Wedding Invites, Favour boxes and Gift Cards.. Oh My!

The one thing I love more than getting letters in the mail are receiving invitations.... to weddings, baby showers or birthdays. There is something about opening the beautiful envelope and seeing the bright, fancy, decorated invitation - maybe you can remember when the couple got together, or are so happy for your friend or family member.

These occasions form some of the happiest moments of people's lives, and I think it is a really special thing to be asked to take part in that.

So when I had the chance to receive some stationary from UK stationary company Paper Themes I jumped at it. I wasn't disappointed. A week ago, I received a package full of mock invitations {in a variety of styles}, favour boxes and gift cards. It made me excited! I fell in love with some of them, and would definitely recommend the products to someone who is getting married or planning an event and has not yet chosen invites. {they also sell accessories, custom made posters, other invites}

What I loved about the invites most of all, is that I was sent a varied selection and could see that there would easily be a theme to suit every couple. I was sent over ten invites, and there are many more to see on the site {head to the personalised wedding invitations page for more}. Just a few themes include traditional, pocket-fold, vintage, unusual and laser cut.
Reading on I found that you can completely design the invites {colour, theme AND wording}, will be sent a PDF copy to make sure you are happy with your creation and then sent the invites in a special box... oh and you also receive complimentary envelopes {bargain!}...



 

Some of the beautiful, different selections available. Brightly coloured; from mock concert posters, records, deck of card theme, ones tied with ribbons in envelopes and telegrams.
 

 

These invitations are fantastic quality and there are types for all budgets, including single card invites and ones that include guest information and rsvp cards (which are a postcard to send back and not need to pay for an envelope to send back your response).

 

For the Style Seeking Girl's Favourites! I really love the record themed invites - I love music so much, and think this would be so cute for couples who formed a relationship around music or share a common love for it. Great keepsake too. The other invites I loved are the world atlas themed ones and a vintage, floral looking invite with a rsvp card attached all perfectly put together in a pocket envelope. What I love most about these invites is that they are not too over the top and not overly girly. They say wedding, fun and are something a little different.

 

Gift/Lottery Cards

These cards can be used to either give a gift to the lucky couple or can be used by the newly weds to give a small token of thanks/fun to their guest -

all depends on what theme you pick, words you choose and what you put in it.

 

 

I actually think (with text change) that these cards would make the cutest thankyou cards! Slip a small photo of the bride and groom and a personal not of thanks for the gift that was given inside.

Simple, effective and definitely cute!

 

Favour Boxes

Small boxes scattered on each table or placed in the middle of each place setting - place chocolate, crystals, small gifts to thank your friends and family who are sharing in your special day. Or have the bridal party hand out the boxes at the end with a small, perfect slice of cake inside....

Which Favour Box will you choose?

 

These boxes can be delivered flat and are so easy to put together {get your bridesmaids together the day before and construct them together, once you get started you will have them done in no time!}

 

I love that you get the vast majority of creative control when personalising your invites, favours and cards. I think this makes the products from Paper Themes even more special. They have samples that are available and really aim to make sure that you are happy with your design before you buy. Go visit the website, or check out their Facebook page.

 

Sarah/Kooklah Xo

People's Choice for March Style Dare

Last night I posted the final wrap up for Fox in Flats' March style dare (read my introduction to the madness here), for another month I had styled an outfit or look by taking inspiration from the allocated prompt and posting to various facebook/instagram/twitter feeds. The community feel of following and looking at all the shots posted each day (using #foxinflatsstyledare) is fantastic and I am eagerly playing along again for April!

This month I decided to allocate a 'People's Choice' for each week, to determine this I have chosen which one of my shots got the most likes/comments over the others ... see the chosen ones below! I have also included my favourite for each week...

Week One:

People's Choice: Day Four - French

 

For the Style Seeking Girl's Choice: Day One - Grr!

