Toddler Travels

It's almost time for us to jet set, and my toddler is all packed and ready to fly! Besides her huge bag-full of snacks as well as clothing and Winter accessories, I packed her her own little hand luggage. She is absolutely excited about this and even helped me to pack it! In this post I will let you take a peek into Nuhas Trunki which can be used as a good base as to what to pack into a kids carry-on.

 

A Trunki is a childrens ride-on suitcase. It's perfect for when your kids are bored and tired at airports, as they're able to ride on steering themselves with the front 'horns' or you could even pull them along. It's a great little suitcase in which you can put in all their clothing and essentials for a plane journey and comes in pretty colours and styles! {Available for purchase at Toys R Us!} 

I have filled Nuha's Trunki up with essentials for the plane ride. Here's what I have packed in thus far (I will add on if I remember anything else until we leave, but for now I think I have it pretty much covered!)

To Nourish

I added in a variety of snacks for the long plane journeys and airport hauls. I will take out one every 2-3 hours, as snacks also serve as a form of keeping her busy! I packed in : Cheesecurls, Peanuts, Jumping Jack Popcorn, Ultra Mel sippy custard, 2 fruit juices, 1 bowl and spoon, 1 packet of 2 minute noodles, Mini Cheddars & A box of smarties (I know that I am breaking my own 'no sweets' rule by taking a box of Smarties along, but this is to be taken out in absolute dire circumstances only!) I packed all the snacks into a snack bag (in case of spilling so as to save the clothes.) If your child does not eat 2 minute noodles, it's a good idea to carry along a quick snack such as chicken pops, chicken nuggets etc. because as we know kids are unpredictable and could refuse plane food altogether - can't really blame them, they're kids but they're still human beings! It's also a great idea to carry along extra snacks even if your kid isn't big on snacking - remember that Murphys law seems to apply most to kids!

To Entertain

It's always good to tailor-make your child's entertainment pack according to their likes. For younger children, something other than the television shows and in-flight games are necessary to entertain them. I have packed play dough (certain to keep her entertained for a while!) as well as her mini mirror,  lipstick a f hairbrush - it's shocking how long this keeps her entertained!! I have packed in one of her favourite books and of course, I have also packed in her fully charged and loaded tablet which is certain to keep her entertained for hours!

To Medicate

I have packed in for fever - nurofen, for pain - stopayn, to aid in putting her off to sleep - allergex as well a chamomila tablets in case of a serious tantrum. These medicines are for the plane ride and her additional just-in-case medication can be found in our checked-in luggage.


To Refresh

I packed in a little bag of cosmetics containing essentials pictured below.

Just In Case

I also packed along two sets of clothing, a set of pyjamas and a warmer jacket and hat for stepping off into the Los Angeles chill.

Now about me and my overpacking tendencies - you've seen what I wanted to pack, now have a look below at what I really did pack -

1. 1 pair of blue jeans and 1 pair of leather leggings as well as a pencil skirt

2. 5 shirts and 1 tshirt

3. 3 pairs of boots (in my defense, two are to be left behind) 

4. 2 pairs of gloves, 2 beanies, 1 hat and 1 scarf.

5. 2 pairs of sunglasses

6. 3 jackets

7. 3 necklaces and 2 pairs of earrings

8. 1 handbag

Not bad for an over-packer, I'd say! This is my last post for the year as I am departing for a month-long holiday, I will return in January with my tales of travels, outfit posts and maybe even a special giveaway or two! Keep an eye on my Instagram page for updates on my journey and some Winter fashion inspiration.

Positive vibes & The Mandatory xoxo

Hali    

Is Winged Eyeshadow the New Gel Liner?

Move over gel liner, you're about to be over shadowed!

Ever since I came across the winged eyeshadow looks featured on Make Up Geek followed by an array of looks popping up on my Instagram feed, I have been wanting to give it a try; and finally did so today.

