{OOTD}| La Belle Muse

Skirt – Hse of Bespoke by WH | Top – Brett Robson | Shoes – Zara | Gloves – Ziba Styles (no longer in stock) | Sunglasses – Zara | Bracelets – Swarovski | Necklace - Old

Images by Layla ShaikPhotography

Hi lovelies! If you follow me on the socials you probably saw a while back that I attended the launch of the Parisian Collection by Hse of Bespoke by WH. I really adored the collection so I was super excited when the Hse of Bespoke chose me as part of their ‘Love It, Rock It, Style It’ campaign. There were no rules and we were encouraged to style the piece however we’d like. I was currently re-reading Anna and the French Kiss so the skirt arrived at the perfect time!

Hse of Bespoke is a fashion brand created by the sweet Waseefa Hutton. Waseefa aims to provide moderately modest clothing and classic pieces that can stay in your closet forever.

The ‘Midi Embossed Jupe Evasee” was picked for me and I was delighted as it was one of the pieces that stood out for me at the launch. It is high-waisted and a lovely midi length that grazes the lower calves. The fabric is beautifully embossed with flowers and it is delicate but not thin and flimsy.  It’s the type of skirt you can dress up or down. If you want that extra drama I recommend investing in a tulle under-skirt. It will give you that poufy, runway effect and you can use it under almost any skirt.

I decided to keep it Parisian but with a more quirky feel. I really love a monochrome palette so I kept the colours very neutral with a pop of pink lipstick.

This top is from the Brett Robson collection. Brett is a dear friend of mine and has served as a guide and an inspiration to me in my blogging so I was extremely excited when I heard she was designing a collection. The pieces are really stylish and so well made. Brett handpicked all the fabrics and was very involved in the production process so you can be assured that you’re not just getting something that’s just thrown together. This crop top is my favourite piece from the collection. ‘La Belle Muse’ or ‘the beautiful muse’ refers to Brett’s tattoo and it is printed on the top exactly how it appears on her skin. The fabric is really thick so as a crop top it sits perfectly. 

Because it’s chilly I wore stockings with these strappy Zara heels. I kept the accessories cute and quirky with gloves and oversized sunglasses.

You can shop the Parisian Collection at www.hseofbespokebyWH.com

Until next time

“In Paris, you learn wit, in London you learn to crush your social rivals, and in Florence you learn poise. “ – Virgil Thomson

Love and sparkles

Zaakira xox

{OOTD} | Pink Pashmina

Pashmina – Dubai | Denims – Salsa | Shoes – Sissy Boy | Glasses – Versace | Bracelets – Swarovski

Hi my lovelies! I’m back from my Ramadan hiatus ;) If you observed the month I hope it was spiritually fulfilling and that you had a fabulous Eid.

It’s still full on Winter here in Johannesburg and so all the warm clothing still has some time in the spotlight. I’ve mentioned before that pashminas are one of my favourite pieces for the cold weather. They look so chic and are so versatile. I wear them with jeans, dresses, skirts and even to cover my hair when I need to.

Nothing beats an accessorized jeans and tee combo. It’s the perfect blank canvas and you can accessorize it with unique pieces. This pashmina is pure wool with a bit of hand embroidery and the deep pink colour makes it the perfect statement accessory. With something like this you don’t have to go too glitzy with the rest of your outfit but you still look glam.

I originally wanted to wear my black ankle boots with this outfit but when I opened my shoe closet these heels just screamed, “WE MATCH!” and I had to wear them. I love the oddly shaped heel even though I struggle a bit to walk in it.

I love how this quick outfit came together and it’s the perfect post to get me back into blogging. I hope you missed me because there is so much more to come!

Until next time

“Mediocrity knows nothing higher than itself, but talent instantly recognizes genius.” – Sir Arthur Conan Doyle

Love and sparkles

Zaakira xox

{OOTD} | Stilwater, Michigan

Hooded Top – Mr Price | Leggings – Cotton On | Boots – ZARA | Necklace – Vintage | Sunglasses – Thrift Store | Spiral Ring – Swarovski

Hi lovelies! I hope you are all doing fantastic! I had a fairly crazy week and yesterday I flew to Cape Town for M·A·C’s SS15 trends class. I will be sharing those trends as well as some insider tips with you closer to SS15. I also got to shoot with Zeenat from Pursuing Pictorialism while I was in the Mother City and I am so ecstatic to share those photos with you. Today I am sharing a quick street look that I wore a few weeks back.

