SA Fashion Girl

Baby, you ain't lookin right

2012-01-26T08:00:00.000+02:00

I love this coat I got from Zara a few years ago, it's always makes me feel super glamourous, hehe. Sorry about some of the blurriness, the photos were taken at night with a slow shutter speed. Speaking of blurry photos, while photoshopping the other day, my computer went crazy and I found out it had been infected with the System Check Virus...brutal! It hides all of your files to scare you into purchasing some phony anti-virus software so I'm just using my laptop until I get it fixed.

Gotta buy an external, copy all of my photos and music then it looks like re-installing Windows :( I don't want to because I can't find some of my old install discs. Lately I've been obsessed with Instagram, looks like I might be joining the iPhone crew even though my friends insist it's all about Android. Can't make up my mind! Are you on Instagram? I'm looking for some people to follow, let me know.

Little red soles

2012-01-25T08:00:00.000+02:00

I recently got my hands on my first pair of Louboutins from Apsley 2! I have heard some crazy stories surrounding these shoes, scam artists who return fake pairs and keep the real ones, friends who disappear with them and salaries blown on the studded ones. I've worn them twice so far and they fit like a glove. Christian Louboutin makes half-sizes which are seriously perfect, I got a 3 and a half and never has a shoe fit me so well.

What designer item do you want to save up for?

Calm is the new black

2012-01-24T08:00:00.000+02:00

I keep a whole bunch of candles by the bath and light them every night, I find them really beautiful and calming. Life's all about the little things. So the year has gotten off to a great start but I can't believe it's really 2012! I still keep saying "2011" and then everyone corrects me. I guess I'm not on the ball yet, haha. 2012 is the Year of the Dragon which is known to bring luck so that's great news, are you feeling lucky? I'm really interested in some Eastern beliefs even if others consider it to be nonsense. Logic can't exist without "nonsense", gotta have that yin and yang in life. I certainly don't have all the answers but maybe Confucius has a few!

Speaking of my kooky affinities, the other day I rushed into a holistic shop to buy a candle set for my mom's birthday and the store was literally closing its doors. The cashier was kind enough to let me in and right before I left he gave me a little Laughing Buddah keyring as a gift. I'm keeping it in my bag for lucky belly rubs.

Puma Social Club: All Hands On Deck

2012-01-23T17:28:00.001+02:00

Last image courtesy of Diary Of Ward

I still had some photos from last month's Puma All Hands On Deck Official Volvo Ocean Race Stop Over Party that I wanted to share with you guys! Held at the Waterfront's Quay Four, After Hours Athletes could enjoy games of darts, foosball, pool and bowling while Facebooth provided a fun photobooth complete with nautical-themed props.

I loved the entertainment; Them Tornados are the ultimate local rockabilly band and Holiday Murray performed a charming set. We could see Puma's competing yacht (the Mar Mostro) in the harbour while we danced the night away under the light of the full moon. The event was co-ordinated by the fantastic Splash PR who never disappoint so if you're ever looking for a great public relations company for your brand, I highly recommend them.

Golden Globes Red Carpet 2012

2012-01-16T05:02:00.000+02:00

Charlize Theron in Dior Couture

Sarah Hyland in Dolce & Gabbana

Angelina Jolie in Atelier Versace

Nicole Richie in Julien Macdonald

Lea Michele in Marchesa

Madonna in Reem Acra

Evan Rachel Wood in Gucci

Salma Hayek in Gucci

Zooey Deschanel in Prada

Rooney Mara in Nina Ricci

Dame Helen Mirren in Badgley Mischka

Sofia Vergara in Vera Wang

Freida Pinto in Prada

Michelle Williams in Jason Wu

Madeleine Stowe in Vera Wang

Ariel Winter in Dolce & Gabbana

Sarah Michelle Gellar in Monique Lhuillier

Tilda Swinton in Haider Ackermann

Emma Stone in Lanvin

Amber Riley

Natalie Portman in Lanvin

I'm dying to know what you guys think! Right now I'm loving Madeleine Stowe, Emma Stone, Tilda Swinton and Lea Michele. Amber Riley looks radiant and Angelina's look reminds me of Natalie Portman's Viktor & Rolf gown from last year. I can see everyone slating Sarah Michelle Gellar's dress but I appreciate her boldness, in fact I really like the bottom and I'm into the print...unfortunately it's just a disaster on top.

So which looks do you rate or hate?

