Winter dreaming with Hunter Boots

 March is my favourite time of year. The abundance of bright foil-wrapped chocolate goodies may have something to do with it. Well they certainly add to the joy of Autumn anyway. But I love March because I love Winter so much. I love the beautiful layers of clothing in rich colours and textures. I love being cold and I love winter food and red wine. March is when my mind shifts in the direction of colder temperatures. Fashion also switches it's focus in the same way. Store fronts are changing, and rails are filling with cosy knits and beautiful coats. Then there are the boots.....oh the beautiful boots.
I am addicted. I need them all. I need more than that. I love boots in every length and heel.

So when I got hold of a peek at Hunter's Autumn/Winter range, I needed to share it with you quickly. I have two pairs in my collection and they have been well worth the investment. I have had four happy years with them and they haven't dated, faded or damaged even slightly. They have been walking, puddle stomping and even bird watching through swampy sanctuaries. They are a saviour for morning walks with a hound who is particularly fond of mud and dirt. I am so grateful that Cape Town enjoys a decent winter. It is never unbearably freezing, but we'll get just enough rain, frost and even snow to warrant a pair or two of wellies.

Here are my favourites from the latest range, which includes all the staples, as well as a few pretty pastels, a gorgeous deep wine red and a two-tone pair that I think would make any festival outfit complete. Being a total short shit, I am now eyeing the mid-calf ones. I love my tall pairs, but they do cover my knee instead of sit below it like they do on every model/fashion blogger with legs for days. So I've accepted my height and fate and will try out a shorter pair this season.

You can shop online here: http://www.hunterbootsa.co.za. You can also find them at selected Stuttafords and Queue Shoes stores nationwide.

Bronx Woman #StyleDiary

It is that crazy time of year again. You know, the one where you're supposed to be buying gifts for others - but because there are so many year-end functions, Christmas parties and general merriment, that you end up spending a fortune on outfits for yourself.

This year, I needed to think smart. I wanted to find items that I could use again and again, and even after party season has come and gone, I'd still be able to use them for life in general.
Big call isn't it?

Well, I teamed up for a little Christmas Party look with Bronx Woman and Miss Port form YDE. They challenged me to do a little StyleDiary post using some of their shoes and clothes and I turned it into a little Christmas themed bash of my own.
Instead of choosing a dress, I went for a big white lace midi-skirt that flatters every shape and helps us short girls look a little longer. I paired it with a sleeveless, structured white shirt that looks great with this silhouette - but is also perfect to use again and again after party season.
The white skirt can be dressed down too - or paired with other tops for a completely different look. So all in all, mission accomplished.

I paired the all-white look with some seriously out there tropical print pumps from Bronx Woman. It is summer and I felt like this added some colour and a whole lot of fun to the ensemble. I am involve with the gold stiletto heel!
Plus, in sticking to my versatility theme, these babies are going to look killer with skinny jeans and a black came for more casual summer soirees.

My accessories are from Tessa at YDE and my hair was done at Sorbet Dry Bar - a perfect option to level up your regular blow out. My makeup is all from Benefit - how amazing are the  lashes? Its the They're Real mascara - I am obsessed.

Now for the fun bit - you can score a massive prize in time for Christmas! A hamper consisting of an outfit form Miss Port or X&O of YDE fame, a pair of Bronx Woman shoes, some Benefit Cosmetics makeup and a blow wave form Sorbet Dry Bar.

You just need to vote for my look on the Bronx Woman page over here:
https://www.facebook.com/BronxWoman/?fref=ts
Just comment and vote for the look you prefer - which obviously better be my one!
You have until 14 December so hurry on up! Voters who pick me will also go into a draw run my me on the side for a little something extra. You know, I'm all about incentives ;)

Summer staples under R500

Superbalist may as well hire a delivery guy just for me. I order something every week. I wish I was joking but I get sucked into the vortex that is their "New" section every damn time. As for the apartment stuff, don't even get me started.

The thing is, they're becoming tough to beat when it comes to finding exactly what I want. You need a donut lilo? Sure thing, they have it. Vinyl, headphones, or the latest sneakers? Done. Really slim shelves because the space on either side of my bed is ridiculous and I can't have bedside tables - no problem (the struggle is real).
Although what I seem to have collected the most, is dresses. They keep updating their site with perfect summer staples, or the prettiest prints, and everything that is bang on trend that your fashionable little heart could hope for.

