Smile and Style

OOTD - Blue Palaazo's

2012-02-12T07:05:00.002+02:00

These blue palazzo pants from Woolworths are so comfy! And very versatile too - they look great with solids, but also with prints.

Yesterday we kicked off our wedding plans by going wedding venue shopping. I think we've found the place, but to be sure, will be looking at a few more on my list today. So hold thumbs everybody!

I'm so excited :)

I hope you're all having wonderful weekends.

Woolworths embellished sandals * Woolworths palazzo pants * Cotton On shirt

xxx

Nail art for Lazy Girls

2012-02-06T19:22:00.002+02:00

A few weeks ago I bought some "nail stickers" from Mr Price. For a few ZAR's I thought I would try them out.

They've been sitting in my nail box for a while, so I decided to take them for a spin yesterday.

Super easy to apply, and with zero drying time, these little nail stickers are pretty convenient for some funky nails on the go.

So, I love the print and I love the convenience.

But did find that they started curling up at the edges - as you can see on the index finger of my right hand. Anyway, not such a big deal, seeing as these only last between one and two days before they need to be yanked off.

Perhaps practice makes perfect - I will be buying more of these just to keep for those days when your paws need a pick-me-up.

xxx

Cat and Mouse

2012-02-05T18:59:00.003+02:00

iPads aren't just for humans, you know.

The other day we downloaded an app called Games for Cats, which is, as the name suggests, a little game for cats.

All Frankie needs to do is chase a little purple mouse around the screen!

At first we didn't get a reaction from her - it appeared I was more intrigued and ended up thrashing my fingers away at the screen like a mental patient.

But as you can see from the above snaps, she soon got into it and started tapping her little paws against the screen - so cute!

xxx

Preppy Pastels

2012-02-04T19:50:00.002+02:00

I'm tired of Summer now.

I can't wait for chilly winds to rear their heads so I can layer up!

Pastels are pretty :)

xxx

feathers, skulls and stones

2012-02-01T20:13:00.002+02:00

As promised - new jewels.

I particularly like the little skull earrings. You might remember the matching skull ring I bought a few months ago?

All jewellery courtesy of Sass Diva.

xxx

new buys

2012-01-29T14:46:00.003+02:00

Shopping fixes everything.

Whenever I'm feeling sad, lonely, angry, happy, excited - heck, just plain whenever - I love to go shopping. And with all the sales on at the moment, the temptation is as strong as ever.

I digress slightly - these are the goodies I picked up this weekend.

Thank you Accesorize, Jay Jay's and Cotton On.

The spending didn't stop there... jewellery post to follow shortly.

xxx

work it

2012-01-24T19:56:00.002+02:00

It's almost the end of January 2012 already guys! And as scary as that may be, it also comes with the reality that most of us are back at the office.

Boo.

I decided that 2012 will be the Year of the Heel.

Running in heels isn't that bad - just make sure you have someone waiting at home for you to give you a much needed foot rub every night.

xxx

Necklace Hooks

2012-01-23T20:02:00.002+02:00

The only problem with owning too many necklaces and other items of jewellery is storage!

It's easy to chuck everything in a box and allow everything to twist and entwine into each other, but that's boring.

So I bought some hooks and decided to display my necklaces in all their glory in my "jewellery nook".

xxx

versatile blogger

2012-01-21T18:05:00.004+02:00

I received a lovely little surprise when I logged on for a wee blogging sesh earlier this afternoon.

Special lady Lauryn over at Bracelets and Bangles notified me that I received a Versatile Blogger Award. How lovely!

Thank you Lauryn - my heart feels happy today.

Rules:

1. Thank the person that gave you the award and link back to their blog.

2. Share seven facts about yourself.

3. Send the award onto 15 other blogger's whose blogs you appreciate and notify them of the award.

7 Facts:

* I am one year away from completing my Honours Degree in Psychology.

* I'm obsessed with my cat, Frankie. I talk to her as if she's a human baby.

* I'm paranoid about having volume dials on even numbers. If the volume is on an odd number I can't function properly until it's set to an even number.

* I am particularly neat.

* As a kid, I always wanted to be a vet when I was older.

* Instead of being born in the Eighties, I think I should have lived through them.

* I love tea and champagne - separately, of course.

Nominated Blogs:

www.loveaffairwithfashion.blogspot.com

www.catversushuman.blogspot.com

www.themawyouwishfor.blogspot.com

www.kissblushandtell.com

www.thisismeinspired.blogspot.com

www.daveydarling.blogspot.com

www.thepapermulberry.blogspot.com

www.lovemademedoitx.blogspot.com

www.emmajanenation.com

www.theprettyblog.com

www.bohemianmusings.blogspot.com

www.brunchatsaks.blogspot.com

www.lovinglysimple.blogspot.com

www.ohhappyday.com

www.teenfashiondiary.blogspot.com

xxx

ombre lips

2012-01-17T08:44:00.004+02:00

Okay, so I've got the ombre hair trend in the bag. Done and dusted.

My next task is to nail the ombre lips trend.

Yup, lips. Turning your smackers all different shades of wonderful!

As it is early morning and I have to prep for work now, I've saved this how-to tutorial for when I have a bit of spare time to play around.