It seems as if winged eyeshadow will soon take-over the winged eyeliner sensation. What's great about this trend is that your imagination is the limit with regard to colours (being a neutral eye kind of girl, I will most likely stick to my nudes with a pop of smokey or little pop of colour here and there, but I am certain that introducing colour into this technique would look amazing!) I love the winged eyeshadow look, gives off such a pretty finish and not as harsh as winged liner but somehow more dramatic.

Have a look at some winged eyeshadow looks as well as some pictorial tutorials on how to achieve this look.

  

 

I gave the winged eyeshadow look a try today using the Too Faced Chocolate Bar palette - a simple day-look ~ here is a step to step on how to achieve this look.

Step 1 - Apply white chocolate all over eyelid and above eyelid up until the brow.
Step 2 - Apply Marzipan to the inner corner.
Step 3 - Apply Creme Brulee to the lid, starting from the point that the Marzipan ends (be sure to blend well using a good eyeshadow brush)
Step 4 - Using an angled brush, create a wing using Triple Fudge (have a look at my previous post Winging It to see how to achieve the perfect wing) and glide your brush along the crease, stopping halfway.
Steap 5 - Blend in Black Forest Truffle to the outer corner of the eye.
Step 6 - Apply a thin line of gel liner to the eyelid (I used MAC Blacktrack) Do not extend the eyeliner outwards.
Step 7 - Apply mascara

*It is great to apply an eyeshadow primer before application, although I did not use one for this look, I sometimes do use the Urban Decay Eyeshadow Primer Potion.
** Too Faced has released the new Semi Sweet Chocolate Bar palette, which incorporates warmer toned colours, definitely a must-buy if you do not already own the original pallete!

Too Faced Semi Sweet Chocolate Bar

I am looking forward to trying out some winged eyeshadow techniques, I may even try a pop of blue on a day that I am feeling a bit adventurous! Being a novice, this seemingly simple look took me a bit of time to achieve; if you're planning on giving it a try, remember not to give up at the first attempt (I almost did!) Just keep thinking of the make-up mantra ~ practice makes perfect!

Positive vibes & The Mandatory xoxo
Hali

Pre-Holiday Problems

It's the most wonderful time of the year...I know, I have already began a post like this recently, but I can't help it! Every time I visit a mall and come across the tinsel-clad railings and lit-up celings; Every time I switch on the TV and there is a Christmas-themed movie showing and everytime anyone speaks to me about their travels, I can't help but sing the song in my head, over and over again (I'm sure I'm not the only one!)

I embark on my American adventure next week - but this post is not about that, this post is about everything that happens before this trip.  As my mom was putting the finishing touches on her packing (her bags are ready to be locked and are good to go!) she asks me, "Did you put any washing powder into your bag?" to which I responded "Not yet, because I haven't packed yet." The look on her face went from shock to disbelief to annoyance  - all in less than a minute. "What do you mean your bags aren't packed yet?? We're leaving in seven days!!" she said in the mom-tone that makes everyone's heart skip a beat.

This brings me to my first pre-holiday problem ~ I am a last-minute packer. I almost always forget something, so I have learnt my lesson over and over again - which is why I have decided to change this. As of this morning, I decided to change my packing procrastination and become an early packer - (yes mom, packing 6 days prior to a trip is considered early by most standards!) 

This brings me to my second problem; which believe it or not, I came to realize in another conversation with mom that I must share with you all. Again yesterday, during moms final-touches-of-packing she asks me "How many pairs of  boots are you taking with you?" to which I cautiously replied that I would be taking two pairs along (I lied, I was planning on taking at least 4 pairs along.) "What do you mean you are taking 2 pairs with you, how can you ever do such a thing, what are you going to then do with all the pairs of boots that you are still going to buy, I cannot believe that you are taking so much of stuff with you, you always do this, your bags are going to get so full, I am shocked." I added in commas to give you a chance to pause and breathe whilst reading - I'm pretty sure that she did not pause nor breathe whilst saying it. This is what she replied to my taking two pairs of boots along. Imagine if she knew how many I was really planning on taking - needless to say I did not volunteer than information (although she's about to find out as she reads this - sorry, mom.) 

