The Leather Leggings Trend

It began on the catwalks of Cavalli, Chloe, Beckham and Balmain, then streamed over into supermodel domain and onto the streets of Celebsville. From there, it reached the webpages of fashion bloggers everywhere. One of the biggest Winter 2012 trends has been 'leather leggings'. These are some inspiring styles on how to wear it.



The Supermodels

Cara Delevigne rocked her two-tone leather leggings with a cropped tartan jacket, white tee and chunky platform boots.

Ana Beatriz Barros paired her tights with a white satin shirt for a more feminine look, along with studded heels.

Anja Rubik took on a masculine theme, with a white t-shirt, black blazer, fedora and ankle boots. This is my favourite way to wear the trend.

Rose Huntington-Whiteley added some colour to her leather look, with a long tangerine Burberry coat, khaki top and clutch.

Miranda Kerr took on casual sophistication, wearing her glossy trousers with a sheer print top, black blazer and buckled ankle boots.

The Celebs

Kate Beckinsale went for a uniform all-black look, which included a black t-shirt, tuxedo jacket and black platforms.

Kim Kardashian brightened up her leather leggings with a sunflower yellow blazer, white shirt and black Louboutin heels.

Annalynne McCord opted for a punk rock look, pairing her liquid leggings with a funky print tee, metal belt, yellow bracelets and a black blazer.

Sarah Michelle Gellar chose a matt-look pants, wearing it with a sheer crimson cape and stunning red and black platforms.

Olivia Palermo shows off two different ways to wear leather leggings. First with an oversized fur vest and fringed boots, and second with an ivory wrap over cape and teal clutch.





Get With The Trend

There are many ways to wear the trend, the most popular being with a chic blazer. simple tee and ankle boots. If you haven't already jumped on the leather clad bandwagon, these are some worthy options you may want to consider. 

How will you wear the trend?

Tuesday Thrills - Designs by Jane Norman

Love high-end designer looks...but without the exorbitant price tags? Then British brand Jane Norman is right up your alley. Jane Norman seeks to style the young, ambitious and fashion-conscious woman with upmarket looks for less. They adapt contemporary and cutting edge catwalk trends, making it more accessible to the wider market.  



This season Jane Norman combines French flair and chic nautical shapes with their "Weekend in Paris' collection. Key colours are navy and white. There are also more feminine styles, with delicate pleated skirts, vintage blouses and sexy cocktail dresses. The label extends to accessories, bags and shoes, all in line with current trends. Whatever your style, Jane Norman caters to it with prime design quality and at rates too good to resist.



Chic Ensembles

1. Navy ponti military coat. $80 / R520

2. Ruffle tie-neck blouse in ivory. $30.50 / R195

3. Coral belted trench coat. $76 / R495

4. Scallop collar blouse in mustard. $42 / R270

5. Button detail yellow palazzo pants. $41 / R265

6. High-waisted belted pencil skirt in black. $53 / R345

7. Cross over mini bodycon dress. $86 / R555

8. Button pencil skirt in navy with gold button detail. $61 / R395

Navy & Neutrals 

9. Double band hem dress in navy and white. $86 / R555

10. Navy cut-out peplum dress. $52.50 / R340

11. Navy drop-waist shirt dress. $67 / R505

12. One shoulder corsage dress in black & white. $86 / R555

13. Black pleated sweetheart maxi dress. $124 / R800

14. Pleated maxi skirt in white. $36 / R235

15. Black lace v-front dress a la Dolce & Gabbana. $86 / R555

16. 'Just Love Me' Bardot jumper. $76 / R495

Scarves & Separates 

17. Pale pink sequin front fluffy jumper. $27 / R185

18. Pleated midi skirt in peach. $19 / R125 

19. Azure collarless coat. $76 / R495

20. Leopard print scarf in brown and beige. $27 / R175

21. Abstract floral print scarf. $13.50 / R86

22. Zig Zag print scarf. $13.50 / R86

You can shop the entire collection at JaneNorman.co.uk They offer postage within the UK, and ship internationally to the USA and selected European countries. Delivery is set at 7-10 days. If you live in the UK, Germany, Netherlands or the UAE, you can find a store near to you with the store locator button on their website. 





Happy Shopping!

The Yellow Dress Trend

Trend of the Week

Yellow Dresses



Bright yellow dresses are an emerging trend that have been spreading sunshine all over the Spring/Summer 2012 runways. From New York to Milan Fashion Week, varying shades of yellow have been a favourite with designers.