If you can't wait, go here for a little lesson in ombre lip mastery.

xxx

Anthropologie Alphabet Mugs

2012-01-08T14:38:00.003+02:00

How adorbs are these Alphabet mugs from Anthropologie?

My mug cupboard is currently filled with mis-matched cups and mugs and I'd love to get a set of really cool mugs for big helpings of coffee and chai tea in the morning.

If you fancy them as much as I do then go here and take a peek at them.

xxx

Body Shop goodies

2012-01-07T10:19:00.003+02:00

I simply adore Body Shop products.

I have a very sensitive skin and have yet to have a problem with their stuff- touch wood!

The Body Shop are currently having one of their amazing sales, of which I always go mad in.

Their Olive Shower Gel smells divine, I'm not too keen on smelling all fruity and sweet, so the olive scent from this is great - wonderfully refreshing.

The Brazil Nut Body Scrub is great - it's not a very harsh exfoliator and it smells lovely and creamy! Love it.

My favourite products have to be from the Vitamin E range though.

I use the Vitamin E Facial Cleanser as I find it very gentle and it doesn't dry my skin out like some other face washes that I've used.

The Vitamin E Face Mist is my favs though! Absolutely adore it. I keep this bottle at home with me for a little refreshing spritz every now and then, but I'm seriously contemplating buying one for the handbag and one for my office drawer too.

Beautifully refreshing and invigorating when your skins feeling a bit gross.

xxx

glitter

2012-01-05T16:08:00.003+02:00

I effing love glitter!

xxx

messy buns

2012-01-03T16:00:00.004+02:00

I love a good messy bun.

Summertime is perfect for this hairstyle as it means I can just scrape everything up and away and still look "alright".

xxx

Welcome 2012

2011-12-31T16:17:00.004+02:00

Just popping in to wish everyone a fun and safe New Years Eve!

May 2012 be filled with all the happiness and success you wish for...

xxx

Christmas

2011-12-29T17:52:00.004+02:00

Christmas 2011 has come and gone.

I always find the build up to Christmas so exciting! This year was no different, and at 25 years old I still find myself as anxious and happy about Christmas as ever before!

Myself and Craig hosted a little drinks and snacks shindig at our house on Christmas eve, complete with egg nog (which was suprisingly laborious to make). I slaved away in the kitchen all day prepping a cheese platter, making scrummy egg nog, constructing my own bacon wrapped sausages (are these not called Angels on Horseback? Anyone know?), and I even made my own truffles - not shown here as they didn't set properly and looked like little plops of pooh on a plate on the evening (they were, however, most delicious the next morning!)

Christmas Day was spent at my folks' place - a full on Christmas dinner that did not disappoint!

I actually ate so much that I didn't even get to pudding - shameful, I know!

I hope everyone out there had equally as an enjoyable Christmas as I!

xxx

Christmas Wishes

2011-12-24T15:29:00.002+02:00

As the afternoon slowly wraps up and all my festive snacks are prepped and ready to be munched on this evening, I wanted to quickly pop by and wish everyone a fantastic Christmas weekend.

Have happy, yummy, family filled fun wherever you are in the world.

Christmas loves and hugs!

xxx

Christmas List 2011

2011-12-21T21:00:00.002+02:00

Over the years, I find my Christmas lists becoming more practical - I must be growing up!

On top of the Christmas list this year is Tom Ford's White Patchouli fragrance... a truly sensual smelling experience!

Other necessities that I haven't been able to get myself during the year, and so have moved on to other people lists, includes Dermalogica's Microfoliant (that stuff is just amazing), Body Shop Vitamin E face mist, The Black Keys new album "El Camino", sugar bowls, carry-alls and lots of home decor.

I hope everyone is having wonderful festive seasons.

Christmas is only 3 sleeps away - yippee!

xxx

Belated Outfit Posts

2011-12-12T21:19:00.005+02:00

I've been wearing lots of brights of late - the Summer weather must be rubbing off on me!

Lots of pinks and lots of prints!

Now on the downward decline into the Christmas season and I'm so excited, it's my absolute favourite time of year.

xxx

It's Christmas Time!

2011-12-11T22:23:00.004+02:00

I have been itching to put my Christmas decorations up, and I am happy to announce that it is finally acceptable to do so!

Sadly, October is too soon in the year, but if I had it my way I would keep my Christmas tree around all year long.

Although the house is now full of candles, fairy lights, fake red berries and Christmas trees, I still find myself buying more and more with each visit to the shops!

Happy Christmas wishes to everyone - have a fantastic festive season!

Be safe, but most of all, be merry.

xxx

Festive Fashion

2011-12-05T20:35:00.003+02:00

Festive Fashion by jojotaylor

It's that time of the year again - the time to plan gorgeously over the top imaginary wishlists for events such as the end of year office party, Christmas dinner, and New Years Eve.

This is my pick of the crop. I so wish I could make this all magically appear in the ol' wardrobe. I'm now very uninspired when I open up my wardrobe to the same old drab things day after day - good thing Santa is still alive right! (I'm talking to you, Mom and Dad. Yup, you too, Craig).

xxx

special

2011-11-27T21:55:00.003+02:00

I've just finished off the most special weekend ever.

Craig proposed to me yesterday afternoon, and I was soon whisked off to spend the night at the Westcliff Hotel in 5 star luxury with my new fiance.

