Hey dolls. I must apologize for the silence and absence of my OOTD posts thereof. I guess the last few days of the summer are taking a toll on me. I have been down with the flu and have not been able to compose a proper post. To add fuel to the fire, my laptop is still not working. I swear you never know how much your life rotates around that piece of equipment until it tires and shuts down (hope not for good in my case).  I have been through several stages since then. At first I was relaxed and sure that it was only a little hiatus. Then I got worried. And angry. After a couple of days I was panicking. I am finally calm and have accepted that sometimes in life, we are too caught up in something so much that the only way we can ‘snap out of a routine’ and spend time to enjoy the different pleasures of life is if that distraction takes a break. I love writing, trust me, and would not give it up for anything. After reading this post on Miranda’s blog, I’ve realized this short break has giving me a chance to regroup and organize.

Regroup with friends and family and God.

Organize ALL those things that I start but never finish. I have been handpicked by my Maker to accomplish my fair share of tasks. In order for me to go down in history,  must complete.

For my outfit of the day I am going casual. Even though a pair of heels will always switch up a casual outfit in a second. I spotted and handpicked this colourful top at a thrift store and was immediately drawn to it. I was shocked to find out it was originally from Primark. Which only goes to prove, NEVER rule out any shops. A lot of times, am in for a surprise. Look at all that beautiful detailing in the back!  As for the washed look denim, I ordered them from Zara and couldn’t wait for them to be delivered. Once again, good ol’ Zara did not disappoint. The fit is impeccable. The jeans are well-fitted yet comfortable. I picked the out because of the zip detail at the ankle which I still have to experiment with. Details on full outfit below:

Blazer-H&M

Jeans- Zara

Top – Thrifted (originally Primark).

Courts-Louboutin

Black tote bag- Unbranded (Ebay)

Thanks a lot for stopping by my blog and taking the time to drop a comment.

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My blog has been suffering from a serious unplanned hiatus. i apologize to all my readers. the only gift I can remunerate myself with is this Style Diary from the stunning Nia Groce. She is two words: simple and beautiful. Enjoy her diary.

My name is Nia Groce and I have lived all over the world but mostly grew up in Alabama. I’ve also lived in Germany, London, Qatar, NYC and other cities which all have influenced my fashion style and various passions. Some of the things that I enjoy doing are photography, learning about new cultures and travelling in order to experience new things and learn about all parts of the world. I recently graduated from Howard University with a degree in fashion merchandising and have since moved to Cali to begin a career at Gap’s headquarters in the fall.

My style is quite eclectic but always has a classy sophistication to it. I often add a unique or quirky piece for fun along with splashes of color. I think it’s fashionably smart to stick with classic pieces that are timeless while adding your own flair.

My fashion influence comes from other cultures that I’ve encountered while travelling and living in various cities. I also love vintage and thrift store finds because they are always unique.

Which brands or designers ‘speak to you’ the most? Zara is a brand that “speaks to me” the most and Chloe and Celine are definitely two design houses I identify with for their aesthetic and classic pieces.

-Any beauty secrets? I’m not big on make-up. less is more for me. But I do love a bright lip to help pop up any outfit and always smile (it’s the greatest accessory)

-Favourite make-up brands. NARS has great lipstick colors.

-What is the most beautiful thing about you and how do you accentuate it? I would say my smile because I can often be very serious and business oriented. But when I smile I think it shows a different side of me and I often get complimented on it so I try to always wear one. =)

-If you could trade places with any other person for a week, famous or not famous, living or dead, real or fictional. with whom would it be and why? Queen Nefertiti to experience life in ancient Egypt as a beautiful and elegant queen that is a fashion icon to this day.

-Your favourite music track would be…? Drawn 2 U by Jaffrosax featuring Yukimi Nagano

-What is your favourite trend right now? Peplum!

-If your life was a movie, what would be its title and who would play you? Eclectic Culture – and me?

-Your top 5 must-haves:
Anything:
-My Nikon
-Phone
-Lip gloss
-Skype
-Bag/Purse

Fashion:
-Maxi dress
-Black dress
-Cute wedges
-Lots of rings
-Sporty Jacket

-Your house is in flames, what one item would you save out of your closet and why? My Nikon. It’s my baby.

-Your all time fashion icon is… My sister =)

-Your favourite quote/saying “Fail Harder” -Dan Weiden

-Do you have any blog, video links or website we can catch you at?