I found these two shots fun to do, but there was something so fun about Day One ... maybe the anticipation of the styledare days ahead? If you haven't, read March's Week One Wrap Up

Week Two:

People's Choice: Day Eleven - Pointy

For the Style Seeking Girl's Choice: Day Fourteen - Madonna

I love the clutch and teamed it perfectly with my metallic manicure but looking at a photo of Madonna (my choice of photo) and recreating the look was so much fun and a styling obsessive's dream! I am planning on doing some recreation looks and then posts later this month due to this dare. Sneak a look at March's Week Two Wrap Up

Week Three:

People's Choice: Day Twenty - Got the Blues

For the Style Seeking Girl's Choice: Day Twenty Two - Braid

This was a hard choice. I think Day Twenty was my favourite overall but I had to include the braid day because I had been attempting to complete this hairstyle for awhile and finally completed it! So happy! Day Twenty was a happy day for me - my Mum's birthday and the sun was shining, my shirt holds New York memories and I could finally wear a topknot again (after chopping my hair off)! For more pics and a wrap up see my post on March Week Three

Week Four:

People's Choice and For the Style Seeking Girl's Choice: Day Twenty Five - Silver

I love this look and so did majority of everyone else! Paired with fresh makeup including made up but not heavy eyes and pale red lips I felt beautiful, confident and stylish. Plus just have to pair with a jacket for overseas and then I am all set to go! I also just love how the matte (top) and shiny (necklace) silver pieces work together ... Don't forget to look at March's Week Four Wrap Up ...

Are you joining in the fun for April? Make sure to share to instagram or let me know where to view your shots - it is so much fun to be part of a stylish and unique community which supports and motivates each other to be confident and step outside the box! You don't need to buy anything, the idea is to 'shop within your wardrobe' ... don't forget to use hashtag: #foxinflatsstyledare

Once again, here is the list of April prompts:

See Fox in Flats on facebook ...
Don't forget to give us some love on facebook too - For the Stye Seeking Girl Facebook page

Every day seems to sparkle a little bit more with a style dare to fulfil...

Sarah/Kooklah Xo

 

March Style Madness Week Four- Wrap UP!

As you should all by now know -  I am thoroughly obsessed and fascinated by the Fox In Flats and the beautiful foxy woman behind it all, Andrea. The guidelines of the style dare are pretty simple, you look at the list of prompts that Andrea provides which are allocated to particular days. Then, using that prompt, you style a look or outfit, and share on facebook, instagram, twitter, your blog - where is up to you! Use the hashtag #foxinflatsstyledare so people can find your shots. There are a huge amount of people who take part so the more unique or 'outside the box', the better!

March's prompts:

 

Week Four consisted of lots of eyeliner, black, accessories and total styling fun! Here are the shots from this week (23.03.13 - 31.03.13) which I share on instagram (@saregiak) then linked to facebook and twitter (@sarahgiak). These dares have opened me up to a whole new world of real women who love and enjoy beauty, fashion and styling ...great to connect with these women, we have begun following each other - I look forward to certain women's uploads. Truth be told, we are a foxy lot!

 

Day Twenty Three - Rock Chic

 

Rock Chic-k ...loooooved this day! Nothing better then dressing with edge and making an impact! I took inspiration from one of my favourite rock chicks Chrissie Hynde from The Pretenders ... rough quiff, dark eyes, red lips, pleated peplum top, black jeans and black ankle boots with zips. I chose a song to pair with this (also from The Pretenders), 'Brass in Pocket' "Got something, I'm winking at you ... Gonna make you, may you, make you notice..."

 

Day Twenty Four - Zipped Up

 

One of my favourite clutches, tiered metallic material with zips. A great size and adds something a little different to an outfit. Can wear with a casual outfit as well as for more formal occasions

 

Day Twenty Five - Silver

 

This was a complete random pick for an outfit - was chosen as one of the highlight pics of the day by Andrea and I have decided I will be packing it for my Europe trip. I paired it with black jeans and basic ballet flats. A matte silver slouchy t-shirt and embellished silver flower necklace. LOVE!

 

Day Twenty Six - Bed Head

Bed hair- this day was a much needed excuse for a stylised bed head look.. quiff, weave, twist and a sneaky plait or two... no styling tools or brushes used.

 

Day Twenty Seven - Pearls

 

This is one of my favourite necklaces, a four strand pearl tiered necklace. Mid-length joining the strands is a bar of diamontes, adds a bit of spark. I have used this necklace to dress up as Holly Golightly for a Valentine's Day viewing of Breakfast at Tiffanys one year. This day I paired with a simple black shift dress and wayfarers ... an easy way to dress similar to Audrey's Holly...

 

Day Twenty Eight - Black Beauty

 

I had a long 12hour shift this day so I decided to focus on my makeup for this style dare. I used black liquid eyeliner with a slight cat-eye and some grey eyeshadow. Added a touch of gold eyeliner to add some pop and provide contrast with the black. Some slicks of black mascara and the look is complete.

