africanteaparty

old-fangled, bitten-tangled, recovery from the world...

2010-12-15T23:03:00.005+08:00

I'm shocking at maintaining this blog.

Since I last posted I have been admitted to hospital for a week and subsequently pretty much been on a first name (and gift swop for christmas, soon) basis with nurses at the hospital on the basis of the amount of time I spend there (bacteria in my left eye), got a more senior position at work which equals a crapload more work, celebrated my 27th birthday, been to see Metallica in concert, caught up with local and international friends and just enjoyed my life for what it is.

What have you guys been up to?

p.s. Merry Christmas!

Queenstown, New Zealand

2010-10-03T18:35:00.012+08:00

A few weeks back a girlfriend and I headed off to Queenstown, New Zealand to hit the slopes and learn to ski. It was my first visit to New Zealand, and even though it was limited in terms of where we went (just Queenstown in the South Island) and time we had to adventure (a week off of work), it was amazing.

The South Island is ridiculously beautiful, the panoramic views in Lord of the Rings are even more stunning in real life, and the New Zealand sense of humour is just the icing on the top. Can you tell I loved it?

So as requested, here is a snapshot of my time in Queenstown. And here's to being able to return and maybe campervan it from the North Island to the South, being able to discover more and witness the brilliance that is New Zealand. Oh and be able to do some more snowboarding (switched over to it on day 3 and absolutely LOVED IT!!!), bungee jumping and try out zorbing, of course :)

Apologies for the over-sharing (I just couldn't narrow it down!)

Oooh, the excitement.

2010-09-27T19:23:00.004+08:00

Yes, I jumped on the bandwagon.

But how can you blame me, given this constitutes my favourite things (Navajo print, cloak AND massive hood!!).

And my shopping restriction was going so well up until a few days ago when yoox.com got the better of me (J Brand flares, American Retro floral print 3/4 frill skirt and Marni platform sandals, I'm looking at you!) with the ridiculous 80% off sale...

It is my birthday in a month so we can call the above birthday presents to myself.

I recommend checking out yoox as I think they still have the 80% off sale....such gorgeous stuff, so cheap...its hard to know when to stop clicking to "add to cart" ;)

Guest Post: Laura - Africantakeover

2010-09-14T22:15:00.004+08:00

So I'm back from Queenstown, New Zealand. Spent the week there with a girlfriend snowboarding, jumping off of cliffs for fun, drinking and generally being on holiday. And man oh man am I wishing I was back strapped in and boarding away....

We were very glad we didn't get there via Christchurch (earthquake measuring 7.1 on the Richter Scale), and wish all the folk there the very best!

Before I left, the stunningly gorgeous Laura of laurawire (click to see her fab blog) and myself decided to do a musical guest post swopsie. I think she got gipped, because she clearly knows her music and has brilliant taste in said music and her blog reflects that....whereas I err do not.

Anyway, I'm not complaining, I got the better end of that deal.....here's her fab words of musical wisdom. Take note :)

"Little else but elephants and lions..."
(Laura)

In the spirit of this wonderful blog, I decided to do a five-track takeover with a twist: all of the songs have to feature an African animal in the title. It sounds easier than it is; it’s one thing to bung together five songs about lions (although let it be known, I was seriously tempted) but it’s quite another to find five songs that I’d happily be associated with. Although as some might point out, when you own as many Britney Spears CDs as I do, there’s not much else you can sully your good name with.

1. Mumford and Sons - Little Lion Man

We all knew it was coming, so let’s get the most obvious choice out of the way. Most people are quite aware of Mumford and Sons and their work so I shan’t patronise anyone by telling you they are a folk quartet, originating from London. Their music is pretty polarising when it comes to how people feel about it, but with summer on the horizon in the UK (at long last), I challenge anyone to not enjoy the Mumford album as the sun is going down at a festival, and you’re armed with a beer. Admittedly, some people might need more beer than others to get through the whole album, but it’s still jolly atmospheric.

2. Beach House – Zebra

If there is one thing that is guaranteed to have me reaching for the bin, it’s reading press releases for bands who have tagged themselves with a pretentious-sounding genre to try and make themselves sound more interesting. And on that note, may I present to you, dream-pop band Beach House. I know this sounds quite negative and I’m not going to help matters by saying that I wouldn’t normally listen to this (ridiculous) genre of music but like Mumford and Sons, there is a direct correlation between how listenable Beach House are and how much alcohol I’ve had to drink. But this song has grown on me, even while sober. What a review.

3. The Flaming Lips - This Here Giraffe

Is there anyone who can say no to a bit of the Flaming Lips? I think not. I’m not going to lie, I was struggling to think of any giraffe-tastic tracks until someone pointed me in the direction of this obscure single from 1996, but I think it is a wonderful discovery. The thing that I like most about this song is that, of all the tracks I’ve researched for this blog, all of them – bar this song – used the animals as metaphors for something else in their life, while this song is literally about a giraffe that doesn’t give a fuck about anything. It’s amazing, and ironically has more meaning for the listener than anything else here. Wonderful.

4. The Strokes – Elephant Song

This is not the Strokes’ finest moment, by far. But even when it’s not the best, the Strokes are still heaps better than a lot of crap that’s filling up the charts at the moment (Glee, I’m looking straight atcha). This song was written by Albert Hammond Jr. for some college project, and is occasionally played by the band live, despite the fact it’s never properly been released. I love love love the guitar riffs in this song, and quite staunchly believe that if it had a gritty bassline and a 4/4 timing on the drums, it could be quite a good song. Or even better than it is now, I should say.

5. Elton John/Tim Rice – Circle of Life

Oh come on, I can’t write about Africa and not mention the title track of my second favourite film of all time. I know, strictly speaking, there’s no animal in the title but if you actually need a justification for this, one of the greatest Elton John moments of ALL TIME, then I think it’s safe to say that we shall never get on.

Love the selection...get acquainted with Laura, visit her here now!

The Dash'n'Duck

2010-09-01T19:09:00.004+08:00

Yay, spring is in the air!

I'm terrible (for ignoring the blog) but have been crazy-busy with work, applying for a senior position at work and sorting out my New Zealand trip....

...and with that I'm off to ski/bungee jump/white water raft/all of the above for a week in Queenstown.

Catch you guys when I return :)

p.s. like the new hat?
I sure do!

frolickinginflorals

2010-08-16T21:27:00.003+08:00

I've noticed I'm dressing more and more like a girl these days. Not saying I've lost any of that crazy love I have for menswear inspired styling but I now incorporate the other end of the spectrum.

Win win, as Stuart would say.

Wore this outfit to a friend's birthday dinner and drinks.

Went to a "Meet the Designer" champagne breakfast this Sunday gone past at Billie and Rose on King Street. Was fabulous getting to meet Anjali (one of the design duo) from twentysevennames. Looooove love love this New Zealand designer so much! And oh sweet mercy, the latest offerings?

Perfection.

The blush scalloped high waisted shorts? Divine.

New Zealand designers, just get it.

Hope you're all having a blast and enjoying life :)

floral dress, live. over the knee suede boots, mollini (off of ebay). slip underneath, cotton on. bag, vintage. rings; vivienne westwood, fashionology, sportsgirl, vintage, ebay, cheap monday.

Bid Now

2010-08-12T22:08:00.005+08:00

Brand new Gianfranco Ferre designer leather platform clogs (size 36)

Texturised leather "leaves" peep toe ankle boots (US 6.5, Aus 6)

black halterneck shorts romper with gold trim (size XS/S)

Denim Legend designer jacket w oversized hood and lapels (size XS)

Brand new Lila Verne designer leather strappy platform heels (size 36)

brand new Zara tan leather platform wood clogs (size 37)

Colin Stuart almost-brand-new leather studded booties (US 6)

Brand new Lonely Hearts designer leather slash tank (size 8 [XS/S])

Leopard print long button front cardigan (size S)

Red leather designer envelop swing bag with logo

I decided it was time to part with the some beautiful new designer pieces and some vintage gems from my wardrobe. I have way too many things and would rather sell them for a cheaper price than I paid for them to people who will actually make use of them than have them sitting unused in my wardrobe. So they are on ebay, listed until Saturday night (AEST).

The gorgeous new rare designer pieces are listed for for a fraction of the RRP, so get an absolute bargain!

Click on each link to take you to the item.

I offer international shipping, and will make it as cheap as I possibly can. Just email me on ebay to establish shipping costs to your country.

burnthosebridgesbendthemsway

2010-08-09T22:29:00.005+08:00

pc: google images, chilloutpoint, milk&mode, yurock, instantshift

whisperedsayingstokenbayings

2010-08-07T22:46:00.004+08:00

You'll have to excuse the narcisissm evidenced by this set of photographs. But then again, aren't we all guilty of it (as bloggers)???

These shots were taken this afternoon, when Stuart and I visited our favourite coffee shop slash eatery this side of the Swan River.

As a side note, Voyage's Sticky Date Pudding is divine. And worth indulging in.

In more important news, a new constitution has been ratified in Kenya. The new constitution addresses corruption, political patronage, land grabbing and tribalism. The most important part? It was done peacefully.

To add to that, Propaganda 8 was overturned in California.

Moments like these make me proud. There is hope....

mesh-y dress, evil twin. skirt underneath, cotton on. leather jacket, maxshop. boots, pinko. rings; fashionology, sportsgirl, markets, vivenne westwood. necklace, red rover. leather bag, mollini. oversize mens watch, gift from Stuart.

The love(heart) list, and sequence

2010-08-04T21:03:00.006+08:00

pc: FashionLane, ClaudeMaus, Shakuhachi, NoMoneyNoRemote

And in the blog realm, here's who I'm digging:

Aniieemal
Apparellel
FashionLane
Mode D'Amour
NoMoneyNoRemote

Go check them out. Worth it.

p.s. I saw the coolest guy at coffee today. He was sitting at the table next to us and was accessorised to the max. His rings and that killer necklace? I want. Ideal world? We'd be friends so I could ~~borrow~~ steal his goodies :)

A break is as good as a holiday

2010-08-04T00:03:00.003+08:00

A break is as good as a holiday, or so they say. And I can honestly say that it has been a nice break from the blog. I've just focused on life....friends, family, and everyday life. But I've missed the blog and so here I am once again.

Miss me? I missed you guys. I do however enjoy the extra time I now have on my hands and the early nights I get on work days....what can I say, I'm getting old :). Regardless, I'll be sticking around (not as often as I used to be here, but here nonetheless).

I look forward to commenting on your blogs and catching up with you...to the newbies, welcome....to the rest, speak to you real soon.

Oh and have a fab week!

leather dress and suede jacket, stella forrest. boots, jeffrey campbell. necklace, gift. ring, markets. suede bag, zara.

Thisone'sjustselfindulgent

2010-07-04T21:58:00.004+08:00

(photos by me, taken with Canon 450D)

Stuart's birthday present was the camera in his hands in the pictures above. So we decided to test it out at the beach. Result? I'm jealous. I would swop my 450D Rebel for his newbie.

Ooooh burn ;)

Have a vuvuzela. Not afraid to use it.

2010-07-04T21:25:00.002+08:00

...was gifted a vuvuzela on Saturday night by a French friend of mine who grew up in Africa, like I did. When he bought one in South Africa half a year back and brought it home, I was thoroughly entertained and spent the entire night making music haha. He was passing through South Africa recently and bought me one.

Yes!

So of course I had to entertain (read "irritate") football watchers at the pub on Saturday night as we watched the washout that was the Germany-Argentina game. Vuvuzelas at the ready....

It was a productive weekend (I put stuff up for sale on ebay, I hairsprayed clothes from my wardrobe that had rubbed up against crumbling paint (works a treat!), I sealed my wardrobe backing, I did a bicycle ride with Stuart, and we even took some photographs at the beach).

What did you get up to this weekend?

edward scissorhands tee, mens section at red rover. leather pants and necklace, vintage. parka, sportsgirl. heels, sachi. rings; fashionology, sportsgirl, ebay, vintage.

Crownofthorns

2010-06-30T22:20:00.002+08:00

Alexandra Spencer
pc: Studded Hearts

Word.

new to buy@shopafricanteaparty

2010-06-30T21:54:00.004+08:00

Another crazy week. Long hours at work, frustration with my phone provider at the Herculean effort it apparently takes to sign up to a plan (finally completed today, phew), bringing work home to ensure deliverance of established timeframes, waking up to see my beloved Spanish team play (Woopa! Si, it equates to guapa i.e. pretty girl, but it just sounds right! Woopa!), and now a total lack of sleep. Haha.

So bear with me, no updates for now.

But do check out shopafricanteaparty.blogspot.com. There's designer gear going cheap, new pieces looking for a new home at ridiculously low prices, and all around magic (haha, yes, this has degenerated into a Disney film). What are you waiting for?

Shopafricanteaparty, tis the place to be.

she sells sea shells by the sea shore

2010-06-27T22:15:00.005+08:00

Another weekend spent celebrating friend's birthdays, just celebrating friends, watching soccer games aplenty and visiting beachside cafes. Work has been kicking my arse, so its nice to relax on the weekends.

Yeah, the blog may have to suffer for it but unlike some of us out there this baby is not my job so has to take second (or more realistically 5th or 6th) place.

To those still reading, check out shopafricanteaparty.blogspot.com. I've updated yet again. You know you want to. The Aussie dollar is so weak compared to the US dollar, the Euro and the Pound. Every other currency.

It's all cheap, it all needs to go to a good home, and its all to help me save up some money.

Go looky!

sweater, sportsgirl. pants, cotton on. suede boots, really really old (not sure where from). rings; fashionology, sportsgirl, cheap monday, random japanese shop. bag, mollini.

insideoutupsidedown

2010-06-20T17:42:00.005+08:00

(ph. 6 + 9 by me, rest by Stuart)

Had a completely relaxing and selfish weekend this weekend. Watched the Sex and the City 2 movie with a girlfriend, enjoyed Guinesses whilst watching the Australia v Ghana soccer game (not happy), and chilled out with Stuart at our favourite beachside coffee haunt. We played around with the settings of my Nikon point'n'shoot and took some random snaps.

What did you guys get up to this weekend?

p.s. checked out shopafricanteaparty recently? There's lots of lovely stuff on sale for ridiculously cheap prices...what are you waiting for?!?!

p.p.s. Spread the word about shopafricanteaparty on your blog, and you're up for 20% off your total purchase (includes shipping). Score!

tank, david jones. skirt, supre. boots, from rome. cardigan, vintage. bag, mollini (from years ago). beanie, stuart's. rings; fashionology, diva, ebay, from bali, vivienne westwood, cheap monday.

give me freedom, give me fire

2010-06-15T23:03:00.003+08:00

Give me freedom, give me fire, give me reason, take me higher
See the champions, take the field now, unify us, make us feel proud
In the streets our head are liftin', as we lose our inhibition,
Celebration, it surrounds us, every nation, all around us
(excerpt from Wavin Flag lyrics, by K'naan)

I've got the official World Cup 2010 anthem stuck in my head.
I love it so....youtube it if you don't know what I mean.
I've got the fire, got the reason......oooooh woooh hoho.
Supporting the Nederlands (the Dutch part of the family) and Australia (who were shockingly bad!) and generally all African countries (given I was born and raised there).

Any of you as obsessed as my family is about the World Cup?

Gah, must stop singing the World Cup anthem....stoppit.

p.s. anyone check out the Cote D'Ivoire v Portugal match? Impressive play there, Cote D'Ivoire!

Hope you're all doing well and having a good week thus far....ooooh woooh hoho ;)

dress, mink pink. cardigan, cotton on. tights, live. shoes, jeffrey campbell. bag, vintage. earrings, gift. rings; the standard (fashionology, ebay, cheap monday, vivienne westwood).

Shopafricanteaparty is the place to be!

2010-06-13T23:09:00.004+08:00

I've updated Shopafricanteaparty and trust me, there's more than a few reasons you need to head over there right now to check it out and make things yours....

Some of the brilliance on offer:

and much much more....

So what are you waiting for? Head over there now, check it all out, send me an email with the item you're interested in and the country you want it shipped to. I'll respond, you pay and I'll ship straight away!

Easy peasy.......I love online shopping :D

furrycrittersanonymoussupportgroups

2010-06-13T00:30:00.003+08:00

I had big plans for the weekend....its already Sunday morning (12:45am and counting) and I still haven't ticked off anything on my hypothetical list.

Spent the day shopping for gifts for friends in Africa and having coffee with my besties, followed by the South Africa v Australia rugby game (we won!) and movies with Stuart. We watched The A-Team, which is pretty damn entertaining. And high paced. There's no highs and lows, its all crazy adrenaline packed insanity. In the best way possible. And Sharlto Copley, he steals the show. I love that guy.

I've got a new favourite....move over Edward Norton, and make some space for Sharlto. The South African boy can act!

The furry backpack in these shots is from the Christmas lucky dip I arranged for the family last year. I bought him, and a few other gifts, for fun and hoped I'd get him. And I did :D. Don't you think he just makes my outfit??!!? I guarantee that this wasn't the (first and) last time he ventured outdoors.

I also promise to respond to comments asap. Ciao xxx

jumper & boots, vintage. jeans, alexander mcqueen. leather jacket, red rover. beanie, rubi. rings; fashionology, vintage, bali, ebay, cheap monday, vivienne westwood. nail varnish, 'hello sailor' by sportsgirl.

Stompthroughmuddypuddles

2010-06-10T22:31:00.003+08:00

Jeffrey Campbell 'LITA'.

(pc: studded hearts)

Coming soon.....

I die.

Hello Charles Anastase knock-off, I'll have you! In fact, the first thing I'd do in these babies is stomp through some serious puddles to dirty them up. Then I would change the laces for a much more grungey pair. Ahhhh. Come to Mama.

there's all kinds of magic in the air

2010-06-10T21:19:00.005+08:00

pc: studded hearts

Is it wrong that I want every single thing in these pictures?
Chloe Sevigny, you've done it again.

Perfection.

I friggin want those crazy tan wooden platform heels, the flirty short dress, the perfect leather pants, everything!

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

With respect to the giveaway, thanks to those who entered....

And the winner is......

The Seeker!!

Congratulations gorgeous girl, you've won a $25 AUD voucher to shopafricanteaparty.
To the rest, don't dispair...there'll be another giveaway soonish :)

Day 26

2010-06-08T21:46:00.004+08:00

pc: fashion gone rogue, fashionchalet, christeric, kingdom of style

Long long hair is inspiring. Has been for a while now. I have started to actually look after my hair (treat split ends, use a rosemary tea spray at the roots, nourish with protein via redken extreme) to try and get it to grow as fast as possible.

And yes, I'm aware hair growth has everything to do with genetics.

But here's hoping I've got the genes.....

p.s. if you haven't left a comment yet for the giveaway in the post below ($25 worth of merch at shopafricanteaparty), what are you waiting for? Get to it! Comp ends Wednesday 9 June at 2100 AEST...

Can we call this an early Christmas present?

2010-06-06T19:52:00.004+08:00

My stripper leggings arrived. Finally, a PVC pair I like. I scoured the net for decent ones (Les Chiffoniers = too expensive, Black Milk = only half PVC, Ellery = sold out whilst I stupidly dithered), but about 7 months later had to go for a pair on ebay. Good thing is they were ridiculously cheap. And I love them like a fat kid loves candy :)

Worn to see what they looked like with my other new ebay purchase; a pair of YSL Imperiale heels. These babies are tall! And I love em so. I will be selling my YSL Tribute heels (size 37) as I'm trying to save some money for an upcoming trip and to cover cost of the Imperiale heels. The YSL Tributes have only been worn twice. I will be looking to put them up on shopafricanteaparty very very soon.

Speaking of shopafricanteaparty, more stuff is up for sale. All very decently priced too. If you have any queries about item(s), shoot me an email at anikaboolean@hotmail.com. All items are in Australian dollars....

And because you all rock, I will pick one person who will win a $25 AUD gift voucher to shopafricanteaparty. All you have to do is be a follower of this blog and leave a comment on this post to win. I will select a winner (random number generator) on Wednesday 9 June 21:00 AEST.

Good luck :D

the fashion savvy male

2010-06-03T21:58:00.004+08:00

Worn to Dad's birthday dinner....love the fact that even Dad has become more fashion savvy. The other day my sister and I were discussing the fabulousness of clutches, and Dad pipes up, "yeah, I know". When my sister and I indignantly declared he couldn't know what a clutch was and therefore what the hell we were talking about, he responded with "yes, the clutch bag....the one without straps". That tells us!

And when he saw me in this outfit, he voiced his approval of the combo of the skirt with the boots and the jacket.

Bless.

Do you guys have fashion savvy males in your lives?

tee, valleygirl. leather jacket and bag, vintage. poncho (worn as skirt), just jeans. black skirt underneath, cotton on. boots, asos. belt, sportsgirl. necklace, gift. rings; live, vintage, market.

Shebreaksalltherules

2010-06-03T11:00:00.000+08:00

Now this right here, that's the way to send a fashion statement to the world. Krystal of What is Reality Anyway is just one of those girls; she's got panache, oodles of style and confidence that is even more attractive than her stunning looks....

notwithstanding that this might have been a styled look, she pulls it off as only she can.

Go check out her blog now for even more hotness!

callingitamansday

2010-06-02T11:00:00.000+08:00

I have to give up some valuable africanteaparty space to Stuart, my adorable boyfriend.

He's the guy who never says no to taking a picture of my outfit as we dash out to the movies, or to coffee, or to the beach. He also spoils me rotten, is a mean cook, has a fantastic sense of style (although it took a while to convince him to wear his boots like that....he's now hooked ;) and has a ridiculously warped sense of humour (an absolute must!).

And that's not even me talking him up.

I wont mention how much of a god he is with caffeine either....

So Stu, sorry to embarass you, this one's for you :)

1st outfit: leather jacket, red rover. tee, live. jeans, cotton on. boots, gift from me. belt, vintage.

2nd outfit: tee, cotton on.

3rd outfit: tee, ???. pullover and jeans, cotton on. beanie, some Aussie designer. shoes, gift from me.

Scooby Dooby Doo, where are you

2010-05-30T19:29:00.004+08:00

I have never wanted to just get in the car and drive somewhere, savouring the sun like a lizard during the day whilst car-trip music plays and parking the car by the beach at night and sleeping in the backseat, than I did this weekend.

Dad's friend has gone to South America and so left his blue van, a crusty old Scooby van, in Dad's care. So on Saturday night, Stuart claimed the Scooby title and I the Shaggy one as we headed to the movies in our Scooby van. I love that you have to literally grab a rail and just leap into the car, and that the back is set up to camp out at night.

I so need to ask if I can borrow that van for a weekend....I can just imagine us down at Margaret River :)

tee, cotton on men. faux leather pants, bershka. boots, frye + leather studded straps. cardigan, suzanne. feather necklace, random store. bag, vintage. charm bracelet, diva. rings; fashionology, vivienne westwood, antique, from bali and from ebay.

theworldisbreakingallaroundus

2010-05-27T23:10:00.004+08:00

There is a chill in the air. It crackles, like a live wire.

A boy runs into our yard, his bright hair all over the place. I am immediately on my guard; who is he, and where has he come from? There are no houses surrounding mine. I chose it for that reason.

The wind suddenly lifts and a shiver runs down my back.

I can feel Him, His presence a given. The dog has stilled and the corners of my eyes crinkle as I take in the little boy, with khaki pants and a little boys blazer on.

Hi, he says, I'm sorry to bother you.

And then he is still, his attention drawn to the back of my right ear. The distance.

And I can feel Him there too.

What are you doing here, I ask the little boy with the crazy curls. All the while I'm closing ranks with the little guy, in a defensive mother pose.

He has never hurt me, but I'm not taking any chances.

By the time I have reached him, the little boy is smiling at me and nodding at the distance. I am uneasy, the unkown is prevalent, and I feel like there's a private joke I'm missing.

What's your name, I ask mr crazy curls.

He stops for a second, as if listening to someone speaking to him, although there is silence, nods, and answers me rapidfire.

"Angus. My mother left me here. She was angry."

And I am livid. He cannot be more than six years old. What kind of mother does that?

"But E said not to worry, that you would help me, that you are a kind lady."

And I'm immediately overwhelmed. A tear trickles down my face, and I only realise I am crying when I brush my cheek to push errant hair back and it is wet.

The sky is azure, memories knock in the distance. I still, searching for that elusive answer.

You can see him, I say to Angus. What does he look like?

For in all the years I've known Him to be in my life, I have never seen Him.

He's very tall, like verry tall, replies Angus.

And I cannot help but smile. When you are that little, anything higher than you must be very tall.

"He says to say to you that he is six foot two intees."

And I giggle. I'm a rain splatter on a sunny day. Two intees? Oh bless. And I have a sudden, violent urge to belong to Angus.

He says to say you look like a rainbow too, Angus says and smiles.

I am greedy and want more information. A wasp buzzes past, startling the still that has become the norm when He is around. Is He gone? But no, Angus continues to relate information to me, from Him, obviously just repeating what he's being told.

He has green eyes and brown hair and a crooked nose, Angus giggles.

"But he has, most of all, something for you."

And I can no longer resist, whirling around as if I expect to see Him.

But there is nothing, no one.

Do you want to come in, I ask Angus. Where do you live?

He does not know his address but has his phone number memorised. Good boy.

As I give Angus a cookie and a glass of milk, my mind rattles trying to prioritise recoveries, investigations and this irrational urge to set up camp in my front yard.

With summer sun browning my shoulders as I, once again, take up my post.

thereismagicinourtouch

2010-05-26T13:00:00.001+08:00

...an excerpt from my collection of snaps taken over the past two weeks.....

red is the colour of passion

2010-05-25T21:09:00.004+08:00

First up, the sales....

30% off sale stock at http://www.sportsgirl.com.au/, with further reductions online now...
(the Ellery for Sportsgirl range is now on sale too...check it out!)

25% off all jackets, vests and cardigans at http://www.aboutagirl.com.au/.....

And 30% off everything at http://www.maxshop.com/ (don't we love maxshop for its random gems!) and free shipping within Aus....

In other news, me thinks I need me a bowler hat. This one is a friend's. We went over to his house on the weekend for his birthday and he kindly lent me the hat for the duration of the night. Where can I get a bowler like that? And in red too?

(wearing just jeans sweater, mink pink maxi dress, fringed boots from rome (not seen in pic), glasses momentarily borrowed from friend, rings; fashionology, cheap monday, from bali and from ebay. chain, from bali.)

p.s. you guys are seriously the best. So I'm going to have to have another giveaway....keep checking back for one soon :)

fluffer

2010-05-23T22:21:00.002+08:00

chunky, misshapen knits make me happy. more and more so. so i was beyond pleased to unexpectedly run into this nudey pink one at just jeans recently. already wearing it to bits. but it only adds to its character. or that's the excuse i'm going with anyway ;) i wore this to a friend's birthday party that had a "black&gold" theme. the gold hair dye is my contribution, alongside the boots and bag.

how have your weekends been? mine was crazy.....went shopping for a birthday present for dad, went to a friend's birthday party, cleaned up the house for dad's birthday party, entertained guests until just now as we celebrated dad's birthday.

looking forward to my bed....

singlet, target. skirt, vintage. sweater, just jeans. boots, zu. bag, from bali. chain, diva. rings; diva, markets and vintage.

Letsebaythehelloutofit

2010-05-20T21:46:00.005+08:00

I promise to respond to your comments asap (its the same ol' story: work+camera course+computer acting up+life). But this weekend is going to be spent blogging, and watching True Blood Season 2. Oh, and pigging out as well :)

In the meanwhile, head on over to ebay to check out these items I've listed for sale:

Brand new black patent leather criss-cross heels

Long sleeve patterned Leona Edmiston dress

New Bess NYC-esque studded leather lace-up boots by Wittner

BNWT French Connection royal silk shift dress

Chunky leather platform heels by Gianfranco Ferre

Rendition of the Soul

2010-05-20T12:34:00.002+08:00

My computer's acting up, hence the lack of posts in the last few days.....hoping to sort it out ASAP!

I stumbled across Shiatzy Chen's 2010 Spring-Summer collection, titled 'Rendition of the Soul', only this morning. This is the first time I've heard of this designer so I'm now trying to source more information. The collection in question "was based on classic calligraphy, bell and H-shaped contours inspired by Madame Wei (a calligrapher from the Eastern Jin dynasty of China). The materials include double coloured satin, organza, jacquard, chiffon, hollow jacquard, taffeta, and silk-linen blends embellised with velvet and crystallised Swarovski elements." (Luxury Insider)

The collection is available to purchase at selected shops in Hong Kong and Macau. I wonder if any of the collection is sold online? Any sites? Let me know!

loveinthoseshoes

2010-05-17T13:42:00.001+08:00

Absolutely adore the stylings of Christine from Christeric. And how rad are the shoes she DIYed?!!?! I love these on her. I'm not inspired enough (or talented enough) to even contemplate DIYing a pair for myself.

Modelled on the Charles Anastase Dungeon Boots, these babies are ridiculous. In the best way. I don't think I'd be able to pull these off, but if anyone can its Christine.

Love.

Go check our her blog NOW. She rocks.

thehitsjustkeeponcomingfromcamillaandmarc

2010-05-15T17:53:00.007+08:00

I was very thrilled to receive an email from Camilla and Marc today, letting me know that their new site is now up and running. This is their AW 10 collection lookbook, and I have to admit that I want nearly everything from it.

That double bullet belt, the sparkle shirts, the draped jackets, the killer navy peacoat, the asymmetrical jackets.

But given my saving plan, the only thing I think I can just about afford is the lovely belt. Mmmm. The way to order is to contact them (contacts listed on the website) and order. Or atleast that's how I did it with my leopard print boots.

p.s. how awesome are the shoes from the current RAFW collection???!!?!

callthisonetheprotestmarch

2010-05-13T22:00:00.004+08:00

I almost feel offended with the recent spate of "Shakahuchi/Ginger and Smart/Camilla and Marc/Ellery is fab/great/insert other appropriate adjective" posts by US bloggers that have littered the world wide web of late. Yes, RAFW is on. Yes, I'm aware that these Australian labels are not made exclusively for the Australian and New Zealand market but I have to admit that it was nice a few months back when I was swanning around in my unique Ellery/Ginger and Smart/Camilla and Marc frivolously fabulous clothing, not having to worry about:

a) every person being aware of, and wearing, the above label; and

b) (potentially) an increase in buyer price by the Australian designers in light of the recent interest garnered by the US.

But I'm sure the designers and designing houses don't feel the same as I do. The aim is to spread the word, right? And to be honest, I realise that its inevitable that we've reached a stage in fashion where Australian designers are leading the pack and are known for outstanding quality and design. I mean, why not?!!?! However I've always been the kind of person who likes not only creativity but who also values individuality above everything else. So when I see the prominent US bloggers now posting regularly about our coveted Australian labels, I cringe a little. Nay, a lot. I somehow feel like these exclusive beautiful brands are now being made commonplace. Just like those Jeffrey Campbell mirror wedges, I don't want to have to be turned off by seeing every blogger on earth (slight exaggeration intended) and their dog wearing these pieces. Whinger? Yes, yes, I am.

But save our labels. I love the exclusivity and creativity and uniqueness and perfection of our Australian labels that are now being treated with the same respect given to brands like Jeffrey Campbell (no offence, Mr. Campbell). I'm all for marketing and having a fanbase, but can we have some exclusivity please pretty please. So with that in mind, I'm off to covet my Laurence Pasquier, sQ by the lovely ladies behind My PetSquare, and Samantha Wills goodies before their exclusivity and amazingness is exploited to common currency.

p.s. I love Americans...I'm just rueing our lovely brands (cough*lookingatyouMinkPink*cough) becoming everyday wear such that these items lose their golden touch or, even worse, become commonplace. Noooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo....

Celebratoryreasons

2010-05-10T22:00:00.004+08:00

It was Stuart's birthday a few weeks back, and to celebrate he had a chilled out 'shindig' (I hear thats what the cool kids are calling them these days ;) over at his. Super-alcoholic punch, savoury snacks and yummy cake....what more can you ask for? Well, being able to clean up afterwards and just crash and not have to contemplate travelling anywhere was pretty sweet too. We did have to wipe down the floor about 8 times the next morning though, thanks to Stu's OCD housemate. Oh well, small price to pay.

The dress is from Miss Kym's capsule collection for Sportsgirl. Gorgeous prints, materials, design aesthetic. I'm in love......can we see an ongoing collab, Miss Kym? Please pretty please. How rad would a winter capsule collection by Ellery for Sportsgirl be?!!?!

p.s. the girls in the second picture are my besties.....aren't they gorgeous? Love them to bits!

dress, ellery for sportsgirl. shoes, jeffrey campbell. cuff, new zealand designer sale. silver chains, from bali and amsterdam. silver knuckle ring, fashionology. silver fertility ring, antique shop. silver stacked ring, vivienne westwood.

in rotation.....

2010-05-09T21:22:00.004+08:00

Just a few of the rings currently in rotation. The full set includes a two finger leaf ring in gold tone, an oversize gold rose ring, a vintage silver 'fertility' ring, and a gold tone spider ring. Do you guys have rings on rotation?

The disappearing act is necessitated by my over-loaded schedule. I'm hoping (fingers crossed) to return back to normal once my camera course is over.

jumper, birds of a feather (I freakin' adore the cut!!). jeans, valleygirl. boots, maurie and eve. suede bag, zara. silver knuckle ring, fashionology. silver cube ring, cheap monday. silver music scale ring, ebay. silver stacked ring, vivenne westwood.

putthebrokenpiecestogether

2010-04-30T22:56:00.025+08:00

Here's another few photographs (freeze frames, short depth of field, great depth of field, colour, repetition).....

And yes, Stuart was roped into being our model....

I'm thoroughly enjoying my camera course. I highly recommend doing one of these courses if you own a relatively complex digital SLR and want to take more than photos on the 'auto' setting. I knew nothing and now I consider myself considerably more enlightened. Can't wait for more....

Boysclothesmakemehappy

2010-04-29T21:37:00.004+08:00

I have to apologise once again for leaving you in the lurch. You know those weeks that are just manic? Well. I'm having one of them. Its been crazy busy at work, I've been taking a series of photographs (homework) for the camera course, and fulfilling my baking duties, amongst other things. So when I get home, I just want to chill out and then do absolutely nothing.

I do however want to share some of the shots I took for my camera class....next post?

This set is from a friend's birthday dinner on Saturday. And those are my new Pradas which I scored super cheap on ebay (I love ebay!!) and that I love.

I hope you guys are not as swamped as I am....if you are, I sympathise!

dave grohl tee, mens section at live. jeans, valleygirl. leather jacket, maxshop. shoes, prada. silver chains, from bali & amsterdam. cuff, city beach. silver knuckle ring, fashionology. silver cube ring, cheap monday. silver knight ring, vivienne westwood. silver musical note ring, ebay. suede bag, zara.

Guest blog post: Eye-catching Eyeliner

2010-04-25T15:23:00.006+08:00

So in an Africanteaparty first, Xenia of Be in Style has taken over the reigns for this blog post. And you're going to be thrilled that she took over for this post, as beauty is very much so overlooked otherwise on Africanteaparty...

Most women stick with their everyday black or brown eyeliner, but while basic isn’t bad, a pop of color is always a pleasant surprise. Whereas dark eyeliner can make eyes appear smaller, brightly colored eyeliner can open up your eyes and enhance your eye color.

Recently, turquoise eyeliner made an appearance on the runway of New York City-based designer Nanette Lepore. Makeup artist Polly Osmond lined the bottom rims of models’ eyes with turquoise for a bold look that she says was inspired by childhood innocence. Turquoise eyeliner is flattering with any eye color – celebrities from Ashanti to Stephanie Pratt have been spotted sporting this trend.

Also seen on the runway lately was a pastel smoky eye. Michael Kors makeup artist Dick Page used amethyst, aqua and gold tones to create an unconventional smoky look on runway models. For an even softer look, use lavender, pale blue and cream eyeliners to create a smoky eye.

If you’re specifically looking for eyeliner that will bring out your eye color, try one of these shades:
· Brown eyes: olive green, deep purple or gold eyeliner
· Blue eyes: brown or bronze eyeliner
· Green or hazel eyes: purple, brown or copper eyeliner

Now you have plenty of color options to choose from the next time you find yourself reaching for your usual eyeliner!

- Xenia (Be in Style)

So with that advice in hand, I'm now off to Myers to find me some lovely gold eyeliner. How is it that I don't own anything of the sort already!?!? I'm all for bringing out my eye colour.....gold it is!

And do check out Be in Style for my hijack of Xenia's blog for the one post, where you can read about multi-personality wardrobes, style ruts, Miuccia Prada and even drop crotch harem pants. All in the same post! See it here.

standingatkerbsshootinglight

2010-04-22T21:38:00.007+08:00

On the side of the road, working on capturing Movement with my Canon 450D....

p.s. Giveaway winner to be announced some time tomorrow. Thanks to all who entered, and fingers crossed :)

CrashCourseInBrainSurgery

2010-04-20T21:23:00.006+08:00

This might be too easy, but anyone want to name the band to which the title of this post is attributed to? Two imaginary points your way ;)

p.s. sometimes you just need to don leather pants.

tee, retrostar vintage. faux leather pants, bershka. boots, the cassette society. coat & leather bag, vintage. silver knuckle ring, fashionology. silver knight ring, vivienne westwood. silver music note ring, ebay. silver 'fertility' ring, vintage. patent cuff, from new zealand designer sample sale.

WINWINWINWINWINWINWINWIN

2010-04-18T22:26:00.006+08:00

How many of you read my blog and think to themselves, "when is that damn Australian going to give away stuff on her blog?"

Guess what? That time has come!

This is the first giveaway on my blog. Blow a whistle, get your marracas out, leave a comment and be a follower of africanteaparty. That simple. The whistle and marracas bits are optional, p.s. ;)

One lucky reader will win a leopard print pair of socks (see Jen Brill for reference), a bunny-ears headband and a gorgeous ring....

So remember, leave a comment on this post and make sure you're a follower to win. And yep, this one is open to everyone....regardless of whether you're from down the street or from Iceland.

G'luck :)

Post Edit: The lucky winner is daisychain! I'll contact you by email as well. And to the rest, thank you for entering the giveaway. I promise you, more to come soon :)

OH THAT EDGE

2010-04-16T12:00:00.004+08:00

Kimberly Taylor's Fall 2010 Look Book has got me giddy. The talented, young, gorgeous New York designer (seriously, this girl is stunning!) has perfected stylish staples with an edge. It's sophisticated, with a little bit of rock'n'roll attitude thrown in.

And that's perfect in my opinion. I'm particularly enamoured by the draping techniques on the beautiful dresses, the sheer silk tops and pants, the hoods (we all know how much I love hoods), and the luxurious fabrics she uses.

The piece de resistance from her current collection and available to buy on her site?

.THESE.

Obscenely covetable.

....also cue the drool for this beautiful black/nude romper, this beautiful classic tuxedo jacket with purple stripe, and these fab silk 'going out' shorts.

And until May 15, my blog readers get a 10% discount on all merch at KimberlyTaylor. Enter "AFRICANTEAPARTY" upon checkout to score 10% off all stock. Fab or what?!!!?

See you in line....

BUYMEAFRIEND.AFRIENDOFMINE,THATIS

2010-04-14T22:24:00.005+08:00

Friend of Mine have, yet again, hit the nail on the metaphorical forehead. Crazy lusting over the goodies that make up the current range. Sweetness. Someone lend me $2000? Seriously? This shit makes me soooo happy!

Check out the sweet collections, or even buy yourself (and me?) pretty pieces at FRIEND OF MINE.

(And remember, kids, Anika is an Aus size 8 and a size 6 shoe ;)

BatforLashesCrazy

2010-04-12T23:04:00.009+08:00

(ignore the bumbling-idiot look on my face in this shot, do)

The Fairground wrap in action at the house warming/Easter party of a close friend. Apt, don't you think? And yes, the easter egg hunt went down a treat with me looking like a munted bunny. Bat For Lashes crazy fun. So bad its gooooood.

Just came home from a digital camera course. Day 1 and I already know a shitload more about the camera and taking pictures than I did a few hours back. Can't wait for the second lesson!Now off to bed......promise to reply to your lovely comments soonest.

oversize tank, supre. faux leather skinnies, bershka (barcelona). boots, the cassette society. bunny got nailed wrap, fairground. earrings, gift. silver necklaces, bali and amsterdam. silver knuckle ring, fashionology. silver 'fertility' ring, vintage. silver music scale ring, ebay. patent cuffs, new zealand designer sale.

Amy was a girl on the side of the road...

2010-04-12T14:00:00.000+08:00

I adore this ad.

Whilst it may be an ad for iced coffee, in just one minute it manages to succinctly summarise the West Australian summer way of life. Beaches, barbecues, weekend road trips, random road verge pickups, bizarre junk food on car rides, coffee pit stops, friends, loud and live music, thongs and dips in the great Indian Ocean.

Amen.

What do you associate with summer where you live?

monochromatic's where it's at

2010-04-10T17:00:00.000+08:00

Because sometimes all you need is grey in a world of dazzling colours....

tee and jeans, supre. leather jacket, vintage. boots, frye. necklace, random artsy shop. silver knuckle ring, fashionology. silver fertility ring, vintage. earrings, gift. nail varnish, 'reef' by sportsgirl.

whodowelovesayit

2010-04-08T22:38:00.005+08:00

I'm loving all things Sportsgirl at the moment. Killer heels, check. Ridiculously perfect nail varnishes, check. Designer collaborations to stalk for, check. Fabulous clothing, check. Free shipping for a limited period, check! I reckon Sportsgirl is having another 'IT' moment. Amen.

Particularly enamoured by their latest designer collaboration....Kym Ellery for Sportsgirl. I have to admit I have a girl crush on this 27 year old Perth-native. Loooove Ellery designs and the sense of luxury and perfection of every damn piece. So when I realised there was going to be THE collaboration of collaborations, I bunkered down and did a (mental) countdown. You just can't make this shit up. Did I mention I have a crush on alllll Ellery clothing? I did. I'll say it again. Check it out to see what I mean.

Ellery pieces are not your run of the mill, stock-standard ones. Every piece is made with love, most are made to order, and the time spent on each item of clothing is testiment to the Ellery brand. Not to mention that us Aussies adore her work, her designs, everything. I've featured Ellery on the blog before. And why not. Unfortunately, Ellery doesn't come cheap. Even on ebay. So a designer collaboration? I'm in, guns blazing.

The capsule 8 piece collection came out yesterday and looked fabulous on the website. I had to go in though to see just what the clothes looked like and their quality. But no need to stress, each piece LOOKS like quality, is made of the finest materials and just fits so freaking perfectly. Amen. And thank you, Kym!

I had to....I bought the high neck oversize lapel cropped jacket (swoooon), the cotton & silk animal print voile minidress (this fits like a dream and is soft) and even the tiger print skinny jeans (a risk as I haven't tried them on, but I suspect they'll be perfect). I can always return/exchange the pants if they're a no-go. I suspect they'll be a dream. Fingers crossed.

So Sportsgirl, we salute you. For undeniable affordable style, for fantastic customer service, for wicked postage deals and most of all for the designer collaborations that make our hearts melt just that little bit more. Swoon.

I recommend heading over to the Sportsgirl website to check out the Ellery range asap. The pieces are even more beautiful in real life. And where the hell else are you going to get a chance to get your hands on Ellery for $190?!!?! I have to admit, I wouldn't be sharing this if I hadn't picked up my pieces yet, but since I have...tis a secret that's too good to keep!

The woods are lovely, dark and deep

2010-04-07T12:30:00.000+08:00

pc: circle meets square

Check out this brilliant set by the wonderful Alecto of Circle Meets Square.

These images conjure nostalgia yet at the same time portray serenity. They are whimsical and magical, and the lighting is killer!

Celebrate

2010-04-04T22:27:00.006+08:00

"Over the years I have been exposed to women with extraordinary bodies, some of whom are naturally blessed with them, and others who have to fight for every inch. Some are reed-thin and others creamily voluptuous. The happiest are the ones for whom eating is a pleasure, rather than something to be held hostage by. These women are sexy. They share a total ease around food and the understanding that whatever their shape or size, they steer the ship in which they sail. Women have historically given much power to food, yet food is inanimate. There is nothing sensual about militant restriction. It is infertility, osteoporosis, and bleeding gums. It saps and withers."

Wise words indeed by Sophie Dahl in the March edition of Vogue US.

The topic of weight is a long-running one, the world over. Growing up in Kenya and having limited exposure to the West, anorexia was a distant thing and something I can honestly say I didn't have to consider the implications of. I cannot speak on behalf of all the young girls (or guys) growing up alongside me in Kenya but its fair to say that when a vast majority of the country is worrying about sourcing the next meal, the impact of magazines/models/designers/media/the resultant feeding loop of mothers and daughters and the knowledge passed on regarding food is not in the foreground.

I am now well aware of the extreme dangers associated with starvation and the fact that food obsession caters to being in control, and is addictive and soul-destroying.

So do we tackle the problem the right way? Dahl's article iterates the importance of placing value on taking pleasure in food. Natural ingredients, traditions. The French, the Italians, the Africans (to name a few examples).....they have it right. They are not the same stick thin build but then why is that attractive again? They have it right, they embrace food and conversation, cooking together, espousing delicious flavours and aromas and tastes. Food is life. Food is culture. Food is family. And food is meant to be nurtured, celebrated and to satiate.

I have to be honest here. I've stumbled across a few blogs where pictures of the authors do nothing more than nauseate me. Where do we draw the line? Dry skin, brittle hair, bones protruding where they shouldn't be? There is no excuse. Models too, in my opinion, are meant to look vibrant and gorgeous and full of life. And a gorgeous item of clothing on a beautiful girl will spark my desire, not a sack of bones with a hessian sack (because everything starts to look like that) draping over it coming down the runway.

Is food a friend or an enemy?

And is it a pleasure, or a guilty pleasure?

I am a woman for whom eating is a pleasure. I embrace culinary experimentation, natural ingredients, and the mouth-watering results. I thank my parents for encouraging me to learn how to cook and to enjoy it, and for never passing on that negative food association that so many mothers unfortunately inadvertently pass on to their daughters. I am not a saint, I eat things on the 'no go' list. And between the ages of 17 and 22, I sometimes experimented with the whole "could stand to lose a few kilos" stance. When food was a guilty pleasure or when I thought I could stand to lose a few kilos and attempted to diet somewhat, I was the biggest I've ever been. And as soon as I stopped worrying about the few kilograms and just focused on enjoying food, I lost those "trouble" kilos without even thinking about it.

In truth, uncompromised control is timpossible to maintain. I quickly realised that its all about moderation. My timely realisation that uncompromising control over what I eat will lead to a breakdown of sorts when something doesn't go according to plan allows me to enjoy food and to treat it as just that. You may think you are in control when you monitor everything that goes into your mouth, but you don't realise that you're the one being held hostage.

So love food, embrace it, enjoy it. Because embracing our size and shape and embracing food, in the truest sense, is the perfect way to be. Ne'er has a truer statement been made. The happiest women are truly the ones for whom eating is a pleasure.

Lady Fucking Gaga

2010-04-03T00:25:00.013+08:00

Went to see Lady Gaga in concert yesterday.

fan-fuckin-tastic!

What a Sensation.

The show was all kinds of good and then some. And I loved every minute of it.

To show my respect, I wore a dropped-crotch one shoulder pantsuit, studded vintage leather lace up boots, a vintage leather sign belt and turquoise feather false eyelashes. Blue eyelashes make the world go round, dontcha know. And shit yes, Miss Gaga looked fierce the entire way through. Costume-changes and all!

The highlight? Her in stilletoed boots, crouching on a piano stool with one stilleto on the piano keys and playing and singing like a mofo. Sweeet.

Its a Runway Rundown

2010-04-02T15:49:00.004+08:00

What's on the agenda today, kids?

Just the chance to win a $100 giftcard to http://boutiquetoyou.com/.

Boutiqueto you is new to me but when RunwayRundown contacted me about the contest to share with you guys, I immediately headed over to Boutiquetoyou and realised that they stock muchly coveted labels like Winter Kate by Nicole Richie, CC Skye, Disney Couture Jewellery, Kain, Kova & T, and a whole heap more!

So for a chance to win a $100 giftcard (and lets be honest, who wouldn't say no to this, this or this for free/a much discounted price??!!!), click on the link:

"Click me to win, click me"

Gah, fingers crossed for a $100 giftcard. I realllllly want these suckers. Can't you just see it???!! Shithot. Amen.

Bunny trails at midnight

2010-03-29T21:31:00.004+08:00

Gallivanted around the backyard in this beautiful bunny-eared wrap from Fairground on Sat night, paired with Staple corset and vintage silk shorts. I did get bitten on the arse by a red ant whilst trying to do a cartwheel (and failing....tis tough in this oversize wrap) but its a small price to pay.

I also have another Fairground 'Bunny Got Nailed' wrap....bought for a fellow blogger who then found one in the UK. Does anyone want one? If so, email me. If I hear nothing by Thursday (Australia time), its getting returned. One bunny will do me. Pardon the pun.

Girls Night Out

2010-03-28T21:32:00.002+08:00

Our girls night out was complimented by lots of laughter, good food, alcohol, and most importantly great friends. We had a ball, and its sure to be a regular feature from now on.

Do you have girls/guys nights?

I spend the weekend shopping at a designer carpark sample sale, trying out a new coffee joint, finding a gorgeous beige trench from witchery, going to the rugby, winning a bet on how much our team would lose by, weight training at the gym, and attending an infamous sunday session for a very good friend's birthday. Phew, I'm knackered. Thank god its a long weekend coming up.

dress, mink pink. blazer, bettina liano. bow brooches, diva and vintage. shoes, urban soul. rings, diva and vintage. watch, gift. suede bag, zara.

Bunny Got Nailed

2010-03-25T22:43:00.003+08:00

I saw a wonderful oversize knit with bunny face (ears and all!) by Fairground in a magazine a little while back, and it was instant love. Unfortunately it was not instant gratification as I trawled the internet far and wide [(dot)com, (dot)co(dot)uk, etc] trying to hunt down what I believe to be the most effing fabulously fantastic knit in all of history. I even tried calling the number listed in the magazine to hunt down the cape/wrap, with no luck. It was the wrong number and the American girl on the phone had no clue as to why I was hunting down a 'bunny'!

But no fear, I wasn't giving up that easily. I resolved to head out to some funkier stores to see if they stocked Fairground and to keep calling until I found Fairground's damn number. Obsessive much?

So today, on the one day that I was actually too busy to think about the 'Bunny Got Nailed' wrap by Fairground, I actually stumbled upon it. Accidentally. Fortune? Coincidence? Luck? Whatever it is, I'm ecstatic! Look forward to seeing this baby in a post coming to you soonest.

Another thing to note? Seek out Fairground. You WILL be impressed.

pc: google images

What think you of this fantastically magical wrap?

Elemental

2010-03-23T21:10:00.005+08:00

Oh my!

Perth is recovering from a horric storm that caused over $100 million worth of damage. Yikes.

It hit yesterday at 4pm. The sun suddenly disappeared, the sky darkened to a dull grey and then it started hailing. Golf ball-size hail stones. That break windows in houses and windshields on cars, not to mention dent cars throughout the city. We fared pretty well (just some minor flooding). The aftermath in the form of news/photos is shocking though. Mudslides, roads turned to rivers, trees uprooted, cars dented and glass broken, and of course the beauty of the red red sunset after the chaos of the storm.

Here's hoping everyone in Perth fared okay in that crazy mother of a storm.

On a more optimistic tone, here's some pics from the (lazy and lovely) weekend...

p.s. To the anonymous blogger from Tiger Tiger....you should have said hello, I would have loved to have met you! I promise I'm not that scary, especially in corporate work wear :P

dress and bag, vintage. shoes, maurie and eve. menagerie of animals around my neck, diva and random artsy shop. rings, vintage and diva.

Because sometimes, its just an animal kingdom

2010-03-21T21:44:00.003+08:00

I found Simon at a quirky litte artsy shop in the city, and fell in love straightaway. Thank god he was on sale, because I knew I couldn't walk out of the funky, over-priced shop without him. Bless. And Stuart got to pick his name....I think it suits.

How's the weekend panning out for you?

tank, supre. jeans, from barcelona. boots, from rome. necklace (Simon!!), artsy shop. jacket, bettina liano. rings, market & diva.

Let them feast

2010-03-17T22:51:00.005+08:00

....kissing statues, whistling at guys dressed as women during carnival, eating sardines lathered with spices and grilled to perfection, drinking tea in Arabian teahouses, getting drenched in ocean spray, licking roads, making friends with gorgeous flamenco dancing gypsy girls.....

"Gingerbread Houses"

"We come bearing gifts..."

"Swirling Lights on 5th Avenue"

"Welcome to the Masked Ball"

"Mercado"

"The Imitation, it is flattery"

"Splitered architects take one on nigh"

"Roman God adoration"

"Kissing a Stranger"

"The Fortress to solitude"

"Super Mario"

"Masked Light"

"Flamenco di peso"

"Short Street"

"Blistering..."

"Tropicana Melua"

"Abandon all Pretenses"

"Burning of the Sardine"

"Snapshots"

"Beauty, personified"

"Simple Pleasures"

"Sunflower shades"

"By sea we see"

"Technologicality"

"Drag Race '10: Carnival"

"The go go girls"

Photos of me by Stuart

The rest of the photos by me

In response to a query I got, I don't edit my photos. At all. Ever. I should try it.....right?

In short, thank you

2010-03-15T22:16:00.005+08:00

This chowder was to die for!

Stuart and I celebrated our 4th anniversary recently, and to mark the occasion we had a fabulous orgasmic meal at a restaurant quite literally on the Swan River. The view we had at the dinner was phenomenal...

As we crossed the bridge over the road that separates the restaurant and the parking lot after dinner, some guy came rushing up to me and told me that his girlfriend loved my shoes and then proceeded to ask me where I got them. Dontcha just love that. And when I told her they were sourced off of ebay, I swear I saw her walk just that little bit faster towards the parking lot. To hunt down a pair for herself on ebay, p'haps? You've got to love how shoes can do that to girls :)

And Stuart, love you to bits. Thanks for putting up with me....well, with me and Simon ;)

dress, romance was born. tights, target. shoes, ysl. bag, chanel. ring, markets. silver bracelet, gift.

Okay fine, just a few more...

2010-03-14T15:59:00.004+08:00

A 'few' more pictures from our time in Europe....

can't get enough of the diffusion of light, fragmentation and colours in mosaics...

urban warrior in a Roman ruin...

the impressive art on the walls of our hostel in Barcelona

I didn't have any food, but it didn't stop the pigeons from sitting on my shoulder and head (nothing like pigeon love to amp up your ego). They refused to go to Stuart though....

....so he just bought some feed and 'bribed' them

stalking a model on Las Ramblas so I could get a shot....pretty sure he noticed ;)

...wearing my oh-so-cool blue leather leggings amidst Gaudi architecture. Shame they just wouldn't stay up!

some call it grotesque but I adore this fantastic highlight, with all its smooth curves and adornments...

Loch Ness; spot any monsters??

on the banks of the Seine...

"the thinker"

j'aime des carrousels.....

tis true....none of the distractions we tried work

I want to thank you for all the lovely comments on the last post. As I read them, I realised I'd missed those of you that I regularly "chat to". I promise I'll be visiting your blogs very soon. As soon as I've completed my analysis of a public open space schedule for a structure plan I'm dealing with...

Have a great week!

theepiccatchup

2010-03-07T19:55:00.004+08:00

Hey hey.

Back from Europe, and missing the culture and architectural diversity and brilliance terribly. And in ackowledgement of my fascination and love for all things architectural, I'm now seriously entertaining undertaking an architecture degree.

Our 6 weeks in Europe saw us in London, Edinburgh, Glasgow, the Scottish Highlands, Paris, Amsterdam, Hoofddorp, Harlem, Prague, Florence, Sorrento, Positano, Amalfi, Roma, Barcelona, Madrid, Tenerife. And we even railed through Belgium and Austria.

We saw snow galore, froze our fingers off (Prague; -12 degrees Celcius!!!), got spooked and freaked out by supernatural entities on an underground haunted tour, had cheap-as-chips beer, stumbled across a world-famous jazz cafe, bartered and bought cheese at an outdoor market in Paris, went swing dancing with locals, visited a sex museum, tried to spot "Lochie", tried local dishes including but not limited to black pudding, raw herring and gelatos galore, had a mother of a snowball fight when we were snowed under, visited museums, passed as locals in most places (what it was, we don't know....), got given free alcohol most nights in Italy once we mentioned we were from Australia, went pubbing, caught up with friends, stumbled across a Salvador Dali exhibition (!!!!! :D), awe-d over Gaudi work, overindulged in churros, and partook in Carnival in Tenerife.

And that's just the tip of the iceburg. We took a crapload of photos, laughed, immersed ourselves in local culture and tradition, tried to speak the language, caffeinated often, and overall had an effin' fantastic time! It wasn't a fashionable trip so outfit photos are few and far between, but I did still manage to do some shopping and post stuff home (Royal Mail, gimme my missing parcel goddamit!!).

Sorry for the lack of blogging since we got back, I haven't been too keen (I'm kind of over it to be honest) and can't promise I will update regularly. I'll try :). I hope all of you are well, and well and truly over the horrific cold. After experiencing the cold in some countries (Holland and Czech Republic, I'm looking at you) I am so glad I live in Australia. Even if it took me a week to aclimatise to the 40 degrees characteristic of our summers.

Below, a photo excerpt from our trip (and this is just from the lil' Nikon). The Canon Rebel 450D snaps are overwhelming...there's over 1000 of them and I still need to go through them. At least that will keep me in the holiday frame of mind for a little while longer!

...Oh, and that last photo? My new hair colour. It was time for a change....and I'm loving the dark, dark hue immensely!

Forty zero forty-two.

2010-01-12T22:19:00.002+08:00

Uhhhh....as promised, here are more shots from beautiful Bali.

Taken on a day spent in Seminyak, gasping in delight at magnificent temples in our path and the beautiful sunsets at the infamous Ku-De-Ta (yes, requisite Bintang beer in hand). Tanned, glowing summer skin a pleasant side-effect of above activities. Ahh, I miss Bali already.

In the meanwhile, I have been juggling showing my friend from the US around, work commitments and getting ready for Europe (we leave on Friday morning....not ready...arrrgh)! So apologies for the lack of updates on the blog.....it'll (hopefully) be back to normal in March-ish.

Till then, take time to breathe in the fresh air. Be happy!

Tidings for the new year

2010-01-05T23:35:00.002+08:00

Happy New Year folks.

Bali was unbelievable and I loved every moment of it. I look forward, very much, to going back and exploring more of the beautiful island....with the warm and friendly people, the fabulous architecture, the traditions steeped in culture (or is that culture steeped in tradition?) and just the essence of Bali. Did I mention the architecture? C'est magnifique!

A very good friend of mine from Kenya and who moved to the US is staying with us for the next two weeks, so I will generally be awol. After that, I'll be in Europe for 5 and a bit weeks....cannot wait! There should be (hopefully) a few posts before I depart for London though....

I wish you all the very best for 2010. May it be everything you wish for; health, wealth and happiness all wrapped up in one :)

p.s. these are just a selection of shots from just the first day....I'm still downloading all the pictures I took.....and with that kind of light, everything comes out like magic.

............

2009-12-24T22:27:00.003+08:00

.....have a very merry christmas folks! I'm packing for Bali, which is not going well. As evidenced by the time of this post and the fact that I'm blogging instead of packing. Back to it....

In the meanwhile, here are some pics from a fave of mine: nerdynotdirty on deviantart. Enjoy.

In the new year......

I'll catch up with you all in early January when I get back from Bali (expect photos galore!) and until I head off again to Europe. Have a great Christmas and new year. Here's to a fantastic 2010!

Now whaddaya know....

2009-12-22T12:30:00.000+08:00

...and yes, whaddaya is not a word. Sue me ;)

But the title in question points to this skirt and belt combo being sighted yet again on the blog. I can't help it; they just don't make skirts like this any more. The crepe material is lightweight and has the perfect sheerness to it. To further entrance are the pockets at the hips and the high waist. Ahhhh.....vintage gold!

crop tee, just jeans. skirt, vintage. belt, moschino. heels, urban soul. bangles; live, diva and vintage. rings, vintage.

Today's pictures brought to you by the word "Christmas"....

2009-12-20T23:52:00.000+08:00

Spent the weekend playing with my new camera (yay!).....I love this baby sooo much. The pictures documented are from our Christmas celebrations (one week early as we will be on a plane on the 25th). We sat around the tree and exchanged gifts and then moved on to an outdoors Christmas barbeque (the great Aussie tradition). Mum is as bad as me when it comes to Christmas (and by bad, I mean obsessed!) and so between us there was the tree, the random decorations, the Christmas crackers for the place settings, the Christmas runner on the table, the reindeer, and the good ol' Christmas cheer. Good times :)

p.s. watched Avatar today and it is a brilliant film. Not in the manner of District 9, but in the mainstream perception (which I can certainly recognise and be impressed by). The storyline tends to the cliche and some of the details are foggy, but the imagery and surrealism and special effects of the film make it worthwhile and a true experience. Watched in 2D and we may just have to go back and watch it in 3D. And yes, I'd go back and watch it tomorrow. And how ocker Aussie is Sam Worthington's accent in the film??!! Noice touch, mate!

p.p.s. Stuart's and my top 2 picks of the year are both from the sci-fi genre.....District 9 and Avatar. What movies have impressed you this year? And what did you think of Avatar?

Light filters magnificently through...

2009-12-17T19:00:00.001+08:00

I should have taken a better picture of these fan-bloody-tastic heels but you can see them here......they are Birkinstocks in heel disguise. So comfy it should be illegal. I could wear these for hours on end....and I plan to for my work Christmas party on Friday. I also went accessory-free here, which for me is shocking. Baby steps people, baby steps :D

I've spent the week thus far trying to complete the ridiculous amount of applications I have at work and pack for our trip to Bali...I've lost all semblences of normalcy at work as I frantically finalise things as well as deal with the normal day-to-day proceedings......let it be Christmas already!!

