{OOTD} | Coming AT-AT You!

Last week was Star Wars Day (May the 4^th) so I thought I’d share a few snaps of what I wore. It’s not a day I’ve actually celebrated by doing anything special but I am so thankful for the Star Wars universe and everything it has given me. It is also something that I share with my younger brothers and over the years we have used it to learn bravery and more recently celebrate equality, family and diversity.

The trailer for Rogue One: A Star Wars Story dropped some time back and I am so excited for the movie later this year.

From Leia, Padmé to most recently Rey in The Force Awakens; the Galaxy Far Far Away is definitely not short of kick ass, inspiring females. The main character in Rogue One is Rebel Alliance Jyn Erso played by Felicity Jones. She is described in trailer as "aggressive" and "reckless" and we are told that she has been on her own since the age of fifteen. I haven’t quite “met” Jyn yet but I think she is already my favourite. I love that the universe is exploring and celebrating someone who perhaps isn’t likeable, maybe not so pleasant and definitely a little flawed. Whatever the outcome of the story; I’m sure that Jyn is going to be a hero and very instrumental in attaining the plans to the Death Star.

As the sister of two young boys (12 and 13 years old), it is very important to me that the stuff they like promote strong and diverse female characters. The Star Wars universe provides plenty of that as well as lots of lessons on honesty, honour and; of course, love.

T-shirt – Koton (Turkey) | Leggings – Cotton On | Boots – ZARA | Wrap – Gift

Until next time

“If you continue to fight, what will you become?” – Rogue (Rogue One: A Star Wars Story)

Love and sparkles
Zaakira xox

{OOTD} | The Force, It's Calling to You.

Top – Forever 21 | Leggings – Shop Brett Robson | Kaftan – Supré @ Cotton On | Shoes – Call It Spring | Sunglasses – Mahmutpasa Street, Istanbul

Hair - Boyd @ Carlton Hair

There’s a month left until The Force Awakens! That means I get to celebrate once again with a fun outfit.

Honestly, I can barely contain my excitement. I have all the trailers on my phone and I watch them every night and try to find more clues about the movie. Although excited I am also a little nervous. Han Solo is my favourite character and I really hope that Rey isn’t mourning his death in that one scene. I might walk out the cinema! Okay, I won’t. I definitely won’t!

About the outfit, monochrome definitely works for me. I purchased these leggings from my friend Brett’s collection as soon as they arrived online and I absolutely love them! I wear this pair so much that I’m actually thinking of purchasing another one! If you are travelling this holiday, these are totally comfortable and will take you from airport to airport.

How cute is this R2D2 top?! I saw it at Forever 21 on opening day and I was willing to stand in that 2 hour queue just for it! Cute tee? Check! Leggings? Check! Add heels, a kaftan and some accessories and I am good to go!

I attempted to recreate the forest scene from the trailer. I am so sure that that Is going to be one epic light saber battle!

Until next time

“It's true. All of it. The Dark Side, the Jedi. They're real.” - Han Solo (Star Wars Episode VII: The Force Awakens)

Love and sparkles

Zaakira xox

{OOTD} | The Force is Strong in my Family

T-shirt – Shuaib’s (old) | Jeans – Salsa Denim | Boots – ZARA | Necklaces – Old | Rings – Swarovski and Punk and Ivy x Legit |Sunglasses - Thrifted

Today my outfit is celebrating the release of the new teaser for Star Wars Episode VII: The Force Awakens. It’s one of those ones where I get to have a little more fun than usual. As I mentioned in my previous Star Wars themed post, I am a fan of the franchise and I’m really intrigued by the culture it has produced.

I love my basic denim and t-shirt look dressed up with some killer heels and charming accessories. I’m wearing my Salsa Colette jeans here and they have become my weekend uniform. I love the ripped detail because it’s edgy but has a denim panel behind it so my thighs don’t end up looking like hams (ew.). These boots are a recent purchase and a gift from my Dad. Needless to say, I am obsessed.