Being an old bag, and not particularly trendy, I stick to staples. I'll dabble in whatever current styling is chic, like the off-the-shoulder look this season, or a bit of fringe here and there - but it'll always be in simple colours like black, chambray, nudes or khaki. So neutrals basically. I find these easy to pair with pretty sandals and I am out of the door in 15 minutes. (Okay Dave is reading this and eye-rolling so I'll correct it to 30 minutes, in the interest of full disclosure).

With the festive season creeping up on us, I'm limiting spending on myself, or trying to anyway. So I've found a few must-have dresses that are easy to style for under R500. Winning!
Actually the most "winning" part about it is the free delivery and the fact that I didn't have to step into a mall. With women just about mauling each other at certain retailers this past week, I am more than okay with doing all my festive shopping online. I'll be posting more on that next week with a few online gift guides, so that you too, do not have to brave the wild.

TOP ROW:

Left: Khaki dress, R329 | Middle: Chambray scrappy dress, R329 | Right: Black slip, R399

BOTTOM ROW:

Left: Black Off Shoulder dress, R499 | Middle: Stripe shirt dress, R329 | Right: Nude shirt dress, R399

All of these just need some gladiator sandals or thongs and a denim/leather jacket and you're out the door. They're also perfect to pair with sneakers which is some brave styling, but something I am loving lately.

Happy shopping!

Kirsten Goss | #GetPersonal

If you've been reading my blog since the early days, you'll know I have a massive obsession with dainty jewellery. I've come to love a good statement piece, but small and pretty will always be my go-to when accessorising. I hadn't bought any new jewellery in a while, and then the Kirsten Goss invite popped into my inbox (Houston, we now have a problem. The fire has been reignited. >>insert money with wings emoji here<<). 

I'd been admiring her brand and her journey from afar, yet never had the chance to have a look at any of the collections or meet the designer. All of that changed last week when she hosted a couple of fashion bloggers for a showcase of two collections, called #getpersonal and #diamondcondition. I'm just going to show you the first range today, because there is one hell of a lot of pretty to take in here. In a nutshell, KG is now offering personalisation on their range of jewellery and it is beautiful. Popular options are the Pinny and Barboa necklaces, or the Halo ring. The items are hand stamped by a very talented and patient goldsmith. You've got choices of sterling silver, rose gold vermeil, gold vermeil and 18kt gold. 

We were also treated to a fashion film and a chat with Kirsten herself. Getting to chat to her and see her contagious energy and passion first hand made me fall in love her designs even more. Hopefully, just by wearing them, they'll pass on a bit of her incredible spark onto me. She also passed on this gem (if you'll excuse the pun): "While diamonds are forever, they are also for everyday". I like that. I like that a lot. This woman could be trouble actually....

At the end of KG's fabulous event, we were sent off with a little present - a Pinny necklace to call our own, which I've been wearing non-stop since. I love the simplicity. It is terribly chic.

The unlucky husband has already been sent a wishlist that covers every birthday, Christmas and anniversary presents for the next few years. I tried convincing him that we should celebrate 'monthaversarys' as well, but he was having none of it. Luckily there are plenty of lovely brunch spots along Bree that I can use as an excuse to pop in, with Dave in tow, and I'll slap him with the best puppy eyes I can manage. Or just slap him. Whatever works. (just kidding boo!)

Go on. Treat yo'self. Drag along someone who loves you and pop into the store on 229 Bree Street in Cape Town, or 366 Florida Road, Morningside, in Durbs. Joburg, there is even one for you at 64 St Andrew Street in Birdhaven. Or shop online at www.kirstengoss.co.za

Steal vs Splurge

Every girl would love a little Kate Spade classic like their Emerson handbag, and I am honestly toying with the idea of tossing caution to the wind, along with my savings, and buying one next week while we’re on holiday. I love their bright colours and structured silhouette. But given I’m busy launching a women's finance blog (watch this space!), I need to keep it real and think practically. Managing a fashion blog along with a women’s finance blog isn’t going to be an easy line to tread, because as much as my heart wants to shop, and tell you to do the same, my head is reminding me of my goals in terms of savings a for travel, future business and home plans and of course, retirement. And while its not as much fun as shopping, I’ll certainly be encouraging you guys to read up and be smart too. Its all about balance when you’re aspiring to live le good life I guess..