Yellow is no longer just a daytime-summer-sundress type of colour. It has streamed over into formal wear, with elegant floor-length gowns in silky, flowing fabrics and sparkly embellishments. Yellow is a colour that suits most skin tones and hair colours, the trick is to find the right shade for you. Brighter yellows looked striking against darker skin tones and on brunettes. Soft, buttery shades flatter paler skins and blondes. If you're not keen on a fluorescent tint, try out a subtle lemonade shade.

Celebrities that Started the Yellow Trend 

Yellow made a vibrant splash on the red carpet this past week. It's rare that we get to see starlets wear yellow evening gowns, but this year, it seems to be the Awards Season colour. You may recall seeing some of these looks.

Julia Kurbatova in a lemon one shouldered gown with hip flounce at the Golden Globes.

Charlize Theron looked graceful in a floral embroidered Stella McCartney ensemble.

Maria Menounos shimmers in a mustard yellow sequined Blumarine column gown.

Elizabeth Olsen wore an intricately beaded Emilio Pucci mini at the People's Choice Awards.

Mireille Enos in a vivid yellow beaded gown by Naeem Khan at the Golden Globe Awards.

Minka Kelly looked beautiful in a neon yellow Oscar de la Renta dress.

Yvonne Strahovski chose a simple silk chiffon daffodil gown by Jenni Kayne.

Camilla Belle stunned in a layered silk organza primrose yellow gown by Carolina Herrera.

Paula Patton at the Golden Globes in a sunflower strapless Monique Lhuillier gown. 

Get With The Trend

Hop on board the yellow submarine, with these affordable and adorable dresses.

Are you For or Against the yellow dress trend?

Tuesday Thrills - Tasha Headbands

Fascinators shouldn't be saved just for fancy occasions. Wearing one on an ordinary day in the middle of an unfabulous week can instantly revamp your entire look. Tasha Hair Accessories do just that, with their charming range of day-to-evening headbands, clips, barrettes and fascinators. There are simple styles for everyday use and more exclusive designs for special occasions, parties and events. I'd like to try a few of these on...

1. Solid Rows of Crystal. This sparkly crystal covered band to recreate that sublime look Charlize Theron wore at the Golden Globes this year. $58 / R465

2. Magical Flower. A bejeweled green and turquoise flower surrounded by sparkly beads. Also available in coral. $38 / R305

3. Vixen Flower. A bronze and black leaf design layer upon a fabric band that will add some pizazz to a dull hair day. $32 / R255

4. Metallic Glamour. Bring out your 70's hippie side in a quartet of metal chains. Available in gunmetal, bronze, black and gold. $18.90 / R150

5. Classic Patent. Add some colour to your locks with an orange sculpted patent bow band. Also in olive and black. $18.90 / R150

6. Tweedy Lady. Get Upper East Side glam with a fabric and feather fascinator centered around a large gemstone. $18.90 / R50

7. Crystal Garland. An intricate crystal encrusted band that will beautifully adorn hair. It will look splendid on both blondes and brunettes. $98 / R790

8. So Fresh & So Fly. A brazen black feathered fascinator designed to get you noticed. Wear it for a fun night out with the girls. $18.90 / R150

9. Sweet Beads. Sweet and simple, a trio of ivory flowers set upon a silky Alice band. An ideal and practical hair accessory for bridesmaids. $32 / R255

10. Awesome Blossom. Perfect for a wedding reception, this champagne coloured headband swirls into a large mesh flower, scattered with gems. $78 / R625

11. Crystal Tiara. My favourite pick, this dazzling piece features a delicate crystal design, bound by satin ribbon. $68 / R545

12. My Bird Bites. An elaborate black feather and net fascinator makes a striking statement. $38 / R305





Tired of your hairstyle? There's no need to change your hair, just add some panache to your coif with a Tasha headband. This stunning range is available from Nordstrom.com Check out for sale items, which are very reasonable priced.  They also offer international shipping to selected countries.





Happy Shopping!

Tuesday Thrills - Shoes by L.A.M.B

Gwen Stefani's fashion line L.A.M.B has No Doubt (excuse the pun) been one of the most successful in comparison to her other singer-cum-designer peers. Always admired for her eclectic style, Gwen brings her rockstar edge and innovative sensibility to the range. She isn't a follower of trends, she begins her own. Gwen's personality is expressed through her clothes, a trait which she has lovingly passed onto the L.A.M.B range.