I'm the happiest clam in the world right now - cannot get this stupid smile off my face!

Much love to all!

xxx

whatcha got there, hmm?

2011-11-20T19:43:00.002+02:00

What's in the box then?

Well, only about 30 bottles of nail varnish, that's all.

I'm BIG into nail art lately - a boring strip of red polish just won't do.

I actually nabbed me some great matte top coat yesterday - posts to follow shortly.

In other, vaguely related news, I joined Pinterest this weekend and boy oh boy am I loving all the fantastic things I'm finding there (loads of great nail ideas by the way hee!).

You can find me on Pinterest here

Now go forth and paint, dammit! Paint!

xxx

Home Inspiration - Living Rooms

2011-11-18T15:05:00.002+02:00

Above is a sample of my current home inspirations.

I often obsess over decor magazines and blogs, wishing for bits and pieces from this room, and that room, oooh and this room!

I especially love the second to last lounge - I've always wanted a wall that's been made over into a giant book shelf.

Gorgeous!

xxx

Animal Print Nails

2011-11-06T21:36:00.003+02:00

Fancy my first attempt at leopard print nail art?

After watching the tutorial over on Gem Fatale's blog (the post is yonks old though!) I was most keen to try it out myself, and it's really so easy to do!

I thought the end result came out alright - bit of a dodgy version of an animal print, wouldn't mind playing around with other colours next time (check out the smudge on my index finger - boo!).

xxx

Take a Peek Inside My House - Part II

2011-10-29T14:45:00.003+02:00

Don't know about you, but I just love looking at pictures of other people's houses.

So here we go, take a look inside mine.

Things are forever changing in my house - I'm currently obsessed with filling the place with candles. And knobs. Doorknobs that is! Hee.

Off to watch Kings of Leon live in concert tonight - yay!

Hope you're all having fantastic weekends.

xxx

break

2011-10-27T11:50:00.002+02:00

Apologies for the silence - I am on study leave, and in the middle of some serious Psychology exams, so needless to say, much concentration must be had in other spectrums of my life right now - sob!

Regular posting to commence from next week. Promise.

xxx

Spring

2011-10-20T18:39:00.005+02:00

* 3.1 phillip lim draped sleeveless tee * jane norman floral shorts * valentino studded leather ballerina flats * vintage game set thatch shoulder bag * michael kors chronograph watch * bex rox gold plated brass donkey ring * karen walker sunglasses * helen kaminski provence 12 straw hat * tom ford lipstick: spanish pink *

xxx

ombre hair

2011-10-19T20:01:00.007+02:00

I'm normally pretty boring with my hair in terms of styling and cutting it. It always a straight trim, no colour, no highlights, no nothing!

I decided to change all of this a couple of weeks ago when I "ombre-d" myself!

The ombre hair trend isn't exactly recent, but I just love the effect, although in the photo's it looks a bit high - it's really not!

xxx

Sunday Suppers - Homemade Beef & Guinness Pie

2011-10-09T20:25:00.006+02:00

Nothing quite ends off a weekend like a slow cooked pie, made from scratch!

I will admit that this was my very first attempt at making a pie, and although I classify this more like a stew with a little pastry lid on top, it's still very delicious and easy to make.

*Seal cubes of beef in a pan.

*Transfer to casserole dish, and in the same pan, add chopped onions and carrots, garlic and spices. Allow onions to brown slightly, then add the Guinness (we used the whole 440ml can - hic!).

*Simmer for a couple of minutes and add flour, or some sort of cook-in sauce - I used a "Hotpot Stew" powder, but the brand evades me for now!

*Stir continuously and allow the Guinness to reduce and flavour the sauce. Now I will admit at this point, while not following any recipe, I thought this was "it" for the pie. I was wrong. The Guinness was reeeeeally quite bitter, so add about half a tin of chopped tomatoes to the sauce.

*Add the sealed beef and diced potato and leave to simmer gently for as long as possible. We left it for almost two hours (!!)

*When ready, add to oven dish and leave to cool.

*Once the filling is cool, cover with puff pastry and brush with egg yolk.

*Place in the oven at about 190C for 35-40 min, or until the pastry topping is crispy and a lovely golden brown colour.

Slice open, plate up and enjoy!

xxx

Woolworth's 'Fruits' Body Range

2011-10-06T19:50:00.003+02:00

Summer is on it's way, and with that, Woolworth's have just revamped and introduced their new 'FRUITS' bath and body range.

Body washes, lotions, body butters, scrubs and lip balms, the range comes in a variety of different fragrances, such as Berry Crush, Peach Blush, and Lime Tang (which I think will be my favourite!).

And as usual, Woolworths body products are dermatalogically tested and against animal testing, being approved by Beauty Without Cruelty - a big thumbs up in my eyes!

Available in store from 15 September 2011.

xxx

fairytale wedding

2011-10-03T19:06:00.004+02:00

As promised, some pics of my cousin's beautiful wedding that I attended this weekend in Durban.

Everything was just perfect and it was truly gorgeous!

xxx

hometown weekend

2011-10-02T19:37:00.005+02:00

I spent the weekend at home in Durban. Well, not so much 'home' as my hometown I suppose.

There is nothing more refreshing than spending quality time with your dearest friends in a place that you haven't been home to in over a year (I'm terrible with things like that).

