Fashion

What's Hot, New & Trending on the Fashion Scene. Plus tips for fabulous fashion for women over 40!

Celebrations, Fashion, Jewellery, Lifestyle, Weddings

LOVE is in the Air { WHY Jewellery }

Feb 13, 2015

WHY Jewellery ~ WHY LOVE

Some of the first things that pop into my mind when someone mentions marriage, are glittering diamonds and sparkling gold!

Call me out fashioned but I think most girls, still dream the same romantic dream! To meet “Mr Right”, fall madly in love, have a magical wedding day – filled with beautiful flowers, white lace, I do’s and happily-ever-afters!

I am a true romantic at heart and I was definitely one of those girls! One of my most treasured possessions is definitely my engagement ring, not only because of the diamonds and gold but more importantly because of who gave it to me and what it symbolises – “our love”!

As you know February is the month of love! Something which I have always thought is synonymous with love, is jewellery. Whether it is a heart shaped pendant for your teenage sweetheart, a sparkly diamond for your bride to be or a pretty pair of earrings for your valentine, jewellery is definitely a way to express your love.

When I first came across the Why Jewellery range, I was amazed to see that they had devoted an entire range to love – “WHY LOVE”

WHY Love is our largest range and caters to all ladies celebrating love, treasured family and friends. The range has been inspired by love and the immense beauty, passion and tenderness which surround the many different kinds of love. ~ WHY Jewellery

The WHY LOVE Jewellery range focuses on three collections created for the bride, bridesmaids and the mother of the bride. Their selection of engagement rings are both beautiful and affordable! I particularly love the beautiful Vintage Collection, which is so on trend at the moment!

Choosing an engagement ring is so exciting! Even if it is going to be a surprise, ensure you drop lots of hints along the way and show him lots of pictures. Even better, spend a morning trying on various options to give him some ideas. Guys, it is important to ask the right questions, find out what she likes and doesn’t like and if possible get her ring size!

If you are looking for something special for the mother of the bride or for your maid of honour, then why not opt for a gorgeous pair of pearl earrings. For your bridesmaids, a pretty pair of chandelier style earrings are perfect and something they can wear again. Other than earrings, a stunning pendant or name bracelet, would also be a great choice!

Naturally no wedding would be complete without a wedding bands and WHY Jewellery have got you covered with a great range for him and her!

If you would like to find out more about this beautiful range of jewellery, why not visit their showroom or pop over and have a look at the WHY Jewellery Website.

Location and Contact: Visit the WHY Flagship store and workshop in the Cape Quarter Lifestyle Village or in the Alfred Mall at the V&A Waterfront. Metaxia Sterianos {Head Designer} tel: 021 4257770 or via email: [email protected]

Jewellery Featured: Wedding Band Love Diamond R1000, Bridal Vintage Collection 9ct Gold & Diamond Ring Round Setting R12000, Bridal Triology Collection 9ct Gold & Diamond Rind Round Setting R12000, Bridal Solitare Collection 9ct Gold & Diamond Ring Round Setting, Pearl Stud Earrings R1600, Floral Chandelier Earrings R1500, Solitare Diamond Studs R8000, Grove Ring R3000, Wedding Band R700, Triple Band Ring R3000

Photo Credit: Jewellery – WHY Jewellery, Wedding Images – Thank you to my amazing brother & beautiful his wife for allowing me to use a few of their wedding photographs.

Disclosure Ranking:3

Fashion, Fashion, Look of the Week, Style Inspiration

{ Fashion } Tailored Shorts

Feb 6, 2015

One of the fashion trends I am really loving for summer, is tailored or structured shorts. I am not the tallest person in the world and always feel slightly self-conscious wearing short-shorts but recently discovered that wearing more tailored shorts can be very flattering.

I think the key, for me anyway, is to ensure the shorts are not too short but not too long either. If they are too long they tend to cut off my leg in the wrong place and make me look even shorter! The key with fashion, is to always dress your body shape and showcase your best “bits”!