L.A.M.B shoes are anything but dainty. These hip pairs of heels make an impact with their modern designs, urban curves and chunky shapes. Neutral colours are of preference, with the odd strap of colour thrown in. The latest collection is an extension of Gwen's 2012 clothing line, with a marked tribal influence and essential animal prints. L.A.M.B shoes are not made for shy strolling, they are intended for self-assured strides.

1. Daria in Black. A fierce pair of black leather sandals with buckled ankle strap and metallic studding along the heel and platform. $283.99 / R2318.70

2. Dawna in Black & Zebra. A sassy black and white zebra print heel with gold zipper detail. $292.49 / R2388

3. Evelyn in Tan. Colour blocked leather sandals in black, cognac and a stripe of yellow. $225.24 / R1839

4. Nikko in Natural Pony. A striking animal print platform pump with brown platform and leather edging. $283.49 / R2314

5. Lucas in Black. A sleek leather slingback with cutout design. Also available in taupe. $322.99 / R2637

6. Vale in Natural & Black. A geometric patterned pair in pink, black and cream, with basket weave platform. $269.99 / R2204.40

7. Gale in Cognac Gold. A versatile nude shade with a dash of gold and wooden trimmed sole. $247.49 / R2020

8. Eben in Tan Multi. A strappy sandal with multiple coloured and textured straps in tan leather, navy canvas, leopard and beige suede. The heels have a woven finish. Also in black multi. $238.49 / R1947

9. Bask in Black. A stylish stiletto ankle boot wrapped with elastic straps and black studs. Also available in a tan colour. $394.99 / R3225

L.A.M.B shoes are widely available online from various stores including Bluefly.com, Endless.com with favorable rates at dsw.com These prices are an average, as they may differ from site to site. I would love a pair of Bask boots for Winter, which Gwen shoe are you?





Happy Shopping!

Tuesday Thrills - Franchi Clutch Bags

As this is the first 'Tuesday Thrills' post for 2012, I wanted to start on a glamorous note, which is something designer Franco Franchi is familiar with. His range of exquisite clutch bags are destined to accessorize the 'little black dresses' of the world with their refined splendor. Based in Florence, Franchi creates sparkling showpieces made from the best Italian leather, Oriental silks and Swarovski crystals. 



Founded in 1995, it is only recently that Franchi Handbags have branched out into clutch bags, with a trendier market in mind. The design team creates bags with simple shapes, its magnetic appeal lies in the finer detailing. Decorative floral and studded trims, slinky mesh, gleaming gemstones and plush satin. 



Adding one of these clutches to your cocktail dress, prom gown or a tailored suit will transform your entire look. Even brides and their bridesmaids need somewhere stylish to carry their lipgloss. A Franchi clutch can be used to dress up a pair of jeans and heels for a girl's night out or a romantic date. It's the perfect size to keep all your out-on-the-town essentials. These are some pieces from the current collection.

1. Andrea in black. Leather and mesh with twist lock and silver chain handle. $275/R2239

2. Valerie in pewter. Boxy leather clutch with shiny mesh detail and gemstone lock. $228/R1856

3. Sharon in black. Crossbody leather drawstring bag with gold stripes and studded detail. Three other colour combinations available. $165.99/R1351

4. Giselle in black. Glamorous leather clutch with rhinestone embellishment. $237/R1929

5. Andrea in gold. Vintage style clutch made from pleated leather, with studded eyelet detail. $159.99/R1302

6. Tess Foldover in gold. My favourite choice, which has a woven leather and ruffle-pleat design. It has a fold-over flap with magnetic lock. Also available in black for a more casual look. $150.99/R1229.50

7. Tania Nappa in gold. Luxe quilted leather bag with crystal rhinestones and chain handle. $132.99/R1082

8. Kaly Glitter in gold. A shimmery leather clutch with floral motif. $137.99/R1123

9. Taylor in Navy. A change from black, this navy blue box-clutch is covered in delicate fabric rosettes, with a gemstone lock. Five other colours available. $161/R1311

10. Lorna Raggeta bow clutch in Red. A crimson rectangular shaped clutch in smooth satin, with cute bow detail. $161/R1311

11. Judith in Sage. An elegant soft green satin clutch with rhinestone accented lock. I love this unique colour. $105.99/836

12. Angela in Wine. A romantic plum toned clutch with satin spiral rose design. $168/R1368





These opulent clutch bags can be purchased via Zappos.com, where some of them are currently marked down on, but with limited quantities. Zappos have a larger variety, but I found the lowest price to buy a Franchi clutch online is from 6pm.com





Happy Shopping!