Weddings, parties and other significant occasions should not be the only reasons for me visiting the East Coast!

Wedding pics of my cousins matrimony to follow shortly!

I hope you have all had fabulous weekends.

xxx

wedge

2011-09-25T21:07:00.002+02:00

As Summer approaches, and we are able to bare our feet again, I find myself increasingly obsessing over a wedge heel.

I just love wedges!

*Pierre Hardy colour block suede wedge*

*Chloe leather wedge sandal*

*Luichiny buckle up orange and hot pink wedge*

*Jimmy Choo Vienna cork wedge*

*American Chica Irregular Choice wedge*

xxx

2011 photo diary

2011-09-24T13:44:00.002+02:00

Photo's stretching the length of 2011 so far...

from the iphone

xxx

Depeapa win!

2011-09-17T20:50:00.002+02:00

Look at my new friend - isn't he lovely?

I'm in two minds about what to name this fuzzy faced chap - I'm thinking he's either a Bernard or a Pierre. Any suggestions will be graciously welcomed.

I won this gorgeous little Depeapa tote bag off of EmmaJaneNation's blog.

Thanks Emma!

I just love him!

I can't wait to introduce him to everyone.

If you haven't ever visted Emma's blog, please do. It's just wonderful - one of my daily reads!

xxx

Rugby Breakfasts

2011-09-14T20:29:00.005+02:00

The 2011 Rugby World Cup started on Friday, 9th September 2011.

For us South Africans, a good rugby match with the Springboks playing against any other team is a sure-fire way of getting us going! Think beer, biltong (dried meat, or "jerky" I suppose?), crisps and lots of fun!

Unfortunately due to time differences, being that the RWC is being hosted by New Zealand this year, all of the games are being aired live in the mornings here in SA.

Which is perfectly alright as it allows for some fantastic champagne breakfasts to be had around the braai (the barbeque, foreign visitors).

On Sunday we had one such morning - champagne and orange juice, eggs 'n bacon, beer, biltong, and strawberries!

xxx

Neighbourgoods Market

2011-09-11T17:38:00.003+02:00

Yesterday marked the launch of the Neighbourgoods Market here in Jo'burg.

Although I'll admit that I got there a bit too late and most of the delicious treats were sold out, the vibe was fantastic (and the Bloody Mary's weren't half bad either!).

I'm most pleased that this is now a permanent feature in the city, I have plans to get to the market much earlier next time to sample some olives, cheeses, homemade pizzas and the likes!

Yum!

If you fancy checking it out for yourself, head on over to 73 Juta Street, Braamfontein. Make sure it's a beautiful sunny day like yesterday was so that you can chill on the roof with a fruit slushie or a Gin and Tonic, mmm!

xxx

Wine Not!

2011-09-05T19:19:00.003+02:00

Yesterday we took a drive out to Magaliesburg for the Cellar Rats Wine Festival.

The weather couldn't have been better. Sunny and warm - perfect wine tasting weather!

Hic!

xxx

weekend in pictures

2011-08-28T15:21:00.003+02:00

I hope everybody had as much fun as I did this weekend.

Red wine, shopping, tea and cake, and friends.

xxx

necklace love

2011-08-19T16:52:00.002+02:00

More necklace love, this time in the form of a gorgeous little geometrical black and gold number.

Worn with GAP skirt, W Collection shirt and Mr P pumps.

xxx

bows and stripes

2011-08-14T15:11:00.004+02:00

Amidst all the food and interior decor posts, I welcome you to a little outfit post!

With the weather warming up slightly here in the Southern Hemisphere, we're slowly shedding our Winter coats. I bravely went out today with just a long sleeved vest on. Yup, no spencer, no vest underneath, just the shirt. And it was lovely!

Worn with big pink bow and my new loafers - love!

The necklace was a steal from a local charity shop - isn't it gorgeous?

xxx

Meatfree Monday - Homemade pasta with Haloumi & Basil.

2011-08-09T19:46:00.003+02:00

Another Monday, another meatfree.

And I'm really thoroughly enjoying them to be honest!

This dish is a winner, and once again, really simple to make.

You don't need to make your own pasta, of course shop bought will work (although if you can buy it fresh I would strongly advise - the difference between dry and fresh is amazing!)

For this one you'll need a block of haloumi, some fresh basil, half a punnet of cherry or Rosa tomatoes, an onion, garlic, and your salt & pepper.

Onion and garlic with olive oil.

Add chopped basil and tomatoes.

Add haloumi right at the end for roughly five minutes, until it has softened and coloured slightly.

Season.

Add cooked pasta to pan of ingredients, toss and gobble down with a glass of Pinot Grigio!

Mmm!

xxx

new buys.

2011-08-08T16:34:00.004+02:00

4 day weekend woo hoo!

Let's celebrate by buying crap!

Well, it's not all crap, but I do think I could live without the gold rubber duckie and the I Love You soap, don't you?

xxx

Prints.

2011-08-08T09:25:00.003+02:00

I love prints.

I love mixing prints with other prints.

I love running the risk of looking like a bag lady, or a crazy cat lady, but heck, just can't resist a good print!

One mixture to steer away from though - mixed animal prints.

Leopard and zebra? No thanks.