This is a look that can be very casual or quite chic, depending on how you style it. There are endless possibilities as far as tops go, either a short sleeved blouse or a long sleeved demin shirt work well. As far as shoes go, you can pair tailored shorts, with a pair of ballet flats or strappy sandals or you can glam it up a bit with a pair of sexy wedges or heels.

If shorts are tailored correctly and styled well, you can carry a great shorts look from morning to evening.

After a bit of hunting around, I found a great black pair of tailored shorts at Country Road. I have been wearing them non-stop since I bought them. I love pairing them with a pretty blouse, tucked in at the waist or a more fitted T-shirt or tank. To smarten up the look for evening, you could simply slip on a blazer or denim jacket.

What do you think of this look? Is it something you would wear?

Disclosure Ranking: 1

Competitions, Fashion, Jewellery

WHY Jewellery Birthday Giveaway

Jan 9, 2015

{Entries are Closed}

As you may be aware January is a big birthday month in our house! My eldest daughter and I celebrate our birthdays a mere week apart! We always try to make a big fuss over birthdays – special gifts, cards, balloons, plus a cake and candles{no matter how old you are turning!}. Especially in this case, as it is so soon after Christmas and truth be told, no feels much like celebrating 🙂

One of the things which usually appears at the top of my birthday wishlist is jewellery. It does not have to be over the top expensive but what I love most, is that it is something you can treasure forever! If I am buying jewellery as a gift for someone, I always make the effort, to select something which reminds specifically of the person or has special meaning and to wrap it beautifully! {I am a bit of a sucker for pretty packaging!}

You may remember the new WHY Jewellery range which I featured recently – any item from this stunning range would make the perfect birthday gift. The best thing is there is something in the range to suit everyone’s pocket! The four WHY Jewellery ranges WHY Her, Him, Love or Fun making picking the perfect gift a breeze!

The brand epitomises affordable, top quality, trend setting jewellery. There really is a huge range to choose from and each piece has its own unique sparkle!

To help me celebrate my birthday month the lovely folk over at WHY Jewellery have decided to sponsor a birthday giveaway!

Awesome don’t you agree??!! We are giving away this beautiful Oval Silver Diamond Pendant and Chain, as well as the Oval Silver Diamond Earrings, from the WHY Jewellery Shapes Collection! All you need to do to enter is follow a few simple steps! Firstly please pop over to the WHY Jewellery website, have a browse and let me know which is you favourite range – WHY Her, Him, Love or Fun. {As a bit of extra fun perhaps let us know WHY You}. Then show some love on social media and you could be our lucky winner!

To enter and win this fabulous jewellery set follow the simple steps on the Rafflecopter form below and remember to leave a comment telling me you have entered and you answer to the question above. {Please ensure you read the *Terms & Conditions below carefully, to ensure you comply with all the entry criteria.}

a Rafflecopter giveaway

*Terms & Conditions:

Entries are open from 9th January 2015 until the 20th January 2015 the winner will be announced on the 22nd January 2015.
You must complete all the steps as stipulated above: Leave a Comment, Like and/or Share on Facebook and/0r Tweet about the competition.
To ensure that your entry is processed correctly (please use a valid email address). Your details will only be used to validate your entry and inform you, if you are selected as a winner.
Prizes may not be exchanged for cash.
This competition is only open to South African residents and to readers who have not won a competition on Inspired Living SA in the past months.
By “Liking” you enter and agree that this promotion is in no way associated with, administered by, or endorsed by Facebook; and acknowledge a complete release of Facebook by your participation.

Location and Contact: Visit the WHY Flagship store and workshop in the Cape Quarter Lifestyle Village or in the Alfred Mall at the V&A Waterfront or shop online from the WHY Jewellery Website. Metaxia Sterianos {Head Designer} tel: 021 4257770 or via email: [email protected]

Disclosure Ranking:2

Top Images: 1 Pinterest, 2 Pinterest or Studio DIY

Accessories, Fashion, Fashion, Jewellery

WHY Jewellery by Uwe Koetter

Dec 19, 2014

WHY Jewellery

I was recently invited to the launch of a very exciting new jewellery range called WHY Jewellery. One word – STUNNING! I fell in love with the range at first glance – it is jewellery, what’s not to love??!!