Let’s talk about the trailer for a second. Who is Luke talking to?! Is Vader alive? Maybe he’s a clone?! An imposter? Or ghost??!! Who is running the Empire now? What about Chewie and Han… Best scene ever but context please!!! All these questions will be answered when the movie releases at Christmas but patience is really not my strong point!

Honestly I think if the force were a thing, it would be very strong in my family ;)

Until next time

“Chewie we’re home!” - Han Solo (Star Wars Episode VII: The Force Awakens)

Love and sparkles

Zaakira xox

{OOTD} | The Land of Ooo

T-shirt – ZARA | Leggings – Personal Import | Kaftan – Supré @ Cotton On | Shoes – Topshop | Choker – Made by my Brother | Bracelets – Old | Spiral Ring and Flower Ring – Swarovski

A while back someone I considered a friend at the time said to me that I “try too hard to be different.” This threw me because I don’t try to be something particular. I try to be true to myself and if that makes me “different” then that’s who I am. I thought that once you leave school or the small town people are more accepting of you but the truth is that there will always be people who are threatened by individuality.

One of my favourite TV shows is Adventure Time. It’s silly and ridiculous but it can be deep too and most importantly, it celebrates individuality. That’s why I wore my much-loved Adventure Time leggings with this particular t-shirt in this look. It says “Sorry, I’m different” but I am by no means apologizing for who I am. I am sorry for anyone who can’t accept it. The leggings are quite bright and busy so simple black pieces go best. You don’t want to take attention away from the print or look like a circus clown. I threw this really versatile kaftan over and finished the look with my ridiculously impractical but oh so fab Topshop platforms and some bright jewellery.

I hope you are having a wonderful year so far. If you’re feeling stuck or lost remember what BMO said, “When bad things happen, I know you want to believe they are a joke, but sometimes life is scary and dark. That is why we must find the light.”

Until next time

“You don’t need a mirror to know you look good. You’re beautiful on the inside. Like, your brain and stuff.” – Finn

Love and sparkles

Zaakira xox

{OOTD} | PokéYo

Dress – MrP | Boots – ZARA | Bag – Stylemology | Spiral Ring – Swarovski | Hat – Topshop | Bracelet – Sanrio | Necklace – MSC Boutique

It’s 2015! Even though I’m not back in Johannesburg just yet I am totally amped to start blogging again!

Pikachu loves to play but don't touch his cheeks unless you'd like a nasty shock!

At the end of last year I did a fun Star Wars post which got such a great response so I decided to start the year off with something similar. You guys might recognize the outfit from my Style Diary for the SA Fashion Handbook. I thought it could do with the addition of some of my cute friends because I did not much else except relax and play lots of Pokémon over the holidays.  

Sylveon is my best friend. She loves to eat pink PokePuffs but beware of her Dazzling Gleam!

My Inkay is a little shy but his Psywave is mean!

I personally think that fashion is a tool we can use to express who we are rather than an embellishment to make us look ‘pretty’ or ‘stylish’ I think it’s really important that elements of one’s personality shine through in what they wear. I do not see the sense in wearing exactly what the mannequin in a store is wearing. It was after all, the late great Gianni Versace who said, “Don’t be into trends. Don’t make fashion own you, but you decide what you are, what you want to express by the way you dress and the way you live.”

Here’s to a fabulous, fashion filled 2015!

Until next time!

“I see now that the circumstances of one's birth are irrelevant; it is what you do with the gift of life that determines who you are.” – Mewtwo

Love and sparkles

Zaakira xox

P.S my Sylveon and I would love to battle you! My 3DS Friendcode is 0387-9825-9172 xx

{OOTD} | 90s Socialite

Skirt – Vintage | Crop Top – MrP | Boots – Christofoli | Clutch, Flower Necklace – Vintage |Bangles – Legit | Layered Chain – Woolworths | Choker – DIY | Sunglasses – DKNY @ Sunglass Hut

There’s a lot of 90s inspired fashion in the stores right now so I decided to do an outfit with pieces that are actually from the 90s. I chose the wine coloured skirt and gold accessories for a little bit of a festive vibe.