*Marc by Marc Jacobs denim sweater* *Rebecca Minkoff tie shirt* *Topshop knit top* *Miss Selfridge tribal print knit* *McQ by Alexander McQueen legging* *Topshop cotton shorts* *Peacocks crepe pants* *Topshop animal print shoes* *Timex metal watch*

xxx

Decorex 2011

2011-08-05T09:52:00.004+02:00

Decorex 2011 starts today in Jozi, yippeeee!

Running from the 5-9 August 2011, there will be lots of decor and interior exhibitions, garden stalls and loads more. And some fab food joints too, I believe.

I'm really looking forward to this, especially with the new house and all that.

Photo's to follow!

images via weheartit

xxx

Double Coat

2011-07-26T21:16:00.002+02:00

Appropriately posted given the freezing weather conditions outside! Best keep warm my fellow Southern Hemisphere readers.

xxx

Double Coat by jojotaylor featuring a pea coat

Miu Miu fur coat
$3,605 - miumiu.com

Balmain pea coat
€3.500 - shopmrsh.com

Stella McCartney cape coat
$1,275 - kirnazabete.com

Leather jacket
£805 - flannelsfashion.com

3 1 Phillip Lim cropped jacket
$695 - lagarconne.com

Wool swing coat
$170 - topshop.com

Kindle

2011-07-23T19:55:00.008+02:00

This post is so overdue it's scary!

It's been over a month since my birthday, and over a month since I received my lovely Kindle!

Thanks Craig!

Reading and obtaining books is just so easy, it's literally a click of a button. I love reading, but recently have just found no time to scrape the shelves of the book stores for good reads. And now that I have the Kindle I'm already three books down!

I can feel myself getting more intelligenter and more intellectualler by the minute. Hee!

xxx

Meatfree Monday - Homemade Gnocchi with Mushrooms

2011-07-19T17:38:00.005+02:00

Check it out - homemade gnocchi. Made by me.

Well not completely by me. Craig lovingly prepped and made the gnocchi and I made the mushroom and white wine cream sauce.

The gnocchi was surprisingly easy to make, and takes literally two minutes to cook.

All you need to do is follow a basic pasta recipe of flour and eggs, but this time add roughly 1 kilo of potatoes. Boil them, peel them once cooked, and press through a ricer. Add the egg and flour and knead softly into a ball, which will then be rolled, chopped and pressed gently with a fork (this is so that the pasta sauce clings and sits nicely in the little gnocchi balls, mmm).

The mushroom sauce? Mushrooms, chopped onion and parsley. White wine. Cream. BAM!

The gnocchi was delightfully soft, but very filling indeed, so be careful with your portion sizes.

Scrumptious!

xxx

stockings

2011-07-17T18:52:00.007+02:00

This post has taught me two things.

One - I am in desperate need of a shoe upgrade.

And two - my legs and feet photograph horribly! From now on I'm afraid it will just be photos of my mug and nothing below my waist, thank you.

Vanity aside, here are a few of my latest stocking buys, which I am loving during this chilly Winter season!

*Falke, *Mr P and *Woolworths.

xxx

hey there, pretty legs!

2011-07-10T17:58:00.003+02:00

Introducing my most current obsession - stockings.

Patterned stockings to be precise! I'm slowly growing my collection (outfit pics to follow shortly). Hearts, stripes, dots, everything! I'm searching for the ones seen above on Miss Olsen, but haven't yet been so successful. Aren't they just lovely? I love the feel and look of stockings. So feminine and sexy aren't they!

xxx

pleats please

2011-07-10T17:48:00.005+02:00

Loving pleats right now, especially in blouses and trousers.

via refinery29

xxx

the freshest, most delicious pasta. made by me.

2011-07-04T19:59:00.007+02:00

One of the gifts I received for my birthday last month was this fantastic pasta maker.

You wouldn't believe how easy it is to make your own pasta. And how delicious it is. Eggs, fine flour and a pinch of salt. That's it. And once it's made it literally takes three to five minutes to cook in boiling water.

And you know what? It's really fun to make! (I'm making some more for dinner tonight in fact). The dish above is one of my favourites and so simple to make. Prawns, chilli, garlic, lemon juice and olive oil. Pan. Cook. Toss with pasta. BAM!

xxx

my old lady jersey

2011-06-22T18:22:00.004+02:00

Another charity store goodie that I have yet to share with you!

At just R20, you can't even buy a Happy Meal for that these days.

Just love the detail, which wraps around from the front, up the neck and along the shoulder of the jersey.

Such fantastic colours too, it basically jumped off the rail and into my arms!

xxx

Perfumes on a Platter

2011-06-16T18:48:00.005+02:00

I love my perfumes.

Birthdays and christmas's and any other celebratory occasion in between then are my opportunities to ask for another perfume to add to my collection!

My most recent addition is the Jimmy Choo eau de Parfum - light earthy tones and a lovely feminine fragrance.

xxx

Birthday.

2011-06-15T19:18:00.005+02:00

This past Saturday was possibly the most important day this year.

It was my birthday.

After a morning of being spoilt and showered with attention, I celebrated my birthday with a lovely lunch with my family and close friends.

