Victoria's Secret Love Spell Shimmer Surprise

I am a huge fan of different scents. I love fragrances, I love the different smells that nature has to offer, such as those you can smell by the seaside, in the woods, in a garden with different flora and many more. When it comes to wearing a perfume, I do tend to gravitate towards the sweeter ones, however there are some more natural ones that I really love as well. Recently a friend of mine went traveling and got me such a special gift from Victoria's Secret. She knew how much I was obsessed with anything shiny and she knew that my favourite VS body mist was the 'Love Spell', so she did get me the limited edition Victoria's Secret Love Spell Shimmer Mist. Love Spell is a wonderful fragrance that captures the sweet scent of peach and cherry blossom. The scent isn't too strong, and it's quite refreshing. The last mist I had from Victoria's secret was 'Pure Seduction' this one served me well for a while. I did love it too, but when I was done with it I just continued using my perfumes, and I never bothered to buy a mist. I am very glad that I can add this shimmer mist to my collection, I don't own any, so I was very excited to start using it.

As for the application, if you spray it on your skin, you won't notice anything until the mist dries (unless you apply little), and once it is dry you get this lovely subtle shimmer. I don't like applying too much, two sprays does the trick for me. This mist is great, it looks cute, smells lovely, and I'm sure I can get away with it at any time of the year.

Staglands

Hello my dear readers! It has been such a long time since my last post but I have had so many commitments in my life that have prevented me from doing many leisure activities. Nonetheless I really wanted to write about something that I really enjoyed not too long ago.

Recently I did travel to the land below down under, some may know it as middle earth others as Aotearoa, and most as New Zealand. During my trip I visited this amazing wildlife reserve called Staglands that's just outside of Wellington, in the Wellington region.

You can really get up close with a huge variety of barn animals as well as some gorgeous birds, and my favourite, Elk! The environment felt so fresh and clean at Staglands. It was also very serene and calm. The beautiful green scenery made the experience a lot more enjoyable as well.

Many of the birds and animals love coming to you because you are just the most amazing being that they have witnessed. As they are so intrigued, and have come to love you in the few seconds they have known you, they begin to communicate because they really value the blossoming of your new friendship. I'm just kidding, these animals want one thing and one thing only, the bag of goodies you carry around so you can feed them. I didn't realise how big the reserve was when I first came, so I gave a lot of food to the ducks in the begining. At least they were happy.

The image above is of a native bird called a Kea. This one was very friendly.

The following two images are what I thought were the two cutest places in the reserve. First is the little enclosure that held many bunnies and guinea pigs. All of them were absolutely adorable. One of the guinea pigs that I held, I put on my chest, and he or she did not want to get off because of the comfort. He or she was also extremely tiny (about 10 cm in length). I was having an internal meltdown at that moment because of the cuteness overload.

The other place which was a great success due to its design was the secret garden. Here there was a little pond, birdhouse, many rabbit holes and many animals. The nice ones were the turtles, rabbits, and lambs. The geese on the other hand were not so nice, let's just say I did not know they were trouble when I walked into the secret garden. At first I got the impression that they were trying to attack the turtles because I, the sole holder of food, was giving all my attention to the turtles. The geese must have wanted to divert me away, or steal my food, or maybe they enjoy having a go at the turtles. The reason remains unknown because when I did give the geese some attention they started biting my legs and chasing me. This was the least peaceful part of my adventure.

 There were many elk running through the fields. They were so majestic, I could not take my eyes off them. One did eat my whole paper bag with animal treats though. I guess they are keen animals. They are also very persistent, because the one that ate my bag, also started trying to push a poor ram away from humans. It was an interesting first experience encountering elk, that's for sure.

The walk may make you a bit tired, or hungry, luckily there is the cutest little cottage like cafe located in the reserve. I thought the interior was very pretty.

 

Staglands is definitely a must place to visit if you are ever in Wellington, especially if you love animals, or if you want to enjoy nature at its best. The drive to the reserve was also pleasant, just don't drive too fast as there are many curves. I actually got driven (I was also facing the back of the car rather than the front) and at points when the curves were very constant, I did feel a little ill, but what's an adventure without imperfection?

Till next time!

LIEBSTER AWARD

Hello fellow readers! I have been busy lately, but I have been planning a few posts. In the mean time I thought I might join in the get tagged and tag on trend by participating for the Liebster Award. I was nominated by JESSICA BIRD and Unicorn Girl 2000 (thank you :3  ♥) so now I get to pass it on! The idea behind this scheme is to help some not so well known bloggers get noticed, and maybe discovering something new and interesting. Let's get started!!

