New in | Surviving Summer

Surviving this heatwave in style is proving near impossible. I saw someone on Twitter refer to the constant sweating above her lip as a "sweat snor" and pretty much wet myself. A "snor" for my overseas readers, is a moustache in Afrikaans. And right now I have a salty, dewy one perched above my upper lip almost constantly. I feel like I want to ditch the outdoors in favour of being a mall-rat and watching movies all day - which I know is a sin in summer. But I can only take so many consecutive days of constant heat. I caught myself lurking aimlessly in the Woolies frozen food section this weekend and I've eaten my weight in ice cream and chilled watermelon.

I'll stop whinging now and get on with it. It is summer and it is the season to wear all things floaty and floral - but also things that are not polyester. I require soft cotton based fabrics that move and breathe with me. I also don't need any half-moon action showing up either so quick-drying and non-creasing fabrics are whats getting me through this heatwave without looking and smelling like a hot mess.

I spotted Emma's camis when I popped in to her salon in Wynberg to get my lashes done. I had a quick peruse around her showroom next door and immediately fell in love with the soft cotton and beautiful colours. I completely forgot about it until my Dubai trip with my girlfriends in December when Kirst wore this gorgeous strapless playsuit on our desert safari, and I had serious outfit envy. (Yes, I know I've been pretty shoddy with my travel posts and I will be telling you all about Dubai, Bali and Singapore very soon!).
We were hurled through the dunes in a Land Cruiser in the desert heat, followed by dinner in the middle of nowhere, sitting cross-legged on carpets on the floor and eating with our hands. In between all of this we were getting henna designs painted on our hands and feet and riding camels and smoking hookah (not all at the same time just to clarify) - and my jeans and kaftan weren't fairing as well in the style department as K and her lovely little ensemble.
So I made a mission to stalk Emma Brink and see what is new and show you a few favourites that I found. She has a perfect range of summer staples to see you through balmy days at work, the beach, cocktail hour and for your summer getaways too. I'm a big fan of the playsuits and maxi dresses - they're sexy as hell without flashing too much flesh. And they keep a girl cool and comfy.

So other than that inevitable 'sweat snor', you're stylishly sorted.

You can find out more about Emma and her pretty designs here: http://www.emmabrinkdesigns.com

New in | Kirsten Goss OXO

And so the Kirsten Goss wishlist grows longer.....

The latest range, called OXO celebrates 80's teknik - with interesting names like notwist, forma, mars, styks and pop. I might not really get the references as it was a little before my time, but I really don't care because the range is just. so. beautiful.

The pieces are bold yet simple and I love it.

The collection is available online and in-store from the middle of this month.

Pretty Mint at Home | Soil Organics

I’ve recently become acquainted with Soil Organics. They got in touch with me to chat about their range and to let me pick out a few products to sample. It was a girls dream come true. I am starting to collect scented candles for our new home that we’re moving into in August.  So when I saw their scented soya candles I was deliriously happy and popped one into my cart. I also grabbed the coconut handwash and hand cream for my guest bathroom as well – so when you pop in for some tea, you’ll feel like you’re at the spa.

The candle smells so fresh and invigorating unlit, so I couldn’t wait until the move to try it out and now light it up every chance I get. Our home smells like an island getaway – which in this miserable weather is a little bit of luxury and respite from the cold and gloom.

I also have a shopping voucher for Soil Organics to share with one of my pretty readers, so you can spoil yourself with something pretty too. Hint: Just go for the candles - I am restocking with one of each because they are heavenly! Or anything from the coconut range - I am in love.

You just need to make sure you’re following me and SoilOrganics on Twitter, tweet about the giveaway to enter OR pop me an email on prettyintblog@gmail.com with "Soil Organics Giveaway" in the subject line. You have until Friday, 17 July at 5pm to enter. Winner will be announced on Monday, 20 July.

If you buy one thing from the new Mr P Denim Collection

Make it these black overalls. I picked them up earlier this week and couldn't love them more. They're a slimming, skinny fit and I am going to live in them. I can't wait to take them along to our American road trip in two weeks - but I am also going to wear holes in them over the coming winter.

