VIE MYSELF AND I

New Years in Hong Kong

2012-01-10T02:10:00.000-08:00

Hong Kong is one of the most awesome places to spend NYE. There are bright lights, fireworks, you can drink on the street & there are SO many damn people that even if you're alone just walking on the street you feel like you're at a massive street party.

A. How cute is this kid??
B. Have you ever seen a bigger Chanel logo in your life?? LOL!!

Look at this guy's t-shirt... the one on the right... I was finished!

I walked into what I thought was a protest march in the street & this is what I saw.

Can you deal with the sheer volume of people. Street upon street upon street looked like this on NYE. Manic.

I met this girl at a bar on NYE. She was from Wales and had the coolest accent & the prettiest eyes.

Babies in coats are my best:-)

I took a series of pics of these designer stores because I just love how much they invest in their store fronts and the outside of their buildings. It also never ceases to amaze me how there are endless wrap-around queues outside these stores at all times of day. Its actually ridic!!

December Daze...

2012-01-08T08:01:00.000-08:00

December's my favourite month for so many reasons; long Summer days punctuated with steamy afternoon thunderstorms, boozy afternoons with friends, rekindling with family, prezzies, house parties, ice lollies, traffic free streets, braai meat and of course my birthday which, as much as I tried not to celebrate this year was, once again an absolutely amazing day. I have my good friends from Smirnoff to thank for this as they kindly offered to sponsor me some of their new pre-mix vodka cranberry & vodka ruby orange for my little do & all I could think was "why didn't someone come up with this sooner????". It's really yummy stuff. It was really one of the most beautiful days of my year... my BFF Nomi cooked up a storm & we hung out & watched the whole city beneath us from my friend Michael's amazing Braamfontein penthouse apartment. The best part was celebrating with my little baby boy. I couldn't have asked for a better end to one of the most pivotal years of my life.

Street Style: loafers, prints & a little bit of lace

2011-12-12T11:24:00.000-08:00

The Last Market...

2011-12-09T23:50:00.000-08:00

This Sunday is the last Market on Main market day... can't believe the year has gone by so fast. If, for whatever reason, you still haven't been, be sure to come by this weekend - check out the website for directions and extra info. xx

Street Style: Summer in JHB

2011-12-08T06:54:00.000-08:00

Toni came by to source some clothes for a shoot & we ended up having our own shoot:-) She also blogs. You can take a look here .

Amber Rose

2011-12-07T03:05:00.000-08:00

I've always liked Amber Rose despite her slightly skanky gold-digging media whoring ways. I love her super curvaceous video ho physique and how NO ONE can wear a pair of red pleather leggings and shades the size of their entire head like she can! This look is a slight departure from her usual but the necklace is amazing and I love the turban look on her. Not so amped about the "skin colour" playtex cross your heart bra sticking out there but I applaud her for choosing to wear tights with those shorty shorts... could our little Amber be growing up??

Amani stylz it up... (part 1)

2011-12-06T08:52:00.000-08:00

Having a baby is like having a live doll to play dress up with:-)

Weekend Recap (part 2)

2011-12-05T11:30:00.000-08:00

These are a few pics of some stylish folks I spotted at the Axe Angels party at the Venue on Saturday. I'm sure if I could remember anything I'd be able to give relevant commentary on the quality of the event but let's just say I was there... and I had A LOTTA fun (some might say a bit too much) and then I was home... for everything in between there are pictures:-)

My BFF Nomi is a master at driving & applying mascara and/or liquid liner.... EVEN in the dark. It's truly amazing to watch!

It was great seeing the gorgeous Janine J back in our city looking as fabulous as we remember her to be:-)

Weekend Recap (part 1)

2011-12-05T10:58:00.000-08:00

I had lots of girly fun on Friday at the Twenty Two Pop Up Boutique & MSC sale. There was lots of champagne drinking, cupcake eating, trying on clothes together and 'oohing & aahing' when someone came out looking great. Loved the camaraderie of it all...

Love this beautiful maxi dress from Mink Pink

This is the lovely Sharna, co-owner of MSC Boutique getting prepped for the do.

This is Ivy. She was job-shadowing me on Friday. Not sure she learnt anything but it was cool hanging out with someone who was born in the 90s.

This is my fabulous friend Tumi in a gorgeous Sitting Pretty dress .

I love this ring. My friend Abby who makes jewellery made it. It's a little mini corset & has the most beautiful engraved detail.

Random but I just find this sign so funny because it's outside a little 'spaza' shop that has very little to do with Golf or Tea.... or Chiclets for that matter.

British Fashion Awards 2011

2011-11-30T06:14:00.000-08:00

I tend to find awards show a bit dreary from a fashion perspective because it's all very beauty pageant-ish & after enough time all the floor length studded off the shoulder dresses start to look the same. I was looking forward to the British Fashion Awards though because A) it's fashion awards so the guests can experiment a little & b) It's BRITISH & I have a special place in my heart for the Brits & their alternative street style. There was a WHOLE LOTTA weirdness on that red carpet but we won't go there, I'm just going to show you what tickled me.

How great does Alexa Chung look - very angelic with a side of I just got laid in the car on my way here & couldn't find my hairbrush.

Amber le Bon is perfection in this dress

Disclaimer: I actually hate this dress but I love Kate Moss 4 wearing it. She's still so grungy & alternative.

Vic & Marc. *hearts*

Becks is Back!!

2011-11-30T02:41:00.000-08:00

It's very difficult not to love Victoria Beckham... there she is just casually strolling through the airport probably after an international flight, cute well behaved baby in hand (and no baby bag or any such un-fabulous appendages in sight) just looking ERR-MAZING!! This picture just warms my heart & makes me seethe with jealousy all at the same time.... sigh...

Food Wine & Design

2011-11-29T14:06:00.000-08:00

The 2nd Annual Food, Wine & Design Fair was on this weekend in Hyde Park. After a busy weekend I only managed to make it there on Sunday which actually worked out I think because it was a lot less packed than I had expected it to be. Overall, I thought there were some cool stalls here & there - I really liked the Tinsel jewellery stall & Missibaba's bag stand but I do think there could have been more in the way of clothing design. Hopefully this is an area that will grow significantly in the future.

I saw this cute little bike & couldn't help but get excited at the prospect of my son one day being able to ride it.

This really needs to be seen - it's gorgeous. Made entirely out of measuring tape. I snapped it at the Marianne Fassler stand.

I like these little bookstands

Rock me Again

2011-11-28T12:35:00.000-08:00

I went to the 'Rock Me Again' sustainable fashion project exhibition on Friday night at Vida Cafe in Greenside and this is what I encountered. I really wish it had been better attended though cuz so much hard work (clearly) goes into producing the work and it's a real pity that more peeps in JHB don't get to see it.... aah well... guess that's what we're here for.

The ever stylish Koki

Print by designer: Fabric

I love Sunshine's new coiffe!

This is my favourite print by Christopher Strong

This' Trevor - the man behind the exhibition - in an awesome Alexander McQueen x Puma jacket

Pow!

pink & red

2011-11-24T18:00:00.000-08:00

Me likeeey!

Vie circa 2009

2011-11-24T05:42:00.000-08:00

A friend of mine (LeZac) posted this on twitter and it was fun to catch a tiny glimpse of my former self. This pic was taken by JR for some cool kid magazine (I don't actually remember - it might have been SL)... sigh... how quickly time flies...

NEW FEATURE: hello! urbanmosadi

2011-11-23T00:50:00.000-08:00

I've decided to add a new feature to my little blog-tjie called "hello!" where once a week (on Wednesdays) I'll be interviewing or talking about people that I think are cool & worth knowing about. Obviously when I thought of who to interview in such a feature the first person that sprung to mind was the ever awesome & oh-so-very-stylish photographer-cum- stylist- cum supermom UrbanMosadi from UrbanMosadi.blogspot.com . I hope you enjoy this as much as I did...

