Salute Mr Mandela

Nelson Mandela an extraordinary great man, whom all will know by now passed away on Thursday 5th December . If you didn't get a chance check out on BBC Iplayer the documentary that was shown on BBC 1 last night   'Nelson Mandela: Fight for Freedom.' I think a well executed documentary which depicts him as a strong courageous, forgiving genuine man. 

Always in my heart, I will always defend and strive for truth. Such a honour and privilege to live in your lifetime. Rest in Perfect Peace Mr Nelson Mandela xxx

 

MIA eeeek

..... So obviously I.ve been MIA for a loooomg while , over a year ... I flirted with a group blog which was on the up but unfortunately with all things it came to an end.

Then the 9-5 blah blah blah ... I'm back ! I pinky promise not to abandon you guys so abruptly.

With the on set of Chrimbo some of you may be laying back BUT stressing your self silly that you need to start getting Christmassy , BBC have its Chrimbo decoration up so ... Now it's official it Christmas!

My new FAVE shop for nearly everything but particularly for accessories / giftables is &OtherStories , now I'm the other side of 20 *coughs* 30 ... This is the perfect store ! It's affordable and young, stylish without everything trying to imitate Rhianna *side eye* !

Star Product of  the Moment is their Sugar Crush Body Scrub £7 (... As Craig Revel.. what his name from Strictly would put it ) A.M.A.Z.I.N.G , smells deliciously sweet without being too sickly and the scrubs dissolves into a foam like bath wash. I always use a shower gel before an exfoliator but with this product one would confidently use this on its own.

                                    

Check out some of my picks for gift ideas .. For her all from &OtherStories:

                    

For those of you who can't face the highstreet, ASOS have 20% off this Weekend ! Use promo code: WKEND20 at the checkout ends 8am Monday 

Until the next time xxx 

Birthday Funtimes !

So yesterday I was back to my day job, after a weeks worth of serious R&R, BBQ's  and girly chananigans... We ladies watched the film 'Magic Mike' on opening night, starring Channing Tatum. We might as well have watched it on mute because the attempt at a storyline was quite frankly poorly executed. Magic Mike aka Channing had some serious moves ! NICE :) 

                   

'In Briefs' at the underbelly in Southbank

We watch burlesque play 'In Briefs' not for the faint hearted ! It was hilariously funny, such great entrainment these guys have some amazing skills. They were through and through professionals in their craft.

Running until September 30th, tickets are £15.50, makes for a great night out with the girls! 

Finally got my Wah on!

                                            

 On my return to the day job my gorgeous team presented me with one of my best birthday cards ever, a caterpillar/jammy dodgers cake .... Well there were candles! And a topshop voucher - with the intention that have my nails done at Wah Nails. You guys know how fanatic I am over my polishes, it was a perfect gift! 

                                         

Greeted by friendly staff, a cute rainbow haired lady was to do my nails, above is the result ! All hand painted no stencil's or stickers for £32 this is serious value for money.

How it works is that was one is able to have a set of one nail art image done for a set price; for example my cloud nail, would cost about £28 for a set, i.e., all nails painted of clouds. You know guys I don't like to do the standard, so I mixed and mis-matched. Each nail art are, based on its on its original set price then divided by 10....I.e., Charged per nail. 

Nail arts i chose were 'Pow', 'Fash Life' and 'Clouds' , the remaining nails were painted a Gawjus neon pink.

                    

 My RubiRox Nails <3

I would highly recommend this as a gift or just treat yourself ! I'm already addicted !

Ciao for Now :o)

Prints Please... Inspired

Now I started my lil accessories shop RubiRox shop on Etsy.com ,

I'm constantly looking for inspiration, not much different from before. I came across the following photographers / fabric designers which are so fresh and inspiring. Contemporary African design is my passion and what constantly drives me, because it is so exciting and now more than ever constantly evolving. 

Illustration found on tumblr

 Vlisco dutch wax textiles designers since 1846, design and produce the most amazing innovative fabrics:

Photography found on Tumblr

 One of my new favourite shoe designers 'Dionne Gooding' handmakes ready to wear and bespoke footwear - I have a pair currently on order can't wait !

A selection from www.dionnegooding.com 

RubiRox Slim Bangles sold as a Pair £6.00

RubiRox Large Tear Drop Earrings £8.00 

Ciao for Now 

TOWIE Fan Alert

TOWIE FANS alert !

I must admit I'm a bit of of sucker for TOWIE ( ITV1's 'reality' show. The Only Way is Essex - an Essex version of MTV's the Hills).

