A Bag For All Seasons
A few weeks back, I got to meet acclaimed South African handbag designer, Adrian Furstenberg. The designer made headlines when he won the “All About the Logo” by Guess category of the 10th annual Independent Handbag Designer award in New York City in 2016.
Seven styles of bags are available, and each is beautifully crafted. This JHB based operation employs local artisans and uses the highest quality locally sourced Italian hardware to craft these covetable creations.
I was gifted a beautiful, bold red (very roomy) clutch (pictured above & below) by the man himself that I absolutely adore. Just look at the exquisite lining inside the bag.
For more, check out adrianfurstenburg.com
The Necks best Thing
How pretty is my “Initialize” necklace by local jewellery brand Rafaela Leah?
The brand is a few months old, and aims to provide unique jewellery items that are priced attractively without compromising on quality. My “Initialize” necklace is sterling silver plated with yellow gold and retails for R1339.
Check out the brands stunning collection on rafaelaleah.com
Crushing Hard On Yellow Nails
Last week I blogged about the new CHANEL S/S 2018 Napolis Collection (HERE).
Out of all the items available, it’s the limited edition Le Vernis Longue Tenue in Giallo Napoli (R450) that has stolen my heart.
I adore this sunflower yellow shade that gives the nails a sunny pop of colour. It works well on all skin tones and I like that it coats the nails in opaque colour, so there’s no need for a white undercoat.
I Can’t Put This Novel Down!
I’ve just finished reading the thrilling, page turning novel Knucklebone (R260 Takealot), by my lovely friend South African author Nechama Brodie. Fuck, I loved this book so much and I’m pretty sure you will too. The Pan Macmillian review sums it up better than I can: Just because you can see it, doesn’t mean it’s true.
Sangomas and cops don’t mix. Usually. But this is Joburg, a metropolis that is equal parts flash and shadow, and where not everything can be easily explained. Ian Jack, a disillusioned former police officer, teams up with Reshma Patel, a colleague from his old life, to investigate a routine housebreaking gone bad. But when they uncover links to a possible animal poaching and trafficking syndicate, things go from complicated to dangerous to downright evil.
Set against the richly textured backdrop of a livewire African city, this fast-paced thriller offers a disturbing contemporary take on justice and morality. To be read with the lights on. Buy HERE
Scent Your Space
I love scented candles (who doesn’t?) so am thrilled the Diptyque range of beautifully crafted candles are available in South Africa at Skins in Sandton City, Edgars Mall Of Africa & Luminance for R820 (for a 190g).
The “Baies” scented candle is my favourite and I love its aroma that combines blackcurrant leaves with Bulgarian Rose. I adore the fresh, floral and supremely elegant scent it imparts. While the price is premium, know that these candles are made using the best blend of vegetable and paraffin waxes so the candle burns evenly and effectively and smells beautiful until the very last burn.
A Handheld Steamer Is A Must-Have
I was a fashion editor for True Love, Destiny & Fairlady prior to my beauty career. It was during this time I realized the need for a good steamer. On shoots, we used to schlep around a huge industrial one as the hand-held versions just perform that well. However, technology has certainly changed and I’m so impressed with the new Philips Steam&Go Handheld Garment Steamer (R599 Makro BUY HERE).
It takes just 45 seconds to heat up and is light and comfortable to use thanks to its ergonomic design. I like that it has a detachable water tank for easy filling and can be used on delicate fabrics like silk. It also comes with a brush accessory that you use on thicker garments like coats for better steam penetration and a smoother finish. The best thing about handheld steamers is that they work incredibly well on all garments and are far easier than using a traditional iron. Also, you can pop one into your luggage, ensuring you’re able to steam iron any creased clothing when you arrive at your destination.