polka dot frock

 (Forever New sundress available here, Diva pocket watch necklace, Target wedges, Grandma's bracelet, gifted boater hat)

I got this sweet dress for Christmas from my style savvy Mum. She always picks out the cutest things! I love the whole 50's vintage feel and the skirt is so fun to twirl in. Thanks Mum! ♥ Anyway, I wore this outfit out to breakfast with my family to celebrate her birthday a few days ago. After that we went for a swim at the beach and there wasn't any waves! Good. I don't like waves much, I prefer to drift and relax in calm, still water. It was a very nice day out. Apart from that, nothing much has been happening here. I did go shopping with Emma on Thursday which was lovely. We discussed the importance of fashion over a mango smoothie and a hot chocolate then went to go sniff some perfumes... (I think that's my favourite part of shopping!)

I hope you're all doing well. And, I just realised; this is my last post for 2011! Hope your New Year's celebrations are wonderful! I also forgot to mention that this dress has a lovely open back heart detail that I forgot to photograph (silly me). You can view the dress on the website though and see it in its shop glory.
P.S: The second last picture made me laugh! While me and Jo were taking these photos it was just so windy and I was trying to keep a straight face but my hair was going everywhere. Haha! ♥

latest discovery: the cherry blossom girl x etam

 

I've only become closely familiar with the blog, The Cherry Blossom Girl just recently. I was mesmerised by the beautiful photography and creative stories behind each image. Alix has amazing talent and she is an absolute inspiration to anyone who wants to study creative photography and fashion design. Having worked as an intern for Alexander McQueen and the brand, Chloe, she has a lot of experience on-hand with fashion and is always displaying beautiful and well put together outfits.

I instantly fell in love with the feel of magic and femininity of her collection for Etam. It would be quite the understatement if I said I love it! Not only has she incorporated all my favourite things into each piece (and photo) but I can blissfully say that any girl would feel beautiful if she was wearing one of the pieces underneath her clothing. Lace, bows, glitter, pink, tulle and ruffles, the girliest lingerie dream. 

I hope you all are having a nice week so far. Mine has just flown by. I had a little bit of a movie marathon yesterday... Becoming Jane and Jane Eyre were my favourites. I really like films from that era, the costumes are so beautiful and detailed and the romance is so dramatic. ♥ 

All photos courtesy of The Cherry Blossom Girl ♥

a few pretty things & an update

I received this pretty headband as a Christmas present from one of my sisters. I love how similar it is to Carrie's version and how it's the perfect balance between practical and whimsical.

These are my favourite ornaments from our family Christmas tree. Each angel is named after my sisters and I. 

 

The latest issue of Frankie is perfect for reading alongside the pool with some watermelon whilst wearing your girliest, most feminine bathing suit. 

Bonjour world! My blogging hiatus has officially come to an end and I couldn't be more happy/satisfied! The lovely well wishes you all left were gratefully received by yours truly who did  in fact have a wonderful Christmas. December 25th consisted of eating far too much chocolate & summer fruits and enjoying pool-side hilarity with my family. As well as enjoying the gifts, it was even better having all the family home for Christmas and enjoying each other's company.

Well, what a lovely holiday it has been so far! I think I'm overly rested... meaning; I need to do something -- quick! Luckily, I've got an exciting coffee date and some shopping coming up with Emma. Speaking of good news, I checked my email yesterday and to my excitement (and surprise!) I won two giveaways coming from the lovely Laura and Bea. Yay! The perfect way to start the new year.
I apologise for the lack of inspiration in this post but I've become lazy... But, not to worry! I have a pretty new summer frock to display at the end of the week. So, expect an outfit post then. I hope you all had a Merry Christmas ♥
P.S: It came to my attention a few days ago that the email in my contact link had a typo in it (goodness me!). I'm really sorry to any of you who have been trying to contact me. It's all fixed up now!

