Carb CRAVing...

Maybe I am a little obsessed with food but as Summer approaches I have decided to curb my carb loving and clear my Mind of can't. I have never been one for diets but with my lack of exercise and feeling uncomfortable in my jeans… I am in NEED of some change:

I am currently on day 2 of a 4 day protein diet to kick start my journey to a healthier me. I am living on different fruit yogurts, eggs, tuna and other forms of protein. I have sneaked some sugar in my tea, but just one teaspoon.

I have also taken out my running shoes, they were bought with good intentions but have just been gathering dust this past year. I would like to put them to good use, with a 30min walk every day. 

I have finally loaded music on my pink ipod that RJ got me, its tiny, pink and perfect for road running... so I am sure that my walking will progress into a run, as I get lost into the music. 

"The real purpose of running isn't to win a race, it's to test the limits of the human heart"

I believe anything in MODERATion is good and if you don’t love it don’t eat it… As excessive carb eating can be a killer and so can extreme protein diets. Healthier carb options would be a better choice, such as fruits and veg, whole grain pasta, swap the fries for sweet potato and the white bread for high fibre whole-grain breads. Healthier protein options consist of soya, legumes nuts, fish, chicken and lean meat.

For a better you find the BALANCE suited for your body, don’t follow other peoples extreme diets. TRY healthier options and say NO to FAT, grease and Oil. Start with a detox and find what works best for you. Take the good and clear your mind of can't...

Choose Healthy even if u <3 carbs, i know i do... 

<3 G

House of Deréon COTURE.KICK.SOUL

Beyoncé an R&B queen has been a style icon, ever since she embodied the term bootylicious. She is currently working on an album with Kanye West and Hit Boy, and in honor of World Humanitarian Day she released the inspirational video, "I was here".

This triple threat has extended her talents to the fashion world, she was not joking when she sang that she "was repping for the girls who taking over the world."

The House of Deréon is a joint clothing venture created by Beyoncé and her mother Tina Knowles, inspired by a shared love of fashion and style. It is a ready-to-wear fashion line, the style and concept is inspired by three generations of women in their family. The name "Deréon" pays tribute to Beyoncé's grandmother, Agnèz Deréon style. The tag line "Couture.Kick.Soul" represents Agnèz Deréon as the "soul," Tina Knowles is the "couture," and Beyoncé is the "kick." Recently the Fall/Winter 2012 House of Deréon collection was unveiled. Fashion photographer Jean-Baptise Mondino shot the ad campaign, with Beyoncé representing her new collection in her fierce and fabulous style. The collection is simplistic, boho chic with long skirts, denim and jersey tops. In addition there are elements of leather and animal print in the line. Beyoncé is sexier then ever with her chunky motorcycle boots,leather and leopard print detail. Apparently the collection was inspired by the experiences of the Glastonbury Music Festival, which Beyonce’s performed at in 2011. 

 

Beyoncé is wearing a slim fit leather jacket, black bra, sheer leopard-printed skirt and black boots. She has elements of gold with her hoop earrings and the detailing on the boots, that are to die for.

Beyoncé is wearing aBlack sexy cut out dress with chunky boots,a fedora hat holding and funky shades, to add a little boho. 

Beyoncé is wearing a zippered black leather blouse and crochet-styled pants with a fedora hat holding her golden locks in place.

Additional oufits from the House of Deréon lookbook that I love:

This collection diverts from Beyoncés glamour goddess appeal and has has an edgy, rock n’roll vibe with a touch of boho...perfect for day and night.

COTURE.KICK.SOUL

<3 G

Judging the Hijab

The word "Hijab" comes from the Arabic word "hajaba" meaning to hide from view or conceal. In present time, the context of Hijab may be understood as the modest covering of a Muslim woman. Some women wear hijab religiously.While others choose simply not to wear hijab. There are some women that wear hijab occasionally...While some women prefer hijab as a fashion Statement...And there are some women that wear hijab only during the holy month of Ramadan...

Hijab is a choice, irrespective of your reason its true meaning should be taught to those ignorant. The reason for my sparked interest in this topic stems from two things:

The first, is that my fathers business Necessities, was the biggest trend setter in Islamic head wear in Cape Town, during my childhood. The second, a Constitutional law assignment sparking a diverse discussion about a restriction on wearing headscarf's in prisons. As the Pillay, Constitutional Court case indicates to determine the centrality of a belief it is necessary to examine whether the individual has sincere belief. The centrality of the headscarf is so clearly to me a sincere component of the Islamic faith. My main concern regarding the topic is to EDUCATE those ignorant of the true meaning behind why women wear hijab. So that statements like "they wear it to make themselves undesirable" will not be ignorantly made.

This story might help in clarifying the beauty behind hijab:

"A non-muslim came to an Alim and asked: Why do your Girls cover up their body and hair?

