a diet of popcorn, coke and classic choc tops. This is mainly because my mum is a major movie enthusiast and I am my mother's daughter. One of our favourite things to do is go to international film festivals and watch as many of the movies as we can back to back. 

Our most recent film festival was the JIFF which has been running from the 4th of November, and will continue until the 29th of November at the Classic Cinema in Elsternwick, Melbourne. I was lucky enough to watch a couple and I am planning to go to a few more, so here they are, my 2015 recommendations:

Dough- 

This movie is as warm as fresh bread and as funny as a hash brownie. Set in London, the movie deals with  whole set of current issues and presents them in a light-hearted way, issues including racism, drug trafficking, refugee assimilation, ageism, secular societies and the continuation of family business. It was truly enjoyable and, dare I say it, a feel good film. 

A Tale of Love and Darkness (Sippur Al Ahava Ve Hosech) - 
Based on the novel of the celebrated jewish author Amos Oz, Natalie Portman's adaptation, of which she wrote, directed and starred in, is exquisite. The movie is truly a tale, or infact a series of tales, of love and darkness. This film is one of literature and poetry and cinematic beauty. 

Deli Man -

A documentary about the famous jewish delis in New York city. I love a good documentary and I love food, and I love people who love food so its only natural that I would love this doco. 

-Alessandra 

*Mosaik does not take credit for the images used in this article

Movie Review-vie: The Dressmaker.

A very last minute plan to have dinner and see a movie found us at the opening night of The Dressmaker.  

This wonderful film based on the novel of the same name by Rosalie Ham is sure to become an Australian classic as it captures the beautiful and sometimes harsh terrain of Australia perfectly. Set in the 1950s, Myrtle 'Tilly' Dunnage returns to the small Australian town she was forced to leave as a child. Now an accomplished dressmaker who has travelled across Europe, Tilly learns that her time away hasn't healed the wounds left behind from her childhood scandal. As she tries to piece together her past, she begins a relationship with Teddy McSwiney.

It is a story laced with complexities and perhaps not the romance that you so hope for, or expect going in - in fact it's not at all what you expect. It possesses the ability to make you laugh even in moments of sadness, through the use of a humour that is so unique to Australia. Despite the surprises found in the plot, with a title like 'The Dressmaker' you expect that the costuming would be stunning, and the film's costume designers Margot Wilson and Marion Boyce do not disappoint. Each outfit is a true work of art. 

An additional success of the film is the unique set of characters played by a wonderful cast led by Kate Winslet. (Special mention to Hugo Weaving as the copper / closet transvestite.) And also, Liam Hemsworth is in it ... enough said really. 

- Alessandra and Miriam

* Mosaik does not take credit for the images used in this article

Campbell Charlotte.

When it comes to fashion, supporting local, sustainable and ethical designers is so important. In a industry characterised by "fast-fashion", and dodgy practices, it's exciting to here about Campbell Charlotte's stance on minimal material wastage, ethical and local production (the latest collection has been made entirely in Melbourne), and comfortable, durable designs that are ultimately trans-seasonal and timeless .

The latest collection (Summer 15), transports you straight into a pastel dreamworld. Whimsical patterns with light pink, blue and black hues, are printed on natural cotton and linen, with techniques all gained from her background in Fine Arts. Personal favourites from the collection include the wide leg pants in salt, and printed shift in sage - I'm dreaming of pay day. I'm also making it my mission to track down one of the convertible backpacks (pictured below), simply stunning!

The Bank of Melbourne is currently running a competition to offer start up, growing and regional businesses $10,000 to grow their brand. For Charlotte Campbell this will enable her to relocate from home and expand her ability to produce her A/W 16 collection professionally. You can vote for Campbell Charlotte by clicking here and following the link.  Her commitment to bringing sustainability and ethical production back into the fashion industry definitely deserves support.

You can catch Campbell Charlotte, as well as some other brilliant local designers, at the next Markit@FedSquare on the 29th of November, or shop online here. 

- Miriam

* Mosaik does not take credit for the images used in this article.

Podcast Edit.

Wilosophy with Wil Anderson

Wilosophy is hosted by Australian comedian Wil Anderson. Each episode, Wil sits down to chat with a new guest - Glenn Robbins, Judith Lucy and Dr Karl are just some examples. But rather than simply interviewing his guests, Wil engages with them in conversation; the result is a natural and free flowing discussion on everything: life, death, ambitions, past experiences, and of course, personal philosophies. I’ve loved hearing about the moments that have shaped these individuals and formed their outlook on the world. You find yourself mentally answering the questions as you’re listening to the podcast and one of the best - and most unexpected - things I’ve taken from listening to the podcast is actually learning more about myself.     

