Lifestyle - Inspired Living SA

Fashion – You have to "LOVE" it

I am truly in love with, the romantic, “love” inspired, fashion that seems to have taken world by storm. It can either be pretty, with lots of frilly lace or understated, with muted pastel tones. In fact there are no rules; the only requirement is that it oozes sensuality and romance.

This trend is nothing new, but it is possible that I am more aware of it, because I am the mother of two “fashion forward”, young girls. I have had my older daughter looking over my shoulder, whilst I was writing this blog, exclaiming “ooh I love that, it is all so pretty!” I have to admit that even though I would not wear a great deal of these items, I love the flouncy, frilliness of it all!

Your look can be classy and chic or vintage and Bohemian. Fabrics like chiffon and silk feature a great deal in many of the fashions, which although beautiful are not always practical, for a mom. I guess it is OK to dream.

If you feel that the whole look would be too much for you, then pairing a beautiful blouse with a pair of jeans could be an option.

The same trend can be seen in hair and makeup. The look in makeup is definitely ‘less is more’, muted natural shades, with pinks and corals featuring a great deal. Hair too is soft and natural, with lose flowing curls or swept up, with beautiful hair pins and floral accessories.

Jewellery is baroque inspired, with gold and pearls and lots of layers. Antique style earrings and ornate rings are a must; even ‘the brooch’, has made a grand comeback. Pretty floral or lacy scarves are also popular when accessorizing this look.

So the key is to have has as much fun as possible and unleash the “inner romantic” in you.

Image source: Pinterest and None via Fiona

Entertainment, Lifestyle

Books – I Don't Know How She Does It

I am in the process of reading a book, “I Don’t Know How She Does It” by Allison Pearson. It is a rather satirical take on motherhood, at times I am not sure whether I should laugh or cry. I love the blatant honesty that is portrayed; the situations that the main character in the book, Kate Reddy, finds herself in are so real. Even though unlike me, she is a working mom with two children, I can still relate to her expectations of life as a wife and mother. The story ultimately poses the question “Can you have it all: marriage, children and a career?”

The book has now been made into a movie, soon to be released, staring none other than Sarah Jessica Parker. I love her character in Sex in the City, and would probably see the movie just to see another one of her performances. The trailer is very funny and hopefully the movie will live up to expectations. So I will wait expectantly for the release thereof later this year. Have a look at the trailer below to see what to expect from the movie and if you have not read the book yet it is well worth it.

Cape Town Lifestyle, FAR Photography, Lifestyle, Local, Travel

Franschhoek

FranscHHoek

Franschhoek is one of my favourite local destinations, in South Africa. It is approximately an hour’s drive, travelling on the N1, from Cape Town. “Franschhoek” meaning ‘French corner’, is a beautiful town steeped in history and well renowned for good food and wine. For me it is the heart of the Cape Winelands and home to many of my favourite wine farms. My ultimate favourite is Graham Beck Wines {now Anthonij Rupert}; I love both the architecture of the buildings and the beautiful gardens on the estate. Not to forget the amazing wines, especially their Brut Rose NV, to be quaffed while lazing in the sun, while eating sumptuous cheeses.

The area is a gastronomic-delight; offering both good food and warm hospitality. There is a great variety of accommodation to choose from and we have yet to have had a disappointing experience staying there. Whenever we are afforded the opportunity to spend a romantic weekend away we inevitably end up choosing Franschhoek as our destination.

It is perfect for both winter and summer getaways; most guest houses are equipped for all seasons. The summers can be very hot, so remember to book accommodation with air-conditioning and a swimming pool. Winter on the other hand; which we found out in our most recent visit can be exceptionally cold. Especially when there is snow around, so go prepared and pack gloves! The most romantic thing about winter, in Franschhoek is relaxing next to a roaring log fire and sipping on one of the magnificent red wines on offer.

‘Rose Cottage’

Our most recent choice of accommodation was Rose Cottage, on the most picturesque Burgundy Bourgogne Estate. The cottage is four-star, self-catering luxury; it has an open plan kitchen, lounge dining room and an exquisite master suite. Each cottage has its own garden and swimming pool and a lovely covered terrace. Not to forget the striking view of the Franschhoek valley from the terrace.

So when you are next in Cape Town, take the time out to visit the charming town of Franschhoek and stay a while. There are shops, galleries and wine farms to explore and trails to hike, to mention but a few options. You will definitely not be bored.

Design & Decor, Lifestyle

Design What inspires your style?

What inspires your design style? It is a question I have been contemplating recently. I think your immediate environment influences where you draw your inspiration from, the climate you live in can also make an impact. [Read more…]

Websites

Culture

I found a very intriguing site whilst reading a magazine recently and it seemed too good not to pass on. The site is called Open Culture and offers a vast array of resources. There is something for everyone; for the person looking to further their education or enriching their cultural knowledge in a great many fields.

An excerpt from the site bio: “Open Culture editor Dan Colman scours the web for the best educational media. He finds the free courses and audio books you need, the language lessons & movies you want, and plenty of enlightenment in between.”

So if you are thinking of learning another language or doing a course in the Aesthetics & Philosophy of Art, this is definitely the site for you.