 

Day Twenty Nine - Memory Clothes

 

A lightweight button up shirt (plaid flanno inspired) worn open over a blank tank top and black skinny jeans. This outfit reminds me instantly of year 12 and the group I hung out with - music lovers and musicians with a love for house parties ... one of the greatest and fun times of my life. Andrea chose this as one of the highlight shots for this day. I used my London travel book as a contrast between the past, present and future. Will be taking this shirt with me on my travels...

 

Day Thirty - My Mini Me

 

My Mini-Me is absolutely my cousin Isabella. I adore this little girl and we've had a special bond her whole life. She's picked up things like 'always carry lip gloss and tissues, wear a cardi and own a clutch' from me ... on this day she was away and I slept all day as I was between nightshifts. So I decided to pay homage to the many occasions where we've dressed alike. My favourite is my 21st - three photos in this collage where she's in a pink dress and I am in a nude tulle dress - she told me that day that she 'had to buy a new dress because you did' and danced the night away with me and my friends. She is gorgeous and makes my world better.

 

Day Thirty One - Shiny

 

A silver beaded necklace that I had for a long time and barely worn. Great for some sparkle to distract from night shift tired eyes and no makeup. Loved it with a soft pink top, will be packing this to take away as I feel this will be a very easy accessory to add impact, especially after late nights!

 

 

I LOVE these challenges and am into April's Style Dare from Fox In Flats ... considering I am about to travel in two months I am finding so many outfit options or ways to lift an existing outfit combination to make it even better. It is not too late to join in for April! Either start tomorrow from Day Two or just catch up (quickly snap a pic for the Day One prompt and then move on). Let me know if you join the challenge so I can look out for you! I tag my shots with #foxinflatsstyledare and #forthestyleseekinggirl , feel free to do the same and I will definitely see them. Join the fun!

 

Here are April's prompts:

 

 

Look forward to seeing the shots for this month!  I definitely think the bar has raised! Take the plunge- I DARE YOU! Join us on Facebook - For the Style Seeking Girl

 

Sarah/Kooklah Xo

 

 

 

March Style Madness...

My new favourite style inspiration is Andrea Zanetich from Fox in Flats (created to serve as fashion and style inspiration during the busy time motherhood) she has such a fun, quirky and individual style.

Whilst I am not a mother, I do find benefit from the site as I juggle the elements of my hectic life. There are new posts, how tos, inspiration and tips. Something I quite enjoy are the style dares. I attempted the hair dare that lasted a week and last month took part in FABruary - a month long style dare that invloves a prompt for each day.
As the month of February came to an end (devastating) I began to wonder what I would do each day without a prompt - I obviously have been dressing myself for many, many years but I was really enjoying looking at a prompt the night before or on the day and styling an outfit within my tastes (or outside of my comfort zones). So far I have not purposely purchased something to complete the day, instead taking Andrea's advice to "shop our wardrobes". Sharing over facebook, twitter and instagram has also opened up this new world of fashion and beauty lovers - great for networking or to indulge your obsessions!

I was not alone in this thought, many Foxy followers felt the same and then came along Style Dare A Day - March ... same concept, new prompts and a different hashtag (#foxinflatsstyledare) to connect via instagram/twitter. Here is the prompt list:

Day three today, I love a good challenge.. looking forward to completing this one! There are so many that I am excited about.. a few that will be totally easy and a couple that I look forward to the challenge (particuarly #14 and #30 which I will need to borrow my cousin for!)

Find me @saregiak on instagram or @SarahGiak on twitter (will be retweeted to our own twitter account @styleseekgirl)... Let me know if you are doing this - and if you are not you should be!! You can catch it up or just start from now.

Remember to add your own flair and interpret the prompt how you want! The more unique and interesting the better!

Fox In Flats Facebook
For the Style Seeking Girl Facebook

Bring on the madness that comes with a style challenge!! Can you feel the excitement??
Kooklah Xx

 

Hint of Glamour #4

How many of you have tried something on, had someone gasp and say 'that's your colour!!'? Pretty much all of you I'm guessing. It can be really useful to know what colours make your features POP and create some wow factor before you have even managed to untangle your glorious bed hair or swipe on some makeup. This colour (or colours) will become fail safe options - when you look into that wardrobe and no inspiration comes your way or you are having a bad day and hate your body/face/hair. By the time you are through accessorising you will be so into the outfit that you'll wonder why you struggled in the first place.

