Debonair at the July

Last week I attended the Durban July. I love the july for a few reasons..1-it's a little taste of summer in the middle of winter 2-the clothes and the people openly judging, I mean watching and 3-the horses? not so much...The Party? That's the one.

The theme this year was A material world with focus on green. That resulted in a few people wearing recycled goods. Personally creating an "avant guarde" look out of plastic bags and newspaper isnt really my thing. Even when it is done well (ie on project runway) I'm not really a fan. Thus the only thing "recylcled" about my outfit was that I had worn it before. Sorry Environment.

The feel of the warm air on my skin early in the afternoon (before the wind set in later) made me exilarated with the idea of spring (it's not that far away right? Just 2 more months?).

My prediction for  the hottest colour in spring is white. It's less of a prediction and more of a little look at the Spring/Summer 2013 collections already out now.

Here were a couple of my favourite white looks at the Durban July

I had to show this beautiful 1920's style embriodery detail

This dress (from Forever New) is the epitome of chic. It is made of crocheted lace which can be  worn formally yet somehow it still feels effortless and casual.

I particularly loved the neckline. Its vest like...but more interesting. And the gold button detail of the back...gives it the perfect finish.

"The Cooples"

An event like Durban July wouldn't be an event worth its salt if it wasn't a place for cute couples to walk around and look snazzy together (yes I just used the word snazzy and I meant it)

While I love white for girls for spring lets not forget how much I love colour. And thank goodness white didn't make a huge appearance on men. Colours on Gentlemen were more prevelant...such as this colourful look

Here's a last little look at me with my friend Kate, in pretty flowers

Bye for now

kisses

And it was all yellow

This was my second attempt at a David Downton fashion illustration. It's actually one of my favorites. I just love the yellow. It makes me excited for spring/summer

Xx

Red Lipped Vixen

Here is an illustration I did a few months back that I thought I'd share. And looking at it got me thinking about Red lipstick. How do you feel about red lips?

Personally I absolutely love it and I have so much respect (envy) for girls who can pull it off. But some-how whenever I put it on I never feel like it is quite right, like I am trying too hard. However when I see other people wearing it ...I always think...bold...fantastic.

So I guess the question is: Is there a shade of red for every one? Or can some people just never suit red? Or is the best way to pull off red lips to just be bold and DO IT! ?

Attendees of Avant

KHANYI

I think the bright red lipstick combined with the casual denim shirt in the scarf bow tie made for a fun eclectic look

JESSICA LUPTON

Stylist/Freelancer

DUMI

Egality Sales Assistant

FELICITY

Owner of Egality wearing Avant

LEIGH

Elle Magazine

I loved her Missibaba necklace and beautiful dramatic eye make-up

NONKUTHALO

Grazia

I'm completely obsessed with collar necklaces like this one

not to mention her fantastic two town blazer (Black and White, classic)

ASHLEIGH

Elle Magazine

This teal beaded collar necklace was my favourite! I asked, Its from Sass Diva

Avant- "I vant, I vant"

I attended the launch of Avant the autumn/winter collection launch at Egality. And all I can say is "I vant", I want, I want.

The range is sculptural, theatrical, contemporary yet timeless. There is something extremely sexy about the simple colour pallet of black, white and grey. It's classic. I can almost imagine Holly Golightly wearing these items in a new age "Breakfast at Tiffany's".

But dont take my word for it, take a look for yourself.

And not to forget the wonderful women behind it all

The lovely Lauren Du Plessis and Bailey Allison both wearing their own creations

Illustrator?

So a little while back I decided to try my hand at fashion illustration. And I thought where would be a better place to start than with "Masters of Fashion Illustration" by David Downton. I bought it as a little present to myself about a year ago and it really is a fantastic book.

Here is my first attempt at an imitation of the master himself. What you think?

Where the Stylish Go to Brunch

Last week Sunday I went for a charming birthday brunch with the girls. And where did we go? Well Tashas of course. It’s the best option to spoil yourself with a lovely brunch at the end of a long week.

Being a girl from Cape Town I have a natural dislike for all things "franchise". Cape Townians love things that are unique with a fantastic ambiance. I will however, make an exception for Tashas. Somehow Tashas has mastered the art of Franchising while still ensuring that each venue is vibrant and unique and which stays true to the style that resignates in each branch. Tashas seems to be the place where the majority of the stylish of the northern suburbs converges the weekend for fantastic breakfasts and lunch. With a fantastically buzzing vibe, large varied menu containing rustic styled wholesome food and lovely yet simple décor it’s no wonder that Tashas is a winner amongst many.

Take a look at some of the photo's I took of the one in Morning Side while I was sitting there for breakfast 

Oh, and did I mention the red velvet cake!!!

 adieu

xxx