Tuesday Thrills - Zimmermann Swimwear

Summer holidays have officially begun here in the Southern Hemisphere, with clear blue skies and soaring temperatures. This is the best time to soak up the sun, lounging by the pool or at the beach. And if you're doing just that, why not dare to be different with Zimmermann's unique range of swimwear. Anything but your basic costume, this established Australian brand creates exceptional ladylike suits that enhance the female form with contoured silhouettes, pretty prints and all the finer trims.



For Summer 2011-12, Zimmermann have went the vintage route, with alluring antique florals, ruffled edging, corsets and halter necks. Swimwear has never looked this elegant. You can still be fashion-conscious and style it out on the sands with a designer suit that's guarenteed to turn up the heat. Each print is available in one-pieces, bikini's and throw-over dresses, so you can layer and chose a cut that you're most comfortable with. All suits are made from Italian lycra. Here are some pieces from their latest collection.

1. Collector Printed Lace bikini. Two-piece suit with delicate laser-cut lace frill over the bust. Comes with detachable straps. AUD $260/$258/R2175

2. Collector Printed Lace bikini in Bluebell. Moulded brassiere top with detachable halter straps and wide brief with laser-cut lace flounce. AUD $250/$248/R2090

3. Devoted Scallop Bikini. Antique floral print bikini with scallop frill detail and low wide brief. AUD $220/$218/R1840

4. Collector Printed Lace one piece. Multi-printed suit in hazy orange and blue shades. It has a laser-cut lace frill over the neckline. AUD $350/$347/R2925

5. Collector Printed Lace one piece in Bluebell. The intricate lace detail is more visible on this suave blue suit. AUD $340/$337/R2840

6. Devoted Corset. A vintage floral one piece corset, with grosgrain ribbon detailing along the paneled bodice. AUD $375/$372/R3135

7. Glasshouse Rectangle Link one piece. Colourful one-piece with gathered bodice, tie-up straps and rectangle-link detail. AUD $170/$168/R1420

8. Dreamer Plunge one piece. Something more classic to bring out your inner Bond-girl, this noir halter suit has a deep plunge neck and waist tie. AUD $165/$163/R1380

9. Savannah Belted Drape. A beautifully draped retro one-piece in a tearose print. Comes with bright pink belt & removable straps. This one is my personal favourite. AUD $325/$322/R2715

10. Rhapsody Cross-back bikini. Geometric block print shiny lycra bikini with black grosgrain ribbon straps. There are several types of designs in this vibrant print. AUD $210/$208/R1755

11. Avery Stud Underwire Bikini. We saw bird-prints all over the Spring 2012 catwalks, and now on swimwear. This one has black studded detailing and removable straps. It also comes in white. AUD $230/$228/R1925

12. Savannah Splice Frill bikini. A charming vintage-inspired suit in a tearose print with contrasting animal print shoulder frill. Mismatched suits are quite the trend this season. AUD $195/$193/R1630

Check out the Zimmermann website to see more stunning swimwear. These prices have been calculated according to today's exchange rate. Purchases can be made internationally via Shopbop. However you spend your summer holidays, don't forget to let the fashionista inside you stand out ;)





Happy Summer & Happy Shopping!

Celeb Style - Leopard Print Pants

Trendspotting

Leopard Print Pants



Celebrities know a good pair of leopard print pants when they see one. That's why this pair by Current/Elliott has been so popular on the streets on Hollywood. The Current/Elliott 'Stiletto Leopard Print Pants' is a fierce yet fun pair that shows off your wild side in a flattering skinny silhouette. It's best paired with a neutral coloured top and can be worn with boots, heels or flats. You can jazz things up by adding a flash of colour with bright accessories. 

Top Row: Grey Leopard Print

Anna Paquin wears her jeans with a black cropped leather jacket and charcoal tee. She interestingly pairs it with dark green suede boots by Jeffery Campbell.

Elizabeth Olsen is styled for a magazine wearing the pants, along with a black & white Porter Grey jersey, red Kat cloche hat & mustard Christian Louboutin 'Bambou' platforms.

Emily Blunt kept her look simple with a plain black t-shirt and flat black Fiorentini + Baker ankle boots. She also wears Ray Ban sunglasses.