So if you’ve got the budget for the Kate Spade (at around R5000), lucky you. But if you’re looking for a dead ringer, in a great quality leather, Erato has the perfect substitute for a third of the price.

New in | Chelsea Boots

Chelsea boots used to be used for horse riding, and they were generally only spotted on the girl in your high school class who had a plait down to her bum and always wore her jodhpurs to civvies day.
Apparently that girl is getting her sweet revenge now because her shoe of choice is the shoe du jour this winter.

Image | Source

Style it with black tights, or some rolled-up/cropped skinny jeans and throw on an oversized coat to finish off the look. Or try them with a skirt and chunky winter knit.
I am loving the jelly ones, which are waterproof and perfect for rainy winters in Cape Town. I love my Hunter boots, but they can get a bit bulky. So finally I have some easy going 'style-in-a-hurry' black jelly ankle boots. Now I actually can't wait for the rain and bit of puddle stomping.

Animal print jelly boots | R149,99 | Mr Price

Isadorra burgundy leather boot | R1119,20 (on sale) | Country Road

Black jelly boots | R149,99 | Mr Price

Grey buckle details boots | R539 | Superbalist

Beige low cut suede boot | R450 | Truworths

Chocolate D&g textile boot | R1899 | Lilikoi

New lingerie online store is a Triumph

Very punny heading I know, but I couldn't help myself.

I've been unacceptably quiet, so to beg you for forgiveness and to buy your love, I have a great giveaway from a new online store. If you aren't shopping online in 2014 you need your head read. SA's e-commerce industry is taking off in a big way with most fashion retailers and boutiques now offering their product online.
Triumph has just joined cyber space and I could not be happier. I am not a fan of shopping for lingerie in-store. Most of the assistants don't know what they're talking about and I have even had one offer me 3 other bra sizes upon seeing that my size was sold out. Um, thanks, but thats not how it works. Thats not how it works at all lady.
Triumph have hundreds of sensual, seductive and even sensible bras push-ups, corsets, panties and more to choose from. You can also check your fit with the Fit Finder section, which tells you how, where and what to measure and provides the corresponding size - easy no?

So we all know our size and can shop luxury lingerie and sports underwear in peace now, thanks to Triumph. I went with a pretty yet practical grey lacy set and it fits like a dream.

So to celebrate their new store, they've given me a R350 voucher to give away.

All you need to do to win is:

Tell me your worst in-store experience while buying lingerie in the comments section or on Twitter

Competition closes on Friday and the winner will be announced on the 22nd.

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.

Fashion comes to Takealot

Yip, you read that correctly. That rather efficient online store that you've been buying books and gadgets from for ages has a fashion department now. You know, the one that your other half constantly brags about technically getting his annual FIFA game for free from because of eBucks? No, just me then?.

Well anyway, Takealot.com has launched a fashion department and they're kicking it off with SA's favourite retail brands such as Levi's, Havaianas, Zoom and G-Couture. They also have a killer accessories department featuring the much-coveted Daniel Wellington watches and interchangeable straps.

Here are some of my favourite picks available now:

Black fringe detail bag, R599, Zoom at Takealot
Daniel Wellington Classic Sheffield watch, R2499, Daniel Wellington at Takealot
Turquoise tear-drop earrings, R79, Miss Maxi at Takealot
Grey leopard print scarf, R130, Miss Maxi at Takealot
Embellished silver thing sandals, R259, Zoom at Takealot

Takealot has come to the rescue on more than a few occasions for birthdays and Christmas with their incredible delivery times and efficient returns. I think the addition of a fashion department is long overdue. And using my darling husband's logic, if I'm using eBucks, those shoes are free, right?

LBD of the week

Seeing as Spree has launched their Spring/Summer look board recently, I thought I'd turn to them for inspiration for this week's LBD of the Week.

Wedding and party season is fast approaching to you might want to start thinking about investing in a versatile black dress to carry you through in style. Like I said in my post on the Spree Lookboard event, these designer collections are going to fly out of there fast, this Gert-Johan Coetzee number included.

