The LBD Dahling!

Last week I went to a cocktail party that came up quite unexpectedly and so there wasn't much time to search for an appropriate outfit. So I did what any self-respecting fashionista would do in this kind of situation - I whipped out my favourite LBD (Little Black Dress, just in case anybody's been living under a rock the last few years). My LBD of choice that night was a silk dress from Lipsy which I picked up for next to nothing at a factory store in Claremont (I love me some factory shopping), and the best part was that the labels were completely intact. It's a great cocktail dress with its tiered fabric, cross-over back and slightly A-line cut which makes dancing an absolute breeze. Of course the best part about wearing an LBD is that you can go to town with accessories.

Pics by Melissa Stephens

I went with quite bling accessories since I took the cue from my shoes. These babies by Errol Arendz, whose shoes I absolutely adore, are a classic pair of sexy black sandals that really add glamour to your outfit. I love how 'naked' they are and how they show off your feet to perfection.

My necklace was quite bold since the dress had a fairly simple neck line but I kept the other jewellery quite low key. I added a feathered Alice band to my hair - hair accessories are great with a simple dress and can make you look "oh so chic". The star of the show, however, would have to be my deep red, satin clutch. This is the beauty of the LBD, it provides the perfect backdrop to a statement accessory of your choice (of course its always good to stick to just one).

As many ladies have discovered the wonders of the LBD, it's highly likely that you won't be the only one wearing black. My advice: make your accessories talk. It could be statement shoes, an eye-catching bag or a bold neck piece - either way you'll look fabulous and unique in your LBD.

So until next time...happy shopping! 

Vintage Meets Flower Power

 A couple of weeks ago, I did a shoot at the Winchester Mansions hotel for NACTV and I wore this cream, vintage-inspired dress from the Twist range at Woolies. I love the clinched waist with pleat detail and the flared skirt which is very flattering if you're pear-shaped like me. Plus the dress embraces the whole "midi" length which is really trendy right now. The cherry on top is the bow detail on the neck line which gives it a younger feel.

Pics by Warren Lawrence

This dress does have the potential to come off a bit "granny", albeit funky-granny, so I decided to spice it up with some flower power. My flower ring is excellent hand candy but my favourite thing (naturally!) is the shoes. Also from Woolies, they're tan platforms with floral detail and they really funk up the look.

I decided to accessorise with coral toe nail polish for maximum effect  and kept the make-up really light. All in all, it was a great shoot thanks to awesome people, a stunning venue and, of course, fantastic fashion.

Until next time...happy shopping!