Nicky Hilton teamed her LP pair with a long black tee and ballet flats.

Bottom Row: Camel Leopard Print

Fergie styled things up a notch with a tank top by Obesity & Speed, along with a fiery red vest, chunky necklace and black gladiator sandals.

Romanian singer Inna wears her LP pants with a light grey half tucked-in tee, cream cropped and studded biker jacket and black high boots.

Mandy Moore opted for a simple look with a dark grey t-shirt and black flats.

Kimora Lee Simmons also wore a grey top, under a black coat, with suede ankle boots.

The Current/Elliott pair of stretch skinny jeans comes in two shades, grey and camel. The leopard print design is slightly faded which gives it a more casual look. It costs $198 or R1600 and can be bought online from Nordstrom or Piperlime.

How would you wear this trend?

Tuesday Thrills - Prada Jewellery

Prada Spring/Summer 2012

Jewellery Collection



If you've been saving up all year for something uniquely special that glistens with precious gems, look no further. Prada has launched a limited edition capsule jewellery collection for Spring 2012. The exquisite new range is inspired by 'sweetness', as described by design maestro Miuccia Prada. And there is plenty of sugary sweet sparkle to go around.

A delicate rose design forms the axis upon which the entire collection revolves. Brooches, bracelets, lavish necklaces & eye-catching earrings all carry the floral leifmotif, resonating feminine grandeur. These ornate pieces have been intricately crafted from an unusual mix of materials including resin, rhinestones, leather & Swarovski crystals. The jewels convey a feeling of nostalgia, and remain playful yet glamourous at the same time. The rose-drop earrings will work just as well with your favorite summer dress, as an elegant evening gown.

The colours used in the collection reflect the designs Prada presented in their Spring/Summer 2012 runway show. Varying shades of red, lacquered black, earthen ivory, pistachio green and rose blossom pink. And of course, incandescent crystal to string it all together.

Above: The opulent collection as it was first seen on the runway less than 3 months ago. It is now available exclusively from Prada boutiques worldwide. The prices range from $350/£195/R2800. A worthy investment, don't you think? 

Tuesday Thrills - Jane Tran Hair Accessories

Jane Tran is a US based accessories designer, who is originally from Vietnam. This gifted artist turned her passion for accessory design into a business in 1998, focusing exclusively on hair jewellery. Her exquisite fascinators, headbands and barrettes are made using ornate embellishings such as feathers, Swarovski crystals, freshwater pearls, coral and semi-precious stones. 



What I love about Jane Tran's designs is that they elegantly make an impact without being over the top. Her designs wander between the sweet and feminine, and the bold and dramatic. Imagine walking into a room wearing one of these sensational hair pieces - it's a guarenteed conversation starter and a striking showpiece. The perfect accessory for upcoming holiday parties, cocktail do's, engagements or weddings. I was beguiled by these black and white pieces from her latest collection.

1. Braided bow decorated with clear crystals. $55 / R439

2. Multi-pleated layered headband. Love it! $108 / R862

3. Headband with multi-wired bows, adorned with semi-precious stones. $89 / R711

4. Large netted fascinator with silk flower and sequin mesh. $130 / R1038

5. Large bow headband with a spray of feathers. $99 / R791

6. Black lop-sided hat accented with feathers and flowers. $140 / R1118

1. Deconstructed sequined and beaded gold headband. $62 / R495

2. Vintage-inspired ribbon and pearl headband. $75 / R600

3. Gold ribbon headband adorned with beads, jewels and sequins. $76 / R607

4. Netted fascinator decorated with a sparkly silk flower. An alternative to the traditional wedding veil. $130 / R1038

5. Looped satin comb accented with feathers. $42 / R335

6. Pleated layered flower with feathers. $130 / R1038



This was just a tiny glimpse into the embellished world of Jane Tran hair accessories, there are many more beautiful pieces to see on the website. To purchase one of these fabulous fascinators or headbands, visit Janetran.com 



Happy Shopping!



*All photo credits belong to Jane Tran

Tuesday Thrills - Jessica Simpson Shoes

Jessica Simpson may have gained fame due to her magnetic singing voice, but these days, it's her fashion line, the Jessica Simpson Collection that's receiving all the attention. Jessica began with a successful range of shoes, which grew into an entire fashion franchise, expanding to handbags, accessories, clothing, luggage and fragrances. It's her shoe line that I am most impressed by. Her trendy pairs of heels are modeled on high-fashion designs, at a price that is affordable and accessible. Her fashion-forward footwear is distinctively charismatic, serving up bold colours, geometric designs, sexy silhouettes and the essential stacked platform heel. These are a few pairs from her current collection that I'm smitten with...

