Bear necessities...

140 United Buddy Bears have popped up in Paris to promote peace, tolerance and understanding. The fibreglass bears stand 2m tall and each pays tribute to a country from around the world. You'll find them lined up on the Champ de Mars, next to the Eiffel Tower, during October and November and they've certainly proved a hit with tourists and locals alike.

The Buddy Bears have made their way around the globe since 2002. They visited Sydney in 2006 and I even had my photo taken with one in Berlin in 2010. Now that I know the back story it all makes perfect sense! While they might look like they're involved in a high stakes stick-up, these colourful bears welcome everyone with open arms and make you want to go in for a hug.

Kangaroo sighting!

I was walking near the Palais de Tokyo museum the other day and something stopped me in my tracks. There is a long staircase right next to the museum that leads down to the river and, to my surprise, some clever spark has painted these little guys (pictured below) hopping up and down the steps. It certainly brought a smile to my face and made me think of home...

Dorchester Collection Fashion Prize

On October 16 the Hotel Plaza Athenee played host to the 2012 Dorchester Collection Fashion Prize, which recognises emerging talent in the fashion industry. Five designers had been shortlisted for the final including Augstin Teboul, Calla, IRM Design, Les Garcons Paris and Quentin Veron.

Here are some of the pieces showcased on the night...

But it was French-German label Augustin Teboul who captured the attention of the jury and was crowned this year's winner. Well deserved...

The Plaza Athenee is an immaculately presented hotel. It has been featured in movies and TV shows (like the final season of Sex and the City), as well as countless fashion shoots. It was a privilege to see inside and the staff couldn't have been more helpful. After the winner was announced on the night, guests enjoyed champagne and hors d'oeuvres (prepared by Alain Ducasse's team) in the courtyard. It was a hugely enjoyable night.

Autumn is all around...

The temperatures have dropped, the leaves are falling...

Autumn is definitely in the air.

Street style @ Paris Fashion Week...

Paris was buzzing during Fashion Week and pretty much everywhere you looked there were interesting trends on show. Here are some street style snaps from Paris. Enjoy...

The ladies...

The gents...