Seventeen things I'm loving right now

2012-01-11T02:42:00.000+02:00

When Seventeen magazine called and asked me to write about seventeen must-haves for their all-new local blogger feature, I was very excited to participate in such a cool project. I put on a dress I'd made for my debut collection, posed in front of the shoe madness and snapped away at some of my current objects of affection so I thought I would share them with you in greater detail. The magazine did an amazing job editing it all together and I can't wait to see what my blogger friends chose for their upcoming features, I love local content! Thank you Seventeen for this awesome opportunity, what a perfect way to kick off the new year. The Jan/Feb issue is out now and comes with a handy little diary for 2012.

I'm curious about you guys, what are some of your must-haves?

The year that was...

2012-01-05T03:39:00.000+02:00

Life goes by so fast, it's difficult to actually comprehend how much really happens in a year. I was glad to say goodbye to 2011 before I realized that it wasn't all that bad. There was tragic loss within my family but I'm so appreciative of the positives last year brought fourth. Our harshest critic is always ourselves so we should try to focus on the things we're grateful for.

Now when I think of 2011 I'll remember that it was the year I began being featured in magazines, was invited to amazing fashion shows and had the pleasure of attending events where I got to hang with my media pals and drink champagne. Not too shabby from that angle! I look forward to new adventures and I'm excited. We don't need New Year's resolutions because every day is a chance to change things!

Thanks to Jasna, Natalie and Paul Ward for extra photos and thank you to everyone who checks out the blog, cheers to 2012!

Puma Photobooth 2011

2011-12-24T08:00:00.000+02:00

Photobooths are the best! These are from Puma All Hands On Deck event 2 weeks ago, it was so much fun playing with all the props. Puma always does it big! I can't wait to share the event photos from the night with you all, will get right to it after Christmas. Going to be having turkey dinner with the family, playing some board games and opening presents. The last two Christmases I ended up watching Robert Downey Jr movies at the cinema (Sherlock Holmes in Canada and then Due Date at home) so I think I might stick on Heart and Souls in the background on Sunday to keep up the weird tradition hahaha. Do you have any holiday traditions?

Happy Holidays everyone!

Shopping addiction

2011-12-23T08:00:00.000+02:00

I went a bit mad "Christmas shopping" on Kloof a while back so I had to reschedule a day where I banned myself from buying anything intended for me. Then of course I went shopping with Matty this week and the ban was off again. I need to find a support group like the one in Confessions Of A Shopaholic. I don't really know when I became a fashion monster but every time I get back with purchases, I try them all on again with my closet and figure out what to wear with what. Fashion algebra trying to figure out the x, it's too much fun! It's ok to enjoy frivolous things once in a while because we all know that the best things in life really are free...unless there's a sale ;)

What do you enjoy shopping for?

Last mintue make-up

2011-12-22T08:00:00.000+02:00

Goofing around with Anina while finishing make up in the backseat before a night out. I love Benefit cosmetics, they have tons of products in one like this mascara/lipgloss combo, it makes applying everything super quick and easy - perfect handbag essentials! It's time for crazy glitter-filled summer adventures requesting 90s songs from DJs and stopping off at Neighbourhood for their amazing curly fries. Lately I've been Christmas shopping and spending time with family and friends, my cousin is down from the states so we've been lounging around by the pool and enjoying the sun when it does decide to come out! I've also made the classic Christmas mistake of looking at clothes while I'm supposed to be buying gifts from other people, oops! I must share the shopping spree results with you next post, hehe.

Guess Summer Fashion Show 2011

2011-12-21T23:57:00.000+02:00

December has been so busy! I finally have a chance to share more fun events from the past few weeks. Earlier this month the rain halted just in time for the annual Guess Summer Fashion Show on Camps Bay beach. The runway was just across the street from Cafe Caprice where guests arrived, posed for some photos and were treated to Jameson cocktails and canapés before the show. I got to see my girls Jasna and Sienna and took my good friend Jacques Questiaux - he has the fanciest french surname, it's so fun to pronounce, haha!

This year summer is taking its sweet time but Guess helped us look forward to its arrival with sexy sequins and classic denim options. Entertainment included Chiano Sky opening the show with her hit radio track "Sick, Sick" while Dance You're On Fire closed the show in front of the beautiful mist-covered Cape Town mountains. For more photos from this event check out my Facebook page. Thanks for another great show Guess, Jameson and Cafe Caprice!

