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Wattle Eve


Even though I've been here nearly 10 years, I still find myself living across days. Currently, I wake up in the morning and it is still the same day in Australia, but by the end of my work day, it's officially tomorrow as we all know Australia exists in the future.

This is fun as it means I get to enjoy things over multiple days, as celebrations usually start "the night before" for me. As is the case with Wattle Day. It is celebrated on September 1st in Australia as it is the first day of Spring, and because Golden Wattle is the national floral emblem of Australia. It is also one of the first flowers to bloom, so is closely associated with the start of spring, and brighter days.

Even though it is still August 31st here, I've decided to wear my Wattle outfit today, as on a "month" basis, it is the last day of Summer, and it is the beginning of the end of the blooming cycle. The first day of Autumn (or fall, as my Canadian friends say) is not until September 22, the equinox, but I'll take it!

As the national floral emblem of Australia, Golden Wattle has always held a special place in my heart as an expat. Green and gold are the Aussie "colours", despite not being on our national flag, and it is because of Wattle. It's also part of the reason why I have a Golden Wattle tattoo!

Of course I had to put my own spin on it, so I decided to have the "Wattle Babies" characters from whimsical Australian artist, May Gibbs. I like to explain them as "Australian bush fairies", and they bring a smile to my face every time I look at them. May Gibbs describes them as the "the sunshine of the bush" and that they "brighten Winter days with their yellow clothes and cheerful hearts", which is something I aspire to on many levels.


I'll probably wear more Wattle tomorrow, but today, on Wattle Eve, I've chosen to wear my special Wattle Day tribute outfit. I hope the Wattle Babies, and Golden Wattle in general may brighten your day, as we all need an extra bit of brightness in our lives at the moment.




Dress and Headband by Rummage Style with Nerida Hansen fabric
Shirt via Thrift Shop (for $2!)
Wattle Babies Brooch by May Gibbs x Erstwilder
Golden Wattle Earrings by Molly Coombs Marr
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