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Your blog is loved & followed by many, what do you think makes a good blog?

I strongly advocate original content. So taking your own images, or making your own art as content and designing the look & feel of your site makes for an authentic blog. Updating your blog on the regular ensures a steady stream of new followers and keeps loyal ones inspired.

What blogs do you follow/ read?

TheHundreds, Vashtie, The MadburyClub , Karla’s Closet, TheSelby,

Doepelganger, Double Take, OkMalume, AntheaKNowsBest, Vie, Myself and I, TeeTee is With Me, & The Sartorialist.

The photos you take are spectacular – would you say photography is one of your passions. When & how did you start?

Oh wow, thank you. A photography lecturer, described me as a dancing photographer, meaning I shoot my subjects with at 360degree angle. When I shoot I always try to be as inconspicuous as possible, this, I’d like to think gives the audience a sense that they were right there in the moment when viewing my final images.

My inspiration to seriously pick up the camera started while living in Los Angeles in 2009 after deciding to take better images for my blog. The discovery of Mark ‘the Cobrasnake’ and Todd Selby’s work was also inspirational.

Fashion is also one of your passions – what would you say is the most stylish city you’ve visited?

Easily Paris for the sartorial finesse of the men, however New York is a close second for it’s eclectic style.

What is your most precious/ valued clothing item?

Apart from my late Father’s vintage Lyle & Scotch cardigan, I would definitely have to say my Limited Edition NSW Sheep Leather varsity jacket (picture below). I was literally willing to starve for an entire month to get it.

Other than blogging – what do you do? I’m a full-time mother to my 5 and half-month old daughter.

For those who don’t know, what would you say your blog is about & what inspired you to start it?

I got introduced to the blog world by Max Mogale’s blog back in 2006 without him even knowing about it. My first ever blog was of my birthday dinner in October 2006. There was no real theme or particular direction then and so I decided to stop. Fast forward to 2009, I began finding cool things that caught my attention like local and international street fashion, parties, exhibitions as well as dope stores. I also snap the respective custodians of the culture. I identified with what I found and felt compelled to share it. I also share chunks of my personal life in-between all that, with who ever can relate. Essentially, the blog is a documentation of urban culture.

What’s on your playlist right now?

If it’s not one of Makosha’s dope mixes including DomKennedy, Erykah Badu, Amanda Diva…It’s definitely still Frank Ocean’s addictive remake of ColdPlay’s Strawberry Swing.

If you had to be anyone other than yourself for a day who would you be?

Probably my daughter :-)

Any tips for aspiring bloggers out there?

Create your own content and have fun doing it. Don’t be afraid to share what’s in your heart or on your mind.

Ooh la la!

2011-11-17T23:42:00.000-08:00

I'm really looking forward to this. I went to the Vida exhibition last year and then I re-commissioned the exhibition for the first Fashion Friday at my Juta street store. It was awesome. This exhibition features work from some of our best local designers all in the name of 'responsible' fashion. Love it.

Dakota does Dallas

2011-11-10T03:15:00.000-08:00

So there's this whole furor by the British advertising authorities about this Marc Jacobs ad campaign. They're saying it's too kiddie porn-ish. Personally, I think they're just a bit traumz that the little girl from "I AM SAM" has finally grown up & learnt how to pout. I totally get it. But seriously, I just don't think it's that big a deal. Your thoughts??

Marilyn

2011-11-10T00:00:00.000-08:00

I don't think I will ever get enough of Marilyn Monroe so it makes my heart swell with joy that she has been further immortalised byBert Stern in an exhibition of his photographs of her that will open tomorrow at the Milk Gallery in New York. Wish I could be there. Sad face. How beautiful are these pictures. It's no wonder she's such an icon of our time.

2011-11-09T15:00:00.000-08:00

So while everyone was schmoozing & air kissing at the Zara Launch (did you notice the jealousy oozing out of every orifice of my body there) I was at home watching one of my favourite movies; 'Vicky, Christina, Barcelona' (joys of being a new mom) and was reminded of how much I love Penelope Cruz. I think she could possibly be my favourite actress but I'm not gonna commit to that statement just yet. She is so timelessly beautiful & sexy and all things right. And the fact that her & Javier Bardem are actually married just makes my life.

Versace's H&M collection revealed!

2011-10-25T03:23:00.000-07:00

I posted some pics a few weeks ago about the pending Versace collection for H&M and now finally pictures of the entire collection have been revealed. There are some really lovely pieces in the collection and they really are affordable... I mean one of the dresses generally ranges from 129.99 - 149.99 pounds (don't know how to do a pound symbol on this new laptop). I wasn't so sure about the collection initially but now I can say with certainty that I like it. It's fun, sexy, has all the Versace-isms and doesn't look like Versace's weird cousin from Boksburg (no offense to Boksburg dwellers - we still love you:-).

Interview for Vodacom Colour

2011-10-12T09:52:00.000-07:00

Check out my interview for Vodacom Colour done by my good friend Jamal Nxedlana of cut-my-i.blogspot.com

http://www.colorsuperpeers.co.za/?p=7242

H&M Winter 2012

2011-10-12T01:00:00.000-07:00

H&M needs to hurry up & come to SA. Found this link for an online petition to bring H&M to SA. It's been there for a while but let's sign it guys!! We can't live like this anymore!!

How amazing is this range?!? Love the colour blocking and the use of brights considering how dreary winter collections can be *books plane ticket*.

pictures courtesy of http://www.tendances-de-mode.com/

Zara Autumn Lookbook 2011

2011-10-11T11:08:00.000-07:00

I am over the moon that Zara will be gracing our shores in the VERY near future. Really hoping they won't short change us in the clothing dept & we can see some of these goodies next season...

Wow!

Double Wow!

This look is so cool

This is how I would like to look

Mad about Messeca

2011-10-11T01:00:00.000-07:00

I've recently discovered & fallen in love with NY based shoe brand Messeca. Will be getting myself a pair or two in the very near future.

Fashion Week beef!!

2011-10-09T08:40:00.000-07:00

Oooh chile!! The earrings have come off and the battle of the Fashion Weeks is on!! I can't believe it's even gotten this far. In case you haven't heard, Milan & Paris Week have decided to ignore requests from London & New York to move the dates of the (next) September shows that are clashing with their shows. So basically, NYFW starts Sep 13th, Milan on the 19th, London on the 21st and Paris on the 25th with the biggest overlap being between London & Milan. It's all just a big mess and the global fashion industry is being forced to take sides, not to mention the designers that are showing at both London & Milan. Conde Nast has already issued a statement saying that they won't be attending Milan Fashion Week if they don't move their dates but the Europeans are standing their ground. What D-for-Drama!! Good to know we're not the only ones with Fashion Week dramas...

Beyonce goes brown

2011-10-08T11:34:00.000-07:00

Despite her (very) inconsistent dress sense & nauseating eternal 'good girl' act, I absolutely adore Beyonce. Not only is she gorgeous & uber talented but she had actually managed to convince me that she was a natural blonde. This video for one of her new songs, "Countdown", was a serious jolt back to reality. Love the cereal bowl coiffe below and the contrast bra. Is that the famous baby bump I see too?

pictures courtesy of the www.nymag.com

'Clueless' circa 1995

2011-10-07T23:00:00.000-07:00

It sounds extremely hyperbolic to say that the movie 'Clueless' literally defined who I am as a person today but it really really did! I caught it on TV today and watched it in wide eyed amusement for the 46th time in my life. Yes, I said 46 times! It's really that good. Considering what a giant cringe the fashion of the 90s generally is - this movie was perfectly on point in the fashion department. This was where, at 10 years old (or so), I first caught wind of the talented Tunisian designer Azzedine Alaia and fell in love with knee high socks, plaid & itty bitty backpacks. One could even argue that the first time I saw this movie was the beginning of my long & unrequited love affair with all things fashion. Who knows? What I really want to know is, does the computer that can coordinate your clothes actually exist yet in real life and if so, why don't I have one?

