Friday Frills

How many times do we say something that we
immediately realized was not the right thing to say? 

How many times do we look back 

on an event and think, if only I had...

How many times do we do something 

that we wish hadn't done? 

You can't change what has been said. 

You can't change a past event. 

You can't change what has been done. 

Do you call it regret, sorrow, repentance? 

Do you think about what might have been? 

Do you relive an event the way it should have been? 

Forget about regret, and focus. 

Focus on today, 

Not on the past. 

Focus on what you can do, 

Not what you didn't do. 

The only thing to regret is living in the past. 

The only thing to feel sorrow for is 

not living each day to the fullest. 

The only thing to do to repent is 

to sincerely say, I'm sorry. 

Don't live your life regretting yesterday. 

Live your life so tomorrow you won't regret today. 

*Quote by Catherine Pulsifer.

Street Style - Milan Fashion Week Fall 2014

Street Style
Milan Fashion Week
Fall 2014

The heat has been turned up in Milan, and I'm not talking about the weather unfortunately. This fashion week, a glamourous spin on street style has been brought to us by the world's biggest stylists, socialites and bloggers. The Italians certainly gave New York and London a run for their money in the designer clothing department, there were labels Everywhere. These are a collection of trends to inspire our own winter wardrobes.

Red Alert

These traffic-stopping looks have been some of my favourite from Milan Fashion week, with red being depicted in different and unique ways. A ladylike crimson mini, a neon shift with Fendi fur coat and eye-popping plastic heels, a stunning tulle maxi skirt styled with a moto-jacket, a trendy tartan dress and a fringed rocker frock.

Hot Fuzz

Fringe, feathers and fur (hopefully all faux) have texturized street styles this fashion week with a fuzzy heap of lush coats, scarves and vests to keep the cold at bay.

Gilded Girls

The Italian fashion pack cemented their glamourous style status by showing us how to artfully wear shiny gold metallics during the day. I love the second look with burgundy coat, sequined skirt and aqua heels.

Suited Up 

There is probably nothing chicer than an Italian-cut suit and these ladies have certainly taken heed of that, displaying sophisticated menswear-inspired suits, styled with leather loafers, sneakers and simple tees.

The Right Stripes

Stripes were the go-to print during MFW, with a multitude of fashionistas opting for the linear look, showcasing vertical and horizontally striped coats, trousers, skirts and shirts. These are some great styling ideas on how to wear stripes in a new and modern way.

Minimalistic Chic

Taking a breather from all the extravagance off and on the catwalk, these minimalistic outfits present chic wearability in the highest degree.

Pattern Play

Leave it to MFW to visually engage us with a jazzy array of eclectic and electrifying prints.

Tough Luxe

The fine line between femininity is blurred by these toughened up jet-black outfits that bring leather and goth luxe to the forefront. 

Pastelletic

Pretty pastel pink and powder blue looks made a saccharine splash at Milan Fashion Week with chunky knits, overcoats, dresses & skirts. Wear it all in the same subdued palette or break it up with dark or light neutrals.

Colourful Coats

If you were not convinced by brights in my last two fashion week posts, this one ought to seal the deal, because vibrantly bright coats are In. A Very Big Way. Try your hand at this popular trend by pairing a solid coloured coat with neutrals & heels. Marigold yellow was a favored choice, with sightings of red, purple & blue.

Which is your favorite Street Style Trend from Milan Fashion Week?

*Images found via Grazia.it, Harper's Bazaar, Elle.com, Fashion Magazine, Flare.com and Vogue.

An Essentiel Spring 2014

Possibly some of the best shopping-related news this year, my favourite Belgian-born brand Essentiel now delivers worldwide, yes, even to the bottom of the earth here in South Africa. I love this label for their playful tweaking of runway trends and modern interpretation of classic silhouettes. Every piece has been designed with wearability in mind - not just for the trend-obsessed but for anyone looking for a chic day-to-night, office-to-outerwear look.