Elle New Talent Fresh Face Awards 2011

2011-12-13T03:51:00.000+02:00

Here's a few more pics from the Elle New Talent Fresh Face Awards. So glad I finally got my hair did before last week's event frenzy. I have the best hairdresser in the world, Lara, thank you! I had a great time hanging out with Jasna and Natalie, I'm very lucky to count sweet fashion girls as friends. I remember how nervous I was to pursue fashion when I was a teenager, I had all these ideas in my head about cattiness but thankfully my experiences couldn't be further from that! Nice guys don't finish last, the most successful people are positive, kind and hard-working and it's great to be reminded of this. All of the photos from this event can be found here and I will be uploading more fun pics from Puma and Guess parties this week. Anyone started their Christmas shopping? I gotta get on that.

Elle New Talent Fresh Face Winner 2011

2011-12-13T03:19:00.000+02:00

Congratulations to 17-year-old Chloe Munton from Port Elizabeth for winning 2011's Elle New Talent Fresh Face search! Last Thursday I had the pleasure of attending the event held at the beautiful Daylight Studios. I had a fantastic evening chatting with media friends and sipping champagne while the gorgeous finalists answered a few questions on stage before the winner was announced.

Chloe has been awarded a BOSS modelling contract, a new wardrobe and cosmetics supply from Woolworths as well as the chance to star in their upcoming winter and summer campaigns in the April 2012 issue of Elle. Jackie Burger is so elegant and I really have say that the host, Ayanda Tini, did one of the best jobs I've ever seen at at event to date, she's such a natural. Thanks to Elle Magazine for another lovely evening. Always a pleasure.

What's in my bag

2011-12-05T08:00:00.000+02:00

Michael Kors Bag, Revlon LightGloss LipGloss, I.D., Chanel Vitalumiere Aqua foundation, Louis Vuitton purse, Smashbox Lash DNA mascara, CBT's Closet cross earrings, Sass Diva bracelet and rings, Too Faced Lip Injection lipgloss, Mac lipsticks in Pretty Please, Of Royalty and Hop, Essence eyeliner, Benefit Smokin' Eyes compact, Blackberry Torch and Urban Decay Big Fatty mascara.

My mom bought this bag in New York and by the time we got to LA I had somehow assumed it as my own. She loves handbags but I can never settle on one so I end up using them to death before I'm forced to get a new one. Let's just say I've spent some time losing things in the lining and standing at airport security looking apologetic because they can't find whatever beauty product is a weapon that week. I love keeping some spare accessories in my bag in case I'm in a rush, never need to forget a ring or five!

What's in your bag?

Triumph Autumn/Winter 2012 Preview

2011-12-04T08:00:00.000+02:00

Last week I went to The Pepper Club Hotel for a sneak peak at Triumph's new Autumn/Winter range. When I was a teenager, I discovered Triumph's Maximizer bras. After trying one on, I grabbed duplicates and built my entire basic undergarment collection that day. For their 2012 Beautiful Moments Collection, Triumph offers something for everyone with four distinct ranges:

Maximizer - Triumphs ultimate cleavage enhancing, push up collection is celebrated in the Autumn Winter 2012 collection with a “Moonlight Moments” theme - geared to sultry evenings, with Forbidden Lace, Zero to Sexy and Super Curves.

Everyday, a top drawer essential – created with a love for detail while maintaining style and shape to ensure ultimate comfort with the added introduction of twin packs for mix and match versatility. Everyday is celebrated with a “My Moments” theme boasting Body Image sets.

Body Gorgeous, Triumph’s brand new collection offering sensational fit and comfort for fuller-busted women. Where even the most mundane activities become Moments of Luxury Curves and Seductive Romance.

Triaction, Triumph’s iconic leader in sports bras, with a bra for every sport and “impact-filled Moments”.

The event was lovely with the Autumn/Winter collection displayed on a balcony overlooking Table Mountain and Lion's Head. I love the lacy Maximizer with suspenders, putting it on my shopping list. Which range are you going to go for? For more info on Triumph, check out www.triumph.com/za. More images from the event can be found on the Safashiongirl facebook page.

Back lace

2011-12-03T08:00:00.000+02:00

This is another item I got from The Lot, that place is so bad for my credit card. Wow it's December already! I must say I'm really happy it's here, time for summer fun and a new year for sure. This weekend the weather is going to be beautiful so I'm heading over to my friend Nicole's for a pool party, aah swimming in December. I picked up a new floppy hat because my last one sort of died in the water. I'm really looking forward to relaxing for a day or two, I had a busy week and next week is the Guess Fashion Show, Elle Fresh Face Awards and Puma All Hands On Deck Party, whew!