My second problem - I overpack; and like most young women, I love shopping so often I end up with too much of stuff (both old and new) and too little space. I have had to leave many a beautiful clothing item behind simply because I could not possibly squeeze in another thing in. I  still remember the perfectly good black coat I left behind in London, and the pair of blue heels left in my hotel room in Hong Kong. This time, I decided that I really should not overpack just so that I will not have to leave loved items behind for the lack of space. 

On that note, here is a list of clothing (besides essentials) that I WANT to pack -

1. 1 pair of blue jeans, 1 pair of black jeans, leather leggings, 1 pair of white jeans, 1 black formal pants, 1 pair of yellow jeans and 2 pencil skirts.
2. 8 shirts (of different styles - flowy, furry, collared etc.) and 2 tshirts.
3. 1 dress.
4. 4 pairs of gloves, 4 beanies, 2 hats and 4 scarves.
5. 3 pairs of sunglasses.
6. 4 jackets.
7. 4 pairs of boots - 1 white, 1 black, 1 red and 1 tan.
8. 5 necklaces and 3 pairs of earrings.
9. 3 handbags

One day ago, prior to the two-pairs-of-boots lecture, I was actually going to pack all of this stuff. Now, I realise that I cannot possibly pack it all!

Once I am all packed and ready, I will share what the new and improved light-packer in me really did pack (A post on How To Pack Light, perhaps?)

Wish me luck ~ I hope that the hoarder in me allows me to pack as light as my mom says I should.

Positive vibes & The Mandatory xoxo
Hali

*pictures are not my own, please click on images for photo credit

Confessions of A Diaper Bag

A Day in the Life of Zac Holshausen…

Our day begins slowly at about 6:00 am, when we hear the first impatient calls of our little boy down the hall. He wakes rather cheerfully, but then he wants to play!! At about 7, he demands his breakfast, and the day begins.

Now the one piece of baby kit that I never leave home without is my diaper bag… well almost never ;)

True, if my diaper bag could talk, it would probably tell you, “I’m awesome!! I’ve totally replaced her hand bag and she takes me Everywhere!”  

But if you chatted long enough, and it started feeling like it could share some secrets, it would also be able to tell you a whole lot about me that (if you’re not a mom, and maybe even if you are) might cause you to wrinkle your nose ;)  Things like “I’ve had medicine and baby wash spilled in my pockets… more than once, and sometimes together! I have carried dirty nappies – yes, sometimes for a day or so – only for her to remember when she discovers them and she’s out somewhere with me and she can’t throw them away!! And when we go to the beach, I feel like I’ve carried the whole beach home with me, lol!”

But I hope that despite the complaints, my diaper bag would tell you how much fun we have.  We never go anywhere without books, blankets, nappies, dummies and of course Zac’s favourite teddy bear, Goodie.  I’d like to say I’ve never forgotten his bottle or food, but that would be untrue! We also always try to remember a change of clothes… for me and for Zac, but that too has not always gone according to plan ;)  And since Zac Loves to unpack this particular bag, there are often things that I’ve thought were in there that weren’t when I needed them!!

I am truly grateful that I get to spend my days with Zac, as I work from home and am able to have him home full time.  He sleeps at 9:00, and that’s when I madly rush around trying to accomplish my tasks before I hear him calling me at 11.  At 12 Zac & I sit down for lunch, and I have never met a person who LOVES Bovril like this child!!

We work in the garden, or have a swim, or run errands (Zac loves shopping!) until 14:00, when he sleeps again.  Sometimes I manage to get more work done, and then he wakes at 16:00.  If dad’s home, we pack a sundowner and head to the beach or go for a walk.  