♥ RULES ♥

1. Thank and link the person who nominated you.

2. Answer the questions given by the nominator.

3. Nominate 11 other bloggers (who have less than 200 followers) and link them.

4. Create 11 new questions for the nominees to answer.

5. Notify all nominees via social media/blogs.

♥ QUESTIONS FROM JESSICA BIRD♥

1) What is your guilty pleasure?

Watching Rich kids of Beverly Hills. It's really addictive!

2) How would your friends describe you?

To be honest I'm not too sure. I think my closest friends would say I'm a trickster/prankster, really loud person, who is nice. My outer circle friends might say I'm funny or really full of life. You tell me friends.

3) What ten things make you happy?

1. Tea.

2. Summer (but only when I don't have to sleep) - this includes: warm night walks, the beach, and tennis.

3. My family.

4. Good night sleeps in winter.

5. Once Upon a Time - someone literally decided to make that show for me

6. Scientific research (yes I love science, in particular anything to do with multi/totipotent stem cells or the brain #nerdinmeisout!! #nowhide.

7. Art - drawing, creating, anything related... etc.

8. Make-up!

9. Watching the VS fashion show every year.

10. Going on adventures in the wilderness - it's fun and healthy.

4) Why did you start your blog?

I felt like I didn't have a simple hobby I could commit to so, because of my love for fashion/creativity I decided to start writing about it. Having a blog though is a little more work than I thought.

5) What is your favourite word?

I really have no idea, on the spot though: serenity.

6) Where do you want to travel to most?

Dubai, Cairo, Barcelona, over Scotland, Patagonia, London, and small towns/ explore nature/ temples in Mainland China. That is my list narrowed down.

7) Where do you getting your blogging inspiration from?

Fashion that I like, from make-up that I buy that I like, and places I've been to (adventure blog posts coming soon).

8) What is your favourite quote?

I like a lot of quotes, but here is a good one from the Odyssey:

(Zeus): 'Oh for shame, how the mortals put the blame on us gods, for they say evils come from us, but it is they, rather, who by their own recklessness win sorrow beyond what is given […].' (1.32-34)

9) Who is your celebrity crush?

Tom Hiddleston or Colin O'donoghue.

10) What is your favourite lip product?

Lip liner, it really is my necessity.

11) What is your goal for 2015?

Write a lot on this blog, and improve along the way.

♥ I NOMINATE ♥

Snemish

Petals of Perfection

Stephh Jayne

Sunflower Sundae

sophievmace

Tasting Lifestyle

India Snow

all she wrote was

Styled by Charlie

Vogue Noir
What's on the blog?

♥ MY QUESTIONS ♥

1) If you could pick a dessert to represent you, which one would you pick and why?

2) What is your favourite holiday or time of the year?

3) What is one beauty/ make-up item you cannot live without?

4)What was your favourite memory of 2014?

5) What is one of your pet peeves and why?

6) If you could live in another country other than your own what would it be?

7)What are you looking forward to the most this year?

8) What is your favourite Taylor Swift song?

9) What is your favourite sport?

10) If you were a super hero, what powers would you have?

11) What are three of your style icons?

Pass on the love ♥

Spring/Summer 2015 Favourites

So here in Australia we are a bit behind on the band wagon when it comes to new fashion, and it's not our fault that the summer season in the fashion industry begins in the middle of the year. This means that we will have to wait until next year to wear what the trends offer. This isn't so bad, but it can get annoying when you fall in love with something that is going to be in trend, and retailers in your local city can't offer it. By the time they do begin selling whatever it is that you wanted, you might be over your phase, or into something new.

For my summer fashion inspiration I decided to take a look at what some to designers have to offer in their 2015 Spring/ Summer collections. It is summer here and it is 2015, so why not take some inspiration.

Dresses:

Hermes - ready to wear Paris fashion week.

This dress is absolutely beautiful. It's in a great colour of pink, very faded and subtle. The style looks like something that belongs on a Greek or Roman goddess, and it is also very simple. This dress is perfect for summer, it drapes down, it looks comfortable and loose, and the light colour can reflect the sun light.

ZAC Zac Posen: ready to wear.

This is another stunning garment, I am in love with the colours. This dress speaks to me of the beach, tropical wonderland, and summer perfection. My favourite detail is that it is slightly shorter at the front (it still has the maxi format) and then breezes out into length at the back.

Les Copains: ready to wear Milan fashion week.

If you are feeling more edgy, but still want something comfortable for summer, then this dress is your ticket. I love how this dress tries to show off the human body, but at the same time it hides so much. It looks like something that would be great for warm days. Even though the colours are on the dark side, it looks like you won't get too hot in it due to the light, see-through material at the bottom, and open sleeveless top.

Dolce&Gabbana: ready to wear Milan fashion week.

