The Savvy Girls Guide To Purple Shaded Eyes

I noticed the gorgeous Katerina Graham wearing bright purple eyeshadow at the Teen Choice Awards earlier this month. It's a very bold look, definitely not one for shrinking violets. But Kat carried it off beautifully. The striking violet colour complimented her green eyes. She wisely kept the rest of her make-up very subtle, with dusky rose blush and nude lips.

Recreating this look can be quite tricky; you don't want people to stare at you and wonder if you've done your makeup in the dark. 

Choose a matt eye shadow for daywear and a shimmery one for night time. Try a pale lavender to start, if you like the effect, you can experiment with darker shades like plum or mauve. 

Here are some tips on how to keep it classy and pull it off as well as Kat.

Get The Look

1. Use an eye primer or concealer to hide any dark circles under the eyes & brighten up lids.

2. Sweep a light lilac shade over your entire lid, stopping just under the brow bone.

3. Layer with a darker shade of purple, starting at the outer corner of your eye, blending inwards to the middle.

4. Add a shimmer or highlighter to the inner corners of your eyelid. Gold or silver works well. 

5. For more definition, line eyes with a dark grey or black eye pencil.

6. To get Kat's complete look, use a purple eye pencil or the same shade of purple eye shadow to line your bottom eyelids. Alternatively, you can use a silver-grey liner. 

7. Finish off with a good coating of black mascara. 

8. Keep the rest of your make-up toned down with lightly blushed cheeks and clear lipgloss.

Nice To Try

Top Row
Kanebo Eyeshadow palette ES04. Four blendable shades including a shimmery aubergine and soft pink highlighter.
Stila eyeshadow duo in Orchid. Two complementary shades of purple.
Yves Saint Laurent Ombres 5 Lumiéres in Lilac Sky. Five harmonious colours in brighter and lighter highly pigmented purple shades.
Middle Row
Make Up Forever eyeshadow in Deep Plum. A matt texture with a satin finish and a hint of shimmer.
Maybelline Expertwear eyeshadow quad in Amethyst Smokes. A crease proof quad that instructs you where to place each colour.
The Body Shop Baked to Last eyeshadow in Amethyst. An iridescent indigo eyeshadow duo.
Last Row 
Dior 5 Colour Eyeshadow in Petal Shine. Pastel shades for a more subtle look.
Clinique Colour Surge eyeshadow quad in Plum Seduction. Pretty purple powder shadows that can be used separately or all together.
Lancomé Colour Design 5 Shadow & Liner Palette in Mauve Cherie. Long wearing shades to create a seamless, smokey look.

These eyeshadow palettes are available in department stores like Edgars or Stuttafords, and at Sephora, SAKS and Harrods overseas.


Celebrity Inspired Looks

These looks show that purple shaded eyes suit all skin tones, hair and eye colours. Notice that the rest of their make up is left soft and natural, with a dash of pale pink lip gloss.

Top Row
Rachel McAdams' orchid shaded eyelids work wonderfully with her blonde hair and blue-green eyes.
Redhead Emma Stone wears a shimmery lilac highlighter that extends up unto her eyebrows.
Keri Hilson's hazel eyes are brightened by a vivid violet colour.
Scarlett Johansson combined pink and purple to create a pretty and eye catching look.

Bottom Row
Emily Browning wears a smokey aubergine look that accentuates her green eyes.
Katy Perry, who is always one for the bold and unusual, mixed bright violet and lime.
Model Frida Gustavsson shows off dramatic purple smeared eyes at Jason Wu's Spring 2011 fashion show.
Eva Longoria bats her false lashes under a richly pigmented violet shade.


This is not a look for everyday, but instead for an occasion where you would really like to stand out. It's also projects a youthful, playful image. I have yet to find the courage to wear it out in society. What are your thoughts on this beauty trend? 

Who Wore The Fay Trench Coat Better?

Who Wore It Better?
Fay Metropolitan Folie Trench

It's Pippa Middleton vs Kylie Minogue on this version of 'Who Wore It Better?'. The Brit it-chick and the Aussie songstress were spotted in the same trench coat on the streets of London this week. Their black belted trench coat with cream piping is by clothing brand Fay. 

Left: Pippa wore her trench over a black and white dress, with a cream handbag, large sunnies and cream pumps.