I popped into a highstreet shop ( I forget the name :/ ) the shop assistant was wearing this cool monochrome stiped blazer. Now I'm probably late... after asking her where she got her jacket, she nonchantly mentioned she purchased it from 'Missguided', I'm like where???? So the girl was in her early 20s it seems I'm loosing it,  as I'm nearing the next tick box it's seems the whole world knows about this site?

Summer season means party/birthday/dinners/festivals so I need to top up my wardrobe. Very similar to ASOS in is structure, reminds me of ASOS when is began,

 www.missguided.co.uk with free next day P&P with orders over £35, fashionable dresses circa £20 quid its an economical dream! I'm sure the cast and fans of TOWIE will love these pieces, the shoes are fiercely high but you gotta love em ( especially when they start at £35)!!

 

Beeba Patent Crossover Platform Shoe £35

Sophie Structured Bodycon Dress £26.99

Platform Shoe Boots With Metallic Spiked Heel £54.99

Ciao for now :0) 

Rubi Roxing some more goodies!

So I've been making RubiRox accessories which have been a hit ! Especially my earrings :))) New pieces have been uploaded to RubiRox... have a gander

Similar Style now available on Etsy.com click here

BOXING KITTEN

I've FINALLY found the designer who made that spectacular dress Solange had raves reviews for see me earlier blog Modern Icons  drumroll.... Boxing Kitten !!

Designer Maya Amina Lake of hot brand Boxing Kitten is kitch, unafraid and influnced by vintage design... which is so akin to my likes its scary! No stores in Europe but items can be purchase from her online site whoop! 

I <3 this oxford shirt (quietly love the irony of it ) but there are no sizes left :(((( 

Lil CRACKER !

As you can tell I like a bit of jewellery ...What a little treat I have instore for you ! I came across online store RingsandTings I nominate this best shop name 2012!... OK WELL you must admit the name dose tickle.. non?

Gold, Precious Stone Bracelet £10.50 @ RingsandTings

Until Next Time

;0) ciao

Mwah

So I decided to pop down to Westfield .... My new favourite haunt since these April showers are bleeding into May. Trying to bag a bargain, which isn't sooo prevalent on Bond Street. After hours of  walking around aimlessly trying to find somewhere to get my eyebrows threaded .... Sad news guys the brow bar (DVB) in Stratford Westfied has gone :((( to console my sorrows I walked into cosmetics store Kiko Cosmetic (on the second floor)

This place is like bargain central !

I tried on a red lipstick ( shown below) which is really quite moisturising and a grea vibrant colour.... 

 

Here comes the drum roll; the lipstick - colour number 84 was on offer for £2.50!!!!! Normal retail £6.90 (...I know!)

I purchased an orange (no45)  coloured varnished, shown on my pinky finger for... Yes you guessed it 2.50!  The best news is that this is the normal price for the varnish. They have all colours of the rainbow in their varnish selection, hence the couple other colours I tested out on my two other nails. It's like a nail polish haven !

Check out their website : kikocosmetics.com

Ciao for now :o) 

Treasure hunt

This weekend I've been on a treasure hunt, unintentionally.  This grey rainy London weather meant I have stayed in scouring the wonders of the web, indulging in the new !

Yesterday I was going through the music vaults of yesteryear and today ... Admittedly I'm a bit of an old soul and don't take very well to new sounds... But sometimes gems come along that you can't help but take notice of its twinkle. 

THEESatisfaction

You have to check out THEESatisfaction, two young ladies (above) with an unapologetic sense of style; their music (I guess), can be described as electronic neo soul, similar to the sounds of Georgia Anne Muldrow or Musinah, that's if I wanted to put it in a bag and label it.... I've been listening to their album 'awE naturalE' over and over today ! 

                                      

Lianne La Havas has burst on to our screens, her melancholic sultry voice, whose vocals kinda remind me of a floral sounding Billie Holiday and Indie Irie. Her up and coming album is to launch in July which is kinda torture, in the mean time download her EP from itunes.

Lianne La Havas

Alter Ego a fun clothing /made to order brand launched in 2011, if experimental and playing dress up is your thang then this is the brand for you. It's energetic and cultural - the new collection influenced by a trip to Kenya, has elements of the Masai mix up in its fabulous eclecticness

They recently had a collaboration with 

illamasqua, a cosmetic brand found in Selfridges , with its flagship store based on Beak Street. A british brand which launched in 2008 it has fabulous array of intense indulgent hues which suits ALL complexions.

 I <3 that lipstick!  

Alter Ego noted as one to watch by Cocosa!