This Spring, Essentiel colours our closets in paradise pink, sunrise orange, cream blush and minted green. Leopard prints and unpretentious abstracts pave the patterned component of this collection with overcoats, skater skirts, leisurely-fit pants and flaired-out tops. An endless range of elegant shift dresses can be recharged for an afterwork affair by swapping flats for heels, adding some bling and a colourfully beaded clutch. These statement accessories are also part of the label's repertoire. Essential doesn't present us with just any ordinary sweater, each one is given the intricate eye with rhinestones, studded and sequined detailing.

I feel a shopping surge coming on, with this glance into Essentiel's Spring 2014 collection.

Set 1

1. Pink printed drop waist dress €225 2. Striped Godiva sweater €145. Pink printed Granted pants €175. 3. Black puffer jacket €195. 4. Pink printed top (same as previous look) €155. Black skater skirt €165. 5. Oversized striped Giro cardigan €175. Burgundy PVC Gourde bow clutch €55

Set 2

1. Leopard print Giocomo coat €365. Neon peach Gohone gathered dress €145. 2. Ivory embroidered-sleeve Gairy sweater €145. Leopard print skater skirt €185. 3. Glossaire leopard print dress with ruffled sleeves €195. Grasspop tribal print clutch €85. 4. Leopard print pink zipper jacket €195. Gasoleo print sweater with sequined 'E' print €165. Cropped denim jeans with studded sides €195.

Set 3

1. Pastel pink sequined sweater €135. Printed Gerard pants €145. Gratin tribal beaded bag €95 2. Pink printed tshirt €145. Strass crystal studded blush trousers €165. 3. Cream blush top with attached yellow stone necklace €145. Floral Glinglin skirt €165. 4. Pastel pink printed 3/4 sleeve shift dress €185.

Set 4

1. Mint knit cardigan €135. Leopard print Gelatine top €95. Ginger popping print pants €145  2. Glamrock leopard printed maxi dress €195 3. Gandle popping print green belted shift dress €145 4. Lime green rhinestone studded Garaje top €115. Green plastic tote bag €110 White ribboned pants €125. 5. Grey Garatoi sequin embellished sweater €145. Mint green denim shorts €95. 

Set 5

1. Lace insert Gaterie dress €225. Metallic mesh Galipette clutch €55 2. Gold sequined Granada sweater €135. 3. Rhinestone studded Great top €145. Multi-layered tulle skirt €185. 4. Printed Getch shirt dress €185. Cotton jacquard beaded Gratin bag €95. 5. Black & white Geopolitics lace insert dress €225.

Set 6

1. Pink short-sleeved Guts A-line top €145. Black skater skirt €165. 2. Multi-coloured sequined Giani top €285. 3. Pink Giacomo coat €365. Robot intarsia sweater €145. Gathered printed skirt €165. 4. Grey printed sequin detail t-shirt €65. 5. Sequin sprayed t-shirt €145. Powder blue Getout skirt €165.

Set 7

1. Orange printed Gabba bomber jacket €345 2. Black biker jacket €365. Sequined applique 'E' Sweater €175 3. Orange printed Galaxy overcoat €395 4. Lurex shimmer sweater €145. Ginger printed pants €145. 5. Black peplum top €175. Orange printed skirt €175.

I have my eye on Set 1 and 2.
Which of these Essentiel outfits would you like to shop?

You can shop the entire collection here.

Vogue's Print Predictions for Spring 2014

If, like me, you haven't warmed up to wearing prints yet, this season is bound to change your mind, as designers have bombarded the catwalks with a variegated composition of floral illustrated fabrics. Vogue US have laid out their pattern predictions for Spring 2014, with a colourful spread in their March 2014 issue entitled 'Petal Pushers'. This imaginative collection of looks are styled by shoe designer Tabitha Simmons, featuring a bevy of international models.

Dutch Model Imaan Hammam displays the sharp cuts and bold geometrics of this white Preen ensemble that digitally clashes blocks and florals in a collared wrap shirt and asymmetrical skirt. I love the neon PVC ankle-straped runway heels.