Right: Kylie looked chic wearing her Fay Folie trench with black skinny trousers, a black handbag and high black heels.

I can't decide on who wore it better because I think both ladies are spot on with their choice of styling. Do you agree?

Tuesday Thrills - Theodora & Callum Scarves

One of my favourite accessories is a pretty scarf. There are so many wears to wear them and a well-matched, beautifully draped scarf can brighten up any outfit. When it comes to designer scarves, Theodora and Callum are the brand to have. Based in New York, this design duo are creatively influenced by exotic cultures and locations like Bali, Morocco, Turkey, India and the Mediterranean. Their use of colours and eclectic, ethnic prints are a testament to their intercontinental inspired collection. 

Theodora and Callum scarves are loved by celebs like Heidi Klum, Jessica Alba, The Kardashian crew, Minka Kelly, Selma Blair and Julia Roberts. The 'Multi Tie All' scarves impress with their versatility - they can be worn as sarongs, dresses, shawls, scarves, skirts or even be used as a beach blanket. There is also a line of 'Wearable Art' scarves, that are all crafted, printed and designed by hand. The styles and prints are so distinct and unique, that you can spot a T&C scarf anywhere. The use of soft, luxurious fabrics like cashmere and linen render them slightly pricey; however each one is a timeless, investment piece. Theodora and Callum also make matching shoes, espadrilles, jewellery and bags. 

These are some of my favourite scarves from their current range.

1. Magenta Theodora Lattice Fringe Scarf. Love the vibrant pink colour. $69 / R486
2. Pink Multi India Fringe Wearable Art Scarf. $59 / R416
3. Wisteria Theodora Lattice Fringe Scarf. $88 / R620
4. Purple Multi Ikat Tie All Scarf. $175 / R1233

1. Teal Multi Tiger Key Wearable Art Scarf. $155 / R1092
2. Blue Multi Navajo Tie All Scarf. $175 / R1233
3. Cobalt C Cashmere Scarf. $298 / R2100
4. Blue Multi Paisley Wearable Art Scarf. $89 / R627

1. Blue Multi Monaco Metallic Stripe Scarf. $49 / R345
2. Pastel Multi Ombre Jersey Scarf. $79 / R557
3. Rose Theodora Lattice Fringe Scarf. $88 / R620
4. Purple Multi Feathers Wearable Art Scarf. $89 / R627

1. Camel Multi Paint Burst Wearable Art Scarf. $155 / R1092

2. Olive Theodora Lattice Fringe Scarf. $88 / R620

3. Olive Multi Batik Leaf Wearable Art Scarf. $89 / R627

4. Black Multi Leopard Wearable Art Scarf. $155 / R1092

Visit the Theodora and Callum website to see more of their 'visually stunning' designs. And while you're there, click on the 'Ways to Wear' icon, which provides you with instructional videos on different ways to wear scarves - looped, knotted, belted, braided, draped, as a cape, dress or skirt. It's really enlightening, you will find so many more ways to multi-task the scarves you already have. 

The online Theodora and Callum store only offers postage in the US, but you can purchase your T&C scarf from Singer22, as they provide shipping around the world.

Divas and Darlings - MTV VMA's 2011

Red Carpet Fashion

MTV Video Music Awards 2011

The MTV Video Music Awards were held last night in Los Angeles, and as always there were a few surprises on the red carpet, not all of them good. These are the best, worst and outright insane outfits from the show.

Black & Embellished

Kelly Rowland wore one of the more interesting black dresses of the evening. Her black and gold leather and feathered dress with plunging neckline is by Falguni & Shane Peacock. The black spiked heels are by Christian Louboutin. Britney Spears looked rather polished for a change in a black sequined dress by Moschino. Her heavy peep-toe boots let this look down a bit. Zoe Saldana chose a Barbara Bui LBD with beaded bodice and plunging v-neck. A gold cuff, black clutch and leopard print heels complete her look.

A Short Story

Maria Menuonos sizzled in an emerald green bustier mini-dress with zip-front and draping. She added silver and purple ankle cuff heels to her look. Katy Perry stayed true to her whimsical style in a sky blue Asian-inspired dress adorned with pink cherry blossom motifs. It's by Atelier Versace. Her pink hair matched her pink shoes. I do like the umbrella ;)  Katie Holmes was rather safe in an orange and black Azzedine Alaia dress. I don't know what is up with her and Britney and the chunky boots.