Jersey Chic

2011-10-07T04:46:00.000-07:00

I must confess, I am completely obsessed with all things Jersey- ok not all things- just the orange skinned, high heeled, big haired, over accessorized part.

These girls are like uber females for me... I mean who has the TIME to put on all of that make-up everyday and who could actually stomach wearing those heels while STANDING in a hair salon working all day?? And despite the over-use of spray tan and 80s style teased hair, there's a big part of me that actually aspires to be consistently 100% groomed and looking like I'm going to a party like these girls do.

Street Style: PFW

2011-10-06T09:39:00.000-07:00

I really didn't want to post ALL of these pics but they are just spectacular!! These are some of the Paris Fashion Week attendees. I need to live in a place where people dress like this on the regular... you know what they say though, "be the change you want to see in the world" or something like that. Whatever. I need to go shopping.

All images courtesy of the thecut.com

RIP Steve Jobs

2011-10-05T21:34:00.000-07:00

Without our health we are nothing. No amount of money, fame or intellect can replace that. Sad day indeed.

Is Kim K a thief??

2011-10-05T21:30:00.000-07:00

So the latest industry beef is between Kim Kardashian and jewellery designer Alexis Bittar who claims that the bootiful reality star come store owner come basketball wife stole his design and replicated it in one of the pieces that is now being sold at Dash.

The original can be seen below on the left... your thoughts? Is she a theiving little [beep] or is this Alexis guy just looking for attention?

Chanel... sigh...

2011-10-05T20:59:00.000-07:00

In my (humble) opinion, Chanel literally stole the show at Paris Fashion Week. The sheer drama of it all!! Of course we expect nothing less from Karl Lagerfeld - I don't know why I'm even mentioning this but one must admit that at first, the concept of an underwater theme sounds a little kitsch & just has SOOO much potential to be all stripey & little mermaidy but this was executed so tastefully. From the ethereal staging to the subtle hints of coral and aquamarine green in the garments... In the words of the man himself, "I absolutely wanted to avoid mermaids and things like that... I was inspired by the movement of seaweed, its lightness, and by certain fish that have very modern shapes, like stingrays."

I also found some beautiful exclusive behind the scenes pics courtesy of fashion telegraph and photographer Benoit Peverelli.

Alexander McQueen | SS 2012 | Paris

2011-10-05T20:41:00.000-07:00

Not much needs to be said about the amazing talent that is Sarah Burton. I love this collection. It's all dark & twisty in typical McQueen Fashion & still so very gentle & beautiful! Spotted!

Ooh! And there's my favourite project runway judge & Marie Claire editor Nina Garcia craning her neck in the background...

Versace for H&M

2011-10-04T06:17:00.000-07:00

First it was Stella McCartney, Roberto Cavalli & Lanvin & now Versace has followed in their path by collaborating with H&M for a limited edition collection launching in November 2011. I love the print campaign but so far, not mad about the few items I've seen from the collection, I lie... I'm on the fence right now. Can't wait to see the whole collection. Either way, Viva the democratisation of fashion!! VIVA!!

Print campaign

Donatella in one of the dresses that will be featured in the H&M collection

Another item from the H&M collection shot in Vogue

Kanye West does Paris Fashion Week

2011-10-02T10:30:00.000-07:00

So Kanye West debuted his line - DW by Kanye West at Paris Fashion Week yesterday and it was actually really nice. Very "Fifth Element" futuristic vibes, lotsa leather (which I love) and some nice Stiaan Louw-esque drapery. And even though it's a womenswear collection, it still manages to maintain a strong sense of him... which is cool. Ok these are a few of my favourites from the collection.

Andrej Pejic

2011-10-01T02:01:00.000-07:00

I am completely OBSESSED with the gorgeous Serbian born Australian model, Andrej Pejic. He, yes I said, he, is the poster boy for modern day androgyny featuring in the men's and women's runway shows of some of the top designers such as Jean Paul Gaultier and Marc Jacobs. And as if that wasn't enough, he went and ranked no. 98 in the FHM World's sexiest women 2011. Just 'cause he's so damn pretty FHM decided to overlook the fact that um... he's not actually a woman... who cares anyway right?

SAFW is in it to win it...

2011-09-30T13:56:00.000-07:00

It's that time of year again when the SAFW literally dominates our social calendars with all the fun fashion thingies to attend. I sadly couldn't make it to the Winter collections or the Elle New Talent Show this year because I was busy procreating but I am really looking forward to 'popping' by the SAFW pop up store in Sandton this week (it opened today). It's a fantastic initiative to help fuse local designers into mainstream retail. It's also a great place to pick up some great locally designed items and even have a chat with some of the designers if you're lucky.

In similar news - SAFW has also partnered with Edgars and launched the Designer Capsule Collection at the Melrose Arch Edgars store. This capsule collection will showcase the designs of many of our local favourites such as; Black Coffee, Lunar, Two, Clive Rundle, Colleen Eitzen and Chanelle as well as 2 or 3 rotating designers every month. How exciting!! And how huge for the designers involved!! I can't wait to go take a look and once again shop up a storm... sigh..

WTF?!?!?!?

2011-09-30T13:34:00.000-07:00

I would never do this ordinarily because this blog is supposed to be a positive space rather than a critical/ negative one but I just can't stop myself on this one.

Seriously, WTF was Nicki Minaj wearing... at NY Fashion Week, sitting next to Anna Wintour, AT THE CAROLINA HERRERA SHOW!!! It's just awful on so many levels and I would like it to be known that I am PERSONALLY offended by this outfit and by Nicki Minaj's general presence on this Earth!!

That is all.

Thank you.

Spring has sprung...

2011-09-25T07:49:00.000-07:00

I've always known that I am more partial to warmer climatic conditions but only this winter did I realise that it's so much bigger than a simple weather preference. I in fact become COMPLETELY miserable & depressive in winter. I literally lose my will to live. Moving forward I think I'm just going to hibernate for the entire duration of that horrible season & emerging like a brand new flower bud only at the start of Spring - revivied, refreshed & ready to take on the world. With that said, NO ONE is more excited than me that it is finally Spring & we can officially kiss the winter blues goodbye. Moreover, I'm super excited about what's in store for us this Spring/ Summer fashion wise & thought I'd share some of my favourite trends/ looks with you. As soon as I shed the excess winter layers it's game on!

Lace

70s inspiration - wide leg jeans

Wide leg pants, white, high waists

Sheer maxi skirt

Biker

Zanele Muholi Exhibition: Brodie Stevenson Gallery

2011-07-11T10:20:00.000-07:00

On Thursday I went to the opening of the solo exhibition of Zanele Muholi at the Brodie Stevenson Gallery in Braamfontein. I really don't want to sound like some kind of pseudo art fundi because I'm really not (I aim to be soon though) but I like the concept behind this exhibition. It's called "Inkanyiso" which means "light" in Zulu (it's also one of my good friend's names even though he calls himself Kevin now). Basically it's a visual commentary on the "complexity & fluidity of gender" and challenges our perceptions of gender roles using really beautiful portrait style photographs. I liked it. May not be your cup of tea but its certainly worth a look. It ends on the 5th August.

On another note: spotted quite a few very interesting, very stylish art types there but this is a picture of my friends Sthe and Thato. Sthe is one of the owners of Fruitcake Vintage - one of my favourite little vintage stores in the CBD at Fashion Kapitol. I love these two and their sheer dedication to looking well styled EVERYDAY.