Wine, champagne, mezze's and presents, of course!

xxx

* Take a peek inside my House *

2011-06-10T16:53:00.006+02:00

Hi! I promise to dutifully resume regular postings from today onwards... it's been an absolutely hectic month at work and I find myself coming home in the afternoons, jumping into a nice hot bath, and then relaxing in front of the telly all evening in my cosy PJ's. But to reward you all for being so patient I have taken a few snaps of my house, which is becoming more and more "homely" by the day. Birthdays are wonderful things because you can ask for all the expensive and opulent goodies that you would not normally treat yourself to on any normal Saturday morning. The rustic treated metal mirror and frame, as well as corner lamp were a gift from my lovely folks - thanks Mom and Dad!

And you see the gold framed mirror above? Would you believe me if I told you that I nabbed the frame from a charity shop for R20.00 a couple of months ago. All I did was take it down to the local hardware store to have some mirror fitted... et voila! A gorgeously ornate mirror that nows lives in my bedroom.

Another favourite of mine is the wire heart which I have hooked onto the trellis outside in my garden. I found it at a florist in Durban quite a while ago, they normally do great little presentations by wrapping the flowers in between the holes and wirey bits (my vocabulary concerning flora and fauna eludes me for the moment, apologies).

So there we go, a very brief snippet of some of my favourite home goodies for the moment.

Keep checking back for more as I slowly build my interior to resemble that of something we would find on one of those fancy home decor blogs or magazines.

xxx

UO Accessory Wishlist

2011-06-08T19:54:00.004+02:00

I've just been spending my night "window shopping" over at the Urban Outfitters site here.

My favourites above:

Miista Navy Wooden Platform

House of Harlow Multi-Way Earring

Metal Bunny Ring

Large Woven Aztec Satchel

Gold Metal Bridge Sunglasses

Cooperative Plaid Ladylike Wallet

Ostrich Vanity Case

xxx

Glass Jewellery Stands

2011-05-31T19:17:00.003+02:00

The other day I went to the Consol glass shop in Woodmead, Johannesburg.

If you're in the area, do yourself a favour and stop by this little hidden treasure.

The shop stocks the most gorgeous glass creations, from cookie jars to votives.

And these cupcake stands - ideal for cute presentations and just big enough for one cupcake.

My use for them? Jewellery holders, of course!

The small jar is a French sugar bowl that houses all my smaller earrings that once got lost in the bottom reaches of my jewellery bag.

Thanks Consol!

xxx

This Leather Bag...

2011-05-27T14:59:00.003+02:00

...is totally going on my Birthday List.

image via glamcanyon

xxx

feathers

2011-05-25T14:49:00.002+02:00

xxx

cuff me, officer!

2011-05-19T13:45:00.003+02:00

Forget dainty little bracelets - cuffs are the current arm candy favourites.

My top picks include these ladies, but click on over to Refinery29 for more yummy wrist warmers...

images via Refinery29

xxx

pee jays

2011-05-14T21:27:00.003+02:00

Shopping for new pyjama's is sometimes even better than shopping for new clothes.

It makes me so happy that I want to pose in front of the webcam with no makeup and a high ponytail.

And my crisp, brand new pink and white polka dot jammies, of course!

xxx

thrifted gems

2011-05-05T20:57:00.006+02:00

Ladies and gentlemen - behold! - my most recent thrifted buys:

The woolen tartan coat, complete with bat wing and fantastic deep front pockets.

And the sequinned, shoulder-padded, glittery 80's number that would make Gloria Estefan challenge me to an arm wrestle in the hopes of winning off me.

Delicious and cheap (score!), and perfect for Winter!

Both found at the Hospice on Louis Botha Ave. Johannesburg.

xxx

Details of a Good Weekend

2011-05-02T13:16:00.006+02:00

1. Drank tea. Lots of tea.

2. Watched Fantastic Mr Fox (best movie ever!) for the 7th or 8th time, I can't be sure.

3. Listened to a lot of Queen - particular favourites being Radio Ga Ga and I Want To Break Free. Long live Freddie!

4. Lay in bed and watched both seasons of Flight of the Conchords, again.

5. Finally managed to watch the whole of Where the Wild Things Are. I thought it strange to have the book as a coffee table read for guests and not really have any knowledge of the movie up until now. Yay!

6. Baked choc chip cookies and scones. Mmm.

7. Watched the Royal Wedding (duh!)

So, yes, all in all a very lazy and unproductive weekend, mainly made up of tv watching and eating. One of the best I've had in a long time!

How was your weekend?

xxx

recent buys (yup, more tan and more leopard print)

2011-04-30T14:51:00.009+02:00

An array of fresh goodies from Woolworths, Mr Price and Edgars.

xxx

Winter 2011 Accessories

2011-04-24T11:59:00.006+02:00

I told you I have a crush on neutrals this chilly season!

Lace boot
$90 - zara.com

Les Prairies de Paris flat boot
$428 - lagarconne.com

Stella McCartney woven handbag
$1,595 - shopsavannahs.com

House of Harlow 1960 tribal jewelry
160 EUR - stylebop.com

Oasis oversized scarve
18 GBP - houseoffraser.co.uk

Missoni browning hat (Turban)
98 EUR - jades24.com

xxx

all the pretty birds

2011-04-23T17:43:00.002+02:00

My most recent favourites from all the pretty birds

I'm a big fan of neutrals this coming Winter, as you can tell!

Will be drawing lots of inspiration from our friends over the seas in the Northern hemisphere.

xxx

green

2011-04-18T20:42:00.006+02:00

Winter has arrived in South Africa!

