Summer Essentials

Hey guys!

It's been a while since I've sat down and actually had time to write a post. I finally finished my written exams and even though I still haven't finished university yet I thought I'd share my summer essentials for this year.

1. High-Waisted Denim Shorts: every summer's essential, they never seem to go out of trend. You can either buy a pair from any shop really or make your own from a pair of old jeans that you know you'll never use. Grab a pair of scissors and do the magic. You can also experiment with some studs or some dye to make them more interesting. Trust me, it's fun!

2. Maxi Skirts/Dresses: for those days where you don't feel like showing off your legs but it's too hot to wear any jeans or trousers, maxi skirts are perfect. You can also throw on a loose top over a maxi dress, not to have the same look whenever you wear the same dress. Can't wait for my maxi skirt to be delivered! This year try tie dye prints. They are back, bigger than ever.

3. Small Shoulder Bag: everyone has their own 'safety' bag that whenever you're indecisive of what goes with an outfit, you grab that certain one. Shoulder bags are perfect for summer, they're light weight and can be worn for both day-time and night-time.Try to find a bag with a colour that goes with most of your outfits. This season, fringed bags are huge and I'm still trying to find the perfect one.

4. Sandals: let's face it, in summer it's too hot not to wear sandals. Tan sandals are my summer essential, I end up buying a pair every summer and I wear the life out of it. This season, holographic shoes are the shoes to be seen in. I still haven't decided whether I should buy a pair or not. What do you think?

5. Crop Tops: What to wear with denim shorts? What to wear with maxi skirts? Yep. Crop tops. Aztec, floral, comics, plain, any print really. Whether is a cropped t-shirt, cami or vest, crop tops are an essential for the hot weather.

6. Chunky Necklaces: in summer, as opposed to winter, outfits are pretty simple without any layering and accessories. Jewellery is the answer not to have boring outfits. Take these two necklaces, the gold chain (very Rihanna-ish) goes with almost any outfit and the neon one can make an outfit paired with a simple white top and some denim shorts.


What are your summer essentials?

Location Location

Hey guys!

I thought of doing something different than usual and talk about something other than clothes and anything in the fashion industry. Almost every blogger makes a wishlist for every season ( as so did I ) but I would much rather make a 'places to go' list than that. In short, want I really want is ..

Even if I'm just back from a trip, the next minute you'll probably find me planning on what's next. My YouTube subscriptions list goes something like this: Ellen, fashion bloggers, people who travel a whole lot. And even though I love watching fashion related videos, I'm always looking forward for the ones regarding travel. 

You see, I'm a 20 year old and I didn't even start my car lessons. Main reason why ? I would much rather spend that kind of money on travelling abroad than to travel in Malta where I can easily catch the bus. I can honestly say I don't mind doing that. Going back to my point. I was in Paris a couple of months ago and currently planning my summer trip to Netherlands and Belgium (in which I'll be attending this year's Rock Werchter festival -and I cannot even being to describe how much I'm looking forward to it) and that's not it. Even if I have no idea where to go next, I have quite a bucket list of places to visit. Some of them are not even actual places, they're cultures. I want to experience (even for just a couple of days) most of the world's cultures. Yes, there's a focus on experience, because I don't want to just visit a place, I want to see their arts, history, traditions and try different cuisines. 

I want to go on a safari trip, indulge in an oriental culture, dive the Great Barrier Reef and have a taste of Australia. I want to have a typical American hot dog not from a food truck in a local feast, but from the streets of New York. I want to swim in the Caribbean Sea, hop the Greek Islands and re-try roller skates (this brings some old memories) in California. 

I'm saying 'I want' quite a lot, and hopefully in a few years time they'll be 'I went' and ' I saw'.  What will be your next destination?

-R :)

Spring OOTDs

Hey guys,

I created some sets from outfits I've been wearing since spring began. Since most of them were worn to uni, they are pretty simple outfits which you can easy put together at 7a.m. and as you can see I always take a light jacket to throw over if its get chilly later.  Hope you like them!