Christmas hiatus and wishes

 

{One of my favourite Disney movies: Lady and the Tramp. The Christmas scene is downright adorable}

Hello everyone! I just wanted to let you all know that I will be taking a short break from blogging until after Christmas and also to thank you all so much for the support and love throughout 2011.  I know it's rather cliche to say such things, but I really truly mean every word and wish I could wish you all Merry Christmas personally. Blogging is probably one of the best things I've ever decided to do; it's so much fun, confidence building and has opened up so many opportunities for me. I've made some wonderful friends this year and my blog has grown beyond what I'd ever imagined. I wish you all a happy and safe Christmas and don't forget to leave out some cookies and milk for Santa (and some oats for the reindeer!) ♥

days through photos

 

  

  

♥ Lovely new pocket watch necklace I bought today. Isn't the key feature darling?
♥ Girls night in with a classic Audrey Hepburn film anyone?
♥ I've been wanting cameo earrings for ages. I saw these and had to buy them! Bonus for me: only $2!
♥ Christmas card construction is heaps of fun! I may have went a little crazy with colour though...

The week leading up to Christmas is always hectic in one way or another. My family and I have been scurrying around the house getting it clean, making food for Christmas day and finishing off the last few people on our list for gifts. I, for one, am quite proud of myself as I managed to complete everyone all in one week! And, I'm so excited about Christmas, I'm having trouble sleeping! I went shopping today and as soon as I got in the car to go home my eyes were drooping like crazy... I think some chamomile tea tonight, a few drops of lavender oil on my pillow and reading about the further adventures of Merry Hanson {the main character in Summerhill Secrets by Beverly Lewis} might do the trick. Only 5 days to go!

this must be my signature

 

 (Shareen floral dress, Valleygirl blouse, Diva necklace, OPI 'The One That Got Away' nail polish)

I think this is the girliest outfit I've ever posted on this blog... or maybe the pinkest? The top I featured here was great for layering with this floral dress. Add a pretty necklace and it was perfect! It's still a little chilly here (despite the fact that Summer was meant to arrive 17 days ago). I'm not actually complaining though. I've been reading so much lately and I love it. This weather is ideal for snuggly days in bed with a cool breeze blowing through the window. Mum was wrapping presents in her room last night... it's making me even more excited for Christmas! Only 8 days to go! Hope you are all having a lovely weekend so far! ♥

keepsakes and christmas time

 

  

From top: This pretty pocket watch necklace goes with anything and everything. Necklaces like this always make me feel special and slightly... whimsical. I love the whole 'Alice in Wonderland' feel. I've been wearing these earrings all the time lately. They are very special because not only are the dried flowers inside the enamel real, but Izzy has the same ones. We bought two sets earlier in the year in alternative to getting BFF necklaces ♥ The last necklace has a feminine but tribal feel to it and goes very well with white lace dresses.  

 

Lately, I've been getting more and more into the Christmassy mood. I've been listening to the jolly carols by Judy Garland, Doris Day and Frank Sinatra, making rum balls and wrapping gifts for under the tree. I'm just so excited about it! Only 10 days to go ♥
How are your Christmas preparations coming along?

latest discovery: photography by marie zucker

 

The Secret Garden

 

Jevois la vie en rose

JE VOIS LA VIE EN ROSE // 

Yesterday consisted of a trip to the movies {I saw Puss in Boots, quite the laugh!}, reading my favourite book series under the fan, planning my week ahead and day dreaming about Christmas. I also had time for a little Internet browsing and along the way - via the frankie newsletter - came across photography by the very talented Marie Zucker. Her photos are both dark and dreamy. I love the whimsical lighting, models chosen and well thought out themes. Which are your favourites? ♥
P.S: I also put together a gift guide for you all over at Emma's blog. You can check out the post here.

 Raspberry Thighs 

All photos are by Marie Zucker and have been used with permission

E VOIS LA VIE EN ROSE // photographed by Marie Zucke
r

dearest santa

{click on the above picture for details}

...here are a few things that I would love to receive this year. Lots of love, Maria ♥

currently into...