Sam Rollinson pretties up in a pink and blue rose motif swing dress by Giorgio Armani. Xiao Wen Ju wears a beautifully floral painted Oscar de la Renta dress with tiered frills.

German beauty Anna Ewers is dressed by Gucci in a laid back luxe silk jacquard trousers and tunic in a black, orange and orchid Erté floral design.

Balenciaga takes this seasons biggest trend into a more modern and monochromatic direction, with black and white grid prints that melt into a florid foliage. Sam Rollinson wears a printed sweater and boxy skirt whilst Xiao Wen Ju is styled in a cropped cardigan, tank top and graphic print shorts from the label's Spring/Summer 2014 collection.

Finnish model Suvi Koponan dons one of this seasons most recognizable and romantic prints, a fluttery appliqué of hand-painted pink Sicilian almond blossoms by Dolce & Gabbana. It is seen here sprouting upon a butterfly sleeved dress with a blue curlicue design.

Etro's bohemian design aesthetic is translated by a radiant orange floral printed pencil skirt and contrasting print shirt, as worn by Sam Rollinson. Suvi Koponen is outfitted in a retro red and indigo Asian inspired floral dress by Marni, belted with long-sleeves attached, along with a visor and platform flip-flops for a sporty appeal.

Rising British model Sam Rollinson purveys the ladylike elegance of Valentino is this intricately embroidered floral mini dress of a spring garden in bloom.

Suvi Koponen and Jourdan Dunn flaunt chiffon pleated florals, taped across with trendy word art, all in an optimistic blend of yellow, red and blue, courtesy of Christian Dior.

My reservations about prints are slowly dissipating, as I find myself loving the striking florals from Preen and Dior. How about you? Will you embrace prints this Spring?

*All images found via Vogue.

Looks of the Week - 22/02/14

The weekly roundup of celebrity style, on and off the red carpet.

London Glamour

Paloma Faith represents Burberry with panache, wearing a burgundy overcoat and, printed white tee and bottle green jacquard pencil skirt, topped off with a fedora.
Olivia Palermo is eclectic in a bordeaux top and matching belt, printed navy and white midi skirt, accessorized with a two-tone fur stole and cherry red boots.
Beyonce glammed up the Brit Awards in a glittering emerald green gown by Greek designer Vrettos Vrettakos.
Rosie Huntington-Whiteley picked out a glitzy red and black zebra print mini dress by Saint Laurent, tied up with a black bow belt and pumps, also from the label.
Ashley Madekwe stole the LFW spotlight in this dazzling emerald green sequin skirt & knitted Topshop top, styled with a leather biker, Chanel bag & Charlotte Olympia sandals.


Grey Area

Kate Mara pairs her finely checked grey oversized coat with a white sweater and leather leggings, adding chained loafers and a bright red bag.
Alesha Dixon dresses up her mottled grey Marc Jacobs jacket with a white tee and skinny jeans from Zara, along with white tie-up ankle boots.
Fearne Cotton throws her smokey grey military coat over a striped tee and boyfriend jeans, styling it with a pair of tan suede boots and burgundy bag.
Lily Allen was all grey in a simple top and sequined dipped sweatpants by Ashish. A neon necklace, hot pink lipstick and two lumo yellow and green Chanel bags jazzed up her outfit. 
Miranda Kerr upholds her classic style in a charcoal grey coat, worn with a black silk Equipment shirt, skinny blue jeans, Saint Laurent boots and a black Hermes bag.

Check Please

Gwen Stefani wraps up her black top and leather leggings with an eye-catching blue and red checked shawl and black Rachel Zoe wedge boots.
Selena Gomez teams her checked American Apparel shirt with a cropped top and slouchy black pants, adding Adidas sneakers & red Dolce & Gabbana bag to the urban sporty mix.
Olivia Munn trends in tartan, wearing a chic Topshop tube skirt and cropped black top.