Felt like earth colours. 

Men's hoodies are the most comfortable piece of clothing eveeer. 

Chelsea boots are best when you're running late.. so easy to put on!

I left this aztec shirt open for a gilet-effect (mine's actually a high-low shirt but I couldn't find it!)

I went crazy on yellow. yep.

Thank god for spring!

-R :)

Spring/Summer Shoes Wishlist

Hey guys!

So I've a bit of a busy week catching up with some friends and trying to keep up with my assignments and just when I thought I had some time to chill, my faculty decides to launch our dissertation titles. Needless to say, I ended up lost in this one pdf that holds the title for my too-near-future thesis. I still ended up online window shopping - why does this always happen? I found myself scrolling in a numerous pictures of shoes and then realized that I still had to shop for some sandals for this Spring/Summer season.

I managed to make a whole list of shoes I'm lusting for.

• Cut-out boots- they are everywhere! This pair is from ALDO (find here).. loving the tassel detail.

• A pair of chucks. The basic white converse that goes with anything. (find here)

• Spicy Wedges - what's summer without some wedges? This aztec print pair from NewLook is the perfect for most occasions, and you can use it for a pop of colour to any boring outfit. (find here)

• Tan sandals. Every year I end up buying at least one pair. In fact, I ended up buying this gorgeous fringe one from asos a couple of minutes after I was creating this collection on polyvore. (find here)

• Neon flats. I don't wear much neon, but would love to integrated a bit more in my outfits. Loving the contrast of nude with neon. (find here)

• Black heels. I simply can't resist chunky heels and Topshop always manage to design the best shoes. (find here)

• And to finish off, some toned down espadrilles. I have a pair of bright coral espadrilles which I don't wear much because of the colour, but these can definately be worn with most outfits. 

What are you're staple pieces this season?

-R :)

Spring : Nail Designs

Hey guys!

Thought of doing something different and show some of my favorite nail design for this spring.

These monochrome designs are amazing. Prepare your nail art pen and get creative! 

As for those of you who prefer some pop of colour, try experimenting with designs and colours. 

Tempted to try this. 

-R :)

White Shoes

Hey guys!

As you can guess by the title I'm writing a post about white shoes. I always thought they are too tacky and would never ever go with any outfit which I'm likely to wear. In fact, I don't own any except a pair of trainers and a pair of summer wedges. Then, I saw Amy Lee from Vagabond Youth in her Wildfox x Jeffrey Campbell Lonestar platforms and changed my mind. See yourself:

Aren't they amazing? And they look so comfortable! They would be the perfect pair of shoes for the new Spring/Summer season since they are make a perfect match with pastels, denim or a monochromatic outfit. 

-R :)

Spring: Patterned Shorts

Bonjour!

Yes, I'm back from Paris after 5 amazing days! I've really missed writing articles for the past 2 weeks and I had soo many ideas and inspiration but I didn't have any spare time since I had to catch up on my assignments. But finally, I found some time to write yay :)

One easy way to transit from your winter clothing to spring is to get rid of your long trousers and start wearing shorts! I know it may be a bit daring for some, but that is the one step that makes me aware that spring has actually started. Don't be afraid of the weather.. you can always put on a pair of long boots, some knee-high socks or a light jacket. 

Here are some outfit ideas for the spring featuring patterned shorts:

What is spring without some florals? I've teamed up this shorts with a basic white tee and brown boots. To make it more interesting I've added some coral to the outfit with a coral necklace and a matching bag. And for those windy days, I've decided to go for a denim jacket. 

I've tried to integrate two trends in one outfit: neon and monochome. I've decided to chose this aztec print high-waisted shorts and a striped crop top inspired by the french breton top. Again, the colour pop was left for the accessories: this time a neon belt and necklace. For the bag I chose this plain black clutch and since the outfit it too chic/sharp for my taste, I've decided to go for a black plimsoll to dress the outfit down a notch.  