A small portion of the things I love at the moment

• The beautiful illustrations by Geneviève Godbout. The talented artist uses classic drawing techniques to create beautiful, coloured pencil artwork. The ideal illustration that would be seen in a children's story book. Oh, I just love 'em!
• T-bar shoes. Embrace the Madeline look!
• Gingerbread houses. My sister and I made one the other night... they are so much harder than they look! The gingerbread pieces kept cracking and falling apart. It was really fun though and we did get to eat the jubes and freckles in the end!
• The Road to Yesterday by L.M Montgomery. The perfect book for summer reading; bursting with unpredictable romances and other short stories. 
• Cameo jewellery. Blame it on reading too many L.M Montgomery books. The brooches attached to the characters ruffle-neck collars look so elegant. 
• Jane Eyre, the  latest movie. I can't get enough of Jane's character and Mr Rochester's gruff disposition -- the chemistry is... well, perfect. 
• Pink nail polish. I have the prettiest shade on right now. It's the perfect balance between hot pink and blush. 

This is my favourite illustration by Genevieve, I love the hairstyle! 

I also had to thank you all for the lovely comments on my latest post! I'm glad to have further opinions on my glasses {and that they are good ones}, so thank you. You are all so sweet. ♥

Picture credit: one, two, three, four

bespectacled me

{before}

{after}

   

 (Valleygirl blouse and skirt, Target shoes, gifted boater hat, Forever New pearl earrings)

I got my glasses! I don't think I look too different, but I can tell you this; they have made a huge difference! As soon as I put them on everything was so sharp. It's so wonderful having them and I'm very grateful. Also, I found out some very exciting news last night! My lovely aunty and uncle called to tell us that they are going to have a baby! I'm so happy, I love babies! ♥
This blush pink top tickled my fancy straight away, the sleeves are very oddly shaped, but I think that's why I love it so much...I bought it yesterday whilst Christmas shopping with my family. I've nearly collected gifts for everyone, just a few more people to go. Hope you're all having a wonderful week so far!
P.S: Sorry about the blindingly green botanics, it's been raining a lot here so everything has turned lime. Not even adjusting exposure will fix it!

 

  

my summer essentials

My lovely Summer make-up collection; mum bought me the limited edition parisienne blush and shadow (by Bourjois) and I love my pink peony lipstick too, so very girly. Grandma’s vintage gold jewellery {as seen in the post before last} will be worn again tomorrow when I go out thrifting with her -- can't wait! My wedges have also been a huge help lately, matching with almost every outfit I own, it’s hard not to choose them! Summer reading includes back issues of Teen Vogue {for style inspiration} and Like I give a Frock! By Michi girl. And last but not least; Servin’ up Sparkle nail polish by OPI is perfect for the festive atmosphere.

The rainy weather has restricted me in activities, but I’m keeping my sunshine-longing spirits up by taking advantage of my spare time and practising a little photography. Although I'm still quite the amatuer, I'm getting better at macro focusing; I love doing it on flowers…
I’m starting to get more familiar with html as well and it’s making me feel more ‘techy’ than usual. Hopefully, in the near future, I will be able to attempt making a custom pretty header for Avenue M. I do love the layout now {florals *sigh*} but I want something a little more professional. What do you think? Happy mid-week! ♥
                      

december inspiration

{Winter goodness} 

 

Bonnie's latest outfit is both romantic and perfectly suited to the glorious Autumn weather that is being experienced in Texas at present. The little tulle skirt is so romantic and feminine -- A definite extra to add to my next wishlist!

I'm going on a thrifting trip with my Grandma this week and I'm going to try and look for some 'Lemon Breeland' inspired accessories. These Valentino heels are lovely. The perfect staple for any wardrobe. 

 

Anything Nutcracker...after all, it is the most famous Christmas ballet. And, how can I resist posting a picture like this? I've always dreamed of having a white Christmas.

Ahh, the month of Christmas...the spicy scent of cinnamon wafting through the house, Christmas carols by candlelight and listening to Frank Sinatra harmonise with Judy Garland over the CD player. It most definitely is the most magical time of year. And, I'm mighty glad it is December because it gives me an excuse to load up this inspiration post with even more sparkly and pretty things...

Below and above is a bit of Summer and Winter goodness ...

 

I love the pretty, retro look of vintage bikinis and a high-waist printed skirt.  

 

Summer frocks. Easy, breezy and perfect paired with boater hats. 

 

Lover the Label swimwear. Simply heavenly.

Picture credit: Flashes of Style, Weheartit, Tumblr, Pinterest, Lover the Label