Tuesday Thrills - Soap & Glory

Show me anything prettily packaged in pink with a quirky title, and I'm sold. I recently fell head over heels for Soap & Glory's gorgeous and glossylicious range of bath, body and skincare products. The British brand was initiated in 2006 by cosmetic chemist and NYC's 'Bliss Spa' entrepreneur, Marcia Kilgore. It has flourished into a successful beauty empire ever since, winning several beauty awards and being featured in British Vogue, Cosmopolitan, Look Magazine & Grazia.



The best part about Soap & Glory (besides the vintage containers, quaint names, delightful pink designs, heavenly butters and foams) is the price. All this charm comes at an affordable rate. Here are my Top Picks.

1. Clean On Me Shower Gel. This is a Company Magazine beauty award winning product, made with deliciously scented mandarin peel. £5.11 / $14 / R61.50

2. The Righteous Butter. An award winning body butter that moisturizes with shea butter and aloe vera. £10.21 / $18 / R123

3. Peaches & Clean 4-in-one Cleansing Milk. Made with peaches, naturally, this face wash shrinks pores and deeply cleanses skin. £7 / R84

4. Bright Here, Bright Now Instance Radiance Energy Balm. The words 'energy' and 'balm' are soothing to my ears. Apricot & aloe combine to rejuvenate dull skin. £11 / R132

5. Glad Hair Day Ultra-Shine Shampoo. Strengthens and repairs hair using the magic of raspberry vinegar and glycerin. £5.22/ R63. A mini travel size is available at £2.35/ R28

6. Easy Glistening Dry Oil Body Gloss. Nourishes skin with sweet almond oil, leaving an all over glow. £5.11 / R61.50

7. Scrub 'Em & Leave 'Em Body Exfoliator. Jojoba, mandarin, sea salt & basbassu oil merge to create this brilliant body buffer. £7.40 / $18 /R89

8. Scrub, Actually Body Scrub. A scrub thats good enough to eat, featuring white and brown sugar, apricot kernel oil and mango butter. £6.89 / R83

9. Kick Ass Concealer. A three piece eye-brightening and camouflage kit voted as top notch by Vogue UK. £10 / R120

10. Love At First Blush. A shimmery multi-shaded blush powder that gives cheeks a rosy lift. £11 / R132

11. A Great Kisser in Cherry Chocolate. A pouty pink lip balm that saturates dry lips with the power of mango and apricot butter, lingonberry oil and pomegranate extract. £5 / R60

12. Super-Colour Fabulipstick. A collagen boosting lipstick that even Mary Poppins would approve of. Comes in 3 shades. £9 / R108

13. Mist You Madly Body Spray. A fruity floral fragrance scented with freesia, bergamot, blackcurrant, vanilla, musk and magnolia. £6.13 / $18 / R74

14. Solar Powder Bronzer. A mix and match bronzer brick that illuminates skin. £11 / R132





Soap & Glory products are available from Boots.com in the UK and their international branches, selected items are available at Sephora in the US, Kit Cosmetics in Australia, as well as in Germany and Canada. Visit the Soap & Glory website for more information on products and find a perfectly pink bottle to fill up your vanity bag.





Happy Shopping!





*All pictures and product names are trademarked to Soap & Glory.

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!

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!

Tuesday Thrills - Anjolee Diamond Rings

Picking out the perfect diamond wedding or engagement ring is not an easy task. The flowers and dress will only last for the day, but us girls know that it's really all about the ring. You could spend hours in numerous different jewellery stores, pondering which one to buy. Anjolee takes the agony out of making this momentous, life-long decision. This high-end jewellery company and their talented design team bring the most exquisite diamond jewellery directly to you through their website, Anjolee.com



You can browse hundreds of bridal set ring designs from the comfort of your home, anytime of day and night, without having to worry about the store closing or persistant sales staff. Anjolee carry only genuine diamonds, each one comes with a certificate of authenticity. The rings are all set in solid gold or platinum. The styles are divided into classic, vintage, modern and red carpet, so you are bound to find a design that's perfectly suited to your individual taste. 

What sets Anjolee apart, is it's unique customization system, which allows you to design your own ring, exactly to fit your finest requirements. You choose the size, type of metal (platinum, yellow or white gold), number of carats and the quality of the diamond you prefer. Your final choice will automatically be calculated online according to daily gold prices. If it doesn't fit your budget, you can simply go back and redesign your ring until the price is right for you. Here a few of their stunning designs.

1. Channel Set Princess Cut Diamond. MS 126. A geometrical design featuring 8 Princess cut diamonds set aside an elevated center diamond.

2. Vintage Glamour Double Band Bridal Set. MS 143. A beautiful round diamond forms the centerpiece to this sparkly beauty, surrounded by a single row of smaller diamonds, set on two matching white gold diamond bands.

3. Royal Princess Cut Diamond Bridal Set. MS 141. A glamorous square princess diamond, edged with a row of smaller diamonds and a millgrain design. The most splendid feature is the split-shank diamond band duo.

4. Diamond Enchantment Matching Bridal Set. MS 132. A simpler choice of band draws attention to the magnificent circular diamond, rounded off by a row of mini diamonds.

5. Quad Strand Diamond Wedding Anniversary Ring. SR38. A one of a kind design of interlaced diamond strands, anchored by a sparkly center diamond.