Hope you're all getting into the swing of the festive season :)

tank, supre. skirt, vintage. heels, bronx.

Hot blood red in shades...

2009-12-14T21:46:00.004+08:00

pc: fashion gone rogue, glammed if you do glammed if you don't, stolkholm street style, joonbug

Inspiration comes in drives of red sometimes, and when it does there's naught you can do but surrender. And join the tumbling masses down that frolicky hill....

In flashes, drifting by...

2009-12-12T20:23:00.003+08:00

My sister, Stuart and myself have spent the weekend thus far shopping for 'bathers' (swimming costumes), watching episodes from True Blood (season 1), putting up the Christmas tree, imbibing caffeine at our favourite beach-side haunt, and generally lazing around. All in 39 degree Celcius weather. Mmmm. Thats 102.2 degrees Fahrenheit for the Americans....

Because its been so hot of late and I cannot be arsed to document outfits, I decided to document instead a random collection of my (relatively) recent shoe acquisitions, other bits and bobs, as well as the ridiculous number of rings I own. Gahhh. Oh well, accessories do maketh the outfit. Start with basics in muted, neutral colours and top-up with accessories and you're good to go!

(sequin clutch, valleygirl. true blood season 1, jb hifi. 'apple' nailpolish, sportsgirl)

(heels, bronx)

(watch, one teaspoon. boots, the cassette society. rings; diva, vintage, markets, live, diy, sportsgirl, festival, thailand, asos)

(heels, lila verne)

Can you believe Christmas is only 12 days away?!?!! Woah, where did the year go.

What are you going to be asking for this Christmas?

Swaying gently in the breeze...

2009-12-09T20:54:00.003+08:00

I love this navy high-waisted skirt I thrifted a while back. It swishes satisfactorily around my calves, it's the perfect lightness for blazing hot summers in Perth, and it has pockets. Of late, old school demureness does it for me. I stand miles apart from the multitude of girls in barely-there bodycon dresses when I wear this skirt, I tell you...there's nothing quite like a perfectly contradicted outfit made up of a high-waisted demure skirt, casual tee and ridiculously high heels!

P.S. I want to thank my readers for being the best. Thank you so much for the lovely comments on my last post, you guys rock!!

tee, supre. skirt and bag, vintage. belt, moschino. shoes, ysl tribute. bangles; live, diva, vintage, markets.

.Unnamed. Untamed.

2009-12-07T23:53:00.000+08:00

Apprehension, commiseration, what

doesn't follow will but be, you know.

dreams in writhing, writhing agony

sparred on by memories. Creations

obliterated. All for one and only one

destiny.

Cry you may, obey you must, the voice

of conscience unreasoning. Crammed

Still, lingering pleas, divine intervention

on steep ravines. Why falter now? jest

all but nigh ceramic tears fall, shattered

dreams die.

Sweet melodies haunt present company.

Alone and still no choice belongs. Sweltering

heat waves crashing down spines. Benign

with longing, dressed in Black, billowing

cloaks approach steadfastly. And so I must,

must walk away from Death personified.

pc: we could grow up together

I wrote this down almost savagely, the words came to me (quite a while ago) and I could just not let them go. It's all jangled and messed up, and I do apologise for the inherent chaos. I look on it now and recognise different layers, to peel away slowly. The perfect reflection of maturing and growing up.

I recently got an email that claimed my blog to be "quirky"....I'll take that....I do look at some of the more popular bloggers and their endless outfit posts and wonder about just posting outfits (those are popular, right?!!). Now whilst I could do that, I'd need to dedicate time to doing it and have less to do than I currently have. And I like the quirky. And the poetry. And the random photography that makes my blog me :)

Hope you are all having a fab week!

Psychological torture is the best/worst kind...

2009-12-06T15:28:00.003+08:00

Watched Paranormal Activity this weekend. Gahhhh! It took me some serious "don't think about it, don't think about it!!" time to forget about the movie after we watched it, which was at 9.30pm and just before bed (best idea yet. Not.). The movie is so freaky. In the best way. I think.....why did I watch it in the first place??!!!?

tank, supre. leggings, markets. shoes, rubi. shrug, vintage. necklace, gift from holland. cuff, gift. rings; market and vintage.

We won't run....(we can fight)

2009-12-02T21:07:00.003+08:00

This week has been the shittiest week in my working history. Gah. Ups and downs, right?!? A colleague went on leave and passed on some of his work to me. With no explanation of what needed to be done, or the fact that the deadline for the item to be on the last agenda of the year was only 2 days away. Or, more importantly, that I had to write 3 fucking reports in the space of 1 1/2 days (when you usually have a week or more to do the reports). Grrrr. I did it. And it took me 2 days, staying in the office till 7pm then going home, skipping my exercise routine and continueing to work until 2am. And then hit repeat for the next day. So it was inevitable that I would have a minor breakdown. I was stressed, emotional, had barely any sleep and had two different people checking the reports and contradicting each other. Which just meant I had to keep changing my reports. Great. Not even my fucking reports, people.

After a cry, I was better though. A little cry does work wonders.

And in light of the above, I thought I deserved a "Good" list (screw the evil, I don't need that shit!!)

THE GOOD

These fantastic boots by Jeffrey Campbell. Finally! The 'Third' JCs are the perfect, price-friendly alternative to my most 'lusted after' pair of boots ever...the Marant suede chain wrap boots. Mmmm. Available from solestruck for $244.95 (free shipping for all orders over $199.95. Yep. Even to international destinations :)

pc: the fashion spot, solestruck

the Canon EOS 450D/Rebel XSi. My joint birthday+christmas present. Hello world. Coming to photograph you with fab technology. Stalking never looked so good before...

pc: dpreview

this freaking awesome leather chain harness by Zana Bayne (come to momma!)....want!

And this song by Sarah Blasko. So chill, such a beautiful voice....

(the title of this brilliant song by Sarah Blasko is the title of todays post).

What a voice!

What makes you happy?

Loch McNess

2009-11-29T19:00:00.003+08:00

(and yes, that's the real name of the lake in Yanchep National Park that we visited today!)

We took our friend from Mexico to Yanchep National Park for a typical Aussie summer bbq today. And it was a complete success given we had 'snags' on the bbq (sausages), and saw koalas and kangaroos. All the reqs, right ;). We're now going to make potato and carrot soup and wind down for Monday.

I also have to apologise for neglecting the blog somewhat....I'm currently covering a team mate's work whilst he's on leave (which equals A LOT more work!), showing our friend from Mexico around Perth, and playing with my new Canon rebel XSi 450D (yay!). I promise to make it up to you with more blog posts.

I also have a huge favour to ask....do any of you know where I can find a pair of red Chloe doc ankle boots in size 36.5/37/38 (like in the following pic)? Anyone willing to sell theirs? I'll be forever indebted to you :D

pc: fashiontoast

tank, supre. skirt, vintage. shoes, gift from India. cardigan, portmans. cuff, city beach. ring, markets.

I am a complex being, a mass of thrumming organisms...

2009-11-25T20:03:00.003+08:00

"I myself have never been able to figure out precisely what feminism is. I only know that people call me a feminist whenever I express sentiments that differentiate me from a doormat."

(On Beauty, Zadie Smith)

Project PEP

2009-11-25T12:00:00.001+08:00

Jenny from Jimmy Choo emailed me about a campaign being run to raise awareness and funds for AIDS victims, and the associated online photo competition.

What a great campaign.

Coming from a country that is afflicted by AIDS (Kenya) and having seen first hand what poverty denies these poor human beings as well as the devastating impacts on the many children left orphaned, I'm all for projects like this. It would mean the world to me if you embraced it too :)

Jimmy Choo and Elton John AIDS Foundation have launched a photo competition to support the launch of Project PEP, a charity collection that donates 25% of sales to the Simelela Rape Centre in South Africa. The money goes towards providing the HIV-preventative treatment PEP (which must be taken within 72 hours of exposure to HIV) and counselling to victims of rape in South Africa, which has the highest count of rape in the world.

"We are women helping women and we are proud to continue our collaboration with the compelling and urgent initiatives of the Elton John AIDS Foundation and to provide a voice for under-privileged women in South Africa. We are excited to launch this social media campaign which we believe is a fun, light-hearted way to make people aware of a very serious subject." - Tamara Mellon, Founder & President, Jimmy Choo.

Get Involved:

Raise awareness and funds for AIDS victims:

1. Enter the online photo competion:

Upload a photo based on the theme 'You, Your Shoes, and 72'. The grand prize is the ultimate Jimmy Choo VIP experience - the winner will be invited to spend a day of luxury at the Jimmy Choo HQ and choose 7 pairs of shoes and 2 handbags to keep. There's also over 100 exclusive Jimmy Choo prizes to be won. Bring awareness to the plight in the meanwhile.

Visit Project PEP for more details or to enter the competition.

2. Indulge and donate:

Buy fab Jimmy Choo products here and 25% of sales, guaranteed, will be donated to the Simelela. Fashion, function and a good cause...there's nothing better.

3. Donate, donate, donate:

Or head to http://www.jimmychoo72.com/donate to directly donate an amount of your choosing to the Elton John AIDS Foundation.

I like to think that if we all put our heads together, we can make a difference.

"How wonderful it is that nobody need wait a single moment before starting to improve the world." - Anne Frank

Shake your tailfeather....

2009-11-22T22:47:00.003+08:00

A friend's coming over from Mexico and will be staying with us, so the weekend has been spent pretty much cleaning. Our guest room hosts all my spare "rubbish" i.e. clothes, accessories, shoes, vintage, etc.....and so I had to clean it all out/compartmentalise/rationalise. I'm buggered from cleaning! Can I get a weekend to recover from my weekend?!?! Here's where I iterate that lovely concept of the 4-day working week. Which I could arrange with work, but would need to work much longer hours for.....hmmm.....

I wore this dress out, and some random guy came up to me and asked why it was so loose fitting. He then proceeded to give me styling advice. About wearing a belt to cinch it in. Etcetera. Really.....how very metrosexual of you buddy. Aren't you just supposed to enjoy the view? I kid. Point taken. Although after a few long island iced teas....not quite sure there was a point, or what it was ;)

p.s. I've recently discovered the brilliance that is Sportsgirl's matte nailpolish. I'm wearing a turquoise blue here. Yours for $7.95. I've since bought a matte mint green, and a matte coral. Who knew I was capable of such girlie-ness?!?!

Did we have a good weekend? And please don't say it involved cleaning. I'm banning that word. Seriously. In all seriousness though, how did you spend the weekend?

dress, vintage. shoes, camilla and marc. rings, diva and asos.

public service announcements....