1. Rhys in Tawny Blush, featuring a mustard platform heel. $89 or R697

2. Match in Burnt Sienna. Shades of autumn with leather criss cross trim. $98 or R767

3. Elso in Dusty Taupe Hibiscus. A coral & nude T-strap sandal. $89

4. Princess in Cranberry. Tri-coloured slingback. $89

5. Vadio in DP Purple. Vibrant in hot pink, yellow, purple & black. $98

6. Astor in Hot Fuchsia. Gorgeous pink slingback. $79 or R619

7. Waleo in electric Blue Violet suede. $89

8. Ely in Jungle Green. Suede colour block Mary Jane sandal. R98

9. Bendie in Blue Violet, with hot pink ankle strap, and turquoise platform. $89

1. Para in Houndstooth. Classic peep toe in trendy black & white print. $98 or R767

2. Pleasant in Black & Silver. Metallic colour blocked pair of peep-toes. $98

3. Litaa in Burnt Red. Patent and pinstripe with zipped edging. $98

4. Colie in Sand Seaside Stripe. Cream & brown stripes with double stacked heel. $98

5. Easten in Platinum Metallic Herringbone. A glamorous pair studded with sliver. $98

6. Cheetah in Taupe Grey Suede. Versatile shaded Mary Jane platform. $98

7. ChestoWedge in Black. Ruched ankle strap with straw wedge. $89 or R697

8. Pleasant in Tan. Earthy toned colour-blocked peep toe heels. $98

9. Kowloon in Desert Sand. Tan espadrille with criss cross cognac straps. $79 on sale for $29.98 or R235



To view the entire Jessica Simpson Collection, visit the official website here. They offer some great sales, however online shopping is only available within the US. For international orders, you can buy select items from the JSC range through Macys.com



Happy Shopping!

Tuesday Thrills - Genevieve Motley Jewellery

I am always proud to feature South African designers on my blog. Especially when they are as talented as Genevieve Motley. This Durban-based jewellery designer has a flair for modern and unusual designs. She creates enchanting and unique earrings, brooches, pendants and rings, all handcrafted using materials like Jacaranda wood and perspex. 



I like that she provides jewellery lovers with an alternative to flashy and more ostentatious pieces. Her whimsical pieces define 'simple beauty', and are inspired by elements of nature, such as flowers, rabbits, hearts and birds. Genevieve's swallow motif has become somewhat of a signature piece amongst local fashion fans. These are some of my favourite pieces from her extensive collection.

1. Ivy and bird engraved heart-shaped chain. R155

2. Anchor and swallow chain, available in black or white perspex. $18 / R140

3. Vintage camera heart-shaped brooch. $12 / R110

4. Heart-shaped ring with cherry blossom design. Also in wood. $16

5. Wooden bunny brooch. Also in black perspex. $12 / R110

6. Adorable deer-shaped pendant and chain. R130

7. Engraved flower studs. $12 / R110

8. Crown cut-out perspex chain. $12 / R110

9. Quaint wooden birdcage chain. $18 / R140

10. Colourful printed bird pendant & chain. R140

11. Cute wooden teapot brooch. $12 / R110

12. Round birdcage earrings. Also in wood. $16 / R130

13. Wooden swallow with metallic heart charm. Chain included. $15 / R120

14. Decorative cut-out heart pendant in perspex. Matching earrings available. $15 / R120

15. Flower earrings delicately cut-out from wood. Matching pendant available. $13 / R110





To purchase one of these charming pieces of jewellery, visit Genevieve's online store at Etsy. See more of her stunning designs on her website, where you will be able to locate a stockist in your area. The Genevieve Motley brand also offers overseas shipping.





Happy Shopping!

Glitter Girls

Trendspotting

Black & Gold Sequin Dresses



The latest star-studded trend to hit the red carpet is glitter-covered gowns. In the past few weeks, a string of celebrities have been seen wearing sparkly sequined dresses in shades of black and gold, or a combination of both. So put on your shades and have a closer look at this dazzling new trend.

Evening Gowns











Naya Rivera sparkles in a black and gold strapless gown with wavy line design by Douglas Hannat. She was on the red carpet at the NCL Alma Awards in Santa Monica.