Elle Bulgaria recently sent me a copy of their April issue that featured the shoe interviews with girls all around the world, South Africa represent! I'm going to scan it in when I get a minute, it's all in Bulgarian but I have a copy of the English questions I answered. When I composed an email to them I used Google Translate and went back and forth with the English and Bulgarian texts to make sure I had everything right and then the woman nonchalantly responded in English, hahaha was so funny. Have a great weekend everyone!

2011 FEDISA Graduate Collection Show

2011-11-29T19:39:00.001+02:00

Photos by Bryn De Kocks

I was looking through the FEDISA Graduate Collection Show 2011 photos again and I couldn't help but share a few more because I'm still dreaming about which items I want in my wardrobe! The show encompassed a variety of styles, there was everything from conceptual statements to cute party clothes to amazing textures and fabric manipulation techniques; a fantastic combination of the theatrical and the wearable.

Congratulations to the graduating class of 2011, I really feel as if they have their fingers on the pulse and I look forward to seeing more from them in the future. I was honored to judge the Mechanical Angel garments and I have to say that it was my all-time favorite second year collection in FEDISA's history. For more photos check out the Safashiongirl and FEDISA pages on facebook. Also don't forget to check out 2011 graduates Jenna and Raya to see where their next journey takes them.

Finally thank you FEDISA, for everything.

Why to study at FEDISA

2011-11-22T00:31:00.001+02:00

images by Bryn De Kocks

Here's a little peek at the FEDISA Graduate Collection Show 2011. The degree program at FEDISA has every student conceptualising, designing, illustrating, pattern cutting and sewing every single garment from scratch; no outsourcing. With this in mind, the amount of work that goes into one garment (not to mention an 8 piece collection) is outstanding, coupling that with the high standard of work produced is simply jaw-dropping. The syllabus also has students compiling their own magazines, editing images, assembling a business plan and creating marketing campaigns. I can speak from experience, FEDISA equips students with a skillset to be rivaled by that of the international big guns. Once one knows fashion inside and out, from the basics to the complex, the knowledge can be applied in ways that one hasn't even begun to anticipate. I'm very excited for FEDISA and honoured to have studied there, they just keep getting better and better. We're going to have a fantastic new generation of designers. Next up, more runway pics from the show to drool over!

Road Trip Playlist

2011-11-16T08:00:00.000+02:00

After a few days of rain, I think Cape Town might finally be ready for some summer sun. I like to make playlists now and then using 8tracks, so I compiled a little road trip mix. I can't wait to spend time with friends, drink cocktails, lay by the pool, take tons of photos and make memories for life! Enjoy every moment you can and find out what makes you the most you. You'll always feel your happiest when you're true to yourself.

Tiffany & Co.'s Elsa Peretti Bottle Pendant

2011-11-15T19:55:00.001+02:00

Bottles & Potions by safashiongirl featuring clutch hand bags

Wildfox Couture printed shirt, $123
Wedge heel sandals, $38
Clutch hand bag, $795
Chain jewelry, $695
Revlon Crayon Yeux Eye Liner Pencil N°1 Black, €9,40
Thierry Mugler Alien Refillable Eau De Parfum, $77

When I saw this amazing Tiffany & Co. Bottle Pendant by Elsa Peretti, I knew just what to wear with this beauty. I often find myself working outfits around accessories because I just love how they can really take a look to new heights. This Elsa Peretti pendant is so chic and pretty that I thought I'd keep clothes casual but throw in some tough touches to juxtapose it nicely. Add a ton of eyeliner, a sophisticated Tiffany's clutch and keep everything else simple for a clean, cool and modern look. Perfect for a weekend shopping trip then lunch with the girls afterwards.

What do you think of this iconic pendant?

Glamour: Romy and Michele inspiration

2011-11-14T09:49:00.000+02:00

When Glamour called and asked about a stand-out movie fashion moment, Romy and Michele came straight to mind. I've posted about them before because I used to have this movie on constant repeat during my pre-teens. It's just one of those feel-good, celebrate-who-you-are flicks that you can watch time after time. Like Romy and Michele, I didn't have the best time in high school, I was mocked mercilessly for having an American accent, had gum spat in my hair, found words placed on my back and got shoved in the hallways among other things. So if anyone reading this is being bullied I want you to know that one day things are going to be ok, they're going to be even more than ok, you have no idea.