Before I comment on the outfit I have to let you know that this is one of my favourite S/S 2015 runways. It is inspired by the 'heritage of the Spanish culture on Sicily’s history', and the extravagant details on simple designs is just amazing. If you would like to watch it I recommend the edit on the Dolce&Gabbana YouTube channel, I have put the link below.

In terms of this outfit, I actually think it's a top with a skirt, I could be wrong though (its close up is cut in the edit). Either way, the gems are stunning, their layout suits this concept really well. The skirt is something I would wear, it looks loose, wavy, and carefree, but at the same time it shows some maturity. I also love fairy tales and this looks like it could be in one, so more bonus points to you Mr. Dolce and Mr. Gabbana, well done on this beautiful runway and collection.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CqiT2zEFiNU

Shorts and Pants:

Anna Sui: ready to wear fashion Mercedes-Benz fashion week.

This outfit as a whole is stunning. The colours are so natural, perfect for many day occasions. The floral elements give the a delicate touch and a nice pop of colour. I love the jacket matched, I know it's a little bit out there, but it makes such a bold statement. The shoes finish off the outfit perfectly, they shine, they match the flowers and the bold statement this simple design is trying to make. I want it (even though I'm a dress person in summer).

Emporio Armani: ready to wear Milan fashion week.

Many designers today design women's clothes in a way of what society expects women's clothes to be like - feminine, delicate, mainly dresses, (fashion week has a lot more of them (and skirts) than shorts or pants), or curvy ... etc. You get the picture. I love diversity in women's clothes, and I am so glad that the Emporio collection had some women's clothes that are less conventional. These outfits are perfect for an everyday look. The blazers are my favourite element, they are very chic, simple and blend with the striped shorts. This is a fantastic look for summer, you can take off the blazer if you: are out of the sun, go inside, or get too hot. At the same time you can leave it on if a cool breeze hits you or if you just want to protect your arms from UV.

Karen Walker: ready to wear New York fashion week.

The oxfords, the scarf, the sunnies, there is not one thing on this outfit that I dislike. I love my nudes, and I could not be more pleased. I love how the focus is more on the yellow and gold tones through the scarf edges, the shorts, and the shine on the shoes. My favourite element is definitely the jacket, it has a poncho shape, and when matched with everything else, it makes the outfit more interesting and unique.

Topshop: ready to wear London fashion week.

Up next I have to comment on two outfits. I tried to restrain myself to just one outfit per label, but I couldn't say no to these.

Firstly the shorts onsie, it is very, very simple in terms of its design. The way it has been put together though is a different story. Its simplicity goes a long way. The white really complements the boldness of the red lips, crimson belt, and red bag and heels. This is a very classic look, with elements from previous decades (1950's especially), but with a modern twist. What's not to like?

The second outfit simply gorgeous. I am loving these pants, they are skinny and high-wasted, and they come to an end at the seen before crimson belt. They don't have much going on, but when you put them together with that singlet, there is a story to be told. In summer here (where UV is a problem), I don't feel like wearing a maxi all the time (when I want to protect my legs from the sun), I do like to wear pants, and I would 100% wear this.

Now it isn't summer without hitting the beach or swimming, especially in Australia, so here is some swimwear.

Moschino: ready to wear Milan fashion week.

This bikini is what I need. The colours are everything that I have ever wanted in a bikini; elements of strong aquatic blue, and a bright and bold colour, in this case it happens to be yellow. The design is great, and I love the matching cardigan.

This one piece is adorable. It has so much character in its simple design. The choice of colours tells me that this outfit is going to be fun if I wear it. The blazer match and hand bag are great additions, these really give the piece as a whole more character.

images from: vogue.co.ukfashion/spring-summer-2015

That is it for this post! I hope that you have found some inspiration for your summer looks.

Gone But Never Forgotten

The fashion industry has faced many great losses recently, some of which are very well known and others not so much by the general public. I will go through a few names because I have personally admired their work, and think they were wonderful contributions to the world of fashion.