By using these colours not only as guidance for outfits to showcase your stunning self but also as pick me ups and back up ideas for outfits, you are reducing the risk of running out of time getting ready and feel amazing as you head out to face the day!

 

My colours are red, emerald green and royal blue (helps also that I have dark hair and eyes too, I think!)... and I am regretfully guilty of the mad dash of getting ready. Usually because I can look into my overflowing cupboard and say 'I have nothing to wear'.


So what could be the solution? To have atleast one outfit as my fail safe - not just the colour but accessories and makeup ideas too. Preferably an outfit that can go from day to night with a change of shoes.

To get some inspiration I searched through some websites and came across a blog called POPPED, it is a great blog that has a wide variety of posts all within the pop culture genre, including celebrity news, reviews of movies, outfits worn, hairstyles, trends and funny posts. As I was reading and laughing at some of the observations in this blog I found a post that sparked some inspiration for what my standby outfit could entail. The post featured two actresses in the gowns they wore at the Golden Globes with belts. I was inspired by the colour (red) and the use of belts. For the post from POPPED, 'Hot Trend Alert' click here.

I know, I know belts with dresses was huge over a year ago - but it has come back and I am loving it more then ever. They help to add definition to your waist, break up the colour and I feel they add some class. Below is a picture of a shift dress I recently scored for $20. This will be my fail safe item, with accessories to make an outfit.

Below are three options: casual, dressy and formal - add my standard winged tipped eyeliner, some blush and scrunched/volume hair and I will be able to get ready and walk out the door in less then 30 minutes.

What I loved about the Golden Globes outfits is the use of metallic belts -  I am seeking one now! I want to see how compatible it will be with my wardrobe...

To see how this look was styled for a formal occasion make sure you click the links and have a look at the post: Hot Trend Alert from POPPED ....

This look can be adapted with any colour, but don't be afraid to try some red and boldly stand out! Red suits a variety of skin tones and hair colours, it all depends on the shade. So before you dismiss it as not your colour, try it!

Kooklah Xx

 

Inspire Me Woman - Sarah Giakoumatos

I am woman, hear me roar...

My name is Sarah, I am the creator/writer of this blog - something that started as me writing for myself on topics I was interested in. Below are some questions I will answer, these are the questions I put to some other women, women I find inspiring and in who I can see amazing potential. I wanted to give the readers of this blog, some insight, into me.. 'Kooklah'. So here goes....

Can you briefly describe your job/career?
My official position is an emergency nurse - it is a very challenging environment, there are definite highs and lows with the job. It can be a very stressful job, where skills of multitasking and communication skills are absolute assests. I am in my second year as a registered nurse.

The 'job' I have in my spare time is as a blogger. I have a personal blog called 'Kooklah' which I write occasionally when I feel like I have an issue I want to speak out on, or something to put out into the universe. My other blog started as fun, it is this one you are reading right now! 'For the Style Seeking Girl' . For me this blog was a chance to write about my passion (or obsession) for fashion, beauty and styling. A lot of it is my own personal style beliefs, or atleast that is how it started. I try to balance between style critiquing, reviewing new products or styles and just having fun writing about trends and amazing finds.
I have always loved fashion and beauty, I think this comes from being little and trying on my Mum's clothes and experimenting with her makeup - as well as playing dressups! As I grew older I began noticing my interests also moved to styling, either with friends/family or using magazine cut outs to create inspiration/mood boards in notebooks. These days I have some people who always ask my opinion and a friend who takes me shopping with her to style outfits for events. I love it! I would love to style people for a living.

I also love to plan weddings and associated events. I have been to many weddings and really love them. My best friend and I planned her wedding last year and I loved thinking of all the aspects that would be involved to make the day amazing. The result was a fairytale. I am undertaking an online wedding planning course and am looking for work in this area, for a small fee for time spent. I am happy to be involved in multiple aspects or to assist to advise/coordinate/style any aspect of the big day and festivities leading up to the day. Send me an email if you are interested (kooklahstyle@gmail.com)

How did you decide to get into the field you work in?
I went straight from high school to study Nursing at University. I had been interested in this field for many years, I originally wanted to be a paediatric nurse, but due to lack of placements in this area and developing interests in others I have ended up in emergency. I worked three casual jobs throughout my time at Uni, two of which were in the nursing field. The experience I gained in these areas assisted my nursing style greatly. It is challenging- physically and mentally. Most days I enjoy it but I definitely have days where I am not so happy. One patient can change all that though, you can have a really stressful day and then the last patient you see has an amazing outlook or story- it blows you away.
I am interested in applying with the Red Cross to work in the case of disasters, I think this could be really fulfiling. I am really interested in charity work and helping others in times of crisis.