A day in the life of...

2011-07-07T07:44:00.000-07:00

Just when I thought my days on the social scene were fast approaching an end, I had the privilege of attending not one, but TWO fab launches in one day AND still managed to fit in some work and a home cooked meal at the end of the day;-)
The first one was in the morning & was the launch of Season 4 of Tropika Island of Treasure. This time the 7 celebs & 7 regular contestants (plebs) are off to Cancun Mexico to compete for the R1 Million prize. Some faces you might recognise include; Poppy Nthongwana, DJ Zinhle, Tshepo Mogale, Tracy McGregor, Slikour, Joelle Kayembe & Phila Mazibuko. I have no doubt this is gonna be a fun one.

Then the evening came & I headed off to the opening of the new "Religion" store in 44 Stanley. If you don't already know, "Religion" is a London based clothing brand that draws its inspiration from the early 90s London punk scene. Very young, edgy, a little dangerous... very early Kate Moss vibes. I love the new store... it's absolutely beautiful even though I didn't manage to get a lot of pictures because it was so full throughout the night. Be sure to visit the new store but also make sure that you're thoroughly credit worthy before venturing in there to actually shop... xx

Love is....

2011-06-23T03:36:00.000-07:00

.... Zara Men's | May 2011

In my ideal world... all men look like this....

Nyasha Matonhodze x Louis Vuitton

2011-05-28T03:53:00.000-07:00

I'm really excited about the new face of Louis Vuitton's A/W 11 Campaign, Zimbabwean born British teen Nyasha Matonhodze. She's only just turned 16 & is already causing quite a stir in the international modelling scene.

I think she's absolutely gorgeous & can't help feeling proud that she's (sort of) a home grown girl making waves globally.

FASHION FRIDAY: Fri 3rd June

2011-05-27T03:32:00.000-07:00

The time is upon us again ladies & gents! Only this time it's bigger & better & WARMER!! FASHION FRIDAYS has found a temporary home for the duration of winter at THE GRAYSCALE GALLERY in Braamfontein so please join us for another fun evening of beautiful SA fashion, drinks, music & mingling.

For those of you who still don't know... "Fashion Fridays" is a celebration of South African fashion design, art, food & music hosted by Twenty Two.

Guest fashion designers from across the country are invited to exhibit at Twenty Two as part of a night shopping experience all in the name of supporting, loving & buying local fashion. The event takes place on the first Friday of every month and has already grown substantially.

The event is scheduled to take place from 5:30 – 6pm til about 10pm.
Drinks and food are available and the event is open to all who share the ideology of supporting local fashion design.

Spence Online & Missibaba JHB pop-up sale

2011-05-26T03:00:00.000-07:00

I am sooo excited for the Spence & Missibaba pop up sale at Arts on Main this Sunday 29th May. And it's on at the same time as the Market on Main (10-3pm) so there's no excuse not to go. Was lucky enough to catch a glimpse of the Missibaba bags today when they got delivered and I can't wait!!

Check out the fb event:

http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=131973050211783

Cannes you deal?

2011-05-25T05:52:00.000-07:00

I've finally recovered from the absolutely surreal 7 days I had last week in Cannes. Please note that by "recovered" I mean, I'm finally cured from post-French Riviera- back- to- reality depression syndrome and am ready to continue with my chosen path in life.
There are no words to describe the sheer awesomery that is the French Riviera in Summer. As I'm sure you can tell it was my first time there but certainly not my last; I will have to return to collect my soul which understandably refused to return with me.

So on day 1 we arrived & got invited to an exclusive Kanye West party & private performance. Yes he was there. And yes he performed for like an hour and half. And yes it was awesome. Naomi Campbell, Leo DiCaprio, Jamie Foxx, Pharrel & Quincy Jones thought so too.

Did I mention that Pharrel (my old friend from McDonald's Grayston) opened for Kanye so it was a double bonus.

The picture below is Jamie Foxx (who also just decided to jump on stage & help Kanye sing "Golddigger")

And there was Monaco...oh Monte Carlo...WHAT a beautiful city. So clean and fabulous ...and empty. Look at this picture. There is NO ONE in the street because so few people ACTUALLY live there.

I really started to wonder why I don't have a yacht.... life just seems so much better on a yacht... sigh...

Look at the name of this shop that I'm standing in front of... (hee hee!)

Gosh! And the food. Lawd!! Did we eat?? But what are holidays for right if not for gorging yourself on anything and everything delicious.

These are my two lovely friends Sedi & Ivanka wearing locally designed dresses. Can't remember the name of the designer right now but will get back to you on that.

Fashion Fridays - Hello Winter!

2011-05-09T20:00:00.000-07:00

Well, the 3rd Fashion Fridays held at my store (Twenty Two) last Friday was another success & lotsa fun as usual. I just love how super stylish JHB peeps can be when they set their minds to it. There are big plans for our little 'Local is Lovely' campaign but all will be revealed in the very near future. You can go check out the rest of the pics from that night at www.ilovetwentytwo.com or www.pinklyte.blogspot.com . Mcwah!

Nice tie!

Love girls who play with fun lip colours:-) Go look at this girl's blog here

Amy's bag... *swoon*

Lesego looks lovely in this glamorous boho look.

This' my brand new fiance... I heart him and he bought this Simon & Deporres jacket so I heart him more!

street style...

2011-05-03T09:02:00.000-07:00

For my own sanity and future well being I think I need to move to a city where people who dress like this generally roam the streets. These pics are courtesy of the ICONIA magazine street style blog which you can look at in full here ... *swoon*!

sneaky royal wedding post

2011-05-02T22:17:00.000-07:00

I SWORE to myself I would avoid blogging about the Royal Wedding because I'm sure the whole world is royal wedding'd out by now but LAWD HA MERCY Victoria Beckam looked good!! I just can't get over how stylish and gorgeous she looked in that amazing dress from her own line, those killer Louboutin heels & Philip Treacy hat. She IS the definition of fabulous! And let's face it; no handbag ever made could top that arm candy she's sporting in this picture. Some girls just have all the luck!!

FASHION FRIDAY - 6th May

2011-05-02T12:37:00.000-07:00

After the success of our Fashion Fridays : Mens Wear Edition event last month we have yet another awesome night in store for you this time we are welcoming the winter season which is upon us a wonderful evening of music, drinks, food & most importantly local South African designer fashion for another fun-filled night shopping experience.

Fashion Fridays is a celebration of South African fashion design, art, food & music hosted by Twenty Two.
Guest fashion designers from across the country are invited to exhibit at Twenty Two as part of a night shopping experience all in the name of supporting, loving & buying local fashion.Festivities start at 5:30 – 6pm til about 10pm.
Cash bar & food will be available so come join us, have some yummy sundowners & shop up a storm!!

We look forward to seeing you on Friday!!

The return of colour...

2011-04-27T12:55:00.000-07:00

An article was posted just last week on Elle.com about how colour blocking is hot again for Spring/ Summer 2011. This makes me very happy because as much as I LOVED the whole nudes & neutrals things that happened all of last year, I'm just more of a bold colour girl. I try to fight it because I feel like neutrals are more sophisticated blah blah blah but I just can't help it. I think it has something to do with being an 80s baby & being born into a technicolor world of lumos, sequins & spandex! It's.... within me.