A little bit about the brand ~ WHY Jewellery is backed by the internationally renowned Uwe Koetter Jewellers. Uwe Koetter for those of you unfamiliar with the brand was established in 1968, they fast gained a reputation for cutting edge design and master craftsmanship, which has resulted in numerous prestigious awards. These awards speak volumes and clearly place Uwe Koetter as an innovative world leader in jewellery design. Clients of Uwe Koetter range from royalty to heads of state and celebrities as well as loyal local and international clients. The overall philosophy and ethos is simple with a focus on excellence in service, design and quality and this same philosophy is integrated in their new brand – WHY.

Uwe Koetter developed WHY Jewellery in response to constantly changing consumer demands with a specific focus on Generation Y consumers. The brand epitomises affordable, top quality, trend setting jewellery – each with a unique sparkle. Let’s face it jewellery is one of those luxury items which we rarely buy for ourselves because it is so expensive! This is one of the things I love about this brand it is affordable, as well as being on trend!

Head designer of WHY Jewellery, Metaxia, has always had jewellery in her blood, instead of playing “teacher-teacher” as a child she played “jeweller-jeweller”. After following her childhood passion, Metaxia is now a multiple award-winning designer! Winning the prestigious De Beers Shining Light awards, in 2009 and 2011, as well as an award for the most evocative design in the PlatAfrica student category. Metaxia has now realised her dream, of one day creating her own jewellery range by heading up the WHY Jewellery Brand.

The WHY Jewellery brand consists of four sub brands which will be continually updated to ensure the brand is always on trend.

WHY Her is the everyday collection to make you feel confident and gorgeous. This collection is the perfect jewellery to wear to college, work or even a romantic dinner. This is a range which will coordinate perfectly with anything you wear.

The collection was designed for everyday functionality, with an added “little something special” to each piece. The geometric trend is very popular and a large part of the collection consists of jewellery showcasing different shapes.

For those with a creative flair, the WHY stack rings will you allow you to create your own look. Choose as many stack rings as you desire and then mix and match each day to create an original ring which suits your style and mood.

The Her Collection would not be complete without including our South African heritage. The small African range is simple yet stylish and can be proudly worn to celebrate a beautiful and vibrant continent.

WHY Him showcases a men’s collection for the young, trendy and adventurous man. The collection consists of rings and pendants designed to be urban chic and with a contemporary twist. WHY Him will no doubt leave an impression.

This collection was designed around the theme – “The Secret within”. If you do not enjoy “over the top” designs but still like a point of difference, this range will cater to you. The designs are simple on the outside, yet mystical within.

WHY Love caters to all ladies celebrating love, treasured family and friends. The WHY Love collection focusses on stunning jewellery for the bride, bridesmaids and the mother of the bride. All ranges offer a wide selection of rings, pendants, earrings and bracelets to compliment the dresses and ensure flawless, picture perfect beauty.

The bridal range of engagement and wedding rings are contemporary yet timeless. Vintage is a strong theme running through this collection creating rings which are ornate and exquisite.

The bridesmaid range is the perfect gift for your special friends and family chosen to be by your side on the most important day of your life. These designs were inspired by the latest trends which exude love and true friendship – the heart and infinity knot. Inscribed charm bracelets are perfect if you would like to add that personal touch.

The Mother of the Bride range radiates the magnificence and sophistication of a mother. Soft and feminine, this collection exudes style and elegance. Inspiration for this range came from everything a mom stands for – all time beauty, classic, pillar of strength and unconditional love. This inspiration can be seen in the pearl and floral designs, as well as the Circle of Life collection.

WHY Fun showcases a vibrant, contemporary and fun collection for an elegant cocktail party or a night out on the town. If you want to stand out in a crowd and be the fashionista among your friends, this range is for you. The designs are bold, brilliant and beautiful and are a vibrant celebration of youth culture.

The inspiration behind the Fun Collection was “What a wonderful world”. The pieces have been inspired by colours and objects surrounding us every day. Collections include colourful stack rings, angel wings, playful colours and vivacious styles.

Limited editions

To complement the four on going collections which will be constantly updated with the latest trends, WHY will also be offering limited edition designer ranges not be missed.

