Like our famous Jacarandas, Brisbane’s Poincianas are a naturalised flowering tree from Africa. They come into bloom just as the Jacaranda blossoms are starting to wither. As things heat up in November, the whole city moves from pretty lilac to vibrant orange-red. Hello summer!

Just as Poinsettias herald the onset of Christmas in the northern hemisphere, so too do Poincianas in the southern hemisphere. They’re red and green; how festive! The flowers are also star shaped, so you know, they get bonus Christmas points or something.

Flame trees bloom at about the same time. So they get an honourary mention. The shape of the flowers has always reminded me of coral.

What better way to celebrate this time of year then to wear the colours of the Poinciana?! I picked up this little number at the Brisbane Vintage Fair several months ago. My obsession with polka dots continues. It had broken cream buttons so I replaced them with pretty purple ones. It also had these amazing full length secretary sleeves. But in deference to the Australian summer, they had to go.

That bruise on my leg is from walking into a coffee table. But I’ve been telling people that I joined the local roller derby league.

Dress: Vintage

Belt: eBay

Shoes: Vivienne Westwood for Melissa

Bag: Vintage

Sunglasses: eBay

Beaded Bacelet: Gift

Tiny pink ring: Christmas cracker find

Heart-shaped sunglasses make everything in life ten times better. I highly recommend them!