What do you like the most about it?
NURSING - I love when your instinct proves right and the cause you have been advocating for the patient is validated, when you hold the hand or sit by a dying patient so that they do not die alone or when you know you have handled a situation well. I love the variety where I work.

Blogging/Styling/Wedding Planning - I love the fun I have with it, looking through pictures of trends and writing reviews or how to guides, I love to go shopping with someone and completely style an oufit or look and I find weddings fun - from the simple to the complicated each aspect should sparkle on its own to make the experience stand out. Like, for instance at my best friend's wedding when we walked into the reception room we both gasped, the vision we worked towards had come together and the result looked like something out of a fairytale.

What do you like the least?
When the day goes into a chaotic state and there is so much to do, when you get mistreated by a patient or someone gets really sick quickly.

What is your favourite colour?
Turquoise, I find it to be really calming. I also love white, for example my dream house has lots of white and light with one colour woven through in accessories or furniture.

Do you do your hair or makeup first when getting ready?
I always do my hair first, if you are running out of time and you have your hair done, you can quickly apply some staple makeup and still look presentable.

Growing up what were your favourite styles/fashion trends?
When I was little I loved dressing up, I remember my Mum had made me two 'princess' dresses, one was mulitcoloured (pinks, purples and blues with a layered skirt and glitter), the other was a version of the gold ballgown that Belle wears in Beauty & the Beast. Belle was absolutley my style icon when I was younger - I watched the movie constantly.

As I became a teenager I began experimenting a lot with makeup, hair and clothes. I definitely remember a fascination with blue eyeshadow when I was 14. I must have seen it somewhere and I would wear it everywhere, with pretty much everything. It was around this time that I would use packet dyes, you know the 10washes until it washes out? Loved them. Blueberry, light brown, caramel and hot chilli... My hair was black when I was 17 - and I loved it! By this age I had been using eyeliner for awhile and my best friend and I had been obsessed with a slick of eyeliner along the top of the eye with some mascara, add some pink blush and you had my look. It has evolved since then but the accentuation of my eyes and cheekbones are essential to my look.

What are your current fashion favourites?
For makeup I am currently loving defined eyebrows and illuminising tinted moisturiser for makeup. Tinted moisturiser is so fantastic for your skin, keeping it hydrated whilst giving a fine but natural looking cover. On my trip to America during a Sephora splurge I discovered Laura Mercier - her makeup is amazing, very light on the skin and looks amazing! I use the illuminising tinted moisturiser in natural radiance with spf 20, the compliments I get (gives the skin a lovely glow) when wearing this are an absolute boost! I have really come to appreciate the minimalistic look with my makeup of late - saves time, have improved skin condition and looks fantastic!

For fashion this summer in sunny Australia, I am currently loving maxi dresses, gladiator sandals, bright colours - especially sky blue, hot pink and yellow, that been said I keep been drawn to navy, especially in accessories or nail colour. Loose, flowing or peplum tops are also comfortable for summer and look great paired with summer shorts for a lazy dinner and drinks.

If you could only use three makeup products what would they be?
This is hard! I love makeup... but if I had to choose three I would pick the Laura Mercier tinted moisturiser, mascara and lipgloss.

What makes your signature look?
Hair curled or in a topknot, defined cheekbones (blush or bronzer), defined eyebrows and made up eyes with a nude lip. "Flirty eyes" as a friend of mine says!

Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
I see myself as having travelled more, having figured out a way to balance work and things I enjoy to be happier and hopefully have my own house!

What has been something you have struggled with or been challenged by lately?
I had a difficult 2012... felt unsettled or discontent, with some areas of my life which was hard to deal with. I have also been struggling with depression. But as they say... "It is only in darkness that you can see the stars..." 2013 is my year!

What has been the most exciting or satisfying moment for you professionally?
Nursing- Securing two highly sought after temporary positions in my first and second. I was really happy to be accepted into the emergency field this year and then be offered a permanent position in the department. Job security,  Fantastic!