And finally some denim ombre shorts. I know it's not a pattern but I think it goes with the whole concept of this article. So, ombre shorts? Check. What to put on next? Since this pair of shorts is also studded I decided to go for a plain white tee again not to have too much going on. Some flatform plimsolls, knee-high socks, a black cardigan and you're ready!

Are you ready to change to your spring wardrobe?

- R :)

Summer Spice

Hey guys!

At this time of the year the new Spring/Summer collections are out and I always find myself urging to buy new accessories. I don't know about you, but in winter I don't usually wear much jewellery, mostly because they end up being covered by jackets and other layers. As for summer, I feel too plain if I don't have any arm candy or some necklace if I'm wearing a low cut t-shirt. Accessories and jewellery are the best way to spice up every outfit, so I thought of sharing some of the pieces from Pieces (it's only fair to say that) I recently bought or am watching at the moment.

My favourite summer colour is coral, and that's why I chose this double wrap gold/coral bracelet (purchase here). And for those days when I feel like throwing on a colourful outfit, I chose this simple black chain (also available in gold: buy here). I recently bought these round sunglasses from asos, but they have other colours on their website here. They are amazing! I also really liked their case which you can see above. I cannot wait to buy the other model shown above: the Galina. I've already mentioned my new necklace in my last articles (read here) and ever since I wore it the first time, I knew I had to get one in gold. However, since then I purchased a gold chain necklace and so I decided to go for the rose gold (which is from the asos brand not pieces) to have a wider variety. And to finish off, some rings. This set seems to be perfect! 

What are your favourite summer accessories?

-R :)

Let's Skate!

Hey guys!

As the weather is getting warmer, I'm preparing myself to wear a whole lot of skirts and shorts without having to wear tights. The skirt most talked about the past year was the skater skirt (or circle skirt) which is basically an A-line pleated relatively short skirt. What's not to love about that? They are so flattering! And for those of you who have a tiny waist and a curvy bottom, these skirts accentuate your waist.

I personally have two of these skirts: a taupe and a black one because I find that they are the most versatile colours. These are some ideas of how I would style them.

I personally love the look of a skater skirt with a crop top. I chose this Boy London top which balances out the feminine touch of the skirt. To toughen up the look I added a denim vest and some plain black creepers. I recently bought this gunmetal necklace and I'm obsessed with it (buy it here, it's on sale!) because it goes with almost anything. And to finish the outfit, I chose this brown backpack. 

What's spring without some sneakers! I decided I should create a look with some Vans and here it is! I chose a plain black top with some round sunglasses to get into the summer feel. As this outfit is pretty casual and relaxed, I added a fringed leather hobo bag to add some texture and make the outfit more interesting. 

For this look I decided to go for an all-black-bottom-half. Even though it's getting warmer, I'm still wearing winter colours and you can never go wrong with black. To add some colour, I chose this dark red top (which I bought yesterday: buy here) and a khaki satchel so that I stay on the winter colour scheme. 

How would you wear a skater skirt?

-R :)

Tardy

Hey guys!

I'm currently obsessed with lace-ups, especially these Jeffrey Campbell Tardy's. Ugh, I just want them in all colours and textures! My 20th birthday is in 10 days, anyone ?

-R :)

How To Style: Disco Pants

Hey guys!

If you regularly follow fashion bloggers and watch OOTDs you probably know that disco pants are an essential to most of these bloggers. I personally don't own a pair and I probably won't, not in the near future at least (just because they're not my style).

When I started this blog I said to myself that I won't write about something I wouldn't wear myself, however, there's something about these pants that strikes me. When I first saw this trend, I thought: that's way too tacky for anyone. However, seeing how different outfits worn by these fashion bloggers changed my mind.