6. Radiant Princess Cut Engagement Ring. MS 133A. A stunning simpler design with square princess cut diamond, edged with a row of smaller diamonds, with single yellow gold band.

7. Channel Diamond Bridal Set. MS 108. An incredible 43 diamonds shape a gleaming center stone, with a choice of yellow or white gold band.

8. Octagon Diamond Bridal Set. MS 167. A dazzling piece with unique octagonal shape, fixed upon a double diamond band.

Are you drooling over these as yet? Well hold on, because there are many more bridal set rings to choose from. You can also have a look their anniversary rings for women.

If you're in the market for a diamond engagement or anniversary ring, Anjolee will enchant you with their beautiful designs. Your fiancé will be grateful that you didn't drag him to a different jewellery store every weekend. If you would like to be in the market for an engagement ring, I suggest you leave this page open on your PC, all the time. This should get the message across ;) And, if you're fabulously single, you can still spoil yourself this holiday season with one of many other diamond earrings, pendants and bracelets from Anjolee. There is nothing like a bit of sparkle to make make you feel like a princess.

Happy Shopping!

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 - Finders Keepers

The Finders Keepers fashion brand is like a spoonful of sorbet on a hot summers day. It's zesty and refreshing, flavored with shades of peaches and cream; that quenches one's fashionable thirst with youthful relish. The Australian label began just 2 years ago, but already has an avid following. Their clothes have been seen on many celebs and featured in magazines such as Grazia, Company, Cosmopolitan and InStyle.



The Finders Keepers range varies between two styles; airy dresses with a vintage, girlish charm, and modern body-enhancing silhouettes. Their signature look for this season includes asymmetrical hemlines, maxis, playsuits, and interesting shoulder details. These are few palatable pieces from their Summer 2011 collection. Each item has it's own quirky name, that defines it's unique appeal.





Peaches and Cream

1. Santa Monica Dream playsuit in caramel. $99.95

2. Fallen Angel playsuit in grey. $109.95

3. A Thousand Kisses dress in buff orange with ivory crochet neckline. $49.95

4. Pretty Things dress in buff orange. $159.95

Neutrals

1. Heartbeat ivory dress with tan leather straps. $79.95

2. Shake It dress with cutouts in black or white. $149.95

3. Second to None stone dress with hip frill. $89.95

4. Baby Can Dance white shirt. $89.95 Magic Dance Shorts in black lace. $79.00

 New Lengths

1. Shining Star maxi dress in mustard and taupe. $159.95

2. Magic Dance black lace top. $69.95 All the Lovers terracotta skirt $89.95

3. Ziggy Stardust pleated maxi dress is salmon and beige. $139.95

4. Brilliant Adventure maxi dress. $129.95

This affordable range can be purchased online from many different shopping sites. Visit the Finders Keepers website to find a stockist with international shipping rates that's best suited to you. The prices of the clothes also vary from site to site, so shop around to seize a bargain. I'm on my way to secure the Ziggy Stardust dress, it's almost sold out everywhere!





Happy Shopping!

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!

Tuesday Thrills - Blog Headers by JKD

My wonderful new header is courtesy of JKD, a talented photographer and creative graphic artist from British Columbia, Canada. Jasdeep thoughtfully and intuitively made me three lovely headers to chose from. She knew exactly what would appeal to me, without me even having to ask. Isn't it amazing how something as simple as a header can change the entire appearance of your blog. Thanks Jas! 



JKD custom-makes headers that harmoniously fit in with the style, design and colour scheme of your blog. Her artworks are modern, simple and classic, adjusted to suit your personal preferences. I love the hazy, fairytale-like effect of her creations. JKD charges $5-10 per header, depending on the work involved. These are some examples of her work:

If you would like a personalized header for your website, contact JKD on jkdeol10@gmail.com. You can also visit her photography site here.

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!

Tuesday Thrills - FitFlop Frou

FitFlop Footwear

'Get a workout while you walk'

Getting fit for summer does not require any effort thanks to FitFlop. The wise minds behind this footwear brand have created shoes that tone and tighten your legs as you walk. The secret lies in the 'Microwobbleboard' technology that is placed in the wedge-shaped sole of the shoe, which causes a 'floating' effect called the 'Freefoot360'. This assists in improving and maintaining good posture, and also reduces pressure and exertion on your knees and ankles. 

It's no wonder FitFlop was awarded the 'Footwear Brand of the Year' at the Drapers Footwear Awards in London earlier this year. 

The FitFlop provides me with the perfect excuse to skip the gym. Walking around in a pair helps burn more calories than an ordinary shoe. It's also exceptionally comfortable, just like walking on air. The ideal antidote to a day of stumbling in heels. 

The latest stylish and trendy addition to the FitFlop range is the Frou:

The Frou sandal will fit perfectly into your summer wardrobe with it's pretty floral design and functional colours. It has layered suede ruffles and contains the same unique toning technology as all the other shoes in the FitFlop range. The fashionable Frou will work well with a jeans and t-shirt or a feminine dress or skirt. It is available in a versatile, beige shaded Pebble, a deep pink Fuschine and jewel toned Indigo. The recommended retail price is R899.



For more information on this lovely pair and others, visit www.fitflop.co.za or contact 

(021) 510 4428. FitFlop's are available nationwide, you can find a store near you by clicking on the 'Find Retailers' tab on their website. Getting fit has never been easier or more stylish.



Happy Shopping!