Blogging/styling- A very satisfying moment for me was when I started to get regular traffic feed from the USA and UK, I really value every single person who reads or comments on my blog (whether you read one post, three or regularly tune into this site) but to realise that there was interest growing in these countries that have such strong and successful fashion/beauty industries was very thrilling. Everyday I check to see how many people have read my posts and what countries they are from, for the last three months or so, the majority of views a day have come from USA which is exciting! I also love when I get a view or two from places like Finland, Slovakia, Switzerland, as it shows that in its own small way FTSSG is making an impact. I think this definitely helped For the Style Seeking Girl to be noticed by American stylist Anya Sarre who wrote Fashion Speaks for You. Having a guestpost from Anya was really flattering and I am hopeful of further collaboration with other prominent people or businesses in this field in the future.

Recieving comments is always exciting especially when they are positive or constructive feedback, I also discover blogs to follow myself via this avenue. It is through a comment that I have been working with 'Heylet's' to provide content for a smartphone app which will hopefully go live early 2013.
Last week I recieved my first piece of tactile mail in relation to my blog, I was sent a package by an online Australian accessories brand called Kushla They have recently launched their website and sent me a product to use and blog about - you can read my review here.

Do you have a quote or piece of advice that you use to motivate you?
"Everything will be ok in the end, if it is not ok it is not the end..." whenever I am going through something rough I use this quote to remind me that brighter days are ahead. Without challenges how would you recognise the feeling of success?

What is the piece of advice you offer to others?
Find something you love, and cherish it. It will become your way to achieve a piece of happiness or serenity. Something to turn to when you are feeling down or stressed. I love to lie on my bed and listen to music, or curl up with a cup of tea and a good book.

Also, do not be afraid to make mistakes or 'fail', as John Lennon famously said 'Life is what happens when you are busy making other plans...', you never know what life will throw at you or where it will take you - this can be confronting but I also think has the possibility to be unbelievably exciting!

If someone wanted to break into your line of work what would you tell them?
They need to be dedicated, motivated and really interested in helping other people. Nursing is an incredibly stressful job - mentally, emotionally and physically, it is extremely challenging but can be really rewarding too.

Who are your role models, why?
My parents - they are amazing. They have an incredible relationship which is strong with great communication and support. I really admire that, and it has influenced how I view my own. They are both successful, driven, encouraging, supportive and loving. Growing up, if we had done our best - that was good enough. They raised my sister, brother and I to be as self-sufficient as possible.

Who is/are your style icon (s)?
My style icons include Audrey Hepburn, Marilyn Monroe, Drew Barrymore and Lauren Conrad. They all have class, elegance and fantastic unique style. I am inspired annd my own style is influenced by them definitely, but not defined. Drew is possibly my favourite - she can go from girly to grunge so effortlessly, and I love to swap or mix those two styles.

Do you have a styling and/or beauty tip for my readers?
My mother taught me this one- moisturise everyday - especially your face. Be sun aware - I use makeup with SPF, I do not want a face full of horrible sun damage! I also cleanse everyday and use toner twice a week. Styling - less is more, the use of impact or statement pieces will always look incredible, pair them with simple items for a more classic, stand out look. If in doubt, dress up - over dressed is better then under dressed! Beauty - don't be afraid to experiment, find your perfect eyebrow shape they will open up your face and pull attention to those beautiful eyes. Match base/tinted moisturiser/foundation to your skin tone and a little bit of glitter can add that sparkle or POP you need to make an impact!

What was your dream job growing up?
I always wanted to be a fashion designer who styled makeup too. I was always drawing people or faces with sketches of outfits, hairstyles and makeup... A lot of days I wish I had of held onto that dream! But who knows, there's still time yet!

What is a guilty pleasure of yours?
Watching shows like The Hills or Geordie Shore with a glass of red wine and dark chocolate... Heaven!

What is something you want to cross off your bucket list?
Explore Italy, buy a pair of Manolo Blahniks, buy a house, go in a hot air balloon, skydive... I have written my actual bucket list! So excited to complete it. Four friends and I wrote them together (they all contain different items) and if we complete them by 2022 we are heading to Vegas!

Do you have a single moment/time that has changed your life
My best friend dying when I was 16. That completley changed my life and the way I am forever. It was so unexpected. There is not a day that goes by that I don't think of her, the hard days are definitely ones I live for her. Brooke was the most bubbly, viviacious person, I loved her dearly.

What would you tell your 16 year old self?
To enjoy the summer and the next six months as what happens next will be so devastating and significant that it will change your life forever, you will never be the same. To really start appreciating the small things, these are what really make up moments and memories - they eventually become the big things.