Undisclosed: The State Vs. Adnan Syed

Picking up where the seriously addictive 'Serial' left off - if you haven't heard about 'Serial' you really need to catch yourself up, and fast - 'Undisclosed: The State Vs. Adnan Syed' re-examines the evidence presented in 'Serial' and provides new clues and information about the murder of school girl Hae Min Lee. While it doesn't quite match the quality of the original podcast,  if like me, Serial's 12 episodes left you wanting more, Undisclosed definitely fills the void and keeps you guessing with every twist and turn in the case.

Mystery Show

A relatively new podcast hosted by Starlee Kine with only 6 current episodes, Mystery Show was a real gem to stumble upon. Each episode of the series follows an every day 'mystery' that would have otherwise gone unnoticed; a video store that disappears without a trace before her friend could return her copy of Must Love Dogs, who the owner is of an elaborate belt buckle found by a nine-year old boy in the 1980s, what would possess someone to make their personalised number plate 'i luv 911'. These mysteries manage to be simultaneously ordinary and extraordinary and the real magic is in Starlee's storytelling. Her voice just makes you smile and you often don't care where the story is going because you just love the ride. 

Invisibilia

It has been a while since Lulu Miller and Alix Spiegel have released an episode of Invisibilia and yet every time I talk to people about podcasts I recommend this one and still consider it my all time favourite podcast series. Invisibilia is a podcast about the unseen factors driving human nature- the podcast is named after the Latin word for 'all the invisible things'. These include ideas, emotions, and long held beliefs such as how from a young age we learn to categorise and this need for categorisation continues into adulthood, how a woman with Mirror Touch Synesthesia can physically feel what she sees others feeling, the importance of fear and what life is like in those who can't feel fear, and the story of a blind man who says that ignoring expectations has allowed him to see. It is a truly fascinating podcast and one that has me starting a lot of conversations with 'I was listening to this podcast...'

-Miriam and Beth

*Mosaik does not take credit for the images used in this article

Room Tour: Nicole.

I have always found that when you enter someone's house/rooms you are given little clues into their character/personality. I am one of those people that walk into IKEA once or twice a year wanting to pick up every second item, then remind myself that I do not have the money nor the house to do so. So, below you will find a little piece of me as I show you bits and pieces of my room. 

1. Dresser.

The top of my dresser was re-organised in the middle of the year. I wanted a little space where I could get ready in the morning and have easy access to all of my go-to products. I don't own or wear a lot of makeup, but I found a clear acrylic organiser on Catch of the Day and thought that would be the most practical thing to organise my makeup and skincare products. On top of my acrylic organiser is a little pot plant holder which I use to hold my brushes. To the left I have my perfume and body butter. The Body Shop's body butters are amazing - I have been using them for years. The ones I use are normally peach, mango or shea butter. And, of course, I have a few books on my dresser. You'll soon see I have books lying around every part of my room.

2. Inside my wardrobe. 

I don't own a ridiculous amount of clothes because I usually rummage through my sister's wardrobe, so I thought the most logical thing to do with the other half of my wardrobe was to use it as book storage. I don't know if this was a terrible or fantastic idea, because since I've had that space I've accumulated a ridiculous amount of books (and this isn't even all of it!). I originally had my books organised in alphabetical order, but then I had to keep shifting books around, so now it is just a ridiculous mess. I'm normally an organised person, but I can't keep up with this cupboard. I suppose other people collect vinyl records or CDs or DVDs - my 'thing' is books. 

3. Bed/Bedside Table. 

I read before I go to bed most nights. The current books on my bedside table are: These Wonderful Rumours! by May Smith and Sara Bareilles' Sounds Like Me. These Wonderful Rumours! is a collection of diary entries of a young teacher during World War II. I'm loving it so far. I'm not normally a person who reads musician's autobiographies, but my sister bought me Sounds Like Me  because she knows that I love Sara Bareilles. I haven't gotten too far into the book, but I am liking it so far! On top of my books I have a little journal that I write book quotes in. Whenever I read I have a highlighter on standby and highlight insightful quotes. It's a habit I've had for years. I adore well-loved books with writing crammed in the margins and highlighter over lines. Sitting on top of the little purple box is a quote from my all-time favourite book The Last Lecture - "gratitude is one of the simplest yet most powerful things humans can do for each other." 