Anyway, the thing with colour blocking is that it's not as easy at it looks. You can't just take everything in your wardrobe that doesn't match with anything else & pair it together. There are rules & guidelines (I know right...who would've thought?). Some people are just born with an innate knack for this stuff but for the rest of us, there's science & a very helpful tool is this little colour wheel thingy below:

You can make the following combos using the color wheel as your guide:

1. Colors directly next to each other (i.e. yellow and yellow-orange; yellow and yellow-green; violet and blue-violet, etc.)
2. Colors that form right (90 degree) angles with each other (i.e. yellow and red-orange; blue and violet-red; green and orange, etc.)
3. Colors directly across from each other (i.e. yellow and violet; blue and orange; red and green, etc.)
4. Colors that form a T (i.e. blue, orange, and violet-red; yellow, violet, and red-orange; yellow, blue-green, and red-orange, etc.)
5. Colors that form an X (i.e. blue, orange, violet-red, and yellow, violet, blue-green, and red-orange, etc.)

Brown is a neutral along with white, black & denim blues so they will go with pretty much anything.

Hope that helps!

less is more...

2011-04-26T11:29:00.000-07:00

Few things are sexier to me than vintage swimwear. All this high-leg, stomach out, bared-bum business just doesn't work for me. As a result, it's been about 10 years since I bought a cozzie that I actually liked. Wish I could find an original never used 1950s cozzie somewhere (there is something kinda yucky about using someone else's cozzie). Look how gorgeous these are... sigh...

fashion, faux pas or just a bit of fun?

2011-04-25T11:04:00.000-07:00

What do you think of these shoe designs by Israeli footwear designer Kobi Levi? Is it art, a slap in the face for fashion or taking conceptual fashion to new heights?

body art...

2011-04-24T11:03:00.000-07:00

I went to my lovely friend Amy from Lost and Found 's b-day drinks the other night on the rooftop patio of the Sandton Sun hotel. It was magical. Beautiful view, well dressed interesting people, a bonfire and general fun all around.

Really love her new nails (and how cool is this pic in general - her cute budding photographer brother Nicky took it) ! They're super trendy right now. Saw them first on one of my other friends and everytime we take them anywhere they cause quite a stir. Also, not sure whose arm this was but someone at the party also had this really cool tat. I've never had any real desire to get a tattoo until recently, think if I did though it'd be something like this.

Fashion Friday | 8th April 11 | Menswear Edition

2011-04-04T04:20:00.000-07:00

Following the success of the launch of our monthly ‘Fashion Fridays’ events last month we have planned another wonderful evening of music, drinks, food & most importantly local South African designer fashion for another fun-filled night shopping experience.

Fashion Fridays is a celebration of South African fashion design, art, food & music hosted by Twenty Two.

Guest fashion designers from across the country are invited to exhibit at Twenty Two as part of a night shopping experience all in the name of supporting, loving & buying local fashion. This time we’ve done something for the boys & invited some of the most exciting local menswear brands to exhibit such as Simon & Deporres, Adriaan Kuiters & Sylvester Fallata.

Fashion Friday usually takes place once a month on the first Friday of the month but this month we’ve decided to have it on Friday 8^th April in line with the start of SA Fashion week which will also be taking place in Braamfontein at the Shine Studios just a few streets away.

This event is open to everyone who loves and is keen to support local fashion – just don’t forget to wear at least one locally produced or manufactured item.

Festivities start at 5:30 – 6pm til about 10pm.

Cash bar & food will be available so come join us, have some yummy sundowners & shop up a storm!!

Fashion Friday: Mememe & Two JHB

2011-03-31T17:45:00.000-07:00

You literally would have had to have fallen off the face of the planet to have not heard about the opening of the new Mememe & Two store in JHB this week. I had a ton of fun at the official opening do last night at the very cute house-cum-office-cum-shop in 6th Street Parkhurst. There was bubbly for days and the 4 girls; Doreen Southwood, MissMilliB, Caren and Gina Waldman were all superb hosts. For Fashion Friday today, I encourage you to go take a look & buy a little something to wear next week for the monthly Fashion Friday cocktail party at Twenty Two. The clothes are lovely & very proudly South African. Nice to see the quaint boutique culture picking up in JHB. xx

FASHION FRIDAY: Designer of the Day - Adriaan Kruiters

2011-03-25T00:54:00.000-07:00

I love this man's work. This is a brand called Adriaan Kruiters designed by a super nice guy named Keith (no his name is not Adriaan). I visited his studio in Cape Town 2 weeks ago & love the simplicity & functionality of his clothing. ALSO, I'm just so happy there's someone in South Africa doing nice easy to wear casual clothing for men. Look him up here .

My day with Pharrell...sigh...oh and the concert....

2011-02-14T07:24:00.000-08:00

I hardly ever get the opportunity to just act like a downright groupie but when I found out that N*E*R*D was going to be in town I knew that come hell or high water I was going to just have to set my pride aside and follow them EVERYWHERE they went which is what I did and I even got more than I bargained for when I randomly bumped into them at the Grayston McDonalds. For the record, when I say "them" what I really mean is "Pharrel" and also for the record I wasn't actually EATING at McDonalds... just rendezvousing with a friend & the universe saw it fit to bring us (Pharrel & I) together for a face-to-face encounter. It was magic. I died & was resurrected several times that day. Let's not even talk about the concert and the press conference that morning... "WOW!" is all I have to say.

FASHION FRIDAY: Designer of the Day - EPONYMOUS

2011-02-11T02:00:00.000-08:00

So you all know that I have a complete obsession with leather EVERYTHING and for this week's "Fashion Friday" Designer of the Day I'm celebrating the work of the uber talented and equally lovely Amanda Leigh O'Connell from "Eponymous".
I first encountered this lady and her designs at the 'Designer Boutique Trade Show' for Buyers and it was love at first sight. She produces her entire range out of the finest quality leather and goes even further than your imagination can stretch by producing wearable items like blouses and dresses out of leather. Sounds crazy but it's an absolute must see... and see you will... I look forward to hosting her as a guest designer at Twenty Two (my store in Braamies) for our monthly Fashion Friday events which will be starting on the 4th March 2011. Will tell you more about that later, in the meantime, take a look at the lovely pics below. xx

Jozi: how do I love thee?... let me count the ways...

2011-02-08T01:28:00.000-08:00

I was just all over the place this weekend & was reminded of how much I love the amazing city I live in. First, it was Nonhle Thema's TV show launch, then Saturday on the Street-side shopping and listening to live music with friends at 70 Juta and lastly a full day at Market on Main (which is fast becoming my staple Sunday hangout). There are so many reasons to love this city and here are a few of mine.

1. I love bumping into stylish people at lavish invite-only parties.

2. I love shopping on the streets of the CBD....

3. I love the fact that Joanna Claire jewellry designer extroadinaire has chosen to make JHB her home and can grace us with her design talents on a regular basis.

4. I love the different types of people that I meet on the street while shopping:-)

6. I love my friends and the way they make the steps of my store look so cool.

7. I love leather pants (skirts, shorts, dresses & everything else)

8. I love my stall at the Market on Main... in fact I love the whole Market on Main.

9. I love this dress by Christopher Strong.

10. I love cool boys with tattooes who buy leopard print undies.

Random

2011-02-07T11:51:00.000-08:00

This is totally random but I tend to just save nice pictures I find on my internet travels and never post them. These are a few that have been sitting in my stash. Thought y'all might like them too.

Tom Ford Editorial

Notorious B.I.G. (Love this picture!)

Sunday Independent

2011-02-06T11:34:00.000-08:00

I was pleasantly surprised to find this article on fashion bloggers in today's Sunday Independent. That's me, on the left, next to my friends & fellow blogging buddies MissMilliB & MaquedeGorgeous:-) Thanks to Sandiso Ngubane for a very insightful & well written piece.

how to: repair a shattered eyeshadow

2011-02-03T07:54:00.000-08:00

This is awesome! And soooo helpful! Click this link & thank me later:-)

how to: repair a shattered eyeshadow

2011-02-03T01:26:00.000-08:00

How cool are these nails!!! I first fell in love with black nail polish about 2 winters ago when it made a real come-back, then last winter was all about grey; every shade of grey imaginable from gunmetal to storm grey and everything in between. And now I find myself completely enamoured with this look - matte & glossy black; the modern take on the French manicure. Yummy!!! Think this going to be this winters' thing for me! Found this pic here ...in case you're wondering!