First up on the list is hairdresser Aldo Coppola. Not only has he made his mark by establishing Aldo Coppola, what is now a multi-million hairdressing business with many salons around the world, he was also a fantastic innovator. From a young age he worked in Milano with his father who was a barber, and from then on just developed in the profession of hairdressing. What I admire about him is this development, not only had he grown as a better stylist throughout the years, but he was a key player in the development of fashion throughout the years. He is behind the introduction of layered hair, the spiral hair curler, and he also had signature ways that he dyed hair, which have made a huge impact on how many dye their hair today. Of course he isn't like any other stylist, he had to open an academy, this definitely shows that he is in his own league. Coppola has worked with companies of high standard in the industry such as Vogue, and L'Oreal. Some talented designers that he has worked with include Valentino, Armani, Franco Moschino, and Versace. Unfortunately he passed away in November 2013, at age 73. His work as a stylist will never be forgotten.

image from: http://www.spettegola.com/imprenditori/e-morto-aldo-coppola-hair-stylist-delle-dive.html 

Next up is someone who I have been a huge fan of for a long time. His death was a huge shock to my reality. To me this designer was one of the reasons why I love what fashion has to offer, and to see this component gone from the world, I had a hard time adjusting to believe it. Yes, I am talking about none other than Alexander McQueen, passed away February 2010. His works are so creative, they are unique, masterpieces in the world of couture. In my opinion I think it is hard to pull off crazy and extravagant ideas as couture fashion pieces that look stunning, even if you are a well known designer. McQueen has worked his way up the designer ladder to create his legacy. I think it is important to note his spring/summer collection of 2001, VOSS. This collection to me looks like fashion on the verge of sculpture and art.

images from: http://blog.metmuseum.org/alexandermcqueen/tag/voss

McQueen may not be here today to give us more of his great couture, but thankfully he has created a legacy that lives on. His brand continues provide the fashion industry something special. Kate Middleton's wedding dress for example was a huge success, the design was perfect for a royal wedding. One of my favorite collections from his brand is the 2013 autumn/ winter collection. It has a very antique and vintage feel with a lot of edge.

images from: http://www.vogue.co.uk/brand/alexander-mcqueen

I am glad that at the very least, fashion got a taste of McQueen, even if it wasn't for a full or expected lifetime. He was a man who was not afraid to push the limits, now that may not always be a good thing, but it can allow one to see how far they could go themselves (*Givenchy past*). He was an inspiration to many, and will definitely remain as one.

Then there is Manuel Mota, a Spanish designer, known for his wedding gowns. He not only designed, but was also the creative director for the company Pronovias. Pronovias is known for its amazing dresses and it has had amazing designers such as Valentino work for the label. Mota was extremely talented, he produced many designs that could satisfy a myriad of preferences. Here is some of his work.

image from: https://www.preownedweddingdresses.com/dresses/view/123433/Manuel-Mota-Erika-Size-6.html

Image from: http://www.minhafilhavaicasar.com/tag/manuel-mota/

image from: http://www.wwd.com/fashion-news/designer-luxury/pronovias-designer-dies-at-46-6581300/slideshow/6581340#/slideshow/article/6581300/6581340

He was fantastic no doubt, and if he had still been alive I'm sure he would have not disappointed the fashion industry, especially in the elegant dress category. 

Andre Kim is the next designer I would like to mention. Many see him as South Korea's top designer, and it's no surprise. He was the first person from South Korea to hold a show in Paris, and later his success grew world wide everywhere. He is mostly known for his distinct style that is traditional with contemporary elements, and not to mention, bold colours. The reason why I love his designs is because firstly, they are so unique in the fashion industry, and also because they are so intricate. The detail captured in his outfits differs a lot from many top designers.

This fashion show was stunning, the aesthetics are amazing.

image from: http://iheartfx.wordpress.com/2010/03/03/pics-fx%E2%80%99s-sulli-and-sj%E2%80%99s-siwon-for-andre-kim-fantaken/20701f174b8e5c377ecba5/

image from: http://banillamodels.com/index/bbs/board.php?bo_table=int&wr_id=23

image from: http://forums.luvsuju.net/index.php?showtopic=2184

Andre Kim on the runway.

image from: http://culturemmag.com/index.php/2013/07/andre-kim-after-andre-kim/

Unfortunately he passed away in August 2010. It is sad for Korea to lose this talented and successful man. His work is truly iconic.

Finally the last designer on my list is none other than Oscar de la Renta. I was absolutely devastated when I found out about his loss (October 2014). I have been a fan of his style and clothes for a long time. Loss is one of those sad things that you have to deal with, and the most positive thing I can do is commemorate his greatness. Here are some of his fabulous designs (he has so many that I love, it was hard choosing which ones to feature).

Who can forget this T-Swizle number.

Image from: http://www.sheknows.com/beauty-and-style/articles/1054655/oscar-de-la-renta-gowns-that-take-our-breath-away

Beyonce looking as regal as ever.

Images from: http://www.vogue.com/867683/from-the-archives-oscar-de-la-renta-in-vogue/

His work is just too wonderful, I have no words.

Image from: http://gotham-magazine.com/personalities/articles/oscar-de-la-renta-the-sultan-of-chic-interviewed-by-linda-fargo

I hope that you have enjoyed this post, and admired some of these designers' works, if not all as I have.