After supper, Zac heads straight to the bathroom as fast as his little knees will carry him.  He Loves bathtime.  At around 19:00 is bedtime for Zac, and it all starts again in the morning ;)

A few things that have surprised my husband (and even myself) as they have come out of the bag have been:

- A squashed banana

- A broken tub of yoghurt

- The lost house keys

- One of my husband’s epaulettes

- And of course the stinky nappies… although that really should no longer surprise me, it still does, lol!

Yes, my diaper bag tells a lot about the Holshausens – even the sneaky chunks of biltong hidden in there for Zac by his dad and the bag of wet wipes that Zac emptied one by one and I stuffed back into the packet so as not to waste ;)  But we do have fun, and even on the days when I’ve forgotten this essential bit of kit, there’s evidence of how we improvised ;) ;) … you should see my car!!

I would like to thank Debbie for sending me this beautiful snippet of their lives - I truly loved reading this piece! If anyone would like to submit a piece on Confessions of a Diaper Bag, please pop me an e-mail and you could be featured on the blog.

Positive Vibes & The Mandatory xoxo

Hali

Marsala, anyone?

Goodbye Radiant Orchid, Hello Marsala!

 

Pantone Universe has announced that Marsala is the colour of the year for 2015. Marsala is a deep brown-red - the colour is derived from the wine of the same colour. 

Have a look at some celebrities who have rocked Marsala on the red carpet in 2014; I am certain that there are MANY Marsala inspired looks to follow in the coming year! I am crazy about Blake Livelys look seen below.

The colour of the year translates to makeup looks as much as it does to clothing. When the colour was announced, Sephora immediately released a 'colour of the year' campaign and announced that they would be releasing an exclusive Marsala makeup collection soon.

 

Other makeup retailers jumped on the Marsala bandwagon by choosing nail polish and lipstick colours that closely matched the colour. The closest lipstick that I own which matches the Marsala colour is my MARC JACOBS Understudy ~ when applied a few times over it becomes a deep brown {a far cry from my signature MAC pinks!} and I will definitely be using it a lot more in the coming year and will even purchase a lippie or two in this fabulous colour. 

Take a look at some lip colours, blushers and nail polish that closely match Marsala.

Apart from incorporating Marsala into your makeup regime, you can also rock it with your clothing. Some staples that should last you throughout 2015 include a pair of burgundy jeans/ leather pants (huge already in 2014), a burgundy handbag, a deep brown-red leather jacket and even a pair of deep red shoes. If you are not keen on trying out bold signature pieces for the Marsala look, why not throw the colour out in a scarf or sunglasses? I will be investing in these items and can't wait to share my looks with you! 

Marsala is a deep and rich hue which is a far cry from the playful purple colour of this year. From my makeup looks to my clothing, I will most definitely be trying out this rich and gorgeous colour. I love that it is not a very daring and outrageous colour, but rather one that everyone can incorporate in one way or another. What do you think of the colour of the year? 

Positive vibes & The Mandatory xoxo
Hali

*please click 'view image' for photo credits

Survival Guide To Traveling With Kids

It's the most wonderful time of the year - everyone is looking forward to the holidays, but if you're going away with little kids, the very idea of the traveling could be daunting! In my experience, the most difficult part of traveling with kids is the journey itself - once you arrive at your destination, kids seem to adjust quickly to a new environment. Find below some tips on surviving a plane trip and airports with kids.

Traveling with Toddlers ~

 

1. Communication - toddlers are fully able to understand everything that we say to them and act accordingly. For weeks before the flight, prepare your toddler, explaining to them that they are going on an aeroplane and how much of "fun" its going to be with all their favourite games and movies available to watch. Make it appealing to them and they will be excited and (hopefully) prevent them from acting out too much. Whilst on the plane, keep reiterating what a treat it is with reinforcers such as "Remember mommy told you how much of fun this was going to be - aren't you having an amazing time?" It provides a great distraction. It is an innate quality of human beings to want to please - especially a child to  his/her parent. Positive reinforces are wonderful and urge the child to behave in a positive way  ~ and a little reverse psychology goes a long way.

