Uniformed Dressing

With each season that passes, my style has pretty much remained the same. The only difference is, I spend more on quality items here and there and don't splurge on 'bargains' any more... (as much *smile*). Blazers, a blouse, cropped trousers and flats have been my uniform, especially in the fall for almost 6+ years now.

There is just something smart, chic and simple about the ensemble, that for whatever reason never gets old to me, it is my go to Uniform. I am that lady that owns probably 25+ pairs of cropped trousers and 8 - 10 pairs of Salvatore Ferragamo's and Chanel Ballet Flats ... because they work for me. If it ain't broken don't fix it right?

 Outfit Details:

Zara Long Sleeved Blouse 

Vintage M&S Sweater 

Banana Republic Martin Trousers

Salvatore Ferragamo Blue Patent Varina's 

Always wear what you feel comfortable in, invest in pieces that work for your account balance, your style and your shape. Don't follow trends, pick out items each season that embrace your style and make them staples in your wardrobe. I've learned that most of the clothing I am selling at flea markets or via ebay to reduce the ridiculous clutter in my closet, are pieces I bought when I was still discovering my style or impulse buys. Most items that I have bought in the last 1-2 years, have remained in my wardrobe because they were planned purchases or items that are inline with my current style.

So what's your uniform combination? Is it an LBD with a nice coat/jacket? Jeans and a crisp white blouse, or skater dresses and blazers?

Photographer: Oluwatosin Ogunlesi  
Now Listening to: Dave Holister - 'Can't Stay'

Turbanility

A few years ago my Ace came up with this fantastic idea to make Ankara Turbans. And when I tell you it's one of my most prized possessions and most adored accessory, I am telling you the truth. The turban enables me to look chic when my natural curls aren't behaving, or when the weather is cold and I do not want to hear a winter hat or fedora.

I've re-created a couple of Turbans that are currently on sale for only $17.00, more will be available early next year. Grab one of the few I have, now: (here).

Now Listening to: Corinne Bailey Rae - 'Let Your Hair Down'

Flea Market Stance

About a month ago (gosh time FLIES these days), I did the 'Out of the Blue' flea market in Edinburgh again. I am trying to get rid of excess clothing in my closet. I never thought in my life I'd accumulate so many shoes, clothing and accessories. I was definitely a shop-a-holic. I did pretty okay, the best I've ever done.

I've done about 6 now, and here's what I have learned. It's a flea market not a posh boutique. I was trying to only have jewellery this day, some clothing here, then shoes here and there. Until last weekend I thought, I'm bringing a lot more. I literally brought two suitcases of clothing and shoes and a box of jewellery, bags, belts, and hats. To sell more, you have to provide more, to reach a broader audience, and I did just that. Another thing I did differently is I got there earlier (there goes my Saturday mornings when the Flea Market is on!!!) so I got a bigger place to display my 'mini store'.

Thus far I have gotten rid of 40% of my closet, hopefully 70 - 80% of it will be gone by the end of the year. Besides selling clothing once a month at the flea market to make money and create space in my closet, I've met some amazing people! I met my photographer at the flea market, networked, and met a few new friends (still being fairly new to Edinburgh). I actually look forward to flea market Saturday's now.

My photographer came by to see me at the Flea Market to catch up, as we hadn't seen each other since my wedding. It was lovely having her around. She purchased a new camera and I was luckily her first subject. Hey I don't go to Flea Markets looking glamorous...but here are some of the shots:

Outfit Details:

Zara Long Sleeved Blouse 

Vintage Sweater

H&M Skinny Trousers

Old Beat Up Chanel Flats (I love these things)

Teresa, always makes me smile, I love my photographers (husband included ;).

I'll be doing the Flea Market again this Saturday, and I'm looking forward to it. Ps. if you are looking for a way to clear out your closet and are tired of Ebay, Depop or ASOS Market Place, I'd recommend having a sale at your house or finding a flea market in your city. You will get to interact with customers and give advice, save on ridiculous 10% - 20% charges, and returns. ....thank me later! *wink*

P.S. Sorry for the delay in blogging this week. We were changing providers for our internet and landline, and it took a couple of days to sort out.