I have never played Saints Row despite the reference of the title in the post. I spotted this graffiti while driving around and thought it was a pretty good backdrop for what I was wearing. I love how video gaming culture bleeds into real life and I am always inspired by it (in an artistic way, don’t go thinking I’ll be stealing cars after playing Grand Theft Auto!). I really love this hooded top from Mr Price. Worn with leather look leggings and boots looks pretty kick-ass but you can also wear it with jeans, sneakers or up the glam with a pair of heels.

I’ve featured these boots in a previous look and I’m going to be featuring them over and over. Not only do they look killer but they are so surprisingly comfortable. I wore them through cobblestoned Cape Town sidewalks, down 7 flights of stairs and in 2 airports yesterday and my feet didn’t even take a beating. I hope that with the next few outfits I can show you how one key item can take you through many different looks.

I hope you all have a wonderful weekend!

Until next time

“[Video game] Players are artists who create their own reality within the game” – Shigeru Miyamoto

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} | Harajuku Lite

Crop Top – Mr Price | Skirt – Mr Price | Shoes – Clearance Sale (Very Old) | Rings – Swarovski, Claire’s, Sass Diva | Hair Clip – Fashion Market | Sunglasses – Mr Price

Hello from chilly Johannesburg! Tokyo is one of the cities on my travel bucket list. I have been intrigued by the city and its culture from a very young age and I am especially interested in the Harajuku district. This is the area around the Harajuku station in the Shibuya ward of Tokyo. Harajuku is often deemed the “fashion capital of the world” as it is known for its unique street fashion.

Harajuku is also a term for the distinctive way in which girls in the area dress. The girls wear everything from candy coloured wigs, huge baby doll skirts and pop culture inspired pieces to gothic makeup, pigtails and kimonos. Metallics, neons and plaids also feature quite prominently.  It is such a rich and expressive form of style that really celebrates the individual so naturally it really speaks to me.

 Today I am sharing my very diluted take on Harajuku style. I chose to wear this top that is currently in stores at Mr Price with a cute skirt and printed heels.  I added this cute handmade clip that I found at a market a few years back. I can’t even remember the name of the store but how I wish I did because the pieces were so cute! You can find a close- up of the clip on my Instagram. Some cute matching rings and red lipstick finished off the look. It isn’t full on Harajuku of course but it is my take.

I hope you’re all having a wonderful week! There’s just one day left to win tickets to One Direction in Johannesburg. Find the giveaway here.

Until next time

“Because even the smallest of words can be the ones to hurt you, or save you” - Natsuki Takaya

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} | 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

{OOTD} | Pink Panda

Top – Mr Price | Silk Skirt – Sewn | Shoes – ZARA | Clutch – Religion | Spiral Ring, Bracelet, Earrings – Swarovski | Sunglasses – Thrift Shop | Pearls – Gift from Mom

I thought I’d share with you the outfit I wore when I attended SA Fashion Week. Because I attended the very last 2 shows I decided to go with a bit of drama and quirk. I had originally worn a different outfit on Thursday but there was an insane sandstorm in Johannesburg and the shows were moved. This was quite a last minute put together but I was really happy with the outfit.

I had this silk skirt made years go for a wedding. I originally had a velvet top with it but it is so versatile and has taken me through the years and through many different events. It’s definitely a wardrobe essential! I kept the rest of the outfit monochrome to let the skirt pop.

Attending Fashion Week is always sort of a mini rebirth for me. By October I am pretty much losing inspiration and seeing the designs on the catwalk and the people who are there for the love of fashion just injects me with inspiration. Yes, you can tell who is in it just for the attention, but there are those who truly love the fashion and can appreciate the little things like the fabric, stitching and the way the light catches the details in the knits (Clive Rundle anyone?!).

Until next time

“And we were dressed from head to toe in love... the only label that never goes out of style” – Carrie Bradshaw

Love and sparkles

Zaakira xox

{OOTD} | #BewareOfAngels

Cloak – Mom (Dubai) | Leggings – Gift From Shaheeda | Shoes – Trafaluc. @ ZARA | Spiral Ring and Bracelet – Swarovski | Crystal Necklace – Vintage | Choker – Topshop | Sunglasses – Thrift Shop

This is the outfit that I wore to the Beware of Angels event I attended 2 weeks and posted about below. I know it is waaaay overdue because I promised it ages ago but I have just been extremely busy over the past two weeks. I'm really sorry for the delay.