2. Sleep - If you choose to give your toddler a little something on the flight to make them sleep, please do so on permission of your pediatrician and make SURE you have tried it out at home prior to the flight (some medicines take an adverse effect on children and make them hyper-alert - toddlers are active enough, they do not need anything to intensify this!)

3. iPad (or any other technological device that your kid loves) - Some moms are anti-technology for their kids at a young age - I am not one of those moms. At home, I believe in limiting the use of technology as they need outdoor stimulation in addition to this. However, on a long-haul flight, do whatever works! Take along a fully-charged iPad or any other device that is airplane-friendly and will keep your child happy.

4. Snacks - Take along some snacks - airlines are very accommodating with regards to child meals, but sometimes kids can be picky (and they do choose the worst times) so having their favorite snacks can help and even serve as a great distraction from a tantrum. Carry along little packets of nuts, dried fruit and maybe a packet of chips or two- No sweets please!

5. The airline kit for kids - most airlines provide a little bag filled with activites for kids. Make use of this - the kids will be occupied with the colouring book and snacks for ATLEAST half an hour.You can also take along a colouring book, writing pad and even play dough (I will be taking this along, my little girl will be occupied for hours on the eating table provided - nothing a little wet wipes can't clean up!)

6. Do not pull out everything in the first hour - Brace yourself - pull out your bag of tricks one at a time - for the first hour movies, the second snacks, the third colouring book etc.

Traveling with babies ~

It is a bit more difficult to advise on traveling with babies, as they are not able to communicate and so cry as means of getting anything or when they are uncomfortable or unhappy. Again, if you are going to give your baby a little something to help them sleep, make sure you do so on permission of your pediatrician.

1. Soothing - Make use of a pacifier or bottle or any means of soothing (perhaps a favourite blanket or teddy) that your child prefers.

2. Take along snacks for older babies - hand-held snacks for babies are a great distraction, snacks such as Flings, cheddars, dried fruit flakes are all a great idea.

3. Take along some toys - I came across this little traveling bag for babies and just had to share it with you all! I think it is such an innovative idea and great for taking along toys without the hassle of putting it together your self. This traveling kit contains 10 activites that are age appropriate from 4-18month olds eg. grasping, posting and looking as well as sensory activities. There is also a book, peekaboo cloth amongst other items. I think this kit could keep a baby entertained for hours and will definitely come in handy for both plane trips and airport waits. It comes in a lighweight suitcase with instructions what to do with the items. You can purchase them from Lucy Johnson - they are R120 each. Contact Lucy on 083 413 7724 (DURBAN area)   *I am giving away one of these traveling kits - have a look at my Instagram page for details*



Lastly, the best advise I can give is to stay calm - children can sense anxiety and if you act out, chances are that your child will too. Ignore the stares from other people, chances are you will never see them again! I wrote this article a little for my readers and a little for me too; as I will be flying 16 hours with a 2 and a half year old!

I hope that all your toddlers sleep for most of their flights and for the time they are awake, watch the in-flight entertainment whilst quietly munching on snacks. If not, keep chanting to yourself the mommy mantra "This Too Shall Pass." Happy holidaying & Safe Travels Mommas!

Positive vibes & The Mandatory xoxo
Hali

Destination Review ~ Paris

Twinkling lights over your head, the smell of freshly-made crepes on the streets, Nutella and croissants every where you turn (literally) and the simple eclectic ambiance...it's called the most romantic city in the world and deserves every bit of this title. There's no place quite like Paris!