Sparkly

Holland Roden looked cute in a white satin bustier top with sequined charcoal mini skirt. Demi Lovato also opted for the deep V-neck trend. Her twinkly grey number is by Mandalay, with metal-tip heels by Christian Louboutin. Victoria Justice sparkled in a silver beaded mini by Theia. A metallic clutch and heels complemented her look. Kim Kardashian wore a shimmery grey mermaid dress by Kaufman Franco. She is yet another celeb to wear the V-neck trend at this event.

The Long End Of It

Mum-to-be Beyonce was positively glowing in a tangerine asymmetrical gown by Lanvin. Her side swept locks look lovely, along with those statement diamond earrings. This is most fabric I've ever seen on Miley Cyrus. Her floral and leopard print long-sleeved gown is by Roberto Cavalli. I don't really like the styling of the choker with the high-neck. Selena Gomez stunned in Julien Macdonald. Her black lacy dress was encircled by a long scalloped train. She contrasted this darker look with gold shoes and accessories. MTV's Louise Roe wore a taupe gown with multicolored beaded bodice by Tibi.

An Acquired Taste

Jennifer 'JWoww' Farley in a too tight, too low and too short shiny dress. Bonnie McKee chose a sketchy looking peach ensemble that seems like it's taped together. Then there's the leather spiked gloves and dangling chains. Jojo wore a strapless black dress with an overwhelming bubble skirt. No girl needs that extra baggage around the hips.

What Were They Thinking?

Jersey Shore's Deena Cortese wears a sequined rainbow - I can't see the pot of gold at the end of this one. Nicki Minaj - sometimes you've got to look in the mirror and ask yourself, 'Is this outfit going to scare off little kids? Maybe that was the point? Rap singer Kreayshawn in a gold glittery dress, two-tone hair and red Nike sneakers. Mickey Mouse has never looked this bad.

Looks Of The Week

Who What Wear
My Favourite Fashion Picks

Rose Bryne is chic in New York, wearing a fern green and black leopard print dress by Dolce & Gabbana. I'm glad she added a belt for definition. High patent pumps by Sergio Rossi complete her look.
Pippa Middleton looks stylish on the streets of London. She wears a pale peach maxi dress with a cropped jacket, tan bag and white peep-toe heels. 
Anne Hathaway attended the UK premiere of her movie 'One Day', wearing an Alexander McQueen Resort 2012 dress. Her ivory baroque lace tea-length dress is worn with tan peep toe heels and a cream and gold clutch, also by McQueen.
Leighton Meester is lovely in lemon, as she attended the launch of Vera Wang's 'Lovestruck' perfume. The Gossip Girl star wore a softly pleated chiffon dress, with black leather wrap belt and Brian Atwood pumps. She wears this simple look so well.

Who Wore Marc Jacobs Better?

Who Wore It Better?
Marc Jacobs Fall 2011 Dress

Two pretty actresses from two sides of the globe were seen wearing the same Marc Jacobs dress, which is from the designer's Fall 2011 collection. The knee-length navy blue lace dress has a scalloped neckline, sleeves and hem.

Left: Australian actress Rose Bryne wore the long-sleeved dress first to the premiere of 'X Men: First Class' in New York on 25 May 2011. She carried a matching navy Kotur clutch bag and wore nude platform pumps by Brian Atwood. Her eyes were lined with black, while the rest of her make up was kept subtle. 
Right: South Korean actress Sung Yuri wore the dress to the Marc Jacobs Fall fashion show in Seoul on Tuesday this week. She complemented her red Marc Jacobs clutch bag with scarlet lips. Sung paired her dress with sheer polka dot tights and chunky black ankle-strap heels.

The dress as shown on the runway by Chinese model Fei Fei Sun. It was styled with an elaborate red neckpiece, the sheer spotted stockings and long black boots.

I like the dress on both ladies, but prefer it without the tights. Ideally, I would pair it with Rose's nude heels and Sung's red clutch bag. What do you think? 

Friday Frills

I gain strength, courage and confidence by every experience, 

In which I must stop, and look fear in the face...

I say to myself, 

I've lived through this and can take the next thing that comes along...

We must do the things we think we cannot do.

Eleanor Roosevelt

Olivia Wilde's Street Style

Stylista of the Week
Olivia Wilde

The beautiful star of House has been photographed on the streets of Los Angeles, showing off her bohemian-chic street style. Olivia has a natural flair for piecing outfits together that reflect her folksy, free-spirited sense of style. Her current wardrobe is filled with maxi skirts and dresses, Joie ankle boots, her fringed Ralph Lauren bag and Ray Ban sunglasses.


From Left:
1. Olivia wears a light grey maxi skirt with white tee, oversized brown jacket and chunky printed scarf. 

2. The actress wears a flowing printed dress in earthy shades of tan and brown.

3. She pairs a printed navy blue v-wrap neck dress with her fringed bag and brown Joie cowboy boots.

4. Olivia's aqua blue paisley chiffon dress is by Elizabeth & James. She accessorizes with strappy brown sandals, her favourite fringed bag and a statement necklace.

5. She pairs a black and white striped dress with a biker jacket, Joie 'Garth' ankle boots and her must-have accessory of the season, the brown fringed bag.

Mango Fall/Winter 2011

Mango Fashion Campaign
featuring Isabeli Fontana

Gorgeous Brazilian supermodel, Isabeli Fontana is the newest brand ambassador for Mango. The well-known Spanish clothing brand chose the Victoria's Secret model for "her extraordinary beauty and naturalness." Isabeli represents the two sides of their Winter 2011 collection; ultra sexy femme fatale and masculine elegance. Each side is differentiated by the styling - tousled waves with smokey eyes, and slicked back locks with striking red lips.

A primarily black colour scheme runs throughout the range, with dashes of leopard print and polka dots. The collection is a mix of glitzy cocktail dresses, leather and faux fur, classic coats, luxe knits, mini skirts and impeccably tailored suits. I love the gold-tipped black shoes and embellished clutch bags. 

With their Winter 2011 range, Mango seeks to style the modern, dynamic and independent woman. While the rest of you dress for success in one of these polished looks, us in South Africa will only be receiving the range next year. 

Who Wore Temperley London Better?

Who Wore It Better?
Temperley London Evening Gown

What does a demure British sweetheart and a fallen Hollywood actress have in common? Answer: The same dress sense. Who would've guessed? I never thought I'd see Pippa Middleton and Lindsay Lohan wear the same evening gown. But here it is...

Left: The charming Pippa Middleton wore the emerald green satin gown to the royal wedding reception of her sister, Kate Middleton on 29 April 2011. The floor-length dress has a plunging neckline with crystal embellishing. Pippa paired the dress with strappy silver Aruna Seth heels and a silver metallic clutch bag.  
Right: Lindsay Lohan wore the white version of the Temperley London gown to Kim Kardashian's wedding reception, which had a black & white dress code for all 450 guests. The dress appears to be very satin-bridal-nightie on her. The bridal-like upstyle isn't helping either.

I prefer the beautiful jewel-toned colour of Pippa's dress. She carries the gown off with grace and elegance. I don't share the same sentiments about Lindsay's look. What do you think?

Plum Summer Shoes 2011

Summer 2011 Shoe Collection

by Plum

September is almost on our doorstep, which means it's time to invest in some sexy summer heels. Plum have just launched their fabulous new range for Summer 2011, with the same exceptional quality & affordability that we have all come to love over the years. I am a Plum fan because they always on trend with the international fashion scene, and offer an extensive variety of splendid looking shoes, where everyone's tastes and personal styles are met.

Nudes

As we've seen on countless fashion sites and magazines, Nude is the new Black. The rule is that you pair any outfit, no matter the colour or style, with a pair of nude heels. It lengthens your silhouette and has a very 'uptown classy' look. I love the styling of the cream lace stockings and flair floral skirt with the perforated pumps (pictured top left). I've been searching for a decent pair for ages. Plum have some great choices with these neutral coloured heels pictured above. The laser-cut leather heels provide texture and interest, while the strappy nude sandals are perfect for a night out on the town.

Spring Colours

What would Summer be without a pop of bright dazzling colour? I love these vibrant shades; seaside blue, sunshine yellow, citrus orange, a twist of lime and ravishing red. Another trendy element incorporated into the collection is the cork-heel (pictured bottom middle). These eye-catching pairs will add a zesty finish to any outfit. 

