Things we need to leave in 2014

As the new and exciting year of 2015 draws near, I can't help but reflect on the moments, trends and people that have become the highlights of  the last 365 days, 52 weeks, 12 months of 2014. We all love to use the new year as a way to start new hobbies, lose weight, tick items off bucket-lists or break bad habits.

As you turn over the a new leaf, why not throw the old leaf away? Ah if only it were that easy my friends... creating a list of what I wish could be left behind in 2014 could be as worthwhile as emptying a pool with a teacup. If I had any power over society, I would try my best to make sure all of the following no longer existed in 2015. I personally think you would all be very grateful with the changes I would make. Here goes!

Beat the Boredom

Oh the irony of finally having a holiday and a break from work over the festive season, only to find that you are bored out of your skull and you have watched every series and movie on your laptop in the last 3 days (been there). We are so used to these fast and furious action-packed lives, going from work to gym to all those other commitments we have filled our plate with. No wonder we feel numb with boredom when the madness finally stops and we have a few days off!

The importance is not to fill your days up being so busy that you actually burn out, or just sit on the couch all day. Find a combination of relaxing and fun activities to do that are also constructive, and you will end your holiday feeling accomplished and rested. Here is my list of fun Christmas holiday activities to do with family, friends or by yourself.

Make Christmas tree decorations

If you are falling short on Christmas decorations for your tree this year, don't go out and buy more. Rather make them yourself as a fun activity and add a sentimental touch to your tree. Whether you do it yourself or get children or friends to help for the day, there are so many ways to create fun and easy decorations. You can use felt, paper, pine cones, fruit or ribbons. You can even personalise decorations with names of family members.

A personal favourite of mine is these easy-to-make polystyrene glitter balls:

• cover a small round polystyrene ball with craft glue
• roll ball around in glitter until all surfaces are covered
• Use a pin to secure a folded piece of ribbon or string at the top of the ball to hang on the tree

Image from hgtv.com

How to pack for a beach holiday

There are only 5 sleeps left until I go on holiday to Ponta Malongane in Mozambique! A beach holiday is my type of holiday, and what better beach than Mozambique, which is only a 6 hour drive for us, north west (haha) of South Africa. With white sand beaches and a vast 2500km coastline,  as well as the infamous R&R's and the friendly locals, this holiday destination is popular to say the least. I have been waiting for my long break over the festive season for weeks, and with only a few days remaining my holiday planning begins!

When I say holiday planning, what I actually mean is packing. Us girls know how important this is, especially if you are going away for 2 weeks like I am! I am a fantastic packer, and so often people look in disbelief when I show them how light I pack, whilst still being able to wear something different each day. If packing was a job, I would be an expert in my field! 

I have compiled a list of summer holiday must-haves to pack for a getaway, a local beach, or anywhere hot and sunny. There is no need to pack too much, or pack items that don't actually match anything else. When I am back home next year (how crazy does that sound??) I will make sure to have a post of my holiday photos and Mozambican experience!

Image from whowhatwear.com

All white arrthang

I love white! It is possibly my favourite colour to wear because it is crisp, classy and versatile. The trend of wearing white-on-white comes and goes in the fashion world, but I personally think it should be a consistent staple. The difficulty with wearing two different white pieces in one outfit is that you have to get the correct shade of white for both, or two different textures of white pieces. Lace and linen, for example, is a beautiful combination.

It is a huge fashion faux pas if you wear white with off-white or cream. I know Kim K has tried it but I personally think it looks tacky if you are not wearing designer brands from head to toe. Whether it is a pair of white tailored shorts with a white top or a pair of white skinny jeans with a white blazer, there are many white-on-white variations. When wearing a full white outfit it is best to add simple accessories such as a tan/leather handbag or black strappy heels. A leopard print detail is also very stylish.

Image from fashionsy.com

My Christmas Wishlist

I don't usually have a list of requirements for Christmas and my birthday, I like being surprised and if I specifically want something I usually buy it myself. This year, however I would like to compile a wishlist of coveted items to inspire those out there that are stumped as to what to get their girlfriend/sister/friend/wife. Here is some girl gift buying inspiration for you, and most of these gifts are not break-the-bank prices. After all, what is Christmas without a bit of giving and receiving?