Yes! Please check me out on niafashionista.com and pdniag.tumblr.com
I also love to upload pics on instagram, via @niag

Thanks! =)

Everyone needs one sturdy, statement, stand out bag that speaks for itself in their closet. Even though bigger totes appeal to me more, a reasonably mini-sized tote will do just fine. Getting a really good quality statement leather bag is admittedly very pricey but here a few reasons why you will not regret your purchase:

-A good buy will go a long way. If it is original leather, it will last you for years. So choose the right one in a colour that you’re sure you won’t tire of in the near future. 

-Leather bags are an investment piece. Even if you do get tired of your one or you’re the kind of person who loves to update their closet every month, you can always resell them for a good bargain and replace them with yet another.

-We will forgive you if you rock them over and over again. Even celebs carry their statement bags EVERYDAY. think Rihanna and Kim Kardashian with their Celine totes. 

-They complement and add taste to even the simplest of looks. 

If you don’t have a statement bag, don’t kill yourself. It takes time. Hell, I don’t even have my dream one yet. (Alexander Wang rockie bag I’m looking at you). But if at all you’re looking to get one, these are some of the most popular ones right now.

I’m showing off my sturdy leather bag from Autograph at Marks & Spencer here.

Autograph, Edina Ronay and Ebay.

A picture of three totes on my Instagram which I got for a bargain:) 

Henar of www.ohmyvogue.com with a Prada bag

Stella of www.jadore-fashion.com with a Michael Kors bag.

Soraya of www.styleismything.blogspot.co.uk, Mulberry bag

Shirley of www.meek-n-mild.com rocking a Topshop satchel.

Nifesimi of www.skinnyhipster.com with a Zara bag

Folake of www.stylepantry.com rocking a Celine bag

Celine totes:)

BEST FINDS:

SAVE:

Crocodile Doctors bag, £48, URBAN OUTFITTERS (BUY)

Hudson tan tote, £49, MARC B (buy)

Trapezoid city bag, £89.99, ZARA (buy)

Leather Multiway Satchel Bag, £59.99, EDINA RONAY via TKMAXX (buy)

PLAITED SHOPPER WITH STUDS, £129, ZARA (buy)

Studded bag, £29.99, H&M (buy)

SPLURGE:

‘Rockie’ bag, £569, Alexander Wang, (buy)

Bayswater textured-leather bag, £795, MULBERRY (Buy)

Saffiano Lux Tote Bag, £1153, PRADA (buy)

Shoulder Bag Trapeze Calfskin and Stamped Crocodile Bag, £1232, CELINE

PASHLI BAG, £619, PHILLIP LIM (buy)

It has been a remarkable year for newcomer acts. Our airwaves, stereos and clubs were filled with music by artists who, until recently, didn’t have much name recognition. Thanks to the help of social media such as YouTube and Twitter, many more artists have been able to break national an even international ground with their music.

Here’s to 2012′s brightest new acts. Shine on superstars!

1.One Direction

True that X Factor runner up acts almost always become more successful than the winning act itself but no one expected the English boy band, One Direction, to blow up this year as much as they have. With the release of  two million-selling albums in 2012 (Up All Night and Take Me Home), they are the most successful ban to ever come out of X factor yet. Given their massive Twitter influence and millions of screaming female fans, I think their success will carry over into 2013.

2.Kendrick Lamar

This is one of my personal favourites of the year. Kendrick Lamar created the best hip-hop album of the year with good kid, m.A.A.d city, which effortlessly blends popular radio singles “Swimming Pools (Drank)” into a complex, somewhat autobiographical concept. The album debuted at No. 2 on the Billboard 200, selling almost 250,000 copies in its first week. 

3. Grimes

  Born Claire Boucher, Canadian native Grimes is the alternative breakout star of the year. She  told an interviewer that she wrote her breakout album Visions after several days of self-imposed isolation: “I started to feel like I was channelling spirits. I was convinced my music was a gift from God.” Divine intervention or not, the album was a complete critical success.

4. Elle Varner

Elle’s debut single was released in August 2011 but she became a household name in 2012. She reminds me of a young Jill Scott. Elle’s ‘Refill’ has been been Grammy nominated for Best R&B song. The show will take place in January 2013. Seems like she’s only going uphill from here. 

5. Carly Rae Jepsen

The 27 year old Canadian met with exceptional popular success after fellow Canadian teen hearthrob Justin Bieber sent out a tweet urging fans to check out her song ‘Call Me Maybe’. ‘Call Me Maybe’ YouTube video gained over 300 million views and reached the number one spot on both the US Billboard and Canadian Hot 100. She’s released a handful of catchy hits since then.

6. Frank Ocean

Frank Ocean joined the Odd Future Wolf Gang Kill Them All (OFWGKTA) in 2010 and has been a mixtape star for a few years now, it was in 2012 that he established himself as one of the finest songwriters of our time with his debut studio album Channel ORANGE. A stunning work of heartbreaking honesty, the album was easily the most universally lauded major release of the year.

7. Friends

Friends, originally named Perpetual Crush, is a band from Brooklyn, New York. I first stumbled ipon one of their tracks while shopping at a vintage store. This track was playing in the background and I just couldn’t help myself but Shazam it! Found out it was their popular hit, I’m His Girl. They have gained critical acclaim since their first release as one of the most eclectic, alternative pop groups of the year.

8. Jessie Ware

Ware is the epitome of what traditional classy R&B music used to be. However, unlike predecessors Sade and Whitney, Ware is moving the direction of R&B by nudging it gently and respectfully into a new terrain. The bouncy and often times darkly laden production choices on Devotion don’t completely acquiesce to the traditional R&B tropes. Clash called the English singer and songwriter “the missing link between Adele, SBTRKT and Sade” and hailed it as “a strong and accomplished debut”.

9. Purity Ring

If you’ve had an ear to the ground and an eye to the blogs since late last year, then you can’t have missed the hype building around Canadian electro/dream-pop act Purity Ring. With the release of their much anticipated debut Shrines, they’ve proven that they are more than capable of delivering on that early promise. They inhabit a beautifully conflicted musical landscape that feels joyous, ethereal and unnerving all at once. There have been many bands trying to capture the musical zeitgeist of 2012, but few have got the balance so right, as when Corrin Roddick’s shimmering electronic ambiance interweaves with Morgan James seductive and ghostly vocals. Their music blurs and buzzes with wondrous, glossy, danceable melodies, whilst beautifully dark lyrics (part nursery rhyme, part nightmare) unfold to reveal this duo’s deep and unfathomable centre. (Tom Fenwick)

10. Miguel

 BET and Soul Train award-winning writer/artist Miguel found a unique way to roll out his new RCA album Kaleidoscope Dream, the follow-up to his 2010 debut All I Want Is You. He gained some serious recognition this year with a Grammy nomination and records sales. He is often compared to Prince, which I must say is not a bad thing.

11. Fun.

When you call your band Fun. people expect a lot from you. Well, they seem to be having a hell load a fun. Top charting singles, 6 Grammy nominations, international recognition…what more could a band want? Given that Fun. was lead singer’s, Nate Ruess, second attempt at forming a band after the dissolution of his first group; it only goes to show never give up your dreams.

Who has wowed your musical senses this year? 

Rate, comment, subscribe and share!!

Follow me on Instagram @msaidyl1

Yvonne Nelson is easily one of the best breakout stars of 2012 in terms of fashion. Girl has stepped up her game like no man’s bizness. Loving the new swag. She recently posted this hot photo of herself on Instagram at the Ghana Movie Awards and said:

“Ghana movie awards….won best picture, best directing, cinematography, supporting….Thank you God.”

She slayed in an Aqua Louise Halterneck Peplum Pencil Dress . That dress is hot, but sadly my girls would need support so I can’t rock it as good as she does. Nevertheless, we are in luck! The dress in on SALE. Grab a bargain from £150 to only £46.50.

Aqua also make an orange and pink version for lovers of colour. Yvonne went without the gold belt accessory that the model is weraing with the dress. She also rocked a pair of gold pumps. Overall, she looked HOT! Knock ‘em dead Yvy!

Her gold pumps look like the Kurt Geiger Anja pumps at £79.

Rate, comment, comment, subscribe and share! 

Follow on Instagram @msaidyl1

May your Holidays be FABULOUS!!!

Finally! I’ve found this after a long search. Yes, I have been on the hunt for anything in the form of ankara or African print inspired. And then one day, on the 13th of February to be exact   I was just daydreaming past Topshop when I stumbled upon this beautiful skirt. I let out a little squel. I just had to have it. 

This by no means signifies that I closing down all search parties for an African print dress, blazer, pant suit, shirt, bikini…you name it, I want it. 

Please if you know someone who’s met someone who has access to any of these ready-made wears PLEASE contact me on artbecomesyou@yahoo.com.

I wish I was one of those who could whip sit at their sewing machines and whip out showstopping pieces overnight. Unfortunately, I cannot sew to save my life. Working on it though.

In the meantime, I’ll celebrate one new addition to the ankara corner of my closet with this lovely ethnic print pencil skirt by Topshop. I decided to go for a print vs print with this look. What do you think?

PS: The sun was showing me mad love:)

Oh, and if you’ve got the time, check out Topshop’s Spring 2013 collection. Sublime. They definitely know what’s going down this season.

Print Skirt – Topshop (here)

Top – Mango (similar here)

Bag – Marc B (here)

Combination heel sandal – Zara (here)

Accessories (mixed vintage + thrift)

Thanks for stopping by! 

Think fashion, stay stylish!

Tagged: african print ootd, ankara, blogger, cameroonian blogger, ethnic print wear. what i wore, London, mango, ootd ankara, spring 2013, thrift, topshop aztec print skirt, vintage, zara

So everyone, even White Boy; can now Azonto except yours truly. For those who don’t know what Azonto is; it  is a dance and music genre originating from Ghana. The dance involves a frenzied set of hand movements that either mimic everyday activities or are meant to signal an often comical intention.

The Azonto wave first swept over UK in early 2012 or possibly in 2011 but I just hadn’t noticed. Ever since, there has been serious flood of Azonto dance off, tutorials and dance frenzy all over social media platforms. YouTube and Tumblr especially.

This post may proof beneficial learners like myself. Here are a few of my favourite ‘Azonto Moments’ that I stumbled ipon while surfing the www. So don’t sit back, put on your dancing shoes and get ready to Azonto.

These Tumblr Gifs are so addictive. This makes me wanna dance!

This girl just puts me in my seat when it comes to Azonto. Damn! She’s also on one of my favourite Azonto Mashup videos on YouTube.

Azonto random tinz

The official Azonto video featuring Afro Mask:

You might want to watch these…

That’s all I’ve got at the moment. But you get the drift. Hopefully if we ever meet at a party somewhere I shall baffle you with me newly-acquired Azonto skills.

Nite folks. 

Let’s continue this on Instagram @artbecomesyou

One of my favourite quotes is ‘If you can’t go a day without thinking about something, then by all means pursue it.’

Now, I’ve had a myriad of emails and calls from friends, readers and family who are highly suspicious that I may have be going a little overboard with the shopping.

I’d like to put their worries to rest here and now by saying I’m not.  Cue the suspicious piercing eyes.

(Gives in). Okay I am a little. But. I have a method.

-First off, I’m a thrift hunter. I sniff out thrift shop bargains for a living. I live for them. The thrill about thrift shopping is that you never know what you’ll find. Oxfam, Salvation Army, Snooper’s Paradise, Cow Vintage etc aresome of my fave high street thrift/vintage stops. My leather cross-body bag is totally a thrift find. It originally cost circa £90. And it was brand new. Pure leather & brand new. Imagine the concubility!

-I do not know (yet) how to DIY my own stuff but I do RESHUFFLE my closet. I list my old stuff on Ebay and use profits to get new things. It’s not always a huge profit (damn stingy bidders on Ebay) but well worth a try.

-I also mix and match items so they look completely different.

-At the end of the day ANYBODY can have a style blog (without breaking the bank) and continuously post a new outfit everyday for a month and not run out of clothes. It just depends on how clean, elegant or fresh you want your looks to appear. 

-And finally and most importantly, this makes me happy. I am currently looking for  a new job and every rejection letter is just as depressing as the last. Playing dress up, blogging and writing is the only time I can forget about everything. So I totally enjoy doing this.  If you need my services in any way (shopping, writing, promotions) feel free to contact me. 

What I Wore: 

Orange blazer - Mango

Vamp Spiked heel - Zara (similar)

Paisley trousers – Boohoo

Cut Out top – Republic

Leather Cross body bag – Clarks (thrift store find)

What is your take on my paisley ensemble?

Have a fab evening lovelies.

Love & Light xx

Tagged: artbecomesyou, blazer, bloging, cameroonian blogger, dark skin, ethnic blogger, paisley, print, team 237, thrift shopping, vintage

I had attempted to create a kind of ‘Best Bloggers of All Time’ post but that list was verging on the thousands. So I’ve since then broken down that into categories. If you’re an ardent ABY reader, you must have come across the first post which was my Top 40 Bloggers of Colour. This time around we’ll be taking the Oriental Express to explore my Top 40 Asian Bloggers. Yes 40 must sound huge but trust me I had to cut it down to that. There are just way too many cool blogs out there. If you don’t find your blog in this category, you’ll probably be  in the next. Let’s get this started. (Click on titles to visit blogs. Opens in new tab).

Not in any particular order.

1. Tricia Will Go Places

The first thing that hits me about this blog is the title. Don’t we all just wish to go places? That’s the attitude the world needs. Tricia Gosingtian is a 24-year-old photographer/blogger living in Manila, Philippines. Her blog has a very vintage feel which I find addictive and Tricia looks fab. EVERYTIME.

2. Break My Style

Holy smokes! This chic is fabulous. Lauren just looks so damn expensive and chic. Nobody can break your style that’s for sure. I will keep my lips sealed. Visit her blog and see for yourself. 

3.Brown Platform

Anastasia Siantar is one dreamy blogger with an edge. I love her chic styles and daring colours.

4.Thirsty Thought

Thirsty Thought records Kryz Uy’s daily sartorial adventures, beauty discoveries, inspirations and interesting chronicles. Kryz is Filipino and I love her style and travel photos a lot.

5.The Wicked Ying

Mariel is a pretty-spunky social media junkie  shoe addict who is hyper about fashion. In other words, Mariel is wicked. Pun intended. Ha! Read more about her style on her previous Style Diary feature.

6. Konichiwear

Dominique Marie Tiu is a is a twenty-something year old self-declared fashion blogger-cum-stylist from the Philippines.  She exudes elegance. I really love how she’s effortlessly classy.

7. Fashion Bandwagon

The Philippines must be spitting out fashionistas because Stephanie is another Filipino with an amzing style sense. I had snagged up an interview out of her a while ago which you can read on Style Diary. Good Stuff. You might want to keep an eye out for her her shoes…

8. Camille Tries To Blog

I like how these girls give their blogs the most modest of names  and end up hitting the top of the list! Camille is always a fashion designer, sometimes a model and occasionally a stylist . She’s one of the most successful bloggers I know. And there’s a reason for that as you can see. She’s flawless. With brand names like mango on her resume the sky is her limit. Go Camille. And please teach me how to ‘try’ to blog

 9. Can You Pass The Glitter

If you love ethereal and casual chic then you’d definitely love Amelia Jin. Adorable.

10. Nini’s Style

Nini Nguyen styles Rihanna. Need I say more? I don’t think so. Go figure. I become a deaf mute when I’m on her blog. #takesabow

11. Alexander Liang

Alexander Liang is an Entrepreneur, Stylist and Fashion Editor. He is the Editor-in-Chief of  KENTON magazine. Am a fan of his fearless outfit posts and that hair is fierce. Werk it!

12. Cannibaliize 

Lynn Nguyen is out of this world. She’s very futuristic and is serving all kinds of fierce. Wowza! I’ll have two servings of whatever she’s having. I love that attitude in style. Everything works.

13. The Fancy Teacup

This blogger is minimal and chic. Petite girls will love her OOTD entries as she knows just how to dress her small frame. Thumbs up!

14. Lust For Life

Olivia Lopez showcases her love for mixing serious style without compromising substance. She is very trendy and does a good job of making high street brands look expensive.

15. Wendy’s Lookbook

Wendy Nguyen’s blog gives me life. She is very classy, glamourous, fabulous and chic. I must remember to change my last name to Nguyen when I get the chance (notice the other fab Nguyens on the list). That should do the trick right? Anywho, Wendy’s shoe and bag collection are just dreamy. Pure fabulousity. Check her out.

16. Aibina’s Blog

Aibina is an 18 year old student blogger from Astana, Kazakhstan. Aibina is giving me a serious tomboy and bad-ass vibe which I’m digging. 

17. Mellow Mayo

Mayo is girly and chic and extremely cute! Her pastel outfits give her blog a really good feel. You’ll fall in love with her.

18. Genetic Boi

Quan was born in Vietnam and lives in the US. He’s into graphic design and photography. I love his runway-yet-street-ready looks. A lot of clean lines and artistry in his looks. J’adore.

19. Fuss

Rhea from Mumbai exudes style which is experimental and fun. I love her play on colour. And she’s werking the poses. Go Rhea!

20. Wearabout

I must confess I only stumbled upon this blog a few days ago and for that I deserve a right whack on the bum. This blog is awesome! Very original and colourful. Manou the Bombay-based photographer is the brain behind this blog. It consists of street snapshots and glimpses fashion right from the character-filled streets of India. If you love The Sartorialist, you’ll love Wearabout. Awe-inspiring.

21. Extra Petite 

Jean is just under 5 feet tall but she’ll whoop yo’ ass in a Fash Face-off any day! She works in financial services and her OOTD focus on  professional attire for the outgoing stylista/career woman. This is the woman I want to be. She looks good! And every outfit just knocks it out of the park. Maybe I should try one of her combos to help me land my next job…

22. KTRstyle

I always take a deep breath before visiting her blog. Guess why? Yep, you’re right. The fabulousity on there is just too much to take in one dose. KT Reed is a downright girly girl when it comes to style. We’re talking tulles, pinks, glitters, sequins and high heels. Hats off KT, you got me hooked.

23. 9 To 5 Chic

Anh is a trendy career-minded lady who dresses to kill. In her words, her blog is her way of expressing personal style at work while still dressing within the standards and expectations of (her) industry.

24. The Chriselle Factor

Chriselle Lim is a Wardrobe Stylist turned Personal-Style Blogger and Youtuber, has been creating quite a stir in the fashion industry chronicling her personal style, DIY projects and daily inspirations. I personally like her edgy and very trendy looks. She always adds her touch to an outfit.

25. I Am Khatu

Khatu is a 20-something, Vietnamese born and Boston-based blogger. I like that her style is so modern and and on trend. She takes risks playing with prints and colours and they pay off.

26. Andy Heart

She’s the girl you see on fashion week and street style photos, now you can put a name and link to that face. Ann Kim is effortless for days. If only I could have access to her bag closet. 2 Chic.

27. Fast Food & Fast Fashion

A petite fashionista with a penchant for earthy colours and prints. Get into her bag collection. Chanel, Prada and YSL. I want ‘em all!

28. Nadia Aboulhosn

Nadia is a Lebanese-Caucasian fashion enthusiast with curves for days. And boy does she know how to dress those curves. She’s stunning, daring and fierce. Her confidence is something I need to rub off. Wow.

29. Raleene

Raleene Cabrera from Manila, Philippines is not your average blogger. I love the #dontcare attitude which most of her pictures have. She’s on fi-yah!

30. Kiko Learns To Blog

An array of interesting accessories,  and graphic tees are one of the many reasons I love Kiko’s Tumblr. A great portfolio of style. 

31.Her Waise Choice 

Jen is a Vancouver-based personal style blogger who loves pretty patterns, colour combos and looking good. What is not to love about that?

32. The Seams

Meet Trang Huyen. The Queen of high-end meets high street fashion. And her DIYs are a treat! 

33. Song Of Style

Modelesque and ‘it’ girl are some of the words I would use to describe this blogger. Extra chic and trendy. Her travel and Fashion Week pics leave me befuddled.

34.The Aili

Imsu Pithsala runs The Aili (meaning: light, pronounced ‘eye-li’). She is is slick and serene. If you like effortless chic, you’d love her. 

35.A Parisian in America

Alpa Rama was born and raised in France but her parents are of Indian Origin. Alpa is just so colourful and pretty. Her blog is a breath of fresh air. You can also shop cool finds on her online shop Osiyan.

36. Art In Our Blood

17 year old Jennifer is out of this world. She is eccentric, unique, goth-’ish’ and dark. I just love the whole mysterious vibe   she’s giving. And the blog na me is very similar to mine. I can see where you’re coming from girl. We think alike. Fashion is Art & Art is in our Blood. Don’t change.

37.Republic of Chic

Ruhi Sheikh hates anything dull or drab so you won’t find anything of the sort in the Republic of Chic. Duh. I love her minimal yet statement looks. Very clean and classy. 

38.Akanksha Redhu

Akanksha is colourful and I she features items that are not usually on the high street. Great poses too, girl.

39.Stilettos Diary

This blogger hails from Bangalore, India and she serves street style and affordable fashion on a very elegant platter. I like how she dresses up her basic items.

40. Cindiddy

Cindiddy takes style notes from Gia Carangi and Miroslava Duma so you get the drift. She’s very sleek, I want her shoes

40.Razzle Dazzle Pickle

Ritu Arya from Bangalore, India is the beauty behind this blog. Love it’s colourful and youthful feel. Ritu showcases modern styles and I love that her pictures have a cultural feel.

41. Helielyb

And one extra  for luck! I couldn’t leave out the lovely Heliely Leanne Bermudez. Ger style is so refreshing. Her blog is inspirational. And yes Heliely you’re right, God IS good.

Phew! And there you have it: the list of all my Asian BFFs…  My Top 40 + 1 Asian Style Bloggers.

Who are your favourites? Break My Style, Nini’s Style and Art In Our Blood, KTRStyle… are some of  my guilty pleasure. 

Rate, Share, Comment and Subscribe to receive more fabulous posts.

Meanwhile you can catch up with the Top 40 Female Bloggers of Colour.

Love & Light xx

Let’s start this week on a high note with our well-loved Style Diary which is back by popular demand. On our Style Diary today is modelesque beauty Natasha whose blog I follow religiously. She was also featured on my Top 40 Bloggers of Colour. I caught up with Natasha and here’s what she had to spill:

ABY: Let’s start off with some bio stats about yourself Natasha.

My name is Natasha Ndlovu and I was born in Zimbabwe and also grew up in South Africa. I live in London where I work as a model, as well as being a blogger. I love photography, traveling and recently I have started doing fashion DIYs. I speak Ndebele, English, Spanish, French and am learning Russian.

ABY: In a few words, what would you say your dressing style is like?

I like to experiment with different styles, but right now I am into feminine pieces and stepping away from the masculine-androgynous look. Street-style photos really influence my look because it’s where you see people interpret the brand in their own way,  versus a carefully put-together runway look. 

ABY: Which brands or designers ‘speak to you’ the most? 

I am loving Valentino’s ss13 collection, as well as Balmain . One is soft and delicate, the other is ‘tougher’ but both are still feminine in their own ways. 

-ABY: Any beauty secrets?  -Favourite make-up brands, stuff like that

I am currently using Lancome cleansing products, which, so far, are good. But Estee Lauder will always be my go-to brand in terms of beauty. I use pure olive oil on my skin, as well as coconut oil in my hair, other than that, there is not much I do routine wise. I will, however, highly recommend Bioderma makeup remover from France. It feels and looks like water but works like magic in removing makeup. 

ABY: Whoo, I have recently jumped on the Lancome bandwagon. Good stuff! Okay, if you could trade places with any other person for a week, famous or not famous, living or dead, real or fictional. with whom would it be and why? 

I would like to trade places with Miroslava Duma, editor of  Buro247  website. Not only is she stylish of course, but she has an amazing work ethic. It seems like she is never in the same city for more than 2 days. She works with new brands and designers, which is great for fashion-hungry individuals like ourselves. She seems to have it all together.

ABY: Don’t we all just want to be Miroslava… #oneday. What is your favourite trend right now? 

I am loving the check board print from Louis Vuitton and black-and-white stripes. I also really love the metallic trend. I bought a pair of metallic wedges from Zara the other day and have my eye on a metallic bag. I can’t wait to wear them when it gets warmer. 

ABY: Your ultimate fashion no-no is…

Ultimate fashion no no is tights with Uggs. Tights are not pants and people can see your underwear ..just no !

ABY: LMAO! If your life was a movie, what would be its title and who would play you? 

And if my life was a movie, it would be called Natasha and I would play myself. I can’t imagine anyone else, famous or not who is anything like me, so I would just play me. 

ABY: Your top 5 must-haves. 

-Mac’s Russian Red lipstick

-a leather jacket

-the Givenchy Antigona satchel

-a pair of skinny jeans

-and a white tshirt.  

Each of these go well when combined with other outfits or put together.

ABY: Your house is in flames, what one item would you save out of your closet and why? 

My vintage fox fur which I bought in New York. It’s one of those one in a million items that cannot be replaced. 

ABY: Your all time fashion icon is… 

Well, right now it is Miroslava Duma .

ABY: Your favourite quote is…

Behind every successful woman is herself. 

-Do you have any blog, video links or website we can catch you at? 

I blog at : Bisous Natasha

My Facebook page is: http://www.facebook.com/bisousnatasha

My YouTube channel is: http://www.youtube.com/user/bisousnatasha

bisous,

Natasha 

Love your style ‘Tasha. As for those gorgeous endless legs, I shall remain forever jealous of them.

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Submit your diaries via artbecomesyou@yahoo.com

Love & Light.

It’s official. My time-management skills need some major improvement. Jillian (NuSophisticate), Stella (J’Adore Fashion) and all these other fabulous bloggers how do you stay blogging?? I pray thee, spill!

It’s almost impossible to find time to even ‘Approve’ comments after a long day at work, not to talk of composing a whole post. Should I create a rota? Should I cut on sleep hours (hmmmm, and let me just tell ya now, me and my sleep are inseparable). Should I get an intern? (Don’t think I’ve reached that crossroad yet). Should I stop watching Scandal, Revenge, Project Runway, Suburgatory, The Voice, Modern Family, Borat over and over….Oh Lord Jesus it’s a fire!

Your tips would be priceless.

Anyhoo. I’ve decided to only have half a panini bread and a southern fried chicken on chilli sauce this lunch break and to use the rest of my quality time to update you on how me and my peeps fared this weekend.

The fabulous Miss Sandrine Abega celebrated her birthday and we all had a lovely dinner out. Quickly, here are some of the pics from Saturday night.

Birthday chica

How ‘gone with the wind’ fabulous is this???

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Happy birthday the fabulous miss Sandy!!

Love & Light x.

So what have I been up to lately? Only two words can encompass the answer to that question: A LOT! I don’t where to begin, we’ll leave that for another post.  Most recently, I’ve been catching up with my girls in London. Last weekend was Noussi’s 25th birthday and we decided to stir things up at O’bar club in London. Being quite the visual person, I’ll let the pictures do the talking. Here’s how it went down:

Birthday girl!

And there you have it! 

For any outfit deets please email me @ artbecomesyou@yahoo.com

Please Rate, Subscribe, Share and Like for a massive giveaway coming up this month!

Love & Light xxx

Naija’s bad gal Tonto ‘Poko’ Dikeh turned 28 last weekend and partied up @Cokobar in London.

Tonto, who turned 28, rocked it out in leather look pants and a leopard print embellished blazer brought out the animal in her. She was also sporting her new blonde bob which is actually suits her pretty darn well.

Her birthday party was just a night before her London Kukere concert with Iyanya.

Tonto has been getting a lot of questions about her new look. In case you were wondering as well on how to achieve it; here’s a video tutorial of Beauty Vlogger Edee Beau glamming Tonto for her concert.

Gorge huh?

…And in more irresitible news….

Iyanya, the Kukere Master,  could barely keep the the ladies off him at his Kukere show in London and it’s so obvious why…

Swoon.

What are your thoughts on Tonto’s new style?

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Love & Light xx

On air personality and self-proclaimed chatter box, Toke Makinwa posted a few pics on her Instagram of herself in this sexy blue bandage dress. I’ve seen a few comments about where to get this dress. This was a hard find and after a long search, I finally found out that this blue bandage wonder is a Herve Leger creation (as suspected). The Herve Leger Legerity Blue Gauze Bandage Evening Dress bears an aztec print design and Toke played matchy matchy (and won!) and accessorized with a pair of sold out £65 River Island Elizabeth Metal Sling Back Court blue heels. They court shoes were only £29 in the sale! 

I question the authenticity of this find as it is only £80 on iOffer...(even though it is supposed to be a sale) #sideeye. Now we all know Herve Leger originals go for at least £400 but if you’re up for a risky bargain then the dress is yours to claim! 

Her sling backs are sold out but there is a similar pair of £50 Bright Blue Pointed  Sling back Court Shoes on River Island if you’re up for electric blue heels. I am!

Get the look for cheap with these similar dresses:

Blue Bandage Dress, £29, Modcloth

Bandage and Mesh T-Dress, £46, Topshop

Eyvette Colour Block Bandage Dress, £109.00, McBerry

S.Y.L.K Bodycon Dress with Contrast Bandage Panels, £85, ASOS

Would you wear this look? I love it!

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Love n Light x

First off, if you had forgotten entirely about my OOTD category, I do not blame you. It has practically been non-existent in the last few months or so. I’m even shocked it got any hits at all. I have been keeping busy with work stuff and just generally getting my bearings. Anywho, the weather has been shockingly good the last few days that I’m almost able to convince myself that I’m not in England but at some posh holiday location somewhere in the South of France…Amidst all the chaos and lazying around, I’ve decided to give my outfit diary a quick well-deserved boost. 

Now you’d think, it would be a breeze getting the most marvelous shots at the best angles with just the perfect amount of lighting with weather this good. That is so NOT the case! We struggled. From end of the park to another. By the time Matti and I found the right spot, my forehead was as shiny as an aluminium bowl:(

Today was my second day out and about on a summer ‘fit hunt.

Quick sidenote: I love summer but I’m not totally in love with the fashion. I just cannot find as many items that I’m in ‘love’ with as I would do in Autumn. I managed to bag these leather shorts a last week from Zara though.  I love them. Leather in the summer is usually a no-go zone but when I saw these shorts I thought, if I’m gonna wear leather in the sun, they sure as hell will be these! Plus they are on the sale. These babies are easy breezy and you can either dress them up or casually with a pair of flats. Plus the burnt brown/ tan colour is a win for me. I paired them with my must-have orange leather courts and a white sleeveless blouse. Of course I packed a pair of flats in my bag even though it isn’t pictured. Hehe. ‘Nuff talking. This is what the whole ensemble looked like: 

Top- H&M (bought in store but similar (here )

Leather effect shorts – Zara  (here )

Orange leather courts – Zara (here )

Leather tan bag – Clarks (bought from a thrift shop but similar here).

Necklace – Topshop (bought in store bought great statement piece here)

Eye make up- Body Shop Shimmer Waves eye palette (Still learning! But get yours here)

It’s been super hot lately I haven’t bothered to straighten my frizz. Plus I’ve been trying out a few no-heat techniques to keep my hair healthy and thick… Hmmm, let’s see how this goes.

Enough pouting. The rest of me…

Hahaha! I can’t stop laughing at some of the faces I was making. 

I hope you love my attempt at an OOTD comeback (fingers crossed). What do you think about my leather in the summer combo?

Stay tuned and please enter my massive giveaway to win ASOS voucher and jewellery! 

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Love & Light xx