Different Shapes

A huge shoe trend this season are wedges. They provide balance and comfort while still looking stylish. Not to mention they make your calves look skinnier. For those of us who are not high-heel kinda girls, Plum has created a great range of flats especially for you (top left). There is also a 'Glamour' range with evening sandals for special occasions (top right). For something unusual, there is the multi-strap Alexia with twisted rope detail, and the bejeweled ankle strap Aqua, with a mesh leather finish (both pictured bottom right).

Slip into summer with these fabulous heels, as shown in more detail on the Plum website. Use the 'Store Locator' button to find a stockist closest to you.

Tuesday Thrills - Mishah Designs

Mishah Designs
Day Wear & Accessories

I'm always excited about discovering fantastic new South African brands, and when I came across Mishah Designs, I knew I was onto a good thing. This Cape Town-based fashion brand has been creating trendy and exclusive womenswear since 2008. Zahra Effendi is a talented designer and stylist who works for the label. Her design principle is based on an instant response to the fashion market. 

What I love about Mishah Designs is that all the pieces are so practical and wearable. There are pretty printed dresses that entice with it's feminine flair, and modern pieces that render a youthful charm. The typical Mishah-dressed woman is stylish and confident, without any airs. 

The beautiful range also extends to accessories; bags, scarves and belts, all made with the same fine quality and assiduity. These are some garments from their Spring 2011 Collection.

1. Casual Capri shorts, including belt. R465. Colours: Stone and Navy.
2. Racer-back striped dress. R599. Colours: Taupe & black and cream & black.
3. Pleated flare skirt, including belt. R580. Colours: Stone and Navy.
4. Stripe tunic, with belt. R550. Colours: Black & rust and charcoal & black.
5. Gypsy dress. R550. Colours: Ruby and Black.

1. Chiffon floral maxi dress. R750. Colours: Pastel pink & blue and burnt orange & navy.
2. Lilly Dress. R480. Colours: Black & cerise, as well as chocolate & cerise.
3. Chiffon floral tunic with plaited belt. R550. Colour: Maroon floral.
4. Molly dress. R450. Colours: Stone floral and charcoal floral.
5. Chiffon printed tunic. R550. Colour: Olive floral

1. The briefcase sling
2. Leather pocket bag
3. Leather flipped bag
4. Country tassel bag
5. Crinkle leather bag
6. Fringed leather bag
Leather handbags are priced from R950. Leather and synthetic belts are priced at R199.


A Word From The Designer

Zahra says that her love of sewing and design began at a very young age. What inspires her the most as a designer is people.

She says "I can get lost for hours watching people pass by, the way they are dressed, the way they carry the things they wear. There is nothing more inspiring to me than street fashion, the combination of colour and texture, the endless array of people's choices of clothing and accessores in their everyday life as they go about their days. Whether it be for work or fun or a quick run to the local cafe or market. 


With a few of her fab outfits already featured in Elle and Fairlady magazine, Zahra has a bright and long future ahead in fashion.



Garments from Mishah Designs are available from selected boutiques at the V&A Waterfront, Canal Walk and Gardens Centre. The range is also sold at Cquinz at 182c Main Road Sea Point, Cape Town. For more information, you can contact Mishah Designs on (021) 434 7505. Alternately, visit their website or blog, which is updated by Zahra.

I'm looking forward to seeing Mishah Designs expand, with more stockists in the rest of country. All the best.

The Friendship Files

Our Life Mottos

While cleaning out my storeroom, I came across a dusty box filled with all my old books from university. Among them, I found a valuable piece of paper, handwritten by my bff, Maya. It's a collection of sayings that our clique of close friends used to constantly use on campus. Each saying had a special meaning and befittingly applied to our lives at the time. Maya compiled a list of these 'little life mottos' for each of us, so that we could read through them whenever we needed some inspiration or encouragement. I'm sharing a few of these with you today, along with their significant meanings.