The skirt was sewn by my grandmother’s sister for one of her daughters around 20 years ago. It was passed onto me but I never bothered to wear it before. I recently rediscovered it in my closet and totally fell in love. Apart from the colour and shape, the tailoring is simply amazing. You just don’t get stuff like this in the shops anymore! I teamed it with this cute statement crop top from MrP and Christofoli leather boots which were a lucky find at the last Skip Fashion Exchange.

My father purchased the flower necklace for my mother in Singapore around 1997 and the clutch was bought by my Mom in Saudi in 1993. I’ve been after a 90s inspired choker but I haven’t been able to find one I reeealllly like so I just used a strip of chiffon ribbon for a quick DIY version. I added the layered chains for some extra drama. MAC Roxo lipstick and my DKNY sunnies finished off the look.

Before I go I’d just like to wish all my readers a happy and fabulous festive season. Hope it’s filled with bliss, divine food, numerous jars of Nutella and lots and lots of love!

Until next time

“Change is the law of life. And those who look only to the past or present are certain to miss the future.” – John F Kennedy

Love and sparkles
Zaakira xox
 

{OOTD} | There Has Been an Awakening

T-shirt – Shuaib’s(MrP I think)| Jeans – Lucky Brand | Shoes – ZARA | Necklace – Lovisa | Spiral Ring and Bracelet – Swarovski | Sunglasses - MrP

In wouldn’t call myself a full on Star Wars nerd but I do really enjoy the franchise and the culture that it has produced. I of course would love to own a light saber (black? Could I get a black one?) and my favourite character is Han Solo (obvs!). My dilemma however, is that I don’t actually know which side I’d be on. Rebellion sounds so me but the Dark Side really intrigues me.

The recently released teaser trailer has got me pretty excited for Episode VII (that light saber though!) and so I thought I would have some fun with this outfit and the photos. It was a pretty last minute idea since I was wearing the t-shirt and we found this awesome empty plot to shoot in while driving around. This is why my jeans are so annoyingly creased! I must mention that these Lucky Brand (Charlie Super Skinnys) jeans are the most comfortable pair of skinnys I own. The fabric is extremely soft and breathable so it’s a perfect pair for those hot days and balmy nights in summer.  I had these recently purchased heels in the car which really brought the outfit together. What really got me though was that I am wearing M.A.C Rebel lipstick! Maybe I do belong in the Rebellion after all! ;)

Oh yes! I also got my hair cut today! Its quite a plunge because its way shorter and pretty asymmetrical. Perfect for the summer although I hope I can manage to maintain it as time passes.

Are you a fan of Star Wars? How do you feel about the new teaser?

Until next time

“Sorry about the mess” – Han Solo (Star Wars Episode IV: A New Hope)

Love and sparkles

Zaakira xox

{OUT AND ABOUT} | The Skip Fashion Exchange

On Thursday I attended the final Skip Fashion Exchange for 2014. It was hosted by Bonang Matheba and held at The Forum at Turbine Hall (one of my absolute favourite venues) and I took the lovely Zakiyya from Loubi Lovers with (she found a pair of Loubis at the exchange!!). Skip describes the event as “an eco-fabulous way to share the love for clothes” and it truly was the perfect girls’ night out.

In order to participate in the exchange you have to bring three (or more if you would like) gently worn pieces with you. Basically if you wouldn’t give it to a friend, it is a no-no. We are sharing the love here! On arrival, the pieces are checked meticulously and then they are graded blue, purple or silver. You are given a card with stickers in these colours and that serves as your currency for the evening. I took along two dresses, a skirt and a jacket.

While you are noshing your scrumptious dinner and tapping your feet to the entertainment, the Skip fairies set up the store and display all the clothing and accessories according to their colour grading. After dinner it’s time to shop, shop shop and you get to choose goodies from the store. The Skip fairies have made sure that there are fitting rooms and a free tailor on hand to make sure you leave totally satisfied with the items you’ve picked. I didn’t manage to spend all my currency but I did get a most beautiful pair of leather boots. They are in perfect condition and I cannot wait to wear them! Once you’ve shopped, you get some Skip liquid so that you can take the best care of your new clothes.