Slouchy Pants

I don't know if 'slouchy pants' is the correct term for them but that's what I am calling them at least! I can't tell you how comfortable and light-weight these pants are, they are like day time pajamas except no one will give you funny looks. They are light-weight and perfect for summer, and they can sit on your hips or on your waist depending on what look you want to go for.

I personally prefer a simple monochrome pattern on the pants, paired with a solid colour on top, but pretty much anything goes here. If you want to mix one pattern with another on top then choose wisely! They are so versatile, and can be worn with strappy heels or flats (birkenstocks look great paired with them).

Image from rstyle.me

Crop top Crazy

Crop tops are no longer just for teenagers and pop stars, they have evolved to stylish, classy and flattering (yes, it's true). Following from the matchy-matchy trend, teaming crop tops with long skirts and high waist pants or shorts are a fashion do. Well structured crop tops emphasize your waist and create an instant hourglass figure when teamed with hip-skimming skirts and pants.

You can choose to show a bit of skin or combine two items where the top just covers the bottoms. Mix bold colours with patterns, or two shades of pastel for an overall put together look. Add a belt to the bottom half or a statement necklace to add detail. The best types of crop tops are those that look like shortened t-shirts, as they flatter arms and add a casual touch. The latest trend of the cross-over crop top is also a popular choice. Keep it classy ladies, lets not get crazy showing too much skin!

Image from dailynewsfashions.blogspot.com

A letter to my future child

Dear Charlotte/Hunter/Rome/Saige/Branson/Everleigh/Tanner/Vivienne

Those are my favourite names for non-existent future you, which future me will probably have a good laugh at no doubt. Whatever we decide your name to be, it will become your identity for the rest of your life so no pressure on me or anything!

I think so often of what you will be like one day, whether you will be extroverted or shy, have dark hair or blonde, be good at maths (no thanks to my genes) or artistic, and whether I will see parts of me in your personality . I thought that it would be an opportunity missed if I didn't give you the chance to meet 23 year old me, who is currently writing at her desk in her office in Pietermaritzburg, South Africa.

Wardrobe Essentials

My style is kind of preppy/minimalist, and I stick to black, white, navy and a splash of colour in accessories on most days. I wouldn't call myself the most daring individual when it comes to fashion, I like to stick to what I know I look good in.

This is my personal list of what I think every girl should have in her closet. These essentials never go out of fashion and can be paired with almost anything. They are the go-to items you should own that will never let you down. Make sure that you invest in good quality pieces that fit perfectly, and buy cheaper seasonal accessories to accompany them.

The White Shirt
This goes without saying, top of the list! A crisp white shirt is without fail the most important item to own. It goes with anything and everything and can be tucked in, layered or accessorized. You will look instantly classy, and effortlessly stylish.

Image from collegefashion.net

Lets be kids

In so many ways adults are fixated on being adults. We don't have time for childish endeavors, we don't have the patience to play around or be silly. I shudder to think what a gloomy and depressing world it would be if there were no children! What I have decided is that if you bring certain characteristics of a child into parts of your own life, it will actually bring about positive changes. These are the ways in which adults could benefit from using child-like qualities to remind ourselves how exciting and delightful this world actually is.

French Connection: A tourist in Paris

This was the day in Paris that we decided we were going to be ultimate tourists and see the big 4: The Eiffel Tower, The Louvre, The Arc de Triomphe and The Love Lock Bridge. This would be my chance to collect the iconic pieces of Paris, so that I could put together everything this city means to me. I can't say I was prepared for the ways that this day in Paris would change me, but I can somehow put it into words.

I was wide awake at about 5am, and I could actually feel my heart beating faster than usual. At this point I had only had a taste of Paris, and now was the day to drink it all in. Our small group of travelling compainions decided to leave bright and early to see as much as the hours would allow. We started off our Parisian adventure the best way we knew how- we took a taxi to the Champs-Elysees (pronounces shanzer leezay, isn't French so romantic!). 

The Champs-Elysees is one of the most famous streets in the world, situated along nearly 2 kilometers of central Paris. This was where we browsed the colour-coordinated shops (even the McDonald's sign was the signature white and grey) and took in the prominence of the luxurious restaurants. The smells of the different French patisseries with their inviting glass displays were making all our stomachs ache with hunger, so we stopped at one of the more low-key cafe's, and ordered a cappuccino and a pastry of our choice (a chocolate croissant for me).