The Alim smiled and got two sweets, he opened one and kept the other closed. He threw them both on the dusty floor and asked the non-Muslim: If I asked you to take one of the sweets which one will you choose? The non-Muslim replied: The covered one.

The Alim Said: That's how we treat and see our woman. Woman should not be like the Moon that everyone can see and admire, they should be like the Sun, which makes the viewers lower their gaze."

NEON

PASTELS 

LACE 

PRINTS/ PATTERNS

QUIRKY ACCESSORIES

Wearing hijab is seen as a form of protection of womens beauty, similar to how a rose protects its beauty with thorns and how pearls are covered by a shell. Woman in Islam are considered the most beautiful treasures and by taking Hijab she is merely protecting a priceless treasure. The hijab is a covering of the hair from strange men, to prevent indecent thoughts or acts. It is a means to force others to evaluate your personality, character, and morals rather then physical attributes i.e. beauty. Hijab is an ideal that every woman should strive for it does necessarily have to be through her clothing but through the quality of her actions.

Sumayyah Joan wrote 

"What the Hijab is...

• An act of Obedience to The Creator.
• An Act of Honour & Dignity.
• An act of Belief & Faith.
• An act of Modesty.
• An act of Purity.
• An act of Righteousness.
• A Shield.

What the Hijab is NOT...

• It is NOT something new. Muslim women follow the example of righteous women in the past such as Mary, the mother of Jesus.
• It is NOT a symbol of oppression.
• It is NOT required in non-public places where there are only females and close male relatives.
• It is NOT a means to restrict a woman’s freedom to express her views and opinion, or to have an education and a career.
• It is NOT an act of defiance, confrontation or protest to non-Muslims.
• It is NOT a portable prison."

Hijab, just like many other forms of fashion has been around for centuries, it has been adapted and styled in unique ways reflecting the diversity of culture, as it is worn by millions of women. It unites women globally in their diversity...  I believe hijab is a personal choice, to some it may appear beautiful and others not but irrespective of what you think, you should try NOT to JUDGE. As South Africa is a country built on diversity and strives towards the ideal of equality for all. Therefore by embracing and accepting each others differences we are one step closer to that ideal.

I hope you feel enlightened..

<3 G

Summer Anticipation

My Anticipation for Summer has got me thinking about how I am ready to pack away my winter wear. The current weather shifts are so irregular, a clear sign of global warming. I feel like a snowman with my layers, while others are wearing shorts and minis. It may look like a Summers day but don't ever leave your jacket at home because Cape Town wind, never fails to bring cold chills.

In anticipation for Summer I thought I would give you a taste of the 2012 TRENDS that are inspiring me...  

NEON 

Neon has been around to brighten up the dull winter but elements of it can definitely be added to your summer wardrobe, as the colours are bright and fresh. If not for colour blocking maybe a little neon nail paint will be perfect to bring out FUN in Summer...

PASTELS 

Shades of pastel are this Summers most fashionable trend. The colours are soft and comfy, cooling down a sizzling Summers day with wearable flowy dresses and denims.

PEPLUMS

Peplums are oh so heavenly... Definitely a MUST HAVE for every season. I love the fit and how it hides away unwanted curvy areas, sleeking down your silhouette. 

 LACE

Another of my favourite trends it seems to be everywhere from the red carpet to Mr Price. I saw a lace neon mini in Mr Price the other day...Lace is making a come back and is here to stay, transforming as fashion does. I just purchased a lace dress, which I will be sharing with you shortly.  

 FLORAL AND OTHER GEOMETRIC PRINTS

Prints are great, especially with the bright array of trendy colours on offer to liven up any ordinary outfit. They can be found in almost every form of clothing from dresses to denims, a top or scarf. I prefer floral to vegetable prints. Geometric Patterns are also popular ranging from square, rectangle’s, hexagons and ovals. Theses shapes are embedded in the fashion industry, perfect for colour blocking this Summer.

CROCHETS

The antique heritage of Crochet has been revived with the bright colour trends of 2012. It resembles classic style of the Crochet detailing. Crochet Dresses are lovely for lounging by the pool and beach trips.  

 QUIRKY ACCESSORIES

Quirky accessories are always necessary to add to the whimsical feel of Summer, whether it be a tiny retro bag or a pair of shades. Sunglasses are an essential during Summer days, they offer protection and are so interchangeable, like an outfit. For a retro feel a pair of Cat-eye or circular glares with colourful frames, would add a little quirky to your wardrobe.

I am so inspired for Summer...I can not wait to put away my winter wardrobe and create my Summer loving one, filled with elements of the above. I look forward to sharing a little more on pastels, lace and peplums... Summer brings FUN LOVE the Beach TAN Romance RJ loving Lazy but GOOD Days SMILES Colour FASHION and since there is nothing better then a Cape Town Summer...

SUMMER READY...

<3 G