What is a styling/beauty “rule” that you – follow – break?
Follow- Advice from Coco Chanel, take one item off before you leave the house...saves over accessorising, another version of this is when I have high volume hair and big makeup I go light on the accessories.

Break- that your shoes must match your handbag/clutch. I cannot stand this idea, I don't think things need to clash but they certainly don't need to be matchy matchy.. Go for something that complements or something striking that adds that POP of colour!

What would you like to pass on to future generations?
A world without so much discrimination and hate. I cannot stand it - against race, religion, sexuality, gender. Ridiculous to think that at this time, two people who love each other cannot have a wedding or often be recognised as each other's significant other due to their shared gender. So that's what I want to pass on, and it is something I am very vocal and passionate about, I support the cause, sign petitions and email/write letters to publications and politicians. The change is coming.

What is a fashion/beauty trend you dislike?
I am really disliking the tiny shorts with pockets hanging out the bottom. I am not against short shorts or distressed looking shorts but the ones that just look like tiny scraps of fabric with the pockets hanging out drive me crazy!

What three things would you take with you on a desert island?
Practical- Sunscreen, a tent or hammock, water
Unpractical- my best friend, a book and music

What is your favourite song?
I have a lot.. but some of my most favourites are 'Song2' by Blur, 'Miss You Love' by Silverchair, 'The Scientist' by Coldplay, 'Passenger'/'Pick You Up' by Powderfinger

What is your favourite movie?
I have two favourites 'Alot Like Love'... showing sometimes it takes years to fall in love at first sight. Definitety watch!! 'Remember the Titans' based on a true story about leading with love, tolerance and acceptance against discrimination.

So there is some insight into who I am, next week the Inspire Me Woman post will feature Peta Serras ...

Kooklah Xx

KUSHLA - Product Review

KUSHLA is an Australian online accessories store. They have selected certain pieces of jewellery and accessories that are special and different to any you will have seen before. What I found fantastic about their collection is that there is a very limited number for each item sold. The idea behind this is to create a sense of individuality or uniqueness, don't you love it? There won't be a thousand people with the same item as you!

In 2012 the lovely people of KUSHLA contacted me asking would I take part in their launch, I was excited as this was something new for me, I hadn't had many emails for the blog at that stage and it definitely spurred me on to making a great effort with my blog. At the start of this year, I recieved my first piece of physical mail for the blog, I could touch it, I was so thrilled. It was addressed to my blog - so huge for a girl who started this blog to satisfy herself. I had recieved a package, I opened it to find a letter offering an accessory from their current collection.



The accessory I was given, is called 'All Tied Up Rope Bracelet' ($21.99). As soon as I opened the package I felt something. This piece reminded me of travelling, collecting memories and moments that form the glorious stories you recount when you return home.

What I love about this piece is the collection of charms and various other items that are attached to the rope. There are faux pearls/jewels, a piece of shell, as well as the charms which include a key, horseshoe, heart, bow and enamel tokens. It looks like the small trinkets you could collect at markets and stalls whilst walking the streets of far away destinations.

This piece comes in a variety of colours, as depicted on the site you can wear them woven around your wrist or ankle (layer a couple for a bohemian feel, or take inspiration from my post Hint of Glamour #3 and combine with other bangles and bracelets). Nothing says traveller like rope bracelets that are intriguing and spark memories or questions. Other ways to style this accessory include using it as a key ring, attaching to the strap of your handbag or across body bag (essential when travelling!), tying it in a bow on your suitcase handle - you will easily identify it at baggage claim, attaching it to your travel journal or hanging it by your holiday pictures. This would be a fantastic gift to give someone who is about to depart overseas, they could even add their own charms and trinkets to it!


 

I hope you enjoy looking through the Kushla website and current collection as much as I have... I am so excited to see the future collections and hope to work with them again some day! Please comment or email me with any comments you have! Especially if you have or do try a piece of the collection. Communicate with them on twitter/instagram via #KUSHLA and @kushlasocial or via the Kushla facebook page.


Kushla also featured in my latest Inspire Me Monday post, to read it click here

Happy Online Shopping and Styling!
Kooklah Xx

Abit of Girly-ness

This is just a little short post.. I was planning to publish my post on romantic style but I am not yet finished! So I thought I would post up a picture that I found, and loved.