We all know bullies are fueled by unhappiness, insecurity and jealousy. I know, the whole jealousy thing is something your mom tells you to make you feel better right? That's what I thought but I found out that as usual, mom is right on this. Let me tell you, you won't even imagine the things people are jealous of; things about you that you don't even think are that interesting, things you might not even like! Use the negative nancys to your advantage and let them motivate you, it's the exact opposite of what they want. Hate poisons bullies and they lose in the end, I know this from being glared at from the back row at fashion shows. They don't understand the power of self-respect; there's nothing wrong with being in the back row if you believe in yourself, there's nothing wrong with being in the back row period! In life we all go from the back to front row and back again constantly, it's a complete roller coaster of ups and downs. We're all equal, we're all human. The most important thing is to believe in yourself because then you can achieve whatever it is that you dream of.

Special thanks to Hannah and the rest of the Glamour team, I'm so excited to be featured in the November issue, a complete dream come true!

Puma Sakina M’sa Bag Launch

2011-11-12T08:00:00.001+02:00

I had so much fun at the last PUMA event and went a bit overboard with the camera! This brand has a really passionate team behind them I can't thank Christine and Bianca from Splash PR enough for keeping me in the loop with the latest happenings. I went to the PUMA Sakina M’sa launch at the Canal Walk store with my dear friend Natalie and sipped some champagne while checking out all the gear. I also worked up the guts to wear the bodysuit I'd made for my debut collection last year. I've been working on designs this year but I'm not rushing anything, just taking it very slow and enjoying the process that will one day evolve into a line that I hope other people will like. You guys will be the first to get your hands on freebies, if all goes to plan, hopefully we're talking this time next year!

I went to the FEDISA Graduate Show this past weekend and I can't wait to share my thoughts with you, speak soon fashion girls and guys x

Puma Sakina M’sa Bag

2011-11-11T08:00:00.000+02:00

Finally I get to tell you guys about the latest PUMA news, I've just been running around so much lately that I haven't had a second. I gotta say that I love PUMA, they always keep things fresh and do some great collaborations, the latest one being with French fashion designer Sakina M’sa. PUMA and Sakina worked together to create this iconic electric blue arm candy, combining the traditional style of the PUMA Grip Bag with with M’sa’s hallmark, the ‘Bleu de Travail'; the typical French street worker outfit.

You'll find beautiful finishing touches on every bag; premium leather grip handles and trims, three co-branded hanging antique gold spanners and a blue leather luggage tag including a small leaflet about the Sakina M’sa story. Furthermore there are subtle inside surprises; an endearing message to the buyer about this special bag and a portrait of a French worker wearing the actual ‘Bleu de Travail'. Each bag is handcrafted and all pieces are one of a kind. With only a limited number of bags, one hundred globally, the Sakina Grip Bag represents an exclusive piece of sports fashion.

The PUMA Sakina M’sa Grip Bag, retailing at R2599, is available to purchase from the PUMA store in Canal Walk Shopping Centre with limited numbers available.

Recycled uniforms, chic, practical and French? Very cute investment. I'll be posting some more photos from the launch soon!

Halloween

2011-11-10T08:00:00.000+02:00

I was an angel...with problems. Jamy was Jesus, Anina was a bellydancer, Nicole was a Pan Am stewardess and Bryn had a post-apacolyptic gasmask thing going on. I'm now obsessed with nosebleeds, it could be quite tragic. Must resist the urge to make fake nosebleeds when going out. I love that South Africa is starting to really get into Halloween! People are really going all out with their costumes these days. One guy at the house party was covered in printed pages and told us he was a thesis, a more subtle form of terror but very scary nonetheless. We only got one group of trick or treaters this year so next year I'm planning on putting up decorations outside so the little ones know it's a candy-friendly house.

Did you get into Halloween this year?

Aura by Queenspark

2011-11-09T01:57:00.001+02:00

A few weeks ago Queenspark dropped off a lovely little package and I was delighted to find out that the fashion retailer just introduced its exclusive cosmetics range called Aura. The Aura range includes eye, lip, cheek and nail products in a multitude of colours and is available in most South African stores now. Aura compliments the clothing in Queenspark, as women will now be able to finalise their outfit on the spot by adding that all-important touch of glamour, such as a lustrous nail polish or a sensational lipstick. With 84 different shades of nail polish, 50 different shades of moisturizing lipstick, 24 different shades of mineralised eye shadows as well as a selection of powder blushers, eyeliners and mascara - you'll be spoiled for choice this summer.

A special launch offer is available while stocks last: buy any two Aura products and receive a free cosmetic bag. Aura make-up products range from R29.95 to R79.95 in price. For more information, e-mail Queenspark or follow them on Twitter.