We appear to have decided to skip Autumn this year and plunge straight into the low teens, temperature-wise, it would seem.

I personally love Winter - I love the layers, the scarves, the gloves and jackets.

Quick outfit post here. I realised after yesterday's wardrobe drama that I am very much in need of proper Winter clothes. Tights and t-shirts just won't cut it I'm afraid.

thrifted green blazer. Edgars leopard print oversized tee. Woolworths jeans and gold bow-detailed pumps. vintage Tigger brooch.

xxx

handle with care

2011-04-17T14:01:00.002+02:00

I hope you're all having fantastic weekends!

This morning I went for tea and cake with my mama at Petit Four deli and decor.

And as I was browsing the shelves, secretly wishing for all the gorgeous little trinkets and interior design beauts, I spotted these beautiful little ceramic rose door handles.

I have been searching for the perfect pieces to give my bedside tables their much needed facelift.

What do you think?

I just love them!

Now if you will all excuse me, I'm going upstairs to open and close my bedside drawer for the whole afternoon.

Open. Close. Open. Close.

xxx

where the wild things are

2011-04-12T19:05:00.003+02:00

Call me Jersey Shore, but I still love animal print!

Can't get enough of it!

Grrr.

Cupcake Boutique

2011-04-10T19:19:00.005+02:00

After a morning of thrifting (details and posts to follow) I met Craig for a sushi lunch.

Afterwards, I couldn't help but take a squizz in the Cupcake Boutique in Lonehill.

It took a minute of decision making before I walked out of the shop carrying these babies in my grubby paws ready for demolishing.

Strawberries and cream cupcakes with strawberry filling, and Toblerone cupcakes with chocolate ganache filling.

Two cupcakes each.

Gobbled down with a pot of tea.

But hells bells were they scrumptious!

xxx

Powder Blue and Amethyst

2011-04-07T19:05:00.006+02:00

It's pretty much the end of those long Summer days where you're able to wear flowy short skirts and cotton vests.

The air is turning and I'm fairly certain this is one of the last breezy outfits I'll be wearing for a while.

Country Road vest. GAP skirt. Primark belt. Vertigo scarf.

xxx

FUR

2011-04-07T19:02:00.001+02:00

Word.

xxx

desert life

2011-04-03T20:17:00.005+02:00

Aztec prints, brights, leather and denim.

LF's Spring 2011 collection via fashiongonerogue

xxx

Woolworths Winter FASH10N Range

2011-03-29T20:57:00.002+02:00

The first signs of Winter have reached the shores of South Africa (finally!)

And with them, some cosy little numbers from Woolworths too.

This month Woolworths launched their new Winter FASH10N range.

Pronounced "Fashion 10", it focuses on the top ten Winter items for 2011.

My favourites above - including the aviator jacket, snood, and military coat.

Other goodies include the ever popular skinny pant (with a cargo twist to it this chilly season), as well as chunky knits and the cardigan coat.

All available from 23rd March 2011.

xxx

Thursday

2011-03-24T19:37:00.001+02:00

All images via weheartit

xxx

Autumn Hues

2011-03-19T17:22:00.002+02:00

Autumn Hues by jojotaylor featuring a light brown belt

River Island printed top, 20 GBP
Turquoise top, 16 GBP
Jersey knit top, $49
Maison Martin Margiela pants, 250 EUR
Miss Selfridge slouch pants, 38 GBP
Donna Karan platform wedge, 615 GBP
Elle shoes, 30,450 JPY
Skull jewelry, $295
Hermes jewelry, $590
Christian Dior Hypnotic Poison Eau Sensuelle Eau de Parfum for Women..., $72

Woolworths Behind The Scenes Fashion 10

2011-03-18T19:49:00.001+02:00

Hello pretties!

Here in South Africa we have the wonderful luxury of a long weekend this weekend - yay!

Monday 21st March 2011 is Human Rights Day.

It's also the day that Woolworths will be launching their new Winter Fashion 10 range with a cute little TV advert. And I got word on the sneak preview, behind-the-scenes clip.

Snoods, aviator jackets and booties galore!

Yum!

xxx

Anthropologie jewels

2011-03-15T19:08:00.004+02:00

I absolutely adore Anthropologie.

Their website is just so beautiful, if my surname was Moneybags I would without a doubt buy everything - everything - on the site.

I'm not going to bore you all with bedspreads and bathmats, but please just take a look at these jewellery pieces...

How beaut?

Look here for more.

xxx

new treasures

2011-03-09T20:23:00.009+02:00

Let's take a peek into my jewellery box, shall we?

It's been updated with fantastic little pieces lately - I've been a busy girl indeed!

Selection of goodies ranging from Mr Price, Diva, Accessorize and Woolworths Studio W. range.

xxx

new buys

2011-03-05T17:05:00.007+02:00

Tribal print silk vest, animal print oversized tee & black lace bodysuit all Edgars.

Edgars! Doing me so proud of late - I have found some fantastic buys recently. Very chuffed indeed. I love a good buy, and these babies were all on sale at very pleasing prices. Happy face!

xxx

Frankie.

2011-03-02T19:37:00.000+02:00

Love!

xxx

one hundred.