Saturday at 70...

2011-01-30T04:29:00.000-08:00

It's on again at 70 Juta next Saturday 5th Feb - we'll be soaking up the sun, drinking, shopping, admiring art, listening to music & generally having a blast. If the last big do was anything to go by you don't wanna miss it!

xx

weddings...

2011-01-30T00:38:00.000-08:00

I've never envisioned myself being one of those elaborate white wedding dress kind of girls. In fact, to be perfectly honest, I've never even wanted a wedding or anything of that sort, I think they're over-priced & too labour intensive to organise, and in all honesty, can you really visualise me with an UP-DO?? HAHA!! The thought literally makes me cringe. And then I found these beautiful pictures shot by Marina Danilova & designed by a brand named 'Papilio' on this site click here and started to reconsider my position. They just remind me of that amazing scene in 'Sex and the City 1' where Carrie does the Vogue shoot in all those wedding dresses... my heart literally glowed for the duration of that scene so I suppose under the right circumstances, PERHAPS I could be swayed.

Scott Schuman... the man behind the camera...

2011-01-27T07:19:00.000-08:00

I was so excited to find this video of Scott Schuman aka The Sartorialist, world renowned fashion blogger who pretty much started it all. His blog still forms part of my daily bread which is why I was completely devastated to find out that his newly published book, The Sartorialist, was sold out in EVERY Exclusive Books store in the country. Anyway, this is a lovely little look into the man and his work and the things that make him tick. Well worth the 7 minutes!

Just for fun...

2011-01-27T07:00:00.000-08:00

Found this on www.thetrendygirl.net thought it was cute and could come in really handy for all my fellow budget travel junkies. Not that I actually wear or own a single hoodie but perhaps this is now a reason to buy one.

'Waste' is Good...

2011-01-24T07:58:00.000-08:00

The genius doesn't seem to end with the Lanvin for H&M collection. They've recently just launched a small new collection called "Waste" which, as the name suggests, has been created out of the left over fabrics from the production of the original collaborative collection. It just ticks all the boxes; beautiful design, environmentally friendly & innovative. Me likes a lot!

Backseat Vintage

2011-01-24T06:12:00.000-08:00

Some dresses only exist in dreams. This is one of them. Red leather, ruffled collar, slightly off shoulder. I would shorten the sleeves though but that's it. I found this gorgeous number on www.backseatvintage.bigcartel.com. Great vintage clothing site AND they deliver to South Africa which is great! Now just hoping it'll still be there next week so I can order it!

Market on Main

2011-01-24T05:32:00.000-08:00

I spent yesterday at the Market on Main selling lovely clothes & accessories, catching up with friend & playing with cute babies that passed by. I really love what's happening to Joburg and the renewed interest & investment in the city. A whole new sub-culture just seems to have blossomed and it seems as though everyone has welcomed it with open arms. Yesterday was really a symbol of this as all types of people gathered in former-no-go-area Jeppestown. at Arts on Main soaked up the sun, drank wine, ate messy food, listened to live music & shopped up a storm. The Market will be on every Sunday from 10-3pm so there's no need to despair if you missed it & Twenty Two will be there doing what we do best...

This was one of the customers at our stall. How cute are the pants she bought??

I can't get over this dress.

blog love....

2011-01-19T05:07:00.000-08:00

The TeamUncoolFashion blog is one of my favourite South African blogs. Run by renowned photographer Chris Saunders, artist/DJ Murry Turpin and stylist Chris Wagner, it really is a creative collaboration like no other & a great resource for miscellaneous-cool-fashion-related-stuff.

The End.

Designer of the week....

2011-01-19T03:37:00.000-08:00

I love high waisted pants.
Especially these ones by MiLi Jo.
Apologies if this seems like shameless self promotion (because they're sold at Twenty Two) but it really isn't. This girl is talented & really has a handle on what young ladies are crying for out there.

I would get the whole collection if I could.

Adieu & bonjour...

2010-12-15T09:57:00.000-08:00

I'm turning 25 next week & it's got me thinking a whole lot about my life & one of the big things that came under review was my blog so... SURPRISE!!!
We're moving across the tracks to Tumblr Avenue:

www.viemyselfandi.tumblr.com

Spread the word... hope you like it!

x x

Some Styling Work

2010-12-15T01:17:00.000-08:00

My poor little blog has been so neglected all day with all the new store openings, personal shopping and styling that’s been my life but I guarantee you it hasn’t been all tottering around the new shop & playing dress up all day. These are some pics from my latest styling project. We shot the video for Maraza’s new single & wardrobe was done by yours truly. David Tlale gave me some lovely goodies to play with & the rest was mix & match & scratch & throw it all in & hope for the best. Inspired by Stiaan Louw’s Winter 2008 collection. Directed by the amazing Chris Green.

Pretty Little Liars screening...

2010-11-23T05:59:00.000-08:00

Last week my awesome friends at Vuzu TV invited me to the pre-screening of Pretty Little Liars at the Fire & Ice Hotel in Melrose Arch... so I went. And it was lots of fun. And I wore this lovely, surprisingly very slimming dress by "Sitting Pretty" and the most amazing cerise pink cow hide clutch from Tee & Whiskey... all available at Twenty Two of course! www.ilovetwentytwo.com

The Rawhanis - my favourite family!

It's so nice to see straight boys taking an interest in fashion

Leather tie from "Lost and Found"

my new home...

2010-11-10T08:14:00.000-08:00

My little boutique is finally open on no. 70 Juta Street in Braamfontein. It's called "Twenty Two" and it's my favourite place to be right now (as you can imagine).

I love the way the sun shines into the shop at sunset, and how I chose every single item in the store from the paint, to the light fittings, and each beautiful clothing item. My good friend Marj described it as "a real extension of myself" and she was so right - it feels like home. It really is the culmination of years of dreaming & planning, months of unemployment and a few manic weeks of putting it all together. I have truly never known a love like this.

This is the fabulous Amy from "Lost & Found" looking lovely.

How beautiful are these flower arrangements done by Colin at Atomic Orchid. He really is an artist.

One of my favourite pieces in the store.

jhbLive

2010-11-01T12:59:00.000-07:00

Check out this cute article on Bargain shopping written by Thandie Dowery on JHB Live. It might interest all you vintage junkies.

http://www.jhblive.com/live/kultcha_view.jsp?kultcha_id=52291

Oooh... this one on pop-up shops is also cool! The new movement in retailing.

http://www.jhblive.com/live/kultcha_view.jsp?kultcha_id=54635

And I have absolutely no ulterior motives for sharing these links at all... I promise:-)

reflections of loveliness...

2010-11-01T12:43:00.000-07:00

I know it's been like 100 years since I blogged, I'm sorry. As many of you may know, I'm opening up a new store in Braamfontein, JHB in a week so my life has been an absolute whirlwind trying to organise that and retain some semblance of life as I knew it. With that said, I have managed to snap a few pics of the along the way & I wanted to share...

So I did a shoot for a well known fashion mag last week (I think...Gosh time is moving at a crazy pace) and Bronwyn styled it fabulously! This was the 50s beehive coiffe I had...

And this is the final outfit.

I spotted a lovely little Louis clutch casually lying around the change room... what a beaut!

This the nail colour I bought this week. Essie's Summer collection. It's awesome. A 4-pack, very reasonably priced at only R139.95 and a nice selection of all the must-have colours this season.

My bf came back from NY and brought me a few gifts...these were my favourite!! He chose them all by himself. Can you say... "keeper"!