Abs-olutely Lily Aldridge

If you have perfectly toned abs like Lily Aldridge, flaunt them. The Sports Illustrated supermodel wore three midriff-baring looks all in one week. First in a white satin bustier and pencil skirt. Secondly, she dons a slick black cropped top and high-splitted skirt by Thakoon and Lastly Lily is pictured in a red haute Calvin Klein zipped brassiere top and pencil skirt.


Lavender Rose

Vampire Academy actress Zoey Deutch delighted in a rose pink Christian Dior dress with A-line skirt. Snazzy pink Sophia Webster heels gingered up her look.
Swimsuit model Emily Ratajkowski poses in a lavender grey cut-out look by Alexander Wang. Her red finely strapped heels and black clutch are by Jimmy Choo.
Peaches Geldof kept up her feminine grace in a petal pink Temperley London gown.
Poppy Delevingne was attractive in a lilac see-through lace pencil dress with leather strap by Burberry Prorsum. Metallic accessories finalized her outfit.

Suki Waterhouse exuded elegance in a pastel pink caped coat with frilled shoulder detail & matching sheath dress by Ralph & Russo. Her look was complimented by Jimmy Choo shoes.


Streamlined

Rita Ora brought a ray of sunshine to the Brit Awards in a canary yellow plunge-neck Prada gown, the straps decked with emerald green jewels.
Chanel Iman looked glorious in a bright guava pink strapless Roland Mouret dress.
Rose Byrne was front row at Max Mara wearing a tailored black blazer, gold lamé tank and fluid white silk wide-leg trousers from their line.
Pixie Lott simplified her style in a tasteful white DKNY halter gown with side split, worn with silver Sophia Webster shoes and a white Dolce & Gabbana bag.

Who is your Favourite 'Look of the Week'? 

Friday Frills

The longer you have to wait for something, 

The more you will appreciate it when it finally arrives.

The harder you have to fight for something, 

The more priceless it will become once you achieve it.

And the more pain you have to endure on your journey,

The sweeter the arrival at your destination. 

Whatever we are waiting for...

Peace of mind, contentment, grace, the inner awareness of simple abundance, 

It will surely come to us, but only when we're ready to receive it with an open & grateful heart.

All good things are worth waiting for and worth fighting for.

Don't forget that your present situation is not your final destination.

The Best is Yet to Come.

Quote by Susan Gale & Sarah B Breathnach

Street Style - London Fashion Week Fall 2014

London Fashion Week
Fall/Winter 2014
Street Style

I always look forward to the creativity that comes with London street style during fashion week. Many of the trends we saw in New York have been stretched out across the pond, and along with it, a whole new stack of cutting-edge ideas have emerged. These are a few eye-catching outfits I've collected from the streets of London Fashion Week.

London Brights

The very popular bright shaded coat trend has spread it's vivacity to London with great animation. It takes a certain amount of confidence to pull off such electric hues, but it's most certainly worth the camera flashes.

Leopardess

Add a dash of leopard print to your everyday outfit as these ladies did. The easiest way to incorporate this print is via bags, boots and shoes. Invest in an animal print dress or coat for a more brazen urban jungle look. 

Off The Grid

Forget tartan, it was grid prints that made a graphic splash at LFW. This bold checked pattern was seen on everything from coats to skirts, scarves, dresses and pants. Wear it head-to-toe for an impactful look or break up with plains for a more toned down version of the trend. A vibrant bag will add the perfect dose of colour.

Midi Mode

Another popular fashion week trend are midi skirts, seen in pretty hues and prints. It can be dressed up with a pair of heels and elegant blazer, or kept casual with a parka and cozy sweater.

Camel Coats

The classic camel coat is given the London makeover with slick styling. Wear with pinstriped shirts & cropped pants, ripped boyfriend jeans or even a sassy pair of shorts. Stilettos are a must to glam up the allover look.

Chic Modernity

Building the perfect modern day outfit begins with the perceptive use of layers a play on proportions and different textures. Spice with interesting accessories like hats and metallics.