WHY is manufactured using sterling silver which is white gold, yellow gold or rose gold-plated. The jewellery is manufacture in plated silver to keep the brand affordable. If you love one of the unique WHY designs but would prefer 9 carat gold they will gladly manufacture it to your individual request. Each jewellery piece will embody at least one diamond for that extra sparkle you deserve.

WHY also offers the unique service of being able to work together with their design team, to create a unique jewellery piece designed only for you, no matter where in the world you are.

Have you picked your favourite WHY range? WHY Her, Him, Love or Fun? We will be running a WHY giveaway soon and I would love to know which range you LOVE! Please let me know in the comment section below.

Jewellery Featured: WHY Her Stax Rose Gold Ring R1000, WHY Her Africa Collection Diamond pendant + chain R1100, WHY Him Double Groove Ring R3000, WHY Love Heart Collection Pendant + chain R1500, WHY Love Bridal Trilogy Collection 9ct Gold & Diamond ring R12 000, WHY Fun Topaz Chandelier Earrings R4800.

Disclosure Ranking:2

Competitions, Fashion, Fashion

GUESS 14 Dresses in 14 Days

Nov 13, 2014

GUESS

The silly season is almost upon us and soon party invitations will be flooding your inbox! What is the first thing you always ask yourself when you get an invite – you guessed it “what will I wear”? Finding that perfect dress, is never an easy job! Well GUESS South Africa has officially named November the month of the dress. The global lifestyle brand, which originated as a jeans company in the United States, will be giving away 14 dresses in 14 days locally, from 17 November 2014.

Partnering with COSMOPOLITAN South Africa magazine, the 14 Dresses in 14 Days Campaign will be hosted on the publication’s website, as well as respective social media profiles.

From 17 – 30 November 2014, one person will win a GUESS summer dress daily. The final winner will receive the 14th dress and a R2000 GUESS voucher.

The dresses range from mini to maxi-dresses, in a wide range of designs and finishes. The 14 dress styles will be clearly marked in all Guess stores with a MUST-HAVE COSMO tag.

For the duration of the campaign, from 17 – 30 November, these tagged summer must-have dresses, will be available at 25% off at all Guess adult stores.

The competition starts on the 17th November, so don’t forget to set yourself a reminder and enter to win one of these fab Dresses! You can enter via the Cosmopolitan Website.

Disclosure Ranking:1

Competitions, Fashion

Win Jeankelly Ballet Flats

Sep 15, 2014

Win Jeankelly Ballet Flats

You may remember a recent What’s Hot Fashion Finds post I did, featuring the amazing Jeankelly Ballet Flats. They have very quickly become my favourite pair of ballet flats and they were one of the first things I packed, to take with me on our trip to Italy!

I have simply fallen in love with my Jean Kelly Ballet Flats! They are the most comfortable shoes I own barring my slippers and they are super stylish too!

I am super excited to let you know that Inspired Living SA is giving away and pair of these amazing Jeankelly Ballet Flats ! To enter please visit the Jeankelly website & leave a comment telling us which pair of ballets flats you love the most and what you would wear them with?

Please complete the easy steps in Rafflecopter form below to enter and win a pair of Jeankelly Ballet Flats. {Please ensure you read the *Terms & Conditions below carefully, to ensure you comply with all the entry criteria}
a Rafflecopter giveaway

*Terms & Conditions:

Entries are open from 15th September 2014 until the 24th September 2014 the winner will be announced on the 29th September 2014.
Enter using the Rafflecopter form, as per the instructions above. You must complete all the steps:Leave a Comment, Like said FaceBook Pages, to validate your entry, failure to do so will declare your entry invalid. To gain an extra entry Tweet about the competition.
To ensure that your entry in processed correctly (please use a valid email address). Your details will only be used to validate your entry and inform you, if you are selected as a winner.
Prizes may not be exchanged for cash.
This competition is only open to South African residents.
By “Liking” you enter and agree that this promotion is in no way associated with, administered by, or endorsed by Facebook; and acknowledge a complete release of Facebook by your participation.