What you need to know

Paris is located in France and is an approximately 2 hour train ride away from London with the Eurostar train service whilst a flight is around an hour and a half. You can catch flights in and out of other European countries into Paris at reasonable rates through www.ryanair.com or compare prices on airlines through www.skyscanner.net when perusing for flights. 

When my husband and I visited France, we flew from Madrid into Paris and departed using the Eurostar service from Paris to London - I loved the Eurostar and would definitely urge everyone to try it out for the wonderful experience. When using the Eurostar it is important to note that the procedure is exactly as if you are boarding a flight, as you are crossing countries you are required to go through security, passport control, customs and the whole shebang - I cannot stress enough to arrive at the station EARLY as if you are going to the airport to board a flight - we almost missed our train due to a misjudgement of the amount of time it would take to get on board. 

South Africans require a Schengen Visa to enter France. The cost of this visa is R814 ~ we applied for and obtained our visas through VFS Global in Durban, they provided a great service for a small fee and we found the visas to be very easily obtainable.

Transport in Paris is no hassle as there are train stations located almost everywhere and the routes are fairly easy to understand. It is important to take note that all instructions on the trains are in French and some impromptu announcements are not translated into English - if you are uncertain, ask a local. True to the myth, the French are not the friendliest of people; find the most approachable-looking person near you and just ask! I may or may not have ended up on a train that started moving backwards in the complete opposite direction; after being too shy to ask anyone what the announcement that I did not understand a word of meant. 

Attractions and Things To Do

The Eiffel Tower

I had extremely high expectations of the Eiffel Tower, and had set my mind that I was definitely going to be disappointed. I approached the Eiffel Tower for the very first time at night. I walked towards it, and at my first glimpse, I literally gasped. The entire structure was alight and twinkling from top to bottom. No picture could ever do it justice - it is breath-taking and I was most definitely NOT disappointed in any way!!



Disneyland Paris

I am a kid at heart and I am CRAZY about Disneyland. From the shows to the thrilling rides to the magical carnival, Disneyland is an absolute must-see when visiting Paris. Be sure not to miss the parade (there are a number of parades throughout a day) as well as the Action Show! Another must-have is Ben & Jerrys ice-cream sold inside the park. Whether you are a kid at heart or have kids coming along with you - a day at Disney will be a day well spent.

Louvre

The Louvre is a must-see, if not only for the culture-rich and amazing art pieces that lie within it, for the gorgeous outward structure.

Champs Elysees

Perhaps the most glorious street in all of Paris, the Champs Elysees runs for 1.9 km and within it lies the famous Arc de Triomphe, cafes and luxury stores. Visit during the day for your shopping fix and during the night for an amazing atmosphere, late night bites and a romantic stroll.

Where To Stay, What To Eat and Where To Shop

Our first hotel stay in Paris was at the Hilton Paris. The hotel itself was beautiful and the rooms spacious, but the breakfast had a limited range to choose from; although I could not complain too much, seeing as I had all the nutella and croissants I could imagine right in front of me! It is great to stay somewhere near the Champs Elysees as most attractions are within close proximity. I recommend also staying a night or two at the Disneyland resort, or one of the resorts nearby (most provide free shuttles to Disneyland) as the park is a distance away from central Paris, which could prove to be a tiring journey back. 








 Paris has some of the finest patisseries in the world, so it's a great idea to try out their delicacies. From croissants to pastries in high end bakeries to the most amazing crepes you will ever eat - found on roadside carts near the Eiffel Tower, to the amazing (and sometime strangely flavoured) Laduree macarons, the Parisian sweet treats are not to be passed by.

Shopping in Paris is some of the finest in the world, with high end brands at almost every turn. Champs Elysees is the obvious choice for shopping, however, in addition to this, I also loved the stores at Marna-La-Vallee, which is a town located near Disneyland. From high-end stores to mid-range, they have it all and the range is gorgeous!

Visit Paris with your other half ~ it is as magical and romantic as you have heard it to be, maybe even more so!