U may not know this but I have a complete obsession with antique furniture and I recently discovered a few ERRMAZING antique spots & this particular piece just blew my mind! It's been refurbished of course. I love it!! Really wanna buy it for the shop but it's WAAAAY outta my price range.

Oh wow!! That's all I can say. I attended the Designer Boutique Show at Atlas Studios last week-ish and met some great new designers. This here is the work of one lovely Amanda- Leigh O' Connel from her brand "Eponymous". She produces her ENTIRE range out of leather; I'm talking skirts, shorts, BLOUSES... everything! If you know me you know how much I love leather so meeting this lady was like meeting my leather-obsessed alter ego in the flesh! Find the rest of her designs here: www.thiseponymous.com

There were many other cool designers at The Show. It's a great event & very necessary for the industry but sadly not very well attended or represented on the part of the designers. With that said, wasn't amazing marketed either which might have exacerbated the situation. I wish the organisers the best of luck though in growing the event and ultimately the trade show culture in South Africa. It's not all about Fashion Week... there are so many other ways to get exposure as a designer & I support people who are working to make the industry as comprehensive & supportive as possible.

This is the fabulous magazine-buying boyfriend above in the tan deck shoes, shorts & blazer. I loved this look. Not just because it was on him but because it's a great look. It screams of sophistication & old yacht-owning money. Montle, the highly stylish guy next to him also looks fantastic. It's so nice to see boys grow up and learn about tailoring.

This is me at the Koi launch in one of my favourite (leather) skirts!!

I got home from the launch buzzing on Red Bull and reflected on how much I love menswear (something else you may not know about me) so I decided to take some snaps of some nice male footwear (no prizes for guessing whose!).

Nom nom nom! I love broques!! Just love them. And the colour of these makes me squirm with happiness.

I love the simplicity of the 2 pairs of shoes above, especially these Dior numbers directly above. They're like male ballet slippers.

the secret's out...

2010-10-19T10:42:00.000-07:00

So it's official... the JHB CBD is one of the coolest, most exciting places in the world. I had one of the funnest Sunday afternoons selling vintage clothes & hanging out with wonderful creative people in a sexy warehouse space in Jeppestown. The event is called Dirty Little Secret & its a little vintage pop up fashion, music & performance art movement. There's so much to say about that day but pictures speak so much better.

Elle New Talent Awards... a well deserved victory

2010-10-01T22:59:00.000-07:00

So often at South African Awards shows I walk away asking the question "who did _______ have to sleep with to get that award?" I'm not just being a big sour meanie but sincerely, many of the awards that are dished out, especially style or fashion related ones, leave me screaming, "Why GOD!! HOW??" at the television, PC or publication I'm reading which's why it was so refreshing to applaud & celebrate a winner who was truly deserving of his prize at this year's Elle New Talent Awards. The man in question is the extremely gifted designer Cleo Droomer. His meticulous attention to detail & ability to perceive the collection in its entirety are far above the current industry standards let alone those of 'young' designers. It was a pleasure to be a part of the beginning of what will no doubt be a long & successful career for this budding star.

Rather than just telling you what I thought this collection represented I thought it would be best for you to hear it in the designer's words.

Every collection has a showstopper and this jacket is an absolute masterpiece of construction.

Pay attention to the fully lined interior.

This fabric was designed by Cleo Droomer from manipulated South African flags and then printed onto the fabric. Unbelievable.

Look at this dress.

Pwetty little clutch bag.

And this is the man. So if you bump into him in the street give him a hug & congratulate him. He's very sweet too, he'll probably hug back.

Just in case you were wondering... there were actually other designers. My personal favourite was a brand called "Lisp" designed by a super cute, funky young lady called Oriel Barnard. She says the collection is an ode to the rock star, groupie culture & her clothes are designed for "the ultimate groupie". I must admit when she initially said this I rolled my eyes & prepared for the worst but was ever so pleasantly surprised at how cool & wearable but still conceptually strong the collection was.

This is the detail on the bottom of a beautiful mesh bodysuit.

Oh yay!! Here's the bodysuit.

How ERRMAZING are these leather shorts. If you don't already know this... I have a mild fixation with leather shorts.... I personally own two pairs!

The Top 10 by "Two"

2010-10-01T10:06:00.000-07:00

The SAFW team haven't been the only ones hard at work this week; Jackie Burger, Chris Viljoen, Cheska Liackman, Kirsty Stoltz & the rest of the Elle Mag team have been working up a sweat putting together the Elle New Talent Cocktail party, fashion show & one-on-one sessions (which all went extremely well - will tell you more about these later!) & the Elle/ Mastercard Style week at Sandton City. Re: the Elle/Mastercard Style Week, if you haven't already stumbled upon it, it's definitely worth a look. It started yesterday (30th September) with a presentation by Jackie Burger & Chris Viljoen on the Top 10 Trends for the season & the pop-up retail installation will be set up until the 3rd Oct. Some of the top retail & designer brands are featured & looks have been put together specifically by Jackie Burger & the team for shoppers to browse. There are give-aways & you can get discounts & there are going to be a few more trend workshops like the one I went to until it's over. Anyhoo... this is starting to sound more & more like a press release & all I actually wanted to tell you was what was said about the trends & how I then went to the "Two" fashion show later on & it was as if they had gotten a sneak preview of Jackie's notes before the presentation & created they're whole collection around that.

This is Linda. This man is so suave. And clean. I don't even know how one gets that clean. I always feel ashy & crusty around him. He's virtually flawless. Must be a virgo.

This is the Elle family. I love this picture because they actually look like a family. If you've recently relocated back to Earth from some planet outside of our Galaxy let me introduce you to the Chris Viljoen, Jackie Burger & the gorgeous Cheska Liackman.

How beautiful are these Ferragamo shoes? They're mens though (just my luck!) and the softest most beautiful leather you've ever felt.

And these boots???? Dear Dream Man, please can you come visit me wearing these boots!

These are Jackie Burger's little suede broques. Very cute.

This is the lovely Emily who is responsible for all of Elle Magazines blogging & tweeting so now you know the face of @ElleMagazineSA (for all you fellow twitter fiends).

Ok so, trend 1.
Revival of femininity captured here in the ruffle detail of this dress

Trend 2.
Stripes - seen below at the trend presentation & this pic show's "Two"'s interpretation (yay! not yet time to throw away all the nautical gear we bought last season).

Trend 3:
The Lean Cigarette pant

Trend 4:
The Scarf

Trend 5:
Lace as an off-shoot of the 'Underwear as Outerwear'

Trend 6:
The New Suit
*there;s a whole of safari utility inspiration all round*

Trend 7:
The utility trouser with visible ankles

Trend 8:
The shirt dress & the functional oversized bag
The bit about the bag was particularly interesting to me because it was said that bags are no longer "statement" bags in the way we know them to be. They are going to be cleaner, more minimal in design & more functional as you can see here! Love that because every girl knows that pretty bags are all very well but is sucks when you have to "cull" the contents of your regular bag to fit into your sexy sling bag & then find out later that you left your lip stuff at home!

"Two"
Trend 10:
Prints - exotic, geometric & floral (ditsy's been coming through with a lot of designers this FW).

"Two"

Trend 9:

Denim on denim

Although these items weren't actual denim they were definitely an ode to the trend. It was almost like a soft 'denim-look' cotton, hmmm, maybe it was denim. Oh well...

Also, if you didn't already know, please note: the two denims being worn together must be EXACTLY the same or COMPLETELY different. Nothing worse than looking like u were trying to match & just not getting there. eek! Personally I prefer complete mismatch, light faded denim shirt with dark jeans.

"Two"
Trend 3:

The Lean Cigarette pant & the utility pant that I mentioned above

"Two"'s rendition of the lace trend.