Disclosure Ranking:2

Accessories, Fashion, Fashion, Style Inspiration

What’s Hot Fashion Finds

Aug 22, 2014

Fashion Finds

Today I bring you my What’s Hot Fashion Finds! I am truly so over winter and wearing boots and chunky knits! I am cannot wait for spring to arrive, so that I can pack all my winter woolies away and get my tootsies out in the sun! Ok so it is not really shorts and sandals weather yet but it is certainly time to start looking out for those transitional pieces.

The transitional look below is one of my favourites for in-between seasons and you will find me wearing something very similar going into spring.

I have not consciously being looking for spring or summer items but it is always in the back of my mind, with our trip to Italy less than 3 weeks away! Naturally I am planning to do some shopping while we are there but I still need to ensure I have a few items to take with me.

These are a few of my latest Fashion Finds:

Mango Jeans Skull Top ~ I am afraid I have a slight obsession with skulls and could simply not resist this top from Mango. It is light-weight, perfect to wear, either on its own or under a jacket. It looks great paired with washed-out blue boyfriend jeans and as good with white skinnies. What makes it Hot? Well the skull for one and who doesn’t like a bit of sparkle!!?? RRP R349.95 Edgars Canal Walk
Jean Kelly New York Black Ballet Flats ~ I am simply in love with these ballet flats, you will have no idea how comfortable they are until you actually slip them onto your feet! Its like heaven for feet 🙂 I really had a hard time choosing a colour but I already have a tan pair of flats, so black was my next choice but I have my eyes on one or two more pairs! What makes it Hot? They are the most comfortable shoes I own barring my slippers and they look awesome too! RRP R499 Jean Kelly
Poetry Rare Earth Floral Scarf ~ I actually bought this scarf a little while ago but the weather was a bit to grey and gloomy of late, so I only hauled it out about two weeks ago and have been wearing it ever since 🙂 Much like skulls I definitely have a thing for scarves – lets just say I have many! This scarf reminds me of a spring garden just beginning to bloom, so pretty with fuchsia, corals, aqua and green shades. I particularly like the Poetry or Old Khaki scarves for transitional wear, as the are quite light-weight for those in between days, when there is still a slight chill in the air. They also have a great range of scarves at very affordable prices. What makes it Hot? The gorgeous colours are perfect for spring! RRP R140 Poetry

What are your favourite fashion finds for the season ahead? Please share any of your hot fashion finds in the comment section below.

Have a fabulously fashionable weekend!

Disclosure Ranking: Items 1 & 3 – 1, Item 2 – 2

Events, Fashion, Jewellery, Lifestyle

The Kirstenbosch Crown Jewels

Jun 4, 2014

As part of their Centenary Year celebrations, Kirstenbosch Gardens, with the help of South African award winning jewellers, have created the Kirstenbosch Crown Jewels. The jewellery collection is inspired by the biodiversity found in Kirstenbosch; the flora and fauna, which have made the gardens famous.

The Crown Jewels have been created, by seven of South Africa’s leading awarding winning jewellers, which include Uwe Koetter; Platandia; Prins and Prins; Peter Gilder; Cari Mari; Vijay Shah and Kirti Jewellers. This is a one of a kind collection!

I was invited to attend the unveiling of these gorgeous creations, which you can see below:

…this is so beautiful, don’t you agree!

There is even something for the guys!

Last but not least the most stunning Tiara, if you are getting married then this could be just the piece for you!

The Crown Jewels are currently on show at the Cape Grace Hotel, at the V&A Waterfront. The jewels will go on auction on the 17th June 2014 at the Old Mutual Conference Centre, Kirstenbosch. Before the bidding begins, guests will be treated to canapes and cocktails, followed by a short speech and then the auction will begin. Funds raised at the auction will be going towards educational projects that SANBI and BotSoc present, the collection is ‘one of a kind’ and bound to be envied and coveted by those who miss out.

Please contact the auctioneers if you are an interested buyer wishing to attend this auction. To attend this auction and for enquiries regarding absentee or telephone bids, please contact Strauss & Co: [email protected] or call 072 337 8405.

For further information contact the project originator – Christopher Reader on 021 762 2739 or 082 491 0344