The three course meal was totally divine and I must mention that they had special halaal catering for the Muslim guests. Zakiyya and I were delighted because at most events we aren’t catered for and we end up nibbling on salad leaves and bread and then wait not so patiently for dessert which most of the time ends up containing alcohol. 

While eating we were entertained by the Shoo Wop Shop trio who were out of this world amazing! Their rendition of Weekend Special was so perfect! We were also treated to a summer trend report and styling tips by the lovely Alexis Chaffe and guests could win ALL the outfits on display.

On the whole it was a beautiful evening filled with love and fashion. It really is one not to be missed and I will be sure to share with you where and when the next one will be as soon as I know!

Skip is running a fabulous giveaway and they are giving you the chance to win a R5000 voucher from Spree! All you have to do is register on Skip.co.za and share your Three Word Wardrobe (fabric, colour and mood) on the site by uploading a photo of your outfit. I’ve submitted a few looks and you can find them on the Skip website.

Until next time

Love and sparkles

Zaakira xox

(Some of the photos here were supplied to me by Skip)

{OOTD} | Black Pack

Top – adidas Originals x Rita Ora | Leggings – Gift from Shaheeda | Shoes – Cotton On | Spiral Ring – Swarovski | Ring – Abu Dhabi | Hairband – Dubai | Stretch Bracelet – Swarovski | Loom Bands – Made by my Brothers | Bag – RE:_ @ Woolworths (old)

This top is from the Black Pack collection that Rita Ora created in collaboration with adidas Originals. Unfortunately, the collection has been a huge mission to actually find and this is the only piece I managed to get my hands on. I decided to keep the outfit simple in black with embossed leggings to add some texture. I accessorized with some neons to compliment the yellow “RO” in the top and a flower hairband for a slight flirty edge. I would wear sneakers with this outfit, but I chose to go with heels to make it more chic. I added my signature Kelly Yum Yum lipstick to finish off the look. I have no idea what I’m going to do when it runs out!

I hope you are all having a wonderful week. Its October and that means Halloween!!!!

Until next time

“Every person has a signature. Just some people don't know it yet.” – Rita Ora

Love and sparkles

Zaakira xox

Heritage Day with Zuri

On the 24^th of September we celebrate Heritage Day in South Africa. To join the festivities, Zuri chose six South African bloggers to each represent a colour on our lovely flag. Blue was chosen for me and it is supposed to represent the oceans and our beautiful blue skies.

As a South African I am grateful for so much. We walk on land that reminds us every day that absolutely anything can be overcome. We are the walking hopes and dreams of so many of our ancestors that believed in a better, brighter future and fought for a way out of oppression. Sometimes I wonder if we are the luckiest people on the earth. We have so much rich, diverse culture and an amazing country. From our bright blue, sunny skies, mountains, sea and the magnificent big five, to our world class cities, talented designers and creatives and friendly, awesome citizens. We truly have a lot to celebrate this Heritage Day and every single day!

This Heritage Day I will be visiting a few Heritage markets and of course, I will be braaing (barbeque).

Zuri has decided to spoil one of you too! To win the two necklaces and earrings like ones I am wearing in this look, just tell us what makes you proud to be South African.

Please read the  Competition Rules and make sure you are following both Zuri and I.

ZURI Facebook
ZURI Twitter
ZURI Instagram

Princess of Jozi Facebook
Princess of Jozi Twitter
Princess of Jozi Instagram

How will you be celebrating Heritage Day?

Until next time

Love and sparkles

Zaakira xox

Game day with the Yankees

I am not exactly what you would call a baseball fan. I do, however, appreciate all sports, so when I was challenged to come up with a gameday outfit I was totally up for it. I chose a baseball cap from the huge selection at Fanatics and used it as a base to build up my outfit. 