Since our winters aren't too severe, you can pair these with ballet pumps, smoking slippers and skate shoes or even ankle boots and heels. A simple white, chambray or striped shirt or top will tie your look together - its so effortless. I also love the way a leather biker jacket looks over these and a white shirt.
If they're good enough for Olivia Palermo and Blair of Atlantic Pacific, they're certainly good enough for me. Need some styling inspiration? I've sourced a few images from my favourite style mavens below.

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New in | Oakridge denim

Good 'ol Mr P has launched their latest range of denim as well as some amazing in-between season wardrobe staples. Think basics like lightweight parkas, slouchy extra-length blazers, and striped easy fit knits, and of course, some must-have denim.

I am loving the sexy tight fitting dungarees and the high waisted skinny jeans. I already have so many pairs of boyfriend jeans, but considering this pair won't exactly break the bank, I think I'll take those too.

Click on the images to shop up a storm.

*Mr Price affiliated. Please see my ABOUT page for more info.

10 things to do in Cape Town

I'm going on holiday today, so while I'll be freezing cold and rapidly losing my tan (I'll be in Paris so I think I'll cope), I've made a list of 10 things to try in Cape Town this month to keep you busy.

See you in 10 days!

xx


1) See a movie under the stars

This is by far one of my favourite things to enjoy on days when Cape Town's notorious wind isn't blowing. I always book a ticket with a chair (trust me on this one) and then take my own blankets and picnic basket. You've got great company, a gorgeous view, wine, snacks and your favourite movie - all while under the stars on a perfect summer's eve. Does life get any better?
Galileo outdoor cinemas have three venues now. You can enjoy a date night under the stars at Kirstenbosch, V&A Waterfront  and Hillcrest Wine Estate. They've also branched out into the winelands. To find out more about each venue as well as the movie lineup, click here.


2) Get some froyo

Wakaberry is still my favourite froyo spot in Cape Town. I am a sucker for their massive range of toppings and the ever changing flavours. And normally I am not a fan of branded merchandise but their iPhone covers are just the sweetest things ever.

3) Party with 4th street wine

Tonight and next Thursday are the last two events in the KFM Summer Sessions series. Local live acts and plenty of drinks flowing from 4th Street Wines. Tickets won't be easy to come by so check out how to get your hands on some here

4) Perfect your downward dog

Hot Dog yoga in Sea Point is relaxed, and not yet overrun like the other studios. It is also over the road from Nu and a hop, skip and a jump away from the promenade so after yoga class you can pick up a green juice and take a walk by the sea. How very Cape Town of you. Namaste.


5) Reward your efforts with a vegan cupcake

Cupcake Richard (seriously, who wouldn't trust that name?) has managed to take most of the sin out of dessert, while still keeping all the decadence. Vegan cupcakes, with fresh, organic ingredients. Try the lemon cupcakes, those are my favorite.


6) Support local at Fabricate

Locally designed and made clothing, decor, jewellery and more all under one roof. It is dangerous for your wallet, but your home and wardrobe will thank you for it. To find out about opening times, click here.


7) Get festive in your bathtub

Lush has a Christmas range out that is second to none. I've done most of my festive gift shopping here because they make it so easy, and its all so cheerful. Think glittery bath bombs, penguin shaped bubble bath bars, gooey snowman jelly soap, and the usual pretty stuff too. If you're converting a friend to the Lush cult this Christmas, I would suggest the Rose Jam shower gel, the Buffy bar exfoliating bar, The Comforter bubble bath bar, the Popcorn lip scrub and the Ocean Salt face and body scrub. Oh and also Big Hair shampoo. Oh hell, buy the whole store. I always do.
Even better, shop online here.

8) Sip on alcoholic ginger beer

Dragons Fiery Ginger = Summer. We discovered them by chance at a market a while back and they've been a staple at braais, picnics and parties ever since. Ginger beer, with a little of the good stuff in it - tell me you aren't already sold? You can find out more about where to find them here.