Lady Luxe

I love the pairing of dainty lace pencil skirts and delicate blouses with hardy leather jackets and structured coats. This feminine blend of pretty pastels cleverly merges sheers, cashmere and woolen knits.

Pink Fever

The pink coat trend isn't going away anytime soon, so it's best to get onto the rose-tinted bandwagon and use these chic looks as styling inspiration.

Boy Meets Girl

Androgynous dressing takes the lead in the trend sets with an intriguing array of masculine inspired outfits, tweaked by feminine styling. Oversized overcoats, tailored blazers, languid trousers, prim buttoned shirts and knitted pullovers are mingled with loose locks, high heels and trendy totes.

Colour Code

The city streets were lit up by a divergence of beautiful brights, lending us exciting new colour combinations.

Which of these London Street Style Trends are you most interested in trying out?

*Images found via Vogue, Vanity Fair, Wmagazine, Harper's Bazaar, Elle and Eonline.

Red Carpet - Bafta Awards 2014

Red Carpet Fashion
British Academy Film Awards 2014

The 67th Annual Bafta Awards brought out Britain's biggest stars last night, along with a few Hollywood celebs for a chilly but elegant night on the red carpet. These are some of the evenings' most interesting outfits.

Sleek Simplicity

Laura Bailey kept it classic in a black strapless sweetheart neck gown. Samantha Barks wore a sleek white linear shaped Calvin Klein dress. Amy Adams graciously posed in a modern black gown with sheer collared yoke by Victoria Beckham. Sai Bennett looked beautiful in a white pearl-buttoned peplum dress by Chanel. Uma Thurman was simplistic in a dark blue strapless Atelier Versace column gown.

Being Bold

Lupita Nyong'o stole the spotlight in this radiant emerald green full-skirted strapless gown with gold metal belt by Christian Dior. Lily Allen took a high fashion risk in an orange and cerise pink Vivienne Westwood look with pin-tucked skirt & crazy spiked hair piece. Alicia Vikander went tribal in a sheer printed top and white tier-fringed skirt by Chanel. Strappy blue Jimmy Choo sandals complimented her outfit.

Red Alert

Naomie Harris was polished in a cherry red v-neck Gucci dress with black waistband and high split. Eleanor Tomlinson wore a romantic Valentine's inspired red lace Dolce & Gabbana gown. Imogen Poots braved the icy weather in this sexy burgundy high-neck cut-out dress by Givenchy.

Suited Up

Angelina Jolie skipped the evening gown formalities and surprised all in a very well tailored Saint Laurent tuxedo with untied bow-tie, white shirt and heels. British actress Ruth Wilson also opted for a more masculine look, seen in a silver grey Antonio Berardi suit, trimmed in red.

Two-Tone

Cate Blanchett was her usually sophisticated self in a black and silver flower painted gown by Alexander McQueen. Olga Kurylenko looked chic in this reptilian rust and black cut-out Burberry column gown. Laura Carmichael went short in a black embossed Erdem dress, studded with metallic beads. Michelle Rodriguez picked out a form-fitting teal and leather Emilio de la Morena dress.

Midnight Hour

Lea Seydoux was a marvel in a navy blue sheer-skirted Prada gown with lilac beaded bodice. Maggie Gyllenhaal selected a lavish navy blue embellished lace look by Lanvin. French actress Josephine de la Baume exuded elegance in a midnight blue sheer bodices dress by Marios Schwab. Gillian Anderson also opted for blue, hers in a tri-tonal vintage Balmain dress.

Gold Plated

Scottish Actress Sophie Kennedy Clark looked pretty in a strapless matt gold high-low hemline dress by Sophia Kah. Fearne Cotton made a glittering appearance in this long sleeved bronze embroidered William Vintage Scaaci gown. Georgina Chapman represented her label Marchesa in an ornately embroidered black & gold sheer tulle and lace gown. Rebecca Wang stunned in a fitted nude and gold animal printed dress.

Who was your best and worst dressed at the 2014 BAFTA Awards?

*Next post on Wednesday.