I have chosen the Yankees because it has housed legendary sportsmen such as Babe Ruth and Lou Gehrig. They have won18 division titles, 40 AL pennants and 27 World Series which makes them one of the most successful baseball franchises ever! Their home is the spectacular Yankee Stadium in The Bronx, New York City which is also currently the home of my Major League Soccer team, New York City FC. I have a soft spot for New York so I naturally gravitate towards team from there. In this case my heart and brain have worked together in making my choice, using a little bit of statistics and a little bit of sentimentality ;)

The Yankees’ official colours are navy, white and gray. I have chosen a simple, casual outfit with a little bit of sparkle. The faithful jeans and sneakers combo can be jazzed up with a statement top and some jewelry.  Fanatics has tons of different hats for all the Major League Baseball teams but I chose to go with something very simple to compliment the outfit. You can find this cap and all the others here.

What would you wear on gameday?

Until next time

Love and sparkles

Zaakira xox

{OOTD} | Pandas in the City

Top, Pleated Skirt, Sunglasses & Shoes – Mr Price | Clutch – Religion Clothing | Spiral Ring, Stretch Crystal Bracelet – Swarovski | Rings – Lovisa | Pearl Faberge Egg Bracelet – Russia (Gift from Mom) | Pearls – Gift from Mom

Okay so this is probably the girliest outfit I have worn on here. It is so out of my comfort zone that I it feels like I might be wearing a costume. Nevertheless I really loved wearing it and this outfit is a nod to my love for pearls and monochrome.

I’ve been following all the street style from New York Fashion Week and there are still loads of monochrome outfits so I’m definitely going to be continuing with my monochromes through Spring. I love the panda print because it brings some quirk into an otherwise very polished outfit. I have just one question Mr Price, why why why are all your animals the wrong way up on your clothing?! (See my previous outfit with the cat joggers)

I used to really hate crop tops but now I think that if you style them well, they can be pretty cute and they don’t have to show any flesh. Check out my friend Shaheeda’s trend post on crop tops here. This is the first time I’m wearing a pleated midi skirt and I really love how it looks. I’m definitely going to invest in a few more!

My Mom has given me so many strings of pearls over the years and we are both clearly obsessed. If you invest in anything this Spring, make sure it’s some genuine pearls! They will carry you through every season for the rest of forever. I finished off the look with some MAC Rebel lipstick. The deep berry is a final ode to the colder, darker months.

Until next time

“In the Spring, I have counted 136 different kinds of weather inside of 24 hours” – Mark Twain

Love and sparkles

Zaakira xox

{FASHION NEWS} | Anni King SS14/15

This week Anni King’s new collection of purses for Spring/Summer hits stores. If you aren’t familiar with the Anni King brand, let me give you a bit of a background. Anni King is a South African brand which was started by Joanna Chen. The name comes from her middle name (Anni) and her Dad’s name (King) and she founded Anni King so that she could provide women with beautiful leather bags that are made with quality materials and manufactured well. Johanna designs all the bags herself (lots of hard work and sleepless nights) and is also very involved in the manufacturing process so she can ensure you are getting the total best quality. It’s so refreshing to speak with someone who took an idea they believed in and worked hard to get it out there. I’ve seen how Joanna puts her absolute all into Anni King and it’s become a brand I really believe in too.

The SS14/15 collection is quietly breathtaking. There is no fluff and pointless embellishments, just lovely leather bags in beautiful shapes and soft and bright summer colours. The bags are appropriately named after flowers so they totally get you in the mood for the warmer months. You can choose from a “Hydrangea” tote in buttery yellow to match your florals or if your style leans more towards the grunge side of things then the black “Petunia” backpack is definitely up your alley. My favourite has got to be the “Sweet Pea” in pink because it looks like something off the set of Gossip Girl.

Prices start from ZAR2250 and you can find Anni King bags at the following locations

Johannesburg

Cloth & Label

Morningside Shopping Centre, Morningside

Urban Lifestyle

Hobart Grove Shopping Centre, Bryanston

Stolen Muse

Nicolway Shopping Centre, Bryanston

Cape Town

Purr Clothing

Lifestyle on Kloof, Gardens

Durban

For The Birds

Salt Rock, Durban

You can also order Anni King bags off their Facebook Page.

Email Joanna@anniking.com for more details

Visit anniking.com for more details and follow @AnniKING_

Which is your favourite?

Until next time

Love and sparkles

Zaakira xox