2011-02-26T18:10:00.001+02:00

I awoke to the most pleasant surprise this morning.
I logged in to do a spot of blogging, and there it was --- 100 followers!
Most of my favourite blogs are graced with hundreds, even thousands of followers, but this has made me one times extremely happy chappy and I just want to thank everyone out there for coming back for more and supporting.
I think I'm going to go out and have some red wine now - a glass for every follower.

Hic!

xxx

all you need in one bottle

2011-02-25T12:11:00.002+02:00

Hello beauties!

I nabbed this super comfy, super luxurious long cardi wrap from Charter Club the other day.

Perfect for Autumn.

xxx

3-way Denim

2011-02-22T20:58:00.003+02:00

*sonia rykel ruffled cotton-crepe tank* *drape neck merino sweater (grey)* *hobbs fuchsia blazer* *diesel dark wash jeans* *christian louboutin heels* *betsey johnson boots* *givenchy elme croc bag* *vintage gianfranco ferre sunglasses* *topman usa headwear*

Liv Tyler by Theo Wenner

2011-02-20T20:34:00.003+02:00

Proenza Schouler S/S 2011

Beautiful Liv.

images via fashiongonerogue

U2 360 Tour

2011-02-16T19:45:00.000+02:00

On Sunday night I watched the greatest live concert ever.

This is no exaggeration - U2's 360 degree tour was absolutely out of this world!

I read today that the stage (also known as "The Claw") is now the world record holder for the largest stage ever erected.

The near 100 000 strong crowd was on fire, and the band were sublime!

It was truly an amazing show - Bono was electric!

These are my favourite snaps from the evening.

xxx

awesome interiors

2011-02-16T14:09:00.003+02:00

Hello all...I have news!

Myself and Craig bought a house. Yup. A gorgeous little Georgian looking house. I can't wait to move up and out of our current place - it's crap compared!

So I have, of course, been spending my days searching for inspiration for when we have eventually settled in, which should hopefully be by the end of next month. This is just some of the inspiration I've collected so far.

If anyone has any good decor and interiors sites they can recommend please shout. I can't get enough of this stuff at the moment - truly obsessed, so I am.

xxx

hoooo hoooo

2011-02-06T21:07:00.002+02:00

Thanks Mr Price, this little guy is a real cutie!

I walked past him this morning on the shelf and could not resist - who doesn't want a spectacle clad owl around their neck?

xxx

varnish

2011-02-04T17:40:00.001+02:00

* New favs colours for the season *

images via weheartit

untitled 24

2011-02-03T19:10:00.001+02:00

Babes!

via Tumblr

xxx

Dotty.

2011-01-29T21:13:00.002+02:00

Wearing - polka dot vest from Trenery with navy GAP skirt and Primark belt.

The weather was great today!

Just got back from a yummy dinner of grilled prawns at my folks place!

Craig's been away in Cape Town all week, but he's back tomorrow morning thank goodness!

I'm so excited, my little heart is already starting to skip and jump and dance.

xxx

Kingsley Heath Bag

2011-01-27T21:39:00.002+02:00

As promised, here are some details of my fantastic new Kingsley Heath bag that Mom brought back for me from Cape Town (thanks Mama - you should go away more often tee hee!).

It has awesome, sturdy leather straps and smells like rustic leather.

Mmmm!

Florence is on Fire

2011-01-25T16:51:00.004+02:00

I love Florence Welch of Florence and the Machine fame - I think she is just fantastic!

I so admire her eclectic, unpretentious style, isn't she just so lovely?

Plus, whenever I see snaps of her I always find myself one step closer to becoming a redhead.

Hair envy of note!

xxx

weekend things.

2011-01-23T18:15:00.003+02:00

Ladies and gentlemen, please welcome my new Kingsley Heath bag - my current love!

(A detailed post coming soon)

Spent my Saturday afternoon at the Zoo Lake bowling club drinking gin & tonics and eating calamari and chips - fantastic combo!

Yum yum.

I also baked some cupcakes this afternoon. I'm not the most talented baker around but I suppose these will do.

Have a superb Sunday evening all!

xxx

Go Shorty!

2011-01-16T20:46:00.002+02:00

3 different, yet fabulous shorts & 3 different, yet fabulous looks!

* vince sequinned crepe tshirt * alc henley striped linen tank * thakoon cotton pleated short * topshop multicoloured flower print waistband shorts * christian louboutin panier 120 wedge sandals * converse chuck taylor all star double tongue shoe * chloe billie leather and linen shoulder bag * tom ford campbell light havana sunglasses *

Happy Holidays - Faces and Places

2011-01-15T17:48:00.003+02:00

Happy weekend vibes everyone!

Don't you just love the wee pooch in the photo above?

Trying to sneek a peek (or pinch) of some food at lunch at Bramon Wine Estate in Plettenberg Bay!

Very cute.

And as for that photo of Craig and his silly face - I'm still laughing hee hee!

Bet he won't be though when he finds out I've posted it.

Too bad!

I hope you're all having fantastic weekends wherever you are in the world.

I'm embracing a bit of much needed R & R after a week of hell at work!

Boo.

xxx

Inspiration for the New Year!

2011-01-11T20:39:00.003+02:00

xxx

All via weheartit

Happy Holidays - African Beauty and other Visual Delights

2011-01-09T11:56:00.004+02:00

xxx