Check out and like their facebook page!!

http://www.facebook.com/boutiquealterego 

Ciao for now :o) 

Style Revo

So I came across this fab fashion site Style Revo they have launch a lil TV channel. Their first episode is  about things to wear on a first date. It features celebrity stylist Alexis, one of her client's  - Kelly Rowland no less styled Ms Rowland when she was X factor judge  ( I hearted her style on the panel especially during the audition's)!

It's very young and fresh and the odd piece at very affordable prices... I love the Forever 21 bracelet and Pop Culture leggings, Making my way to Westfield (since its raining)!

Check it out and Enjoy !

Make a Permanent Mark

Hi Guys ! I hope you're still fabulous and focused ... How was Easter ? Good good... Well now we have the niceities over ... Let me tell you, these last couple weeks / months which have been jammed packed!

Where do I start ... I saw the legendary Lauryn Hill at the O2 Indigo in April. I was a bit apprehensive before this gig having seen recent youtube video's, where she hadn't seemed so on top form. However her passion, her talent definitely shone through! Her voice not as is was, there is a poignant difference, you heard her pain, her love and her life thus far through her voice. There were a lot less of the vocal gymnastics - instead pure heart and honesty. For this reason I think it struck a lot of people in the audience, taking us through a journey singing from The Fugee's hits to Miseducation album classics, her band were so on point and absolutely fantastic! Myself and my friends felt it was an emotional, excellent and sore throating experience!

Miss Lauryn Hill is supposed to be back in July ! If you didn't get a chance to see her this time do !


                            

Where Mama's Gun. Last week I have been playing mama to my two little munchkins cousins ... Kudos Mama and Papa's for those who also working, I salute you! It's just non stop! I can see how some mums could easily loose themselves... Having to get a super quick regime  in the morning i feel is fundamental ! Following a ware more permanent options = less to do during your morning routine :)

It seems it's imperative to have amazing skin, this way mama's don't have to faff around too much with the full works. If you've read my blogs you know I keeping harking on about good cleansers being the fountain to eternal youth! FAIL SAFE cleanser is Liz Earle Cleanse n Polish for near on 4 years this cleanser has had consistent rave reviews ! Harper's Bazaar rated it their best Natural Cleanser.

 

Face Oils ! these are always a goodun and very relaxing at the end of a tiring day, facial oils are good for ALL skin types... yes even Oily skins, which is my skin type.  The relevant Facial oils for oily skins trick the skin into producing less oils sebum's after; a period of time you'll find your skin well moisturised, glowy and dewy.

I also use Nude Facial oil which has a fabulous smell, and is tre relaxing at the end of the day. Check out the reviews on BeautyBible.com. 

I also love the australian made Aesop skincare range, i haven't used the facial oil myself, that the range is a small miracle worker! The price range is a little steep hence why I haven't indulged in a while... but I may have to go back. For the guys out there Aesop is a really good range for you also.

"Cult Aussie brand Aesop have created the Parsley Seed Anti-Oxidant Facial Treatment, £56, as a potent remedy for fighting the elements. Packed with nine anti-oxidant ingredients, including blackcurrant seed and grape extracts, this oil acts as a fantastic daily defender" Check out Beautyexpert.co.uk to purchase online. Harper's Bazaar Online

Stick it on !
Now ladies we can't help by being a little obsessed with Luscious, Lusty, Lashes if you don't want quite want Made in Essex look there are more natural application available...

TopShop Flagship offers this service... or for you busy Mama's why not try it in the comfort and convenience of your home, i found Facebook group The Lash Makeover salon based in Balham which shows before and after shots of applications.

Its all in the Brows

A trimmed set of brows really do frame the face.  Threading an ancient method of hair removal originated from the Eastern world which has is the last couple years replace the painful tweezer plucking which is readily available everywhere ! Its a method which gives a really nice clean result. Once you start, you really can't stop... i must confess, i'm a bit LAZY with my brow maintenance tend to do it once a month... really it should be done every 10days in tweezer maintenance in-between if possible.

I always feel look my best best when my brows have been nicely preened. If you are unsure of who to go too, always ask a friend for where and whom maintain their brows. Most recently I 've been to Stratford Westfield Brow Bar DVA Boutique whom was recommended to me, they have brow shape stencil which you could choose from... I'd feel pretty confident to have any one of the ladies do me brows. 