These are some of the tips that I've drawn out:

First, if you're a petite/skinny person these pants are a great way to bring out some curves because of their fit.

Make sure you buy the right size. Having the pants in a smaller size will make your legs will look like  sausages in a tight plastic cover. And that's the only way I can describe it. On the other hand, having disco pants in a bigger size will loose the point of having a form fitting trousers.

Balance. If you're wearing tight-fitting bottoms, go for a loose-fit top or jumper, unless you're wearing another layer on top.

Experiment. I would personally buy a dark coloured pair first, but if you have the guts, go crazy. However I would avoid those disco pants which are too shiny and look like foil.

Thick tock. It's better saving up for a thicker material pair then having your underpants showing.

-R :)

Layering

Hey guys!

Although the sun is showing itself much more in the last few days, the cold persists. I often find myself in a dilemma: it's either wearing winter clothes and feel too hot in the sun or wearing spring clothes and feel cold in the shade. One way of solving this dilemma : layering. This can be a bit tricky, so I decided to share my tips for layering. 

I tend to chose my topmost layer first. Whether it's a jacket, a coat or a thick cardigan. That being said, this layer should be the thickest/heaviest for two main reasons. First, having a thicker layer beneath often looks weird, especially the arms. Second, if you get inside or feel warm enough, you can easily take off your warmest garment. 

Another important thing about the outer layer, actually when buying outerwear, is that it looks good left open. When layering, at least in my case, I want my outfit beneath my jacket to show. Hence, particularly double breasted coats are better left for events where you're either keeping your coat on all the times, or removing it completely. This is, obviously, just my own belief. When leaving a double-breasted coat open, I find it very awkward having the outer side of the coat just flopping around. However, if your coat looks good left open (double-breasted or not) go for it. An example is the picture below.

A debatable point is regarding longer pieces. Some say they're better left for bottom layers. I don't know your opinion, but I prefer the other way round. Yes, this is contradictory to what I've said in the previous point that I want my whole outfit to show. Nonetheless, I prefer leaving my layers open and show from the front, than wearing longer pieces at the bottom having them being shown just from my lower half. 

Contrast. Having layers with the same colours and style will not be noticed. This points to another trick that if you want to ''hide'' some layers not to look like you've worn your whole wardrobe, wear adjacent layers with the same colour. Back to contrast, the best way to display your layers is that you choose pieces with complementary colours. Oh, and don't forget to use different textures.

Shirts are a great way to layer. Whether it's underneath a jumper or left open on top of a top, they're an essential for layering, especially flannel shirts. Don't be afraid of wearing skirts or shorts. Tights, leggings and socks will keep you warm enough. 

And one last thing. Accessories make your outfit much more interesting. Try adding a scarf, a belt, a beanie, or a statement necklace. 

-R :)

Boots

Hey guys!

Can you believe it's already February? January passed way too quickly! So today I'm writing about what might be my strongest addiction: boots. I don't really like winter, but the fact that I can wear all my boots (since some of them are way too warm for summer) in this season, makes it tolerable. 

Here are some of this Autumn/Winter boots. Actually, it's my wishlist, since I only own one of them. 

As you can see, this are all day-time boots which are perfect for any event really. You can purchase any one of these mentioned boots by clicking on their name.

1. Dr Martens 1460 in Cherry Red : Ever since I've own these, I wanted to buy another pair. If you are one of the many which are still trying to figure out whether or not they should buy a pair of Doc Martens, I'm telling you: it's an investment. They're a bit heavy and sturdy at first, but once you get used to them, they're so comfortable! 

2. H&M Boots: Their heel is a bit longer than your usual everyday boots, but it's chunky so I'm pretty sure they're quite easy to walk in. As soon as I saw this pair on the H&M website I wanted them so badly. I mean look at them, they're perfect. 

3. Zara Booties: Something for those of you who don't dig the chunky boots look, this ankle boots is for you. Not only their tan colour makes them look like a slick pair of cowboy boots, but the gold zip on the outer side makes them look more elegant in some way. 