4. Little Bookcase. 

This book shelf holds all my favourite books. Again, they're not organised in any particular order. On the very bottom shelf of my bookcase is my collection of Frankie magazine. As a media geek, I can't stand your typical celebrity gossip magazines. Instead, I read Frankie which contains a lot of stories on local art, photography, fashion, travel, music, craft, interiors and real-life stories. It's layout is beautiful and simplistic, and the stories make me laugh out loud. I love it. 

5. My Desk Space. 

My cork board has a world map that I pin places I've visited. It also has tickets to concerts/shows, my university/work timetable, Photobooth pictures, and a few nice cards/messages I have received from people. The artwork in the frame on my desk was created by a friend as a part of a fundraiser when he was travelling to Africa to work at a remote school. It is of Zazu from The Lion King - I love it. I have most of my Popular Penguins collection on my desk (a few couldn't fit, unfortunately, so they're just sitting on my bookshelf!). I don't normally use my desk during uni because for some reason I can't do my assignments in my room - I get too distracted. I usually use my desk when I'm doing craft projects or wrapping gifts. I use it as a creative space more than anything.

6. My IKEA Utility Cart. 

The Utility Cart from IKEA is my favourite thing in my room. In the top section holds my little laptop. The middle section contains most of my teaching materials - educational psychology textbooks, media textbooks, and english study guides. I picked up the little pot plant at Warrandyte market around two years ago. I'm not great at looking after succulents, but this one is holding up okay! The bottom section of my cart holds all of my craft materials - watercolour paints, handmade cards, my sewing kit, my letter-writing kits, and other little bits and bobs. AND if you can see the two stacked boxes to the right of my utility cart, they store cards and notes I receive from other people, as well as my warm fuzzy notes from the YMCA camps I do. I usually grab one of the boxes and look through the contents inside if I ever need a pick me up. They hold some really lovely messages inside. 

Okay, that's certainly enough of an insight into my little world. I hope you enjoyed! 

-Nicole.

Movie Review-vie: The One I Love.

Don't read about this movie. Don't even read this. Just go and watch it. 

The One I Love, directed by Charlie McDowell is possibly one of the smartest and understated movies I've watched in a while. The film is ultimately a psychological thriller, a contemporary version of The Twilight Zone, as a couple in a failing marriage go on a weekend retreat and find themselves in "some weird version of Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf?"

Mark Duplass and Elisabeth Moss' acting is the crux to the entire success of the film as they don't leave you bored for a moment, despite being the only two actors in this film. The soundtrack and the skillful editing also aid this suspenseful comedy that leaves you gasping at the end. (Sidenote: Elisabeth Moss is just bloody brilliant and everything she touches should just be given an award).

 
I wish I could say more but I can't. I don't want to spoil anything.

Just go and watch it. Please. 
So then I can talk to you about it.

-Alessandra

* Mosaik does not take credit for the images or trailer used in this article.

Bhalo.

It has been said that I have one too many Bhalo garments in my closet and to that I say "Surely not, I haven't even started shopping their new range yet!"

Bhalo is a Western Australian label manufactured and produced by hand in Bangladesh, and they have got us completely covered for summer with their straight cut silhouettes, embroidered patterns and flat geometrics. And although the dresses are perfect for summer, our love for this label will be no summer fling. Bhalo is Bengali for “good”, and after years of dodgy practices in the fashion industry, it’s a label that’s breaking all the rules … and connotations associated with manufacturing in Bangladesh.

The label was started in 2009 by Jessica Priemus and Shimul Minhas Uddin, originally as a charity to bridge the gap between the developed and undeveloped nations, slowly evolving into a label that sought a connection between the garment and the wearer.  Therefore all the Bhalo products are hand woven, printed and embroidered, and the silks and yarns are naturally dyed. 

The whimsical designs paired with the breezy cuts create subtlety, yet simultaneously demand to be noticed. They are a perfect contradiction. However, Bhalo products, like their wearer, are not flawless, and they don’t claim to be. They admit to having small faults, because they are not made by machines but rather by humans; the label employs over 200 producers and artisans in rural Bangladesh. These are garments that connect both with the wearer and the makers.

Bhalo combines traditional construction with innovative design; it abandons mass production and instead embraces longevity. It is said that there is a beauty to simplicity and Bhalo makes life look and feel simpler.

(New range out now, check it out here)

- Alessandra 

*Mosaik does not take any credit for the photos used in this article