Inspired by Charlize...

One thing I have always remembered is an article I read about Charlize Theron, she stated that while she enjoyed getting dressed up and recieving male attention it was actually females that she dressed up for. Who else would appreciate the effort she reasoned? I can see her point. Females will realise and understand the effort you went to get dolled up, how genius the outfit you put together is but also recognise a trend, style, brand. From the moment I read this article, I was inspired.

It changed my outlook, sure I like when a guy notices you or says you look pretty but I love it when I wear an item and get that squeal of recognition from a girl who knows where I got it, or maybe what inspired me to wear it or because for her, it reminds her of something important or fun. It's like you instantly belong to this secret club.

This for me, links hand in hand with something important. TELL her she looks good. Tell your sister, mum, cousin, best friend... but also tell the girl you have just met, or the woman walking past you in the street. Trust me, it is such a great feeling to have someone stop you and tell you that you look amazing or that they love an aspect of your outfit. It also feels great to pass on the compliment knowing you've put a smile on someone's face and given them a feeling of validation and admiration.

Here is a moment where just that happens! Happy Styling, Kooklah Xx


Sex and the City Movie-
Carrie walking down the street and been complimented by the girls who love her dress.

The Carrie Bradshaw Bun

This is one of my favourite hairstyles iconised by Carrie in Sex and the City.

It is easy to achieve and can be worn as either a casual bun (whole focus is not on structure, may look slighty messy/pieces of hair falling out) or as a perfect topknot (slicked back hair and perfect bun).

Here is the perfected topknot- great style for weddings or formal occasions:

And here is the less structured look-perfect for everyday use, work, lunch dates, shopping:

This bun is acheivable by anyone who can put their hair in a ponytail and then pin the hair. Seriously.

Put your hair in a high ponytail and wrap around into a bun, pin in place. I have found two videos by bjonesstyle which show slight variations on how to create the Carrie bun, these are easy to follow and she does her hair as she explains it. Have a look and try it!

For a messier look, don't have the front of your hair perfectly brushed back and work it with your fingers (run your fingers through your hair), wrap the ponytail around and pin to secure, slightly pull on loose sections to pull of the casual look. Great for bad hair days, when you should have washed your hair or for informal occasions. Click for the Casual Carrie Bun tutorial by bjonesstyle.

For the structured/perfect bun teasing and then smoothing the hair can help to create volume which not only ensures a bigger bun but that it will stay formed. Using a brush to ensure a smooth front of hair is also a must.

I am planning on wearing this structured bun to a wedding I am a guest at. I think it will be fun and formal at the same time, cannot wait! Below are some other celebrities who have tried this look:

Try it and let me know if you love it like I do...

Happy Styling,

Kooklah Xx





Three Essential Make-up Items Kept Close

Like most girls, I always have a few items left in my handbag "just in case". Often they are anything from moisturiser, facial wipes, eyeshadow, clear or glitter nail polish, nail file, eyeliner and foundation.

Whilst looking at a post on Lauren Conrad's website about the three items she makes sure are always in her handbag, I was inspired to think about what mine would be. The three items I would pick as three essential items to keep close (particularly for quick fix-ups, mini makeovers or in situations where you get a last minute invite and need a major touch-up) are concealor, lipgloss and mascara. Below I have included a reason why these are my picks and how they can be used as substitutes for other make-up items.

*Concealor- For blemishes, dark circles if I am in a rush in the morning or need a touch up. But as the concealor I keep in my bag is a stick, if spread thin it can also be used as a back up to foundation.

*Lipgloss- I prefer light or hot pink. Keeps lips smooth and shiny- you never know who is falling in love with your smile! Also if pressed it can be used as a gel blush to add colour over cheeks, put over concealor on eyelids or lips for a matte effect creating an eyeshadow gel (looks especially good if the gloss is shiny or has flecks of glitter).

*Mascara- Essential for 'awake' eyes and to make sure my long eyelashes are nice and curled. Also, if I don't have my trusty eyebrow brush (which is one of my favourite beauty items) a mascara wand makes a good back up.

Happy Styling,
Kooklah Xx

(Please click to view Lauren's article, beauty-essentials)

Sparkle, Sparkle, SPARKLE...

I love to have abit of sparkle.

 In makeup, hair, clothing, shoes or accessories. It reminds me of the saying, "every girl deserves to be a princess". It can brighten dull days, make people notice you and give a burst of confidence.

Glorious sequins and sparkles

A small bit of sparkle can be added to an outfit for just a hint of glamour without been too obvious (especially for those who are not sure if sparkles, sequins, glitter, jewels are something they want to add to their style or wardrobe) or for a more solem/serious occasion.

Once you get used to the colour, sparkle, attention, you can add more-like a whole outfit! Or maybe, like I did, jump straight in? Below are some beautiful sparkly clothes...

Shoes or accessories to pair with a sparkly outfit for extra punch, or to add to another outfit that requires some bling such as dark clothing, to work, brunch with the girls...



 Makeup looks that add sparkle! From subtle glimmer to eye catching sparkle glamour....

I love using sparkle to add a special something to an outfit, I feel pretty, sexy and special. I'll take the crown to go! haha. Thought I'd finish up with some sparkly celebrity looks! Whose style do you like the most?