4. Boohoo shearling lined boot: Nothing better than shearling for those days when you just can't face the cold. You can wear this pair of sand ankle boots with almost anything because of their neutral colour. 

5. Topshop Suede Boots: Something different from typical plain boots. These khaki boots are amazing for 3 major reasons: the side cut-out, the buckles, the wooden-look heel. In short, Topshop never seem to get their shoes wrong. 

6. Jeffrey Campbell Triplet: Yeehaa! Jeffrey Campbell does it again. This time, it's not the Huge Platform trend, but the western booties. Look how amazing those buckles are!

7. Steve Madden Boots: and finally, Steve Madden. The studs give an amazing touch of toughness to a boring pair of black worker boots. Thumbs up for the low heel which makes the boots perfect for a busy day where a lot of traveling and walking is involved.

Which one would you choose?

-R :)

Blogs I Love: Part 2

Hey guys!

       As the titles suggest, this is the follow up of my first post (read here) about some blogs (and vlogs) I love to read/watch everyday. I've accumulated quite a list of blogs, and maybe I should control myself, because the amount of time I spend everyday on blogs is ridiculous!

So, here are some more of my favourite blogs:

• Boffism: In my opinion the best Maltese blogger! Her style is classy and preppy, yet always  with a twist from current trends. Check her YouTube channel here.
• BeautyCrush: Did someone say grunge? BeautyCrush is the perfect mix of grunge and girly. You can click for her YouTube channel here: click!
• Stella's Wardrobe: Her style is definitely not everyone's cup of tea, but I assure you she can make a suit and sneakers a perfect match. 
• Shirley: One of the bloggers I've been following for years now. Classy, feminine and chic. Her YouTube channel: here.
• VagabondYouth: She's the blogger to follow for any college outfit ideas. Check out her YouTube channel, with filming directly from her dorm room here. 
• Brittany Balyn: I have no idea how to describe her style, but it's definitely unique. She also has amazing hair tutorials! Check her YouTube channel here. 
• Sunbeamsjess: Ever since Melissa from the Fashion Citizen mentioned her, I got hooked. It's amazing how she can make elegant pieces everyday wear (something which I wish I could do). And did I mentioned her Jeffrey Campbell shoe collection? Breath Taking. (watch her YouTube channel here )
• Fashion Rocks My Socks: If you're looking for a younger blogger for a style guide by one who's your age, she's the girl. You can watch her videos her her YouTube channel: Click here!. 

So, what are your favorite bloggers? 

-R :)

2013: January Sales!

Hey guys!

I haven't posted anything in a while since I realized I'm so late in my assignments for this semester. Well, after several days, I've missed my blog and decided to, somehow, make time for writing new posts. So, yeah, here I am.

While I spent my holidays working on my assignments (or eating), everyone else was enjoying their winter break and splurging their money on the sales. Well, to tell you the truth, I did managed to make room for some shopping and I wanted to share with you my purchases.

First, tip for sales shopping: try to search basics, and never ever say 'it's too hot/cold for this' you'll probably need it for next season and you'll end up paying full price.

Now, here are some of the bargains I snatched :

I bought this dress from asos in two colours: coral and spring green/lime. I thought they would be perfect for summer, and paired with a pair of tights and a jacket, the could add a pop of colour for my outfit. These were further reduced soon after I bought them, but most sizes were sold out. (find here: Basic Scoop Neck Dress)

Well, actually I bought this pair of burgundy wedges though they weren't on sale yet. However, they were still a bargain and it was the last one from my size, so I had to get it asap. Although this model is out of stock from new look's website (there might be some left in stores), asos still have it in black! (Find here: Tempas Wedge Shoe Boots)

From New Look, I also picked out a tan jumper, which again is not available on their site, so here you can find the link of the same model but in a different colour. (Find here: Jumper)

From boohoo, I bought this maroon skirt, with a front zip which I could easily wear casually or wear it up for some friendly occasion. (find here: Scuba skirt). I also bought (yes another skirt) this knitted floral skirt, which is now out of stock so I can't give you the link (soz!) 