* Live in the moment. (For the good times pass too quickly, and the sad times linger on.)
* Always look at the bigger picture. (Often we can only see the task or problem that's in front of us, we have to remember to remove the clouds and look at the bigger picture).
* Life is a journey, not a destination. There is no wrong direction, just a longer route.
* Everything happens for a reason.
* Whatever happens, happens... (This was said after every single exam paper ;)
* Exercise caution, for the world is full of trickery.
* You have the right to be yourself. (Don't pretend to be someone else just to fit in).
* Always take things in your stride and keep smiling while doing it.
* Sometimes it's a just matter of 'the right thing, at the wrong time'.
* Beauty is only skin deep.
* Don't judge a book by it's cover. (You may never know how meaningful it's pages could be).
* Some risks are worth taking. (Like going out on a Friday night instead of studying for Saturday morning's exam).
* You can't sleep in the middle of the bed, choose a pillow. (Meaning that you shouldn't leave anyone hanging or be two-minded about important issues. Eventually you have to make a decision, whether it's right or wrong for everyone involved.)
* Don't ever compare yourself to anyone. There will always be people out there are that better or worse off than you are.
* Rainbows come after rainstorms.
* Why settle for skim milk when you can have whipped cream? (This is my favourite one - because no should settle for less than they deserve).
* There are plenty fish in the sea. (This one was used far too often).
* Sometimes, you've got to give Fate a little push. (If you really want something, don't just sit around and longingly wait for it to happen 'someday'. Get up, go out and make it happen yourself).

These mantras have gotten us through the best and worst of times. What have been some of your life mottos?

Looks Of The Week

Who What Wear
My Best & Worst Fashion Picks

Fashion Favourites

Kristen Ritter wears a beautiful black lace dress at the 'Life Happens' movie screening in New York City. The D&G dress has a sheer bodice and full flirty skirt. Her nude and black tie-up ribbon heels are by Brian Atwood.
Ashley Tisdale in an apricot and rust off-the-shoulder dress by Joie. I like the style of the draped dress, it would look great in any other colour scheme aside from this one. Her choice of shoe could have been more exciting.
Olivia Munn looks elegant in a two-tone silk dress by Carolina Herrera. The TV presenter was in LA for a movie premiere. If you have to do a black & white cocktail dress, this is the way to go. Coral jewellery added a touch of colour to her look, while her clutch and heels remained neutral.
Fearne Cotton attended the 'Midsummer Night's Dream Party' in London. I adore her quirky retro style. She wears a short-sleeved mustard dress with pleated tiers. A black leather jacket is tossed in for a girly-grunge effect.


Fashion Foes

Rihanna posed for cameras at her fragrance launch in London. As much as I like this vibrant aqua colour on her, this fuzzy outfit reminds me of 'Sulley' from the animated pic, Monsters Inc.
Elizabeth Banks attended 'Our Idiot Brother' movie premiere in Los Angeles. Her pink and black colour block dress appears to be passable from the front, but the back revealed a confusion of colours that didn't blend together very well.
Nicki Minaj showed off her colours at a Toronto nightclub this week. She wears a frightful mix of shades and prints. There is no logical reason for anyone to dress like this. 

Hobbs Winter Fashion 2011

Hobbs NW3
Fall/Winter 2011

After seeing the Hobbs NW3 Winter 2011 range, I'm think that they should start shipping to South Africa. The British fashion label provides a trendy and unique interpretation of contemporary womenswear. Aimed at the young, cool and free-spirited, NW3 is a trendier subset of the classic Hobbs brand. 

All the outfits presented are very wearable and exceptionally tailored in a mix of traditional, quality fabrics like wool, denim and corduroy. The dark colour palette is functional, the styles practical and laid back. Navy blue is proffered as a neutral, with grey following close behind. This eclectic collection features chunky knits, fitted shirts, smart trousers, maxi skirts and adorable dresses. The classic blazers are lined with quirky prints and stripes, so you can roll up your sleeves for a more casual, contrasting look. Each individual piece is meant to easily weave its way into your current wardrobe. 

All the chic accessories pictured are also part of the Hobbs NW3 range. I'm loving the felt Willow Road hat, tan ankle boots and structured satchel bags. The collection maybe perceived as 'essentially British', but it does have a mass appeal. Check out more of this effortlessly cool range at Hobbs.co.uk

Friday Frills

“No matter where you are in life right now, 

No matter who you are, no matter how old you are, 

It is never too late to be who you are meant to be.” 

Esther & Jerry Hicks

Pic via Google Images