Milla Jovovich wore a shimmery black Salvatore Ferragamo gown to 'The Three Musketeers' movie premiere. She added a Jimmy Choo clutch and Brian Atwood heels.

Model Crystal Renn is dipped in molten gold for the Metropolitan Opera Season's opening night in New York City. I love her Zac Posen fishtail gown with sweetheart neck and exaggerated short sleeves.





Cocktail Dresses

Camilla Belle looked stunning in black and gold at the opening of the Gucci Museo in Florence. The actress wore a two-toned sequined dress by none other than Gucci.

Camilla Alves wears a twinkly Manish Arora mini dress with metallic-shaded sequinned stripes to a Cirque du Soleil show in LA. Her black peep toe pumps are by Stuart Weitzman.

Brit Morgan opted for a black and gold dress with pleated skirt by Nicole Miller, which she wore to her birthday party in Las Vegas. She paired it with black and white heels.

Kim Kardashian dons a gold Dolce and Gabbana star-print dress for a photo spread in Harper's Bazaar Arabia.

Who Wore Gold Sequins Better?

Eva Longoria & Katie Cassidy both wore the same gold sequined 'Breck' dress by Alice + Olivia, at two separate events - Eva in Las Vegas and Katie in New York. Eva (left) wore nude peep toe heels, while Katie (right) stepped out in chunky black 'Kiera' pumps, also by Alice + Olivia. I prefer this look on Katie.

Get The Look

1. Steal Eva's and Katie's style with this copper and gold sequined stretch-mesh dress by Alice + Olivia. $597 or R4810 from Saks Fifth Avenue

2. One-shouldered black bodycon dress with gold sequined bodice by Bebe. $119 or R959 from Bebe.com

3. A lustrous one-shouldered gold ruched mini by Rare Opulence. $180 or R1420 from The Outnet

4. A glimmering black and gold foil print sequin dress with long sleeves by ADAM. $640 or R5152.50 from Bloomingdales

5. Blue-black front-wrap dress by French Connection. £160 or R2029 from Asos

6. Sequin short-sleeved tunic dress with satin sash by Kaliko. £140 or R1745 from John Lewis

7. Violet Thunder sequin black dress scattered with gold flowers, by French Connection. £110 or R1395 from Asos

8. A simple silk and sequin playsuit by Sylvie. $325 or R2570 from Reiss Online





This trend is sure to add some spark to your nights out. 

What are your thoughts - Gaudy or Glamorous? 

Tuesday Thrills - Vera Bradley Laptop Bags

Laptop Bags

by Vera Bradley



If you've grown tired of that basic black vinyl laptop case, let me introduce you to Vera Bradley. This accessories company was created in 1982, after founders Patricia Miller and Barbara Bradley noticed the need for more feminine looking travel cases. 30 years later, the Vera Bradley brand continues to inject fun and colour into the luggage industry, producing duffel bags, roll-on luggage, school backpacks, toddler bags and laptop cases, which I've featured today.
 



Their signature style is based on quilted cotton travel bags in unique prints and vibrant colours. Prettily patterned on the outside, with a padded interior lining and safety straps, Vera Bradley laptop bags are designed to protect your favourite gadget in style. Utterly girly, slightly rustic and easily functional.








1. Mini Laptop Case in Twirly Birds Pink. 11 1/4" Width. $52 / R423.30

2. E Reader Sleeve in Suzani. 8" Width. $32 / R260.50

3. Laptop Portfolio in Happy Snails. 17" Width. $82 / R667.50

4. Mini Laptop Case in Buttercup. 11 1/4" Width. $52 / R423.30

5. Laptop Portfolio in Baroque. 17" Width. $82 / R667.50

6. 17" Laptop Sleeve in Mocha Rouge. $45 / R366.30

7. Mini Laptop Case in Night & Day. 11 1/4" Width. $52 / R423.30

8. Attaché case in Folkloric. 14" Width $88 / R716.30

9. E-Reader Sleeve in Rhythm & Blues. 8" Width. $32 / R260.50



These prices are quite competitive compared to what we get in stores here in South Africa. All the patterns are interchangeable, each bag type/size is available in every print. If you like a specific theme, you will be delightful to know that there is also stationary, wallets, umbrellas and cosmetic cases to match. So you can colour coordinate all your personal portable gadgets. To see the full range, visit verabradley.com. International shipping is available via Barnes and Noble.

Happy Shopping!