I also managed to get to the Stradivarius sale. From all the stuff that was in that store  I got to snatch this candy skull shirt, which even though I wore it only once, it is already my favourite shirt at the moment.

I also picked up this studded purse since I had been eyeing this for quite a while and I found it at half the price!:

So, did you find any bargains?

-R x

Onesies

Hey guys!

I can't stress enough on how much I adore this cosy garment. Not only it will keep you warm and comfortable, but also stylish. Seriously, most online stores are selling the cutest onesies I've ever seen.

Check them out:

Accessorize slipper shoes
accessorize.com

1. Charlotte Lightweight Skull Print Hooded Onesie
boohoo.com

2. Lacey Checked Supersoft Onesie
boohoo.com

3. River Island Purple Strawberry Print Onesie
riverisland.com

4. Onepiece Nordic Pattern Onesie
asos.com

5. Purple Paisley Print Onesie
newlook.com

6. Laura Lightweight Cartoon Print Hooded Onesie
boohoo.com

7. Ashella Lightweight Aztec Print Hooded Onesie

boohoo.com

Time to invest in one?

-R x

Baroque vs Victorian

Hey guys!

Now that 2012 has ended, its time for new styles. Even taking a sneak peek at a window shop or an online stores, baroque is found everywhere. This style is still going strong, however 2013 introduces another huge trend: Victorian. Most outfits on polyvore, or shop windows, tend to mix these 2 styles/eras together. So how can you tell which pieces are baroque inspired and which are Victorian? The difference is easy.

Baroque 

Usually features bold patterns like the one shown below. Baroque colours are war- toned colours (usually black, gold, teal and maroon).

Some Baroque pieces (click on the names to purchase! ):

Gold Jacquard Jacket:

This jacket can be layered on top of a simple LBD and you're ready to go! The pattern and metallic textile makes this jacket a statement piece. The shoulders also gives any drapey dress more structure. 

Bodycon Dress:

Let's just drool. 

Baroque Jacquard Dress:

And one for those who are not that confident with their body type. The pleats in the skirt makes this dress a perfect piece for all body types. 

Jewel Torque Necklace

Although I don't wear necklaces that much, this piece caught my attention. Not only the rose gold collar is perfect on its own, the baroque detailing is amazing. The only thing I would remove are the crosses which drop on both sides. 

Baroque peplum top

I already featured this peplum top in one of my articles (read here). Again, one can see the gold detailing and the baroque pattern which make this top bang on trend.

Alexander McQueen Aubergine Baroque Peep-Toe

Well, I couldn't have left this piece out. Things which I love about this shoe: The deep purple colour, the heel (neither chunky nor stiletto), the gold studs around the platform, the gold skull and its designer. Full points to Alexander McQueen. 

Victorian

On the other hand, Victorian, is more feminine. It usually features lace, frills and frocks.Victorian colours are more soft colours and pastel (pinks, soft greys, mints,etc). 

Some Victorian pieces: 

Victorian dress

A perfect piece to try this new trend. This dress is really versatile and can be worn both casually and dressed up. 

Victorian blouse

Lace. Pastel pink. Sheer. That's all I have to say. 

Lace Peter Pan Collar Skater dress:

We've seen this type of dress anywhere lately, wear it with the right kind of jewelry and you have a Victorian outfit.

Victorian necklace:

Must. Buy. Now.

Victorian Inspired Skirt

With a pale pink underlay , this skirt is a very feminine one for those who prefer skirts over dresses.

And for shoes: Lace up booties  vs Lace Panel Ankle Boots

Being both lace ups, these two boots are perfect for a Victorian look. 

So, what do you think? Baroque or Victorian?

-R x