The theme for the event was “elegantly avant-garde” and with Angel and the house of Thierry Mugler being so unique and theatrical I decided to go with a bit of drama. This cloak/cape type thing was bought by Mom when we went to Dubai last year, on one of the occasions where I didn’t go shopping with her. It’s such a unique garment and really fit the event. I just wore a simple black silhouette of leggings and a t-shirt underneath and for a more modest occasion, I would wear it with a full length black dress. 

I tried to keep my jewels to a minimum but I couldn’t resist wearing my Gran’s vintage crystal necklace which complimented the beads on the gown quite pleasantly. Initially I wanted to wear jewelled Arabic headpiece but I decided to just keep the rest of the look simple and let the cloak be the showstopper. My usual Swaroski pieces and some pastel lipstick finished off the look. I added sunglasses here because allergy season is killing my eyes and it looks like I haven’t slept in 500 years!

This week is pretty busy and it is SA Fashion Week. I will be attending 2 shows and I am pretty excited. What will you be up to?

Until next time

“I am not trendy. I am not 'in fashion.' I am simply a positive human being who has a positive outlook on life.” – Thierry Mugler

Love and sparkles

Zaakira xox

{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

{OOTD} | 67

T-shirt – adidas | Leggings – Woolworths | Shoes – Topshop | Bandanna – The Lot | Spiral Ring – Swarovski | Earrings – Chinatown | Sunglasses – Mr Price

Okay so I am not the biggest basketball fan. I enjoy sports in general so I do keep tabs on different sports and their stars. Also basketball airs at pretty odd times here in South Africa due to the time difference. One of the teams I am familiar with is the Brooklyn Nets (Jay Z anyone?) When I saw this tee I had to have it! It was actually in the men’s section but it is the perfect fit and so sporty chic.

I wore the tee with plain leggings and honestly this is how I dress most of the time. A comfy tee, leggings or joggers and sneakers or flats. If I need to go out I throw on a pair of heels or platforms and some red lipstick. It just works for me and it also provides a great blank canvas for accessorizing

.

This is the third piece of Brenda Legacy artwork. I really love how the artist conveyed so much through a very simple, monochrome piece. And of course, it was the perfect backdrop for yet another Spring monochrome outfit. One of the things I love most about Johannesburg is all the beautiful graffiti all over the city. I always stare and marvel at it and I wonder how this could possibly be called vandalism.

If you want to read about how monochromes are the business for Spring/Summer check out Shaheeda’s post here

Until next time

“A wise man told me don't argue with fools. Cause people from a distance can't tell who is who.” – Jay Z

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

{OOTD} | Comfy Cats and Laurent

Slogan T-shirt – Stylistique Designs | Joggers and Sunglasses – Mr Price | Shoes – ZARA | Crystal Necklace – Vintage (My Gran) | Cloisonné and Pearl Necklace – Gift from Mom | Spiral Ring – Swarovski | Watch – DKNY

I know that it’s September and technically Spring is here but I’m not quite ready to give up my monochromes yet! I think that joggers and a slogan tee are a good way to slowly ease into the warmer months. If you keep the outfit fairly simple, you can go a little crazy with the jewellery as you can see I’ve done here.

This is one of the tees that Jacqueline from Stylistique gave me to style. It’s one I’ve been after for a while now and I love that it feels a little oversized because that just adds to whole comfy chic feel of the outfit.

When I saw these joggers at Mr Price I just could not resist. The cat print is adorable (at least these ARE cats, I’m looking at you HELLO KITTY!!!!!) and they are comfy as heck. I want to give an award to the person that invented joggers because they have saved me from being an absolute grouchy pants on many an occasion. You can pair your joggers with flats, ankle straps or courts for a chic look or wedge sneakers or high tops for something a little more street. I chose these sweet Zara heels because and I hadn’t worn them yet and Spring called for something pastel.

Although I personally feel that pearls will never go out, they seem to be very in right now. I have lots of different strings of pearls and I love layering them together with my other necklaces for something unique. Check out Zara and Zuri for some stunning faux pearls. I finished the look with some MAC St Germain lipstick for a little more pastel detail.

What will you be wearing this Spring?

Until next time

“I dress to kill, but tastefully.” – Freddie Mercury (Happy Birthday!)

Love and sparkles

Zaakira xox