Positive vibes & The Mandatory xoxo
Hali

Trends that are here to stay ~ And we're not complaining!

From last year through to this year, and even continuing to next year (as per fashion weeks trends forecasts) we can see a pattern of a continuation of trends. I love seeing new twists on the older trends!

1. Skirting Sensation

The skirt trend has been rocking the fashion circuit since 2013 and I have loved it ever since (well, technically; since the 1950's but we can look passed this since it did fade out for a long while!) I was pregnant for most of 2013 and there are some trends that pregnant women should not step near (well, this pregnant woman, atleast!) so my midi-skirts came out to play at the first post-pregnancy opportunity (see post on Fabulous vs Fashion Faux Pax for details on this look) 

A midi skirt is basically a skirt that ranges anywhere from slightly below the knee to slightly above the ankle. The style can range from anything from a pencil skirt to a flare. More recently, we have seen flare skirts on the rise and I am becoming obsessed with the flare as a stark opposition to the pencil skirt. You can add interest to your look by choosing a skirt with a bold fabric, texture or even incorporate tulle or net. Pair it with a loose tucked-in shirt or more fitting top for a looser skirt. Check out my post on my No-Jeans wardrobe challenge on how I styled a black pencil skirt down for a casual Saturday. Pictured below is my look for my cousins engagement last night. I paired a cream midi skirt with a black top and black heels with a pop of colour and added on the 3D flora necklace.

Skirt - Mumbai
Top - Quiz
Shoes - Soviet
Necklace - Ziba Styles

As I was perusing through Instagram, I came across these skirting looks which I love. Pictured in the first frame is Shaheeda Mahomed (Instagram@shaheeda18) - she sent social media into a frenzy with this single look and it's not hard to see why ~ this outfit is the epitome of elegance! 

Pictured below is Zaakira (Instagram - @ladyzaa) in a cute and quirky ensemble - I love this funky take on the long skirt ~ I am drawn to this look because of the edgy style and as always, Zaakira has fun with fashion! www.princessofjozi.com

Lastly, pictured is Carlinn (Instagram - @superficialgirl) in some of my favourite of her skirting looks. She is always on point and I love how she plays with pastels and achieves the perfect balance of colour.

I will be continuing to follow the skirting sensation trend right through to the end of Summer and then some; I'm definitely not complaining on the continuation of this trend!

2. A Pop Of Colour is the New Black

T-Shirt - Zara 

Jeans - MNG

Shoes - Centerpoint

We all are aware of how important a little pop of colour can be to transform an ordinary outfit into extraordinary. Monochrome is here to stay so naturally the pop of colour isn't going anywhere! Add it in on your shoes, your handbag, your lipstick or nails or your accessories and most importantly, have FUN with this trend! 

Pictured below is Blogger Sydne Style's interpretation of the pop of colour,I absolutely LOVE her style, she never get's it wrong (Instagram @sydnesummer)

3. Statement Jewels

As seen on the runways of New York, Milan and Paris; statement necklaces and earrings are here to stay. Choose either a statement necklace or statement earrings to pair together with a simple outfit. If I wear a bold neck piece I keep my earrings simple or skip them altogether to avoid an over-the-top look and vice-versa. I am definitely an accessories girl and have my organiser filled with all my favourite jewels - call me crazy but I love just looking at them every time I pass by my dresser; I purchased my organiser pictured below from Dash and Pancache (Instagram ~ @dashandpanache) Check out my two favourite online jewelry boutiques for the most beautiful statement jewels Ziba Styles ~ Instagram @zibastyles and So You The Boutique ~ Instagram @shopsoyou 

4. Winged Eyeliner

This has been around for a long time and will continue to be around for a VERY long time to come. Refer to my post on Winging It for more details. 

Check back soon for trends that I am NOT so crazy about - Trends that should please go away and stay away ~ Coming Soon.

Positive Vibes & The Mandatory xoxo
Hali