Monochromatic colour trend - black, white, grey.
The peg leg pant is also still a big deal!

"Two"
Underwear as outerwear.
I love this trend. A lot. It's so so sexy & has a vintage feel to it. All the lace & corsets & visible brassieres tickles me.

In addition to what you see above, it should also be mentioned that "colour" is still important for this season. We've been flooded with talk about monochromatic this & nude that but there is still a place in the world for all us colour junkies. Coral & yellow are particularly important this season. Sadly though, accessories are going to need to take a bit of a back seat. Ooh, I also found it interesting that lower... wait for it... kitten heels were called out as being bigger & more important than the high heels us shorties all trust & love. It doesn't mean throw them away but I was just letting you know. All in all, the key message is a return to femininity & sensuality: higher waists, slim fit trousers, kitten heels, lace, corsetry, mid-calf dresses and timeless basics. Sounds right up my alley!

SAFW Day 1...

2010-10-01T06:34:00.000-07:00

So as anticipated, this week has been a flurry of fashionable events, picture snapping & light cheek-to-cheek kisses all in the name of celebrating the fresh & exciting design talent this country has to offer. There is so much to be said about the wonderful event that Lucilla Booysen & the team from SAFW have so far succeeded in coordinating but in the interests of brevity, let it be known that it gets two thumbs up & a smiley face from me. The new venue (Arts on Main) in 'trendy' Jeppestown is fantastic & really adds to the surge of creative energy already resonating from the catwalk. I guess the best thing for me about this fashion week is that the focus on fashion doesn't just stop abruptly when the lights go on after the show. It transcends into the venue, the planned networking sessions, the meet & greet sessions with the designers and the buyers stations which are rails set up just outside the exit for the show so that (somehow miraculously) when you exit the show, EVERYTHING you just watched sashaying past you on the ramp is neatly hung on rails with the designer present for questions, photographs & of course, placing orders & making contacts with the relevant industry people. Magic! These are some snaps I took on day 1...

This is my lovely friend Thithi standing with the very talented Olive and Michael of Christopher Strong. Will gush more about this brand later.

My equally lovely friend Milli ( from www.missmillib.blogspot.com). Can I just say that this girl is an absolute dynamo of talent, ambition & fabulosity all rolled into one. I look forward to working & growing with her in this industry & as individuals. Very inspiring.

The cut & the tailoring on these trousers further validates my obsession with vintage clothing. Look at the colour too. Super!

As many of you may know, the last hairstyle I had was a full head of shoulder blade length silver grey braids. There are few things I love more in this world than silver grey hair & this man just made me wanna "plutz" when I saw his!! And rumour has it he's not even old (i'm talking under 30).

Why Jen Su... why? The End.

Are there lovelier people in the world than Melissa from Glamour mag? She's such a breath of fresh air! And very funky & cute too.

These are some snaps from the Amanda Laird Cherry show. Not the most exciting collection but there were some good re-vamps of basic silhouettes & interesting hints of Africanism such as the animal skin shoes.

This is one of my favourite male models. Hussein. He's beautiful. The End.

I really like these 3 people. They make me so optimistic for the future of black creative talent in South Africa. That's Jamal (on the far left) - talented photographer, performing artist, fashion designer by training & stylist by moonlight. Phahamiso's in the middle & Milli again on the right.

It wasn't all front row fashion though. I attended the installation performance called Monotype at the David Krut Project Space (also Arts on Main) by Lisa Jaffe (of SA super fashion brand "Guillotine") in collaboration with David Krut projects, Joao Orecchia, Eduardo Cachucho & Jill Ross. With the risk of sounding like some pseudo art 'fundi' I will simply say that, it was lovely & worth going to see. Not sure how long it's on for but do go & take a look. More pics below.

And this was me sporting my new coiffe! Gosh, what a change... Thithi says I look like my mom now. That's the best thing anyone could say to me because I think my mom is beautiful.

I wasn't the only one with a new look for Spring. DJ Romz Deluxe (otherwise known as just "Romz") has after many years cut his long dreadlocks, apparently in the name of "growing up". Me thinks he looks very cute - not as cute as his super stylish girlfriend Bongi though but getting there.

And lastly, I am constantly photographing these girls. Bongi & Londi are my two FAVOURITE Joburg stylistas. Their both waifs & very experimental with their outfits without being kitsch or too trendy.

busy busy busy... (part 1)

2010-09-22T02:33:00.000-07:00

WHAT AN EVENTFUL WEEK!!! Wow!!

The saga that was my life this week started with the Marie Claire Prix d' Excellence de la Mode Awards which was a spectacular event held at the Circa Gallery in Rosebank. I don't regularly just gush about these events but it was such a surprisingly unpretentious gathering of fashion veterans, insiders & future wave-makers that I feel its worth a lengthy mention. The theme of this year's awards was "the business of fashion", which is a subject that is particularly close to my heart as I have literally dedicated my life to this as a buyer and now, as a soon-to-be-boutique-owner. What many local designers seem to forget is that creative & commercial growth are siamese twins conjoined at the heart. What's the point of having all these marvellous design concepts if you can't afford to buy the fabric to actualize the designs? Why do so few local designers have stores (and yet they are able to spend the R20 000 plus that's required to put on one show at fashion week)? And moreover, why do so many talented designers struggle at the mercy of unscrupulous, un-skilled & dispassionate boutique owners just to make a living? These are recurring questions in our industry, questions which I can only hope, will soon be eliminated from the forefront of our popular rhetoric.

It's thanks to events like this that honour, applaud & highlight true progress in fashion that I am proud to be a part of this growing and exciting industry.

Ok enough about all that now. Let's talk about....

Lucilla Booysen. What a lovely, interesting lady! Had the opportunity to have a little chat with her and SA fashion should be so grateful to have someone like her on its side. #stolenpicture

Congrats to Silver Spoon Clothing for winning the "Business Savvy Emerging Designer Award". I had, earlier this year asked Silver Spoon to stock Twenty Two because I just LURRRVE their clothes but they couldn't because of my store location being too close to one of their other stockists however, luckily I've now moved so we could be seeing some Silver Spoon goodies gracing our rails soon!

082 071 5315

Felipe's outfit was iconic!!! I just love the "Manxi" skirt and the Clive Rundle 'lapelle scarf' thingy (I have no idea what to call it).

Jenny Andrews is so cool & also SOOO interesting. When I grow up remind me to be as fun as her. We had a lot of champagne fueled giggles that night. What a beautiful #stolenpicture

And finally.... the venue. One of the most beautiful buildings in our city.

Ooh La La!! The sun is back...

2010-09-07T04:22:00.000-07:00

So this is just a quick post to share my excitement over the lovely outdoorsey, fashioney weekend I'm about to have. Gonna be at it again selling all the pretty things I can get my hands on alongside some of my good friends; Maria McCloy & Junia Tsekiso (and others) at DeerHunter in Greenside on Saturday 10th (135 Greenway Rd, Greenside) for the monthly junksale. Then we're onto 44 Stanley on Sunday for the Spring Celebration where there'll be food, live music, liquor, fashion & lots of pretty arty people to talk about pretty arty things with.

On a sadder note, It sucks that I missed the monthly Pulchritude sale last weekend at the Parktown North market but I'm sure it was fabulous as usual and the Dirty Secret sale at their new sexy space in Jeppestown. Sadly the next Pulchritude is only in a month but I hope Jamal & the gang can hook up another Dirty Secret soon!! I just also want to give a hi - 5 to all the young black visionaries out there who are doing all they can to represent the SA Fashion industry; Jamal Nxedlana; Milli B, Maria McCloy, Kgosi Leburu, Junia Tsekiso and anyone out there that I may not have mentioned or do not know. Aluta Continua!!