2009-11-18T22:16:00.005+08:00

1. Thigh high boots:

I've searched high and low for the perfect thigh-high leather boots.....I have abnormally skinny legs for my body and as a result most of the thigh-high boots out there just gape around my legs. Its especially bad with "skinny" shaft thigh-highs (woah, does that read completely perverted or is it just me?!!?) because they do this wierd bunching thing around my legs. AND lets not get into the whole "is it skanky if you're wearing hooker boots with really high heels?" moral fashion dilemma. In my opinion, if you're going to wear thigh-high boots and short tunics/shorts/skirts/other, its best if the boots are flat. So with that in mind, I've been searching. For the past 3-4 seasons....with no luck. And finally, I have acquired the perfect pair and they have made the ardous journey over rough seas (or maybe just in a plane, but still...) and are in my possession. The boots in question? These babies:

pc: ninemsn

Since I first spotted them coming down the runway, worn by Freja and paired with the paperbag-waisted leather shorts, I've drooled over this pair by Chloé. What's not to love about this cuffable thigh-high version, with leather straps to be criss-crossed across the shaft for the perfect dishevelled look!! And its my duty to tell you that these babies are softer than soft and are about the most comfy things I've ever worn on my feet. Welll worth the investment. Mmmmm. Now where can I get me a pair of coloured paper-bag waisted leather shorts?

2. Win with MyCatwalk:

MyCatwalk (click on link) has teamed up with Maurie and Eve, whom I've discussed here and here, to offer one lucky person a chance to win $1000 worth of fab Maurie and Eve gear. Maurie and Eve are always on-trend, avant garde and brilliant....and if you win, you get to join a stylist (no names revealed yet) in Sydney and have your wardrobe planned for the season, jam packed with Maurie and Eve products. Oooh. All you have to do is spend $250 at mycatwalk.com.au to be entered into the draw. This one suits the Aussies, but even if you're not an Aussie there's no reason not to check out Maurie and Eve for brilliant Christmas buys (I promise I get no commission from this, I just love Maurie and Eve that much :)

pc: my catwalk

3. Ridiculous platform shoes:

I've recently been drooling over a number of shoes, all of which have one thing in common: a ridiculous platform heel. I say the more ridiculous the platform height, the better. So should it be the Ashish platform wedges (in black....because zebra is a little too trash-glam for my liking) or the Aggie metal insert heel boot, or even these or these or these? Any other suggestions as to how to satisfy this crazy platform kick I'm on?

pc: topshop

What are you craving of late?

Summer whites....

2009-11-17T21:13:00.003+08:00

.....and boat shoes!

Spent Sunday bumming around the house, doing laundry, catching with a girlfriend for coffee at a beach-side cafe (thank you, summer!), consuming even more caffeine avec Stuart at the boat harbour, karaokeing our little hearts out in the heat of my run-down old toyota to the fab sounds on the radio (Mix 94.5, if you have to know ;), and generally getting more brown....and it's only the beginning of summer.

p.s. gotta love the bath slipper-like white slip-ons ;)

white pocket tee, supre. shorts, cotton on. flats, sportsgirl. cardigan, portmans. bag, vintage. necklace, diva. cuff, city beach. rings; sportsgirl, markets, vintage.

The circus comes to town

2009-11-15T17:25:00.006+08:00

You may have noticed (or not) my absence from the world wide web. Brought on by using our bandwidth allowance way too quickly. Time to upgrade, me thinks. I feel slightly out of it but have been suitably distracted by a crazy busy workload (yes, I have brought work home this weekend), birthday shenanigans and catching up with friends....

....so I shall have to pick up the pace and get right back into the swing of things. And remember to take some outfit snaps. I'm also in the process of choosing a new digital SLR camera (preferably Canon) courtesy of a massive collaborative birthday present from family and friends, so any suggestions/recommendations would be highly appreciated.

In the meanwhile here are some snaps from the Circus themed party I threw to celebrate my birthday. Good times. The bunny won the "best outfit" prize. Granted. And the feather falsies were bought about 6 months ago and I planned to add them to the outfit regardless. Mission accomplished.

Thank you all for the wonderful birthday wishes! Have a lovely week :)

DIY star-studded one piece, vintage. jacket, witchery. whip and hat, costume shop. false eyelashes, ebay. boots, asos.

We interrupt regular scheduling to bring you.....

2009-11-09T22:29:00.002+08:00

Thanks for all the birthday wishes. It's actually my birthday today, but I went out to dinner with friends on Friday and had a 'Circus' themed party on Saturday night (so much fun). It's been a crazy busy weekend, in a good way, so have been away from the computer for a while. A good thing! I still promise to leave you all love on your blogs. In the meanwhile, the gorgeous and fabulously style-savvy Sweety P awarded me this, with a set of questions to answer (and lord knows, I love these):

Where's your cell phone: bed side table

Your hair: straight-ish/curly-ish depending on the weather

Your mother: a sweetheart

Your father: hilarious (stand up comedy-worthy)

Favourite food: biltong

Last night: I recovered from the party on Saturday night

Favourite drink: Guinness

What room are you (in): my bedroom

Hobby: photography

Fear: would it be cliched to say I try not to be afraid of anything?!?!

Where were you last night: At home

Something that you aren't: high maintenance

Muffins (huh??!): bran honey and banana ones from Muffin Break. Mmmm.

Wish list item: a house (it's near impossible to buy one in Perth, dammit)

Where did you grow up: Kenya, Africa

What are you wearing: tee, shorts, tennis shoes and my hooker hat...kidding. About the tennis shoes ;)

Your pets: (I used to have a turtle, a dog and 5 cats)

Friends: crazy and amazing...

Something you're not wearing: sunglasses, and a hooker hat

Favourite store: Billie & Rose

Favourite colour: turquoise

Last time you laughed: A few minutes ago, at the cheesiness of True Blood. I do love it though :)

Your best friend: Stuart and my sister

Place you go over and over: Melbourne. The Brisbane bar. Voyage Kitchen. The beach

Person who emails you regularly: people telling me I've won the British lottery. Score!!!???!

Favourite place to eat: a restaurant at Hillary's Boat Harbour that has just disappeared. Boo.

If you are not familiar with Sweety P's work, get there now! Thanks, hun :). I'd like to pass this award to:

Tapas promenade...

2009-11-08T23:17:00.003+08:00

Fun times with friends when we headed out for tapas to celebrate my (shhh.....26th) birthday....

I piled on the accessories as the night wore on.....one of the necklaces is a gift from my best friend Katherine (in the first pic). The jeans meanwhile are a recent acquisition and fit like a glove....love. We all sat around in the garden and basked in the warmth of a typical Aussie summer evening. We shared a beer (or 10!) and overindulged in the delicious food on offer, discussing everything under the sun. Here's to good friends and more of life!

p.s. thank you all so much for the wonderful comments, you guys are the best. I promise to leave you all some love in the next few days :)

sheer tee, supre. leather jacket, miss selfridge. jeans, dr. denim. shoes, ysl tribute. cuff, city beach.

shades of light...

2009-11-04T21:54:00.003+08:00

The tartan bow was rescued from a charity teddy bear that lost its will to survive (its 'skin' had lots of patches and tears.....how that happened I have no clue??!!), and Mum offered it to me. Ahh yes, she knows my penchant for oddities. Waste not, want not as they say.

dress, sportsgirl. boots, maurie and eve. cuff, city beach. rings, sportsgirl & vintage.

Do you like or do you loathe?

2009-11-02T21:03:00.003+08:00

Freaky good or freaky bad??

I was looking for the real deal by Andrew Lloyd Webber (was craving hearing the fantastic 'Phantom of the Opera') and stumbled across this Nightwish version. Tarja Turunen's voice is pure ecstacy. Marco's not too shoddy either ;)

Do you like or do you loathe? Does this compare to Andrew Lloyd Webber's The Phantom? I think I like it. A lot.

Sharp Takes in Sunlight....

2009-11-01T18:35:00.002+08:00

Twas another wonderful, hot weekend and we celebrated accordingly. And by 'celebrate' I mean that we headed straight to the beach and soaked up the sun (so brown...), visited our fave beach cafe a number of times, caught up with friends, and laughed alot.

1st outfit: sheer tee, supre. blazer, portmans. jeans, lee. shoes, YSL tribute pumps. necklace, diva. cuff, city beach. rings; diva, vintage and markets.

2nd outfit: tank, supre. skirt and bag, vintage. necklace, diva.

wrapped around my little finger, innocence but three...

2009-10-29T22:11:00.002+08:00

pc: fashion gone rogue, reno kim, q studios inc, fashion squad, elite by design, fun forever

..and I know there's something sick with what I've been sold...

2009-10-28T22:08:00.003+08:00

post title: lyrics to Heart by Bertie Blackman.

I've been obsessed with these liquid leggings by black milk for a while now. Spotted first on Queen Michelle of Kingdom of Style, I procrastinated buying them due to the cost. Still, everytime she wears them I find myself drooling....and then still dreaming about them hours later. Time to hit purchase, I say. These babies are killler. So going to enjoy the hell out of them.

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Stuart and I had a memorable-y fantastic seafood platter to share at a new Italian restaurant at the boat harbour close to home this weekend. Yum. Last minute dinner decision and WELL worth it. Yum. Check this (oversize) plate out. Everything had been specifically cooked to perfection (grilled/battered and lightly fried/marinated/barbequed). I still drool a little thinking about it. The highlight of the dish? the mussels marinated in sambuka with herbs......woah!

denim jacket and bag, vintage. tank, myer. skirt, supre. shoes, camilla and marc.

Imma sucker for freckles

2009-10-26T22:27:00.003+08:00

anna christine

pc: models.com

Nothing is more gorgeous than a smattering of freckles across the nose and under the eyes on a girl. I had a friend in high school with tanned skin and a smattering of freckles. She was pretty and the freckles just made her a goddess. Too late to wish for freckles?

keeping up with Rachel Zoe....

2009-10-25T20:33:00.002+08:00

These incredible sheer Zambesi trousers are the bees knees. When I purchased them (for only $30 AUD) at a designer sale I was beyond thrilled to have finally gotten my hands on something from Zambesi. As more and more people around the globe are starting to discover, New Zealand designers are in a class of their own. Who knows what it is. Regardless, we thank you. Click on the link to read up on Zambesi.

p.s. Isn't there something so R.Zoe about these pants? Just me then??

p.p.s. Hope you all had a brill weekend.

sheer tee, supre. sheer pants, zambesi. shoes, rubi. cuffs, diva & vintage. ring, diva.