9) Get your nails done

Sorbet are just about everywhere, and they're expanding even more with their DryBars. So if you're getting those toes painted or your hair blown out - they've got your back. For your closet salon, click here.

10) Give back

The whole festive season is spent buying gifts or receiving gifts, and we seldom think about those less fortunate. So seeing as you've probably updated your summer wardrobe and you'll probably get a few items on your wish list this Christmas, perhaps consider clearing out the older things in your closet and donate to The StreetStore, a free clothing store for the homeless. The concept has done so well that it is now operating right across the globe. To find out how you can help, click here.

Jane Sews...

....and she does it beautifully. I recently discovered this local lass and feel in love with her designs. Her online store is a masterpiece, as are the garments for sale. I just had to put up a quick post to share some of these with you.
I definitely think the Angle bag and Tae dress need to go on my birthday and Christmas wish lists this year. I've been looking for the perfect white leather bag for ages, and this soft leather and simplistic design are so effortless. I love it.

10 reasons to shop locally

Images from left to right: Selfi, Tashkaya, Selfi and Good Clothing

With the endless queue of foreign retailers lining up to take over our malls, I often get caught up in it all. Brands we previously only shopped at on overseas holidays or only saw on international fashion bloggers are now finally available to us.
But before you rush down to your closest Zara, read why you should perhaps be spending your money on local designers first.

South africa has no shortage of young designers - and damn talented ones. I prefer shopping boutique labels here than I do the ones in NYC if I am completely honest. Most people assume foreign means better, when in reality, a locally designed and made piece is just as good.

Here are my reasons to buy SA fashion:

1) A simple matter of exclusivity. A retailer has hundreds, if not thousands of the same item stocked across the country. Your local designer has only made 2 per size. That means a lot less people showing up in the same outfit, having something that other's don't and helps build a stylish wardrobe that is totally unique - instead of looking like a Cotton On mannequin.

2) You're supporting local designers. Having some pride in your city or country and wearing it on your sleeve, quite literally, in the form of fashion. You don't need to be sporting a Bafana jersey to support your country - a locally made shift dress will do just fine.

3) You're boosting the economy. That shift dress is not only paying a designer, but also the CMT, pattern maker, the fabric wholesaler and more. Your money and support is creating jobs.

4) You become a trendsetter. Sometimes you'll get it wrong, but when you get it right, others will want to copy your look and shop where you shop. You begin a butterfly effect. A desirable brand is born.

5) Your clothes have a story. How boring is it to reply "oh, its new stock at Woolies", when asked where you got that fabulous knit? Wouldn't it be wonderful to describe this amazing little boutique you discovered on Bree street that day you went gallery hopping and wine tasting with your girlfriends? I've said before that clothes are my favorite souvenir and nothing beats pulling on something that lights up a memory in your mind and makes you smile.

6) Customer service is generally better. The designer is often present. You can actually get to know people face to face. When was the last time anyone at a Truworths store even gave a smile?

7) Local economy is boosted all round. Local fashion designers use local web designers, copywriters and other local artists to help them build their business. Statistically, local business gives back to charity more as well. We're all winning.

8) Our designers are so, so flipping talented. I feel like licking their store windows sometimes. We have some of the best in the world. We really do.

9) You matter and you get to vote with your wallet. Your desires and style matter a lot more to small businesses wanting your money, than it does to a large corporation. You can potentially get what you want, not what some 19 year old fashion buyer thinks you should be wearing.

10) Lastly, you are accountable for what you support, even if indirectly. Most retailers are having those clothes made in the East and many are not particularly transparent on the conditions in which the textiles and garments are made. Check out Fashion Revolution if you want to know more about this issue. When you buy locally, you can track the supply chain of the garment from its inception. We have some pretty tough labour laws in this country, and we love to moan about them - but they ensure fair practice and that no one gets taken advantage of. Yes, we do pay more because of this, but it comes with a clear conscience.

So, there you have it. Get out of the malls, and onto the streets and go find something wonderfully unique in your local boutiques. And seeing as it is raining buckets, if you don't want to go outside - you can find plenty of local designers on www.spree.co.za

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