This bodycon dress with frill detailing all up the side, and over the shoulder is perfect for any office party, wedding or year-end soirée. It has a 5% spandex content which sucks in the wobbly bits and helps create a slender silhouette. This has to be my favourite #LBDofTheWeek so far. Designed by a local fashion industry legend, just for Spree, to be rocked by you.

Spree Lookboard SS2014

Spree.co.za has upped the game to a new level. Other online retailers are doing the odd designer collaboration, which is cute. Cute in comparison to the starting line-up Spree just unveiled anyway.

We're talking about Thula Sindi, Clive Rundle, Gert-Johan Coetzee and Mareth Colleen to name a few. These are some of South Africa's finest (in case you're reading this from abroad, or are South African and live under a rock). Having access to their genius is a game-changer and you'd better be quick on the button because these are going to sell out fast.

Here are some of my favourites from the look board below...

THULA SINDI

THULA SINDI

BLACKEYED SUSAN/STYLE REPUBLIC

MARETH COLLEEN

ANMARI HONIBALL/YADAH EXCLUSIVE

GERT-JOHAN COETZEE

ADAM & EVE

ADAM & EVE/ SELFI

Ugly sandals are hot

Yep, you read that right. Ugly sandals are back. Birckenstocks, Jesus sandals, hikers haute couture - whatever you call them, they're hot for Spring/Summer.

So here are a few options from our retailers to get your collection going.

1) Harriet sandal, R549 at Country Road
2) White patent slider, R79,99 at Mr P
3) Nude patent slider, R69,99 at Mr P
4) White slider, R439 at Topshop
5) Hot Pink slider, R79,99 from Mr P
6) Leopard print slide, R299 at Cotton On
7) Charlene slide, R899 at Witchery

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KLûK CGDT is coming to Spree

Fashion week is behind us, but the fabulous fashion discoveries continues, thanks to my friends at Spree, who've collaborated with two of South Africa's most talented and well loved designers.

Renowned for their couture gowns and bridal wear, designers Malcolm KLûK and Christiaan Gabriël du Toit’s expertise also extends to ready-to-wear apparel. These lines are enhanced by the designers’ expert understanding of the female form and careful consideration when it comes to fabric selection. Darling readers, meet OTHELIA by KLûK CGDT.

Spree will be the first to launch OTHELIA by KLûK CGDT, and will stock 8 pieces exclusively in its online store. Featuring the season’s key items from the pleated skirt to the drop shoulder top, the range re-interprets contemporary classics, such as the trench coat and the midi skirt. These creations instill a sense of everyday luxury into each day-to-night item. While the rich tapestry of print and pattern that runs throughout the range creates a unique feel, the silhouettes created ensure that every item can seamlessly slip into your wardrobe.

Spree’s launch of OTHELIA by KLûK CGDT is an exciting highlight in their on-going campaign to support and shine the spotlight on local designers by providing an innovative platform for them to retail online.  Says Spree’s Fashion Director Chris Viljoen: “KLûK CGDT and Vlisco is a unique design duo that brings together incredible design and unbelievable fabric both executed at the highest level of workmanship.”

I'll definitely be adding a few pieces to my wardrobe for Spring. I can't resist a designer collab!
See the collection at http://www.spree.co.za/klukcgdt

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New in: The Striped Tunic

With Spring/Summer ranges being showcased everywhere, and our own MBFW starting soon, I can't help but think about the next season and I am starting to look at a few transitional pieces to carry me from the last of Winter and into Spring.

I have a very strict rule about these transitional numbers. They have to be classics, and something I'll get a good few years of 'between season' wear out of. It just makes more sense to me to have go-to items for layering and a pulled together chic look, as well as to buy items that complement what I've accumulated over the Winter, but can also be slapped on with a pair of leather pumps and I'm out the door on a sunny Spring day.

The striped tunic is one such item that certainly adheres to this rule. It is classic, and gorgeous and flattering. It is perfect with stockings, rain boots and a trench, but it is as chic with ballet pumps or leather sandals.

My favourite find is this one at Poetry. At R499 its affordable, but being from Poetry, there is no compromise on quality, fit and fabric. It hides the Winter wobbly bits yet fits snugly enough to give you a long lean look. A serious winner indeed.

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