Photographer: Teresa Dickson of Glanceobservecapture 
Now Listening to: Drake Ft. The-Dream - 'Shut it Down'

Racoon Tails

One way I spruce up my purses, handbags and clutches is with Fur or Faux Fur Key Tails. My when I visited London last, my cousin asked me excitedly, 'are they back in?' I shrugged, replying, 'I have no idea, I just like them.' Since then I made it a mission to buy another one in blue and a green one. However, I couldn't find a good green one. During my mission to search for one during the summer, I stumbled across this stripped racoon tail. It was love at first sight! And for only $10.00 (I believe), it's an easy way to update almost any bag in my closet.

Outfit Details:

Zara Long Sleeved Blouse: (Sold Out) 

 Vintage M&S Blazer similar: (here)

Banana Republic Martin Cropped Trousers

Zara RW 2013 (Sold Out) similar (here) +(here) but LOVE these (here)

Blue Ferragamo Varina's (here) lasercut version on sale (here)

So are they 'back in' or 'on trend'? I don't know nor, do I care...I just love them and these days I wear what I like, love and feel comfortable in. Fashion trends do not always dictate my purchase choices. You can get faux fur tails (here) + (here). P.s. I lied I do know, they are back on trend Fendi has some (here) and DKNY (here).

Have a blessed weekend, the Sun is coming out and I'm loving it in Edinburgh. I'll be working on completing my brand packaging! Can't wait!!

Photographer: Oluwatosin Ogunlesi 
Now Listening to: Ty Dolla Sign (Ty$) - 'Or Nah' Remix

Piece of the Week: 'Eclectica Vintage 1980s Napier Necklace

This magnificent 'Eclectica Vintage 1980s Napier Gold Plated Rhinestone Statement Necklace' is that timeless piece that vintage jewellery lovers all over the world are in constant awe of, as it is a limited production piece. This fabulous piece is gold plated and created with impeccable craftsmanship and quality. This is definitely timeless piece that can be dressed up or down.... however, I'd recommend dressing this beauty up, always! 

Purchase the Piece here: John Lewis 
Now Listening to: Jessie Ware - 'Say You Love Me'

Construction Blues

With the weather getting colder and colder, when the sun comes out and shines I try my best to dress warm....until you catch a change of weather cold for trying to look cute. I have been shopping in my closet and discovering old favorites....while also discovering I've gained weight, I gotta snap back asap, so I can fit my clothing again!

It can get very depressing when you see so many amazing pieces in your closet that are too tight or no longer fit. I guess me and the gym will be best-friends for the next couple of months. I've also been considering training for a 5K then maybe a 10K after I complete the 5K, something to do before I hit 30.

Outfit Details:

COS Long Sleeve Top similar: (here) 

Reiss Multi-pleated Skirt RW12 similar: (here)

Vintage Belt worn as a Necklace LOVE this (here) + (here)

Aldo Lace up heels similar in black (here) but LOVE these (here)

Vintage Monogram Gucci Bag other styles (here) + (here) 

I absolutely adore Grey, Green and Blue hues this fall. I just can't get enough of these colors. Thus when I found this Reiss skirt in my closet I just had to wear it. The Blue hues are refreshing; not too loud, but loud enough to make a subtle impression!

I hope you're having a fabulous week!!! There is nothing like living in the moment and being happy, I hope all my readers are just that...happy! Xx

Photographer: Oluwatosin Ogunlesi 
Now Listening to: Wale Ft. Jeremiah - 'The Body'

Mixed Print Community

If you don't already know, fall is my favorite season! I love rocking blazers, and putting layers on layers on layers. It's so much more easier to dress up...literally. I tend to always always rock a blazer to work, or brunch or dinner. I'll probably switch it up soon..or maybe not! *wink*. This weekend the weather was quite cool, so I rocked my mixed print Ankara Dress, to church and loved how it looked.

 Outfit Details:

Ankara Mixed Print Dress similar (here) + (here)

ZFSowho Vintage Earrings similar (here)

Christian Louboutin 100 Pigalles (here) + (here) cheaper version (here) + (here)

You can purchase this dress now from my Community Service Africa Collection Etsy, or Bigcartel. Where them with sneakers as I did (here), or with pumps for a date night or wedding.

Photographer: Oluwatosin Ogunlesi 
Now Listening to: HillSongs - 'Anchor'