I believe there is always a way to put a feminine, girly twist on an outfit or an item of clothing. Could be your accessories, colour choice, makeup or shoes. Keeping well looked after nails  is something that I think is so important- even just moisturised hands, filed and nail protectant covered nails can help achieve a flawless finish. I know I notice people's nails, think about it- you shake hands, use a pen, hand over money. Our hands do so much, they are really in the limelight, five minutes of effort can take jagged, half-chipped nails to glossy or coloured perfection.

I love the playfullness of the nails below, and I can imagine them teamed easily with a floaty, romantic dress as well as a tour shirt and jeans type combo....

Girly, Unique, Fun!

Add a cocktail ring or a decorative bangle and you are set for an amazing outfit.
You don't have to be perfect but I love it when I see girls who have made the extra effort to look alittle put together and classy.

Abit of girly-ness can never go wrong,

K, Xx

Introduction...

I love clothes, I love shoes, I love accessories and I love makeup.
I am in no way an expert but I love to have fun with fashion and makeup and experiment and my friends often ask for advice. The best advice to start off with is:

1. Flaunt your assests
2. Be confident in what you are wearing
3. Know what works for you (re-those assests)
4. Have fun!

1. Flaunt your assests- most girls, who have not been hidden under a rock or in some imageless galaxy, will have favourite things about their body, or know what often looks best. These are the areas to flaunt. One girl will have an amazing cleavage, another amazing legs, amazing arms, an amazing ass. Whichever it is, the clothes are there to suit. Many trends come and go-but if you keep that basic tip in your head, you can find clothes that will look good, follow the trend (if you are that way inclined) and draw attention away from areas of your body you hate.
For Me: mine are my curves, I have alot fo figurehugging, waist/bust emphasising dresses. i don't like my thighs-so i wear dresses that land either at the knee or mid thigh. Mid thigh dresses create a slimming effect on the thigh.
  * A good idea to get started is to look at your body, decide what you want to emphasis and then look for examples of people with similar body types who look amazing-people you know/celebrities etc, the basics of what they are wearing can be key elements to implement in your wardrobe.

2. Be confident in what you are wearing- Sounds obvious hey, even easy. It isn't always. Some nights it seems like nothing fits, a dress you've had for five years, those new pants you JUST brought. My mum has always said to me, don't fidget with your clothes, at first i used to be so annoyed with her. But then I realised, when you fidget-people watch you and you look uncomfortable and self-conscious. So ladies, a V-neck will show off your cleavage, if that makes you uncomfortable and you keep pulling up the shirt/dress, where a more rounded neck or a strapless dress/shirt. You are pulling it because you think you're showing too much, you most likely aren't, but comfort is key. Don't wear massive heels if you always wear flats. Start from basic kitten heels and increase as you become more confident.
If you feel comfortable you will be more confident, act confident if you have to. Smile, or flick your hair, hold onto that drink tightly, listen to the music. It becomes easier and the more you shop for you and dress in a way that flaunts the things you love about your body, the better off you will be!

For Me: I build confidence as I am getting ready, where possible I take as much time as possible to get ready, blasting my favourite tunes, trying on clothes/makeup/hairstyles. You become more used to what you are wearing, feels natural. and if all else fails, remember what Carrie Bradshaw would say-- "You're Fabulous!"

3.Know what works for you- This can be patterns, shapes, lengths, styles, colours. don't be afraid to mix it up and try out new options. But some things are fail safe. Really curvy girls-beware of patterns, wouldn't say never but try patterns on angles instead of straight lines. Use colours which complement your skin tone. This is really the area where trial and error comes into play. Some have colours which always catch their eye, some recognise the brilliance of a simple dress with attention to detail and may buy multiple colours (recent purchase-a figure hugging dress with frill on the front and the back. Brought one in black and one in white).

4. Have Fun- experiment, have fun!! Its not all about rules, break them. But do so stylishly... The biggest rule I like to break is 'everything must match'. I don't believe so. I like to sometimes wear a basic outfit with a dash of wild colour. Or be wearing red heels with a mint green clutch.
Your accessories can complement but do not have to match. Layers are also fun.
Or mixing types of clothes, such as a tulle tutu skirt combined with a tour shirt, or a summer dress with a leather jacket.

I started this blog, because I often muse about clothes or what I see in a magazine and wanted to put my thoughts out there. i am interested in your thoughts too. Do you agree/disagree? I am not so concerned with criticsim but discussion. Let me know, what you want to read/view, what you think about a topic I have chosen. New post soon!

Xx