You can also tell a really good threader if all she uses is the Thread i.e, not having to get the tweezers out! 

if you're not bushy in the brow department a quicker and more longer lasting options in semi permanent make-up technology has come so far you needn't worry about being like the pencilled look - there are techniques such as Brow Mist, Brow Revival which give a much natural look. 

check out http://www.naturalenhancement.co.uk for the amazing results.

   

Keep tuned for the next instalment ...

Ciao for now :0)

Pink Alert!!!

Because pink is prettier ....




Now if you haven't heard already Vogue are having a festival and not just any ol' festival a fabulous fashion to die for festival this Saturday in Kensington half day tickets are little steep in price at £75 but and it's a huge BUT this ticket involves a highly sought after line up with interview with Christopher Bailey no less ! As well as amaze events -Makeovers, photoshoots the list goes on. Click here for more info.

Ciao for now :o)

Florals

The fashion mags, the high street and editorials have seriously jumped on the floral bandwagon, with Mary Katrantzou successful show at LFW
I can't help but think this and has had a influence, finally the high street have caught up and are ready for her and her like innovative designs.

With constant news reports of global economic decline, increase in unemployment, what seems to be a never ending civil unrest, natural disasters it's no wonder fashion is finding some sort of solace in florals and brights, in relation the talk of fashion florals seem so insignificant but in our day to day lives if something as 'insignificant' as the floral blouse picks up our mood then why not ! Talking of florals blouses. The Stylist this week has a great fashion segment on high street florals picks. Kudos to the fashion assistant who pull out these fabulous pieces. One of my favs was Warehouse'Mirrored Floral Blouse' £45.


Also available in a coral dress £60.

H&M have a fabulous collection of florals from Garden party feminine prints to modern McQueen influence ...below are a couple of my favourite pieces.

Trousers £12.00                                        


£29.99 top/ 29.99 skirt 
 l

Of course Marni for H&M £59.99


Now by the time I got to see Marni for H&M the shop had well and truly been raided sadly, the remnants that were there we're still fab including the Marni Skirt above!


Ciao for now ;0)

A lil bit of me...

So I've had a request to involve a lil bit more of me in these blogs so here goes ...

Finally back to my au natural hair self (except for the colour), so I desperately wanted my hair to be a pillar box kind of red, after using three different hues of red my hair has kind of turned plum. It's growing on me what do y'all think ?

Now that i'm back to my never ending search for a good hair moisturiser, I've started to use Taliah Waajid, Healing oil which is so far amaze ! My hair gets drier that a desert which doesn't help with my want constant dye of my hair.

And just in case you were wondering the necklace I'm wearing is one of my Rubirox finds ! Search for Rubi Rox shop on Etsy.com

Ciao for now

;0)

Treaty....

So I treated myself to a new iPad 2, of course what every lady needs is a fabulous accessory ! Unable to get to sleep I've come across the following fab iPad cases !

From top to bottom .... Comme Des Garcon, Leather IPad Case £290; Michael Kors iPad case £30; Lanvin iPad Case £80; (just because) KIKKERLAND white iHop iPhone holder £10.95; Jimmy Choo Tyler Case £270; LANVIN
Miss Sartorial iPad sleeve £270.00;
Targus case from John Lewis £29.99.

Ciao :0)

Had to break a few nails opening oysters....

So i've trawled through many oysters to find some beautiful pearls..!

Here is one of my favourite finds - 50s Mother of Pearl Clip on Earrings - £29.99

Available on new Rubi Rox Etsy Shop! 

Now available to you are my beautiful more affordable finds... stay tuned for Rubi Rox handmade treasures as well as more vintage ! RubiRox on Etsy.



The very early hours of this morning i was awoken to find out the Legend that is Whitney Houston  past away.. my heart aches but hopes her soul is at peace.

Check out the new shop on Etsy.com - RubiRox click here

Spring is in the air...

One can always tell when when Spring in sneaking  upon us with launch of new fragrances. Ok so it was more like Chrimbo (well what Chrimbo should have been) on the weekend with its 6million inches of snow, today the sun has perk its head out, and i'm in the mood for spring! On that note (hehe see what i did there ) ... Stella Macartney is launching a her new fragrance L.I.L.Y. For all you Stella fans she will be in Selfridges tomorrow, the first 100 people to purchase a 50/75ml bottle will have the opportunity to have the elegant decoesque bottle signed by Stella herself amaze!!

L.I.L.Y £44 30ml

So ... i'm not totally delusional, i am aware it is  frost bite freezing out there, i came across these fabulous snoods by London Designer Larissa Amarachi selection from £29.99..




Grey Pulse African reversible navy snood. £29.99



At least we can look fab while warm eh!


Ciao for Now !