There’s something wonderfully nostalgic about being back on a magazine set. The buzz of a shoot day, the racks of clothing, the jewellery trays, the organised chaos behind the camera—it all takes me right back to where my career first began.
Many of my newer followers might not know that I started my career in magazines as a fashion editor. In 2000, I joined True Love Magazine as their fashion editor and spent four incredible years heading up the style department. At the time, the magazine reached over 150 000 readers every month, with a readership of more than a million. I later moved on to Destiny Magazine, overseeing both the fashion and beauty departments, and eventually relocated to Cape Town where I became fashion and beauty director at Fairlady Magazine from 2010 to 2013.
Even after launching In My Bag in 2013, I continued styling freelance editorials and covers for titles like Destiny Man and Sawubona Magazine. It truly was the golden era of magazines, and every now and then I still get to step back into that world—which always feels a little like coming home.
Carishma looked radiant in a brown silk slip dress from Zara
Last week I had the pleasure of styling an upcoming cover for Absolute Woman Magazine, featuring my gorgeous friend, South African actress Carishma Basday. Carishma and I actually met on a press trip to France with Avène two years ago (Read about it HERE), and it’s been such a joy watching our friendship grow since then.
This shoot was extra special because, in addition to styling, I was also asked to step in front of the camera and model for the beauty editorial.
Our location for the day was the utterly charming Botany House Boutique Hotel—a dreamy backdrop tucked away in Gardens. The mood board was equally beautiful: soft neutral tones of taupe, cream and chocolate brown, layered with earthy textures and patterns.
Shoutout to The Blonde Chaos who came to our rescue the night before the shoot with the most fabulous jewellery.
One of my favourite pieces was the Flamestitch Moon dress from Desray (SHOP)—with its subtle Missoni-inspired pattern and beautiful waist detailing.
I loved it so much that I ended up buying one for myself.
Behind the camera, the magic was brought to life by photographer Tegan Smith.
Makeup artist Carina Pereira created striking beauty looks for both me and Carishma.
Of course, every great shoot comes with its fair share of last-minute wardrobe decisions, overflowing bags of shoes, and a little bit of beautiful chaos.
But, that’s all part of the magic.
And honestly, there’s nowhere I feel quite as inspired as on a set like this.