Sitting down at a small table with a view of the opulence outside, I finally let it all sink in- I am in Paris, eating a French croissant and sipping on coffee on the Champs-Elysees. It was unbelievable, for loss of a better word.

The Official sign on the Champs-Elysees Street

Body chains for days

Yet again Rihanna has inspired me. She has this way of looking edgy but effortlessly stylish, and I feel that I need to take a leaf out of her fashion book. I love the delicate gold body chains that she wears with everything from bikini's to ball gowns, and I feel that it is only fitting that I get involved with this trend she has started!

Fashionista celebrities such as Kylie Jenner have also been seen wearing them, and it is such a subtle piece of jewelry that it could look good with anything and still be understated. You can even wear it over a plain shirt to add detail. My whole approach is that if you wear it with a bikini it adds that extra glamour to it without looking like you're trying too hard... oh this old thing? Its been on me the whole day.

Image from lamodellamafia.com

If we were all honest for a day...

Ever wonder what would happen if you had no choice but to be honest for a whole day? I personally think the world would blow up. Us humans don't realise how often we lie on a daily basis, whether it is a huge deliberate lie or a tiny innocent white lie. We all do it, and some are better than others! I'm talking to you sweaty-palmed-avoiding-eye-contact liers.

To be honest (haha I know), I think it would get you into a whole lot of trouble, and possibly effect your future. Watch any episode of 'Real Housewives' and you will see where honesty gets you...possibly being kicked in the face with a Louboutin.

Palm tree life

As I have mentioned more than once in my fashion trend updates, summer fashion is extremely literal this season. I'm talking flowers, fruit and palm trees! Pastels and bold colours, monochrome and matchy matchy... its all about making a statement and wearing summer all over us! 

Another popular trend to catch my eye is the palm tree print. It is so feminine and fun, and there are lots of variations from small prints on flip flops to big prints on sun dresses. The palm tree trend is awesome! My personal favourite is the fresh green and white palm leaves, which looks like its straight off the Dolce and Gabanna runway. Here is to a summery outfit full of swaying trees and giant leaves.

Image from etsy.com

Best Bikini Selection

Summmerrrrrr! My most favourite time of year for so many reasons. The comforting feeling of sunshine on my skin, an ice cold coke by the pool, a long swim in the sea, beach sand between my toes, shorts and hats and sunglasses!

One thing I am still hesitant about, however, is squeezing my body (which has been hidden safely under layers of clothing all winter) into a teeny weeny bikini. Seriously guys, bikinis don't cover much do they? We love to hate them, and this summer I am making peace with the bikini. I have collected a few fashionable and unique bikini style inspo's for you all that are so cool this summer. If you want a variation of styles but don't want to spend too much money, buy one plain bikini and one patterned bikini in similar colours and interchange them with one another. Enjoy!

Image from madebydawn.bigcartel.com

10 Things I hate about humans

Do you ever have those moments where you get so infuriated that you actually need to take a deep breathe before you turn into a werewolf? I get you, I really do. Some are small insignificant annoyances and others are huge I-could-turn-into-a-serial-killer triggers. This doesn't make us deranged freaks, it just makes us humans who wish such situations and stumbling blocks of society would go away...forever.

Tips for Summer weight loss

It is officially summer time and what better reminder to start looking after yourself than muffin tops and cellulite Sally! I have been on my own lil weight loss journey since putting on weight over December/January a year ago. This was due to a bad reaction to 'the pill' and eating and drinking too much over the festive season (I can't blame it all on the pill you guys).

How to earn cash and save

When it comes to earning and saving money as a young person, you are highly advantaged in some aspects and slightly disadvantaged in others. Part-time work is reasonably easy to find but the pay is inconsistent, and full time work comes with a long-term commitment and certain requirements such as experience and qualifications.

When I had 6 months to do whatever I could to earn and save money, best believe I got stuck in very swiftly and worked very hard. It was so worth all my efforts because I managed to stay motivated and save even more than I was expecting to! As far as I'm concerned, whether you are fresh out of high school, studying or completed your studies, there is a job (or two) out there for you. You have to start somewhere so don't be too picky, and remember that a job isn't just going to fall on your lap while you're watching series reruns on the couch. Go out there and make some money! Here are some ways you can do so: