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7 Spring must-have's

Jeans Country Road Hat Woolworths Dress Witchery White Tee Witchery Sandal Trenery 

Bag Tory Burch Sunglasses Ray Ban

Spring can be a tricky season when it comes to planning your wardrobe. It's not quite hot, yet it's not quite cold, so you want to have pieces that are versatile and that can carry you into Summer.

I'm all about effortlessly chic, so I've shared basic items that can easily fit into your wardrobe and style. I love bright colors so I would pair it with bright scarves, bright lips and bold accessories. Bandanna's are also a great way to accessorize and bang on trend this season.

The 7 Spring must-have's are:

LIGHT BLUE JEANS

I love the look of light blue jeans. It's fresh and reminds me of clear blue skies on a warm day. Find the style that's right for you. At the moment, I'm particularly liking straight cut jeans because they look great with roll up's and sandals for Spring. I also like white jeans, but if you're still on the fence about white bottoms, have a look at my post on white pants.

PANAMA HAT

Panama hats are known for their style and versatility. It's the hat that compliments every face shape and can be worn with every outfit for every season. I love the classic white Panama, but the black one is also really stunning.

DENIM SHIRT DRESS

This item makes life so much easier! Don't know what to wear? Just slip it on, add a few accessories and viola, you're out the door! Shirt dresses with bold color and pattern are just as amazing, so definitely explore. The best thing about shirt dresses is that it looks good on every body shape, just make sure that the length is complimentary to your height.

THE BASIC WHITE TEE

So fresh and essential for every wardrobe. It's the perfect canvas to create any look. When you're looking for a white tee, make sure the quality and the fit is good. The last thing you want is to wear a washed out, stretched white tee that only lasts one season. I usually go for 100% cotton, they look the best, feel the best and wear the best.

SUNGLASSES

Of course sunglasses! Finding the perfect pair for your face shape is key. It completes any outfit and escalates your style and confidence in a second. There's no Spring or Summer without them.

NEUTRAL LEATHER SANDALS

Leather sandals are great for Spring. They are not only classically stylish, they are also very comfortable in hot weather. I love them in a neutral color because it's more versatile and that's exactly what you need, especially if you're packing for a holiday!

NEUTRAL LEATHER TOTE

Last, but definitely not least, the neutral leather tote. Again, neutral, just because it is so versatile and classically stylish. Its great for carrying your flip flops, sarong, sun block, basically everything you need on a lovely warm day.

These pieces are great building blocks for your wardrobe, so enjoy styling them with accessories that are uniquely you!

Happy Spring!

Find the best shades for your faceshape

There's something magical about wearing the perfect pair of shades! It's the must have piece for every day of the year, call it an evergreen piece, if you will. Some people even wear them indoors...it's just so hard to let go!

If you're in the market for a new pair of shades but not sure which style to go for, you've come to the right place! There are primarily 10 styles, cat-eye, oval, butterfly, pilot, wayfarer, rectangle, rimless, semi-rimless, wrap and round:

 

 The first step towards your perfect pair is to determine your face shape. There are four face shapes, heart, round, oval and square. Each face shape has it's own beauty and complimentary styles.

With help from Sunglass Hut and Sunglass Warehouse, let's see what's yours!

HEART

Aaaah, I love hearts! You have a broader brow and a narrow chin. Any frames that are wider at the top than the bottom will work well. You have a range of styles to choose from that I absolutely adore, round, cat-eye, semi-rimless, pilot, rimless and butterfly.

ROUND

Lovely! Your face is considered beautifully feminine and roughly have the same length and width measurement. It widens at the cheekbones and narrows towards the forehead and chin. Geometric shapes like the oval, round, rectangle, wrap and wayfarer shades enhances your feminine features.

OVAL

Lucky you, you can wear almost any shape, but rectangle shapes are the most complimentary! You'll find that the length of your face will be longer than the width of your face. Have fun exploring with practically any style, but remember not to go too big or too small.

SQUARE

Your features are strikingly bold. Often the easiest face shape to identify, you have a strong jawline and the width of your face from your forehead to your chin will be more or less the same. The most complimentary shades are rimless or shades with more rounded frames like the oval, round, cat-eye, pilot and butterfly.

There's no better way to complete a look and guard your eyes from harmful sun rays or camera flashes! Warmer weather is on it's way, best be armed with the perfect pair of shades!

Happy shopping!

4 ways to wear flats to the office

Let's be honest...nothing beats heels at the office, but it is possible to give your feet a rest and still look and feel professional!

Flats can be perceived as sloppy if not worn right, but I have a couple of tips to help you wear it like a pro!

There are two golden rules:

1. Stick to flats that are classic and chic. Color and print doesn't hurt, but make sure to keep the style simple and the rest of your look neutral so that it still looks professional.

2. The pieces you pair it with must fit well and be structured with clean lines i.e. tailored pants, blazers, trench coats, crisp shirts, pencil skirts. Flowy or loose fitted clothing makes the look go casual instantly.

Here are 4 looks that I love pairing with flats...

CLASSIC BLAZER, CRISP SHIRT, TAILORED PANTS

Get the look: Three toned pump Mimco. Clothing Woolworths. Black pointed flats Sole Society.

The pieces are structured and classic, but that doesn't mean it has to be boring. Use printed or colored pants to match your personal style and add interest, but remember to always keep it simple with one bold piece per look.

TRENCH AND CONTOURED DRESS IN NATURAL TONES

Get the look: Trench coat Witchery. Dress H&M. Printed pointed flats Mimco.

The pieces, although not structured, are fitted. Fit is important to keep the look classic and chic. This look is feminine, which I love and the neutrals compliment the pointed flats beautifully. If you decide to wear printed flats, remember to keep the rest your pieces simple in color and style.

STONE TRENCH AND PRINTED DRESS

Get the look: Printed dress Witchery. Stone trench Witchery. Black pointed flats Sole Society.

Simple black and white pieces always look great. As you can tell, I'm a sucker for prints, especially leopard, but do try dresses with color blocking or bold colors. If you're going bold, remember, once again, to keep the rest of the look toned down with neutral pieces.

ALL WHITE SUIT, CRISP WHITE SHIRT, PRINTED SCARF

Get the look: White suit Woolworths. Scarf Witchery. Black & white pointed flats Farfetch.

Go all white, with accents of black. This look is fresh and chic, a guaranteed power outfit. You can trade in the all white for all black as well, depending on your mood. In case you were wondering how to wear the scarf with a suit, simply let it hang around your neck. Alternatively, tuck the ends into your blazer so that it peeks out along your lapels.

It's time to put my tips to the test and use them to create your own personal style!

Enjoy your 'flat-shoe' moments at the office!

Until next week...

Stay stylish.

The white blazer

I'm reminiscing about the time I went to the Merceds Benz Fashion Week, black opaque stockings, lace-up black suede flats, black and white print dress and of course, my white blazer! I think awesome things happen when I wear my white blazer, because...I met Song of Style!

Not many of us own "the white blazer", but as Spring approaches, there’s no better item to have in your wardrobe!

Why do I love it so much? It's fresh, chic and add’s class to any look. What I love about it most is it’s versatility. You can throw it over a dress, wear it to work or with shorts on weekends. It’s a must have item! It completes any outfit! 

Here are some of my favorite "white blazer looks"...

WITH JEANS

Of course with jeans, am I right! We wear everything with jeans. You can do a classic look with nude heels and tee, or you can pair it with casual flat leather sandals and tee. It's up to you really, but both polished and relaxed looks work!

TO WORK

Wearing it to work is amazing when you want to stand out, so perhaps don't wear it when your boss is looking for a volunteer for some heavy going projects, but totally do if you've done a great job lol Wear it over a printed dress, love it with black and white print, or wear it with all black. Either way, you'll be styling at the office.

CASUAL AND PRETTY

Do try it with a flirty skirt, or dress and printed or colored pants. I love all three of these outfits and think it would make a eye-catching statement.

OUT OF THE ORDINARY

I love to wear outfits that are unexpected and I love these three "unexpected" looks. When you see the items separately, you wouldn't really think to wear them together but it works! Like a white waterfall cardy instead of a blazer over torn jeans and a simple tan sandal or...a white blazer with funky Nike sneakers and a clutch or with leather pants and silver shoes!

FIND YOUR WHITE BLAZER

http://www.woolworths.co.za/store/cat/_/N-1z13s4pZ9tdihyZb96nhl

The best ones I found was from Trenery and Witchery. If you think white is too harsh for your complexion, an off-white blazer is just as fabulous. Also, do try the white waterfall cover if you're not a fan of blazers! I'm sure you'll find the right one for you!

Stay stylish

xoxo

Happy 1st Birthday to Buttonmefancy!

Buttonmefancy is a year old and what an experience it's been! 

She was born late on a Saturday night after packing laundry. Her name popped into my head as I folded the last item of clothing and the rest is history! I must have seen lots of buttons *giggle*

My inspiration comes from my passion for fashion design and the Style Network. I knew those many hours in front of the TV watching Fashion Week, Style Star, How do I Look, America's Nest Top Model and my favorite among many others, Project Runway would come in handy! Like seriously...many hours! Lol

I put in a lot of time deciding on topics, finding pictures and creating content that you'll love and your appreciation has made it worthwhile! To date, Buttonmefancy is getting love from 250 newsletter subscribers, 330 followers on Twitter, 351 on Instagram and 157 on Pinterest. 

In case you were wondering about my social media platforms - Dial into Twitter for original motivational quotes and fashion and style retweets from my fashion icons. See Instagram for Style education, Snapshots of my life, Inspiration, and pretty things and see Pinterest for the looks I love.

Apart from blogging, I am enthusiastically working on the launch of my blouse line! There have been many obstacles including steep learning curves. At this stage, I'v immersed myself in finding the the best fabric and the best hands to help me bring you something special! 

Everything is coming together in its own time and although challenging, your support has been inspiring!

Thank you for the emails, the comments, the follows, the shares and the love. I look forward to keeping you company through life!

xoxo

"Every birthday should be a celebration of the special moments you've enjoyed and the hard moments you've overcome. It's a time to be thankful." - Buttonmefancy

The "busy people" exercise regime

A big part of style is confidence and feeling amazing in what you wear! Ladies, there's no way around it, exercise does the trick!

Our biggest mistake is letting our long to-do list distract us from taking care of ourselves. Why can't we have it all, right?!

I want you to try the Max Capacity workout by Samy Peyrez. It's interval training that is believed to turn your body into a fat melting machine! 16 minute sessions three times a week for the next 12 weeks, perfect for busy women looking for a quick and effective workout!

To make it even easier, there's an app to take you through every 16 minute session per week and keeps track of your progress!

Get the app - http://www.maxcapacitytraining.com/app.html

Some advice, do it at your own pace. If you're not at your fittest, I recommend doing each week's exercises twice until your fitness improves. Don't get into it guns blazing, you may injure yourself. All great progress is done over time, so be kind to yourself and do your personal best.

If you're feeling overwhelmed, take it one week at a time. Getting a regular exercise regime going is never easy...but it's always worth it!

Here's to taking out time in your busy life to keep fit and look great! After all, you deserve it!

"I regret that workout" said no-one ever!

Enjoy and stay stylish!

A different way to wear your pashmina

If you love bows, this style video is for you!

It's always fun to try different scarf styles. This style is especially great with round necklines when you're not in the mood to accessorise. Although simple, it adds a chic and contemporary touch to an otherwise plain outfit. 

Enjoy and stay stylish!

Accessories

Let your accessories breathe new life into your existing wardrobe! It's amazing how accessories can make the same outfit look completely different. The best part is that a new outfit can be born with simple accessories!

The accessories I'll be talking about are probably things you already own, so I thought I would share a few new ways you could wear them to spice up your wardrobe! First up, belts!

BELTS

It is an unwritten rule that an outfit looks best when a belt and bag compliment each other. Changing up these too will instantly change your look, especially if they are bold in color and design. A few different ways you could wear your belt - wear 2-3 belts at the same time, wear them over blazers, swap your coat belt for a leather one, tie them differently or go bold and big!

HATS

Hats are amazing, but sadly I don't see them worn very often. When you're wearing the right hat, you'll definitely get the right kind of attention. Apart from adding some mystery, they can be super stylish. A great hair cut helps too!

SCARVES

Need I say more! Scarves are the most popular accessory. It's the most versatile and most impactful. There is a scarf for every reason and season, I always say. The awesome thing about scarves is that it's always one size fits all and they can be styled in every way imaginable. Try put a leather cuff on your scarf, wear a belt over it, use it as a belt,or try a different style around your neck!

STOCKINGS

Instead of wearing black or nude stockings, try patterned or colored stockings. I personally own too many to count, checkered, hounds tooth and leopard print, just to list a few! They might sound crazy but they compliment a little black dress perfectly. There's so many options, you're bound to find a pair that suits your style!

JEWELLERY

Last, but absolutely not least, jewellery! An eye catching necklace elevates any outfit. Wearing a plain white or black t-shirt with a bold chunky necklace, a black blazer, skinny jeans, pumps and large tote bag is a classic outfit that never dates. If chunky and bold aren't your style, layering dainty necklaces with a simple design is also very stylish. When layering jewelry, be it necklaces, bracelets or rings, be sure to keep the pieces complimentary in design and color. Here are few that I love!

Of course all of these accessories I mentioned can be worn together, but remember not to over do it and stick to one accessory being the stand out piece e.g. if you're wearing a bold hat or printed stockings, remember to keep the rest of your outfit simple.

Happy accessorising!

Layering

I love layering, it not only adds interest to an outfit, it makes the most of the clothing you already have. I layer quite often! The most popular layering season is winter, especially if you don't have a lot of warm clothing and you're trying to save!

A common misconception about layering, is that it makes you look larger than you really are. If styled correctly, layering can be very slimming and effortlessly stylish. Also, it's comfortable and especially great when you feel like wearing pj's all day! 

To help you get started, I've put together a few tips you can try!

CHOOSE YOUR LAYERS

The number of layers can range from 2 - 5 depending on your style. The items you need to have in your wardrobe are items you may already own - Longer length vests, t-shirts, shirts (white or denim), cardigans, jerseys, leather jackets, blazers and coats. I see scarves as a layer too and I love to to add them. Layering doesn't have to be with pants, it also goes well with dresses and skirts.

Remember to keep the layers simple in color and design. If you want to wear color and print, the safest way to do it is to have one bold layer and keep the other layers neutral in black, white, denim or nude.

HOW TO LAYER

Regardless of the number of layers, make sure that you wear your most fitted item as the bottom layer and the largest item, your top most layer.  If done wrong, your layers will look bulky and unflattering. You'll notice, trust me! If you're worried about looking bigger than you are, stay away from bulky jerseys and thick items. Stick to slimming shirts, coats and clothing that keep close to the body and slims down the silhouette.

The key to layering is to make sure that each layer is seen. Layer items with different necklines, different lengths and tops that zip/button down. Each layer will add a different texture to the outfit and create a slimming look.

Happy layering!

The Denim Shirt

A denim shirt is timeless and is really great for everyday! It's perfect for any occasion and all year round. I usually associate it with weekends and holidays but nowadays it works at the office as well. My three favorite ways to wear it are layering, denim on denim and denim shirts and skirts. 

LAYERING

We've seen layerimg more and more and if done well, it's not only a solution for a lack of winter clothing haha! It is also quite slimming and is a very stylish look. To do it right, wear the most fitted item of clothing at the bottom and the most loose fitting on top e.g. vest, shirt, cardigan and coat.  Remember not to button up your top most layer, you don't want to hide the other layers. Each layer should be visible so that you don't look like a marshmallow!

DENIM ON DEMIN

Still my favorite of all the ways you can wear a denim shirt! I love simple, clean looks and I my favorite is a medium blue shirt with white jeans, a tan tote and cute pumps. Here are a few more denim on denim looks you can try which I absolutely love! So chic!

DENIM SHIRTS AND SKIRTS

We usually wear denim shirts with trousers and I love wearing it with bright colored or printed pants and a black blazer. However, I think denim shirts with skirts rule and are not worn enough! I love denim shirts with loud skirts, so unexpected and stylish! 

FIND YOUR PERFECT DENIM SHIRT

I found a few denim shirts that I quite like. Of course I had to post a couple from Net-a-Porter, even if it's just to look at! I also found a few at Woolworths. Either way, I'm sure you will find the perfect style! If you're anything like me, you probably have a couple in your wardrobe already! If you're not digging the style anymore, it's time to find a tailor! You can totally make it work for a fraction of the cost of a new shirt! Happy exploring!

Click here to shop http://www.woolworths.co.za/store/cat?Ntt=Denim+shirt&Dy=1&Nty=1

How to tie a turban-like scarf

Happy Ramadaan to everyone fasting!

I decided to share a "how to" video of my favorite scarf style in the spirit of Ramadaan.

This style is not only worn by Muslim women but is also used as an accessory or to mask a bad hair day! What I like about this style is that it's great for summer and looks great with office wear. This style is perfect to show off beautiful high collared blouses, pretty necklines or lovely necklaces!

Gloves

I absolutely love how versatile gloves are. They are worn to the office, the movies, special events, for sport and even by brides on their wedding day! They are the forgotten accessory!

Who would have thought I would be raving about gloves? Definitely not me! I rediscovered mine on a cold winters morning and it looked absolutely fabulous with my crisp white shirt, leather tote, long chocolate brown coat and skinny trousers tucked into my riding boots. It makes an outfit richer. It's the perfect way to add a touch of vintage to a modern look.

If you're doubting how practical it can be, sure it's a bit difficult to grip things and can look out of place, but it can still work! Two things to look out for is fit and fabric. Make sure the gloves aren't too big or small and that the fabric is suited to what you're doing.

Leather is your best bet. It's the most versatile and easy to clean.When you're driving, make sure it's leather or a fabric with grip! Woolen gloves are lovely for relaxed Sunday's and walks in the park, but can be slippery, so be careful.

To save you time on getting your perfect pair, I did some research! Woolworths has the biggest selection of gloves for everyday use and at the most reasonable prices. Although...I bet you have a devine pair in your cupboard you've forgotten about! If you're not so lucky, here are my favorites:

Photo credit: Woolworths Shop at a Woolworths now!

What to wear?!

I can't tell you how many mornings I've struggled to decide on what to wear! Most of the time I can comfortably throw a look together, but there are days when it's not that easy...and I walk out of the door looking like it! So I got thinking and decided to share a few "quick-style tips" on how to skip the wardrobe war and look stylish getting out of the door on time!

As Nina Garcia, Fashion Director of Marie Claire says, start with the shoes! For winter, I love boots. They look fabulous over a pair of great skinny jeans/pants or worn with a skirt and woolen stockings. For summer, I loooove a great pair of heels or pumps and they look great with three quarter pants and dresses.

Once you decide on your favorite shoe-bottom combos, the rest of the outfit will come together easily. I like to keep the interest in the bottoms I wear, with prints or bright colors and pair it with a classic shirt or blouse. So chic.

And there you have it 1. Shoes first 2. Interesting bottoms to go with your shoe choice and 3. A classic blouse like a crisp white shirt, you can never have too many!

If you're going with plain bottoms, add a touch of personality with an interesting scarf or handbag. Finish the look with a great blazer/coat and classic jewelry. My favorites are a watch/bracelet and a pair of stud earrings.

I hope I gave you a good start in deciding your personal standard! Remember, it's all about the shoes!

Here's to no more crazy wardrobe mornings *fingers crossed*

Photo cred Shoes from Spree online and clothing from Somerset Jane

Espadrilles

I love espadrilles, they are comfortable, versatile and chic and come in a variety of styles - flats, low and high heels. Nina Garcia, Fashion Director at Marie Claire magazine, mention them in her book, The Style Strategy. They are great for spring/summer. I find it works for autum too! I paired it with a light grey jersey, jeans and winter scarf to keep it season appropriate. I bought mine a while ago and I'm still wearing it! Here are a few of my favorite styles for every budget and where to find them:

CALL IT SPRING

I absolutely adore these. Very similar to mine, these go well with dresses and skirts or linen pants and light cotton shirts for spring/summer. For autumn days, pair with a light jersey, jeans and scarf like I did.

SPREE

I found great flats on Spree. I love these with linen pants and shorts. The white polo flat is super chic and is available in black as well. The metallic flats, I think are quite lovely for a casual dinner out with jeans.

NET-A-PORTER

Save the best for last, these are my favorite styles! I must warn you, they have the price to match! They were just too amazing to overlook.

Espadrilles are timeless casual shoes and can really be worn with everything - skirts, dresses, pants, shorts and jeans! Whichever pair you choose, it will be a great buy!

Happy shopping!

Thank you!

3 ways to fit "me time" into your busy schedule

We often take ourselves for granted. It’s easy to get wrapped up in life…if it’s not family responsibilities that we’re taking care of, it’s work and everything else that we do to make the world go round! There never seems to be enough time in the day, especially when it comes to raising kids…however, I believe where there is a will, there is a way! All it takes is a few minutes here and there to feel refreshed. Here are a few things you can squeeze into your busy schedule to show yourself some love:

1.    Morning breather – If you’re a morning person and you are able to wake up 30 minutes earlier, do so and have a great cup of coffee while you browse Pinterest, do your nails or catch up on your favourite blogs. Make sure to prepare for the next day the night before so you don’t have to worry about it during your “me time”. Try getting to bed 30 minutes earlier, 
perhaps a challenge, but definitely worth it!

2.    Make the most of your lunch break – We often underestimate the importance of a lunch break. But we shouldn’t, there’s a reason why it is required by law! Prioritise yourself and step out of the office. Organise to see a friend for lunch, browse stores or get that mani or pedi!

3.    Aim to get to bed 30 minutes earlier – Often we buzz around the house and before we know it, it’s after 11pm and we rush off to bed. Try setting an alarm 90 minutes before your preferable bed time. Use the first 30 minutes to finish off anything you were busy with, the second 30 minutes to get ready for bed and the last 30 minutes to wind down with that book that you’ve been waiting forever to get to!

Was this post helpful? I would love to hear from you! Please feel free to share your thoughts and what you would like to read about next. Leave a comment!  I am also on Twitter and Instagram @buttonmefancy.