Humble beginnings

Welcome to my design studio version 1.0! My husband kindly allowed me to take over our dining room, thanks love! Now all he's left with is the couch and the TV, which I don't think he minds too much lol It's my first designing space and I will never forget it! It reminds me that every dream starts small and getting to where you want to be makes the reward all the more special. The line is becoming more real by the day and I can't wait to share it with you! My online store will give you access to all my designs, ideas on how to style them and a user friendly platform to keep in touch with me. For updates on my new blouse line TopMeUp2015 and the launch of my online store email buttonmefancy@gmail.com and subscribe to my mailing list. Looking forward to it!

The Maxi Skirt

When was the last time you wore a maxi skirt?! What I like about the maxi is that it's really versatile and compliments every figure. Go bohemian and pair it with a flowy top, sandals, layered necklaces and bangles. Alternatively, rock it to work with a crisp white shirt, blazer and heels. I decided to go casual and paired it with a cool vest, soft pink polka dot scarf, vintage leather sandals and accessories. It's such a great piece, it's very comfortable in hot weather (lovely air flow) or on cold days (to hide those long johns!) It's a great buy especially in black, either way it is a forgotten treasure!

Material girl

The past few weeks have been fun! I've been searching far and wide to bring you the best fabrics! It was hard to focus on my view for this collection. There's really so much out there and fabric is just my favorite thing in the world! I finally decided on a simple colour palette of black and white with pops of color and pattern. It compliments the classic styles in the TopMeUp collection and brings a modern but chic look. I can't wait to try out the first round of sample of fabrics! Stay tuned!

Pattern perfect

After being inspired, I have decided on the styles for my new blouse line, TopMeUp! After much deliberation, I finally narrowed it down to simple silhouettes that can fit into your wardrobe and easily be paired with items you own to make great looks! This week I focused on drafting the pattern pieces for each blouse style and thought it would be interesting for you to see what your clothing starts with...an idea, paper, black marker, ruler and maths! Mix it all together and you get the road map for a perfect piece! I enjoy drafting patterns, it makes me feel like an engineer lol I must admit though, my favorite part of the design process is the next step, fabric shopping! So stay tuned for the next sneak peek!

Limited Sneak Peek stock on SALE - The Classic Shirt

To get everyone excited I have decided to put a few of these pieces on sale! Welcome to the first sneak peek of my new line TopMeUp 2015! The classic shirt. Everyone needs a classic shirt in their wardrobe. This shirt is designed with a longer length and slightly more relaxed fit so that it can easily be worn for work or on weekends. Longer length also helps when you feel like you're having a "bad bottom" day! The fit is great to wear tucked in a pencil skirt with heels and over skinny jeans/leggings with flats. It also goes well with slacks. This is a timeless all year round piece that is very versatile.

Available in black and white cotton on sale at R550. Retail price R649. To get yours, email buttonmefancy@gmail.com for your order form! Remember, sneak peek stock limited!

Deliveries to Cape Town, Durban, Johannesburg and Port Elizabeth.

Research and Inspiration

Through knowledge comes inspiration. My inspiration for my new TopMeUp line comes from the history of fashion. I decided to visit a book store and as I browsed I was reminded of the simple but chic style of the 20's 30's and 40's. Apart from deciding that I'm an old soul at heart, I was inspired to make my line about simple, classic easy to wear pieces that can easily fit into your wardrobe. For the young professional that only has 5 minutes to put an outfit together in the morning, this line is for you! Comfortable, easy to wear, classic pieces that can translate from a day in the office to weekend events or casual socializing. Join me in my design process! Read my blog or follow @buttonmefancy on Instagram and Twitter, I'm looking forward to it!

Back to work...in leather

Going back to work? Why not make a statement and wear leather bottoms?! I chose to wear my very own Zeenat Arieff charcoal pencil skirt and paired it with electric blue heels, a white high collar shirt and a charcoal blazer with a touch of hounds tooth. Simple leather bottoms are chic in the office if worn with a classic shirt or blouse and great heels. If you haven't yet jumped on the leather bandwagon, but would like to try it, steer away from "plasticy" looking alternatives as they may not have the right fit and can look cheap. Be sure to look out for leather alternatives that have a matt finish and look very close to the real thing. It may cost a bit more so be sure to buy a classic piece that will last from year to year! My favorite leather classics are pieces with a simple design, clean lines and good fit e.g. pencil skirts, fitted trousers and fitted jackets, maybe even a leather vest if well made. Hope you enjoyed my first post for 2015! Wishing you all a blessed and happy new year!

Picnics and Tulle

Going on a picnic? Wondering what to wear? My clothing items of choice are summer dresses. To me, no picnic is complete without one! On our picnic trip to Boschendal Wine Estate in Cape Town, I wore a tulle bottomed dress, navy in color, with a stripped top. I quite like the nautical feel of the dress, reminds me of ships and sailors! I loooove picnics, one of my favorite things to do in the summer! So go on! Frock up and get those picnic blankets and baskets out! 

Check out this DIY tulle skirt tutorial and get creative http://www.cottonandcurls.com/2012/12/diy-tulle-skirt-tutorial/

Something old

Found myself in Nelson Mandela Square today at an the Antique Fair. The items on display were amazing! I've always had a love for that "something old", like the blouse that I'm wearing. It has a vintage feel with rose detail. I bought it ages ago and rediscovered it in my wardrobe. Lucky me! I paired it with turquoise jewelry and kept the rest of the look simple with leather pumps and dark washed skinny jeans. Have a look at your wardrobe and try out things that you haven't worn in ages and breathe new life into them! If it doesn't work anymore remember to share it with those less fortunate.  This post is dedicated to Madiba, although we miss him dearly, we will never forget his memory and all he stood for... "Overcoming poverty is not a task of charity, it is an act of justice. Like Slavery and Apartheid, poverty is not natural. It is man-made and it can be overcome and eradicated by the actions of human beings. Sometimes it falls on a generation to be great. YOU can be that great generation. Let your greatness blossom." Nelson Mandela. I am proud to be African.

Color your bottoms

I absolutely love bright colored pants! No summer is complete without it! It's so versatile and adds immediate interest to your outfit. Today I paired my cerise pink pants with a black and cream top and blazer from my label Zeenat Arieff. When wearing bright pants, remember to keep the rest of your look simple with with black/white/cream. You could, however, add more zest with color blocking or a bright patterned blouse or shoes. If you do chose bright pattern, try chose a pattern that compliments the color of your pants. If you fear color pants go for darker shades and wear it with a longer length or peplum blouse, but don't miss out! Color those bottoms!

Open day at Truly Truly Sewing School

Today was open day at Truly Truly sewing school. Nikki runs the school and is a great teacher with over 20 years experience in the industry. I've had a lovely time this year with great people! Thank you for the fun experience @TrulyTrulySewingSchool. If you're interested in attending classes in Johannesburg or Cape Town, contact Nikki on 083 373 1563.

Preppy denim

I quite like the preppy look, mainly the pants, shirt and jersey sweater combo with the optional blazer/coat. I decided to go preppy denim with a light blue jeans, a lighter blue shirt and a pastel jersey. If the jersey you want to wear has a sleeve length shorter than your shirt, simply roll up the sleeve of your shirt to meet it. This hides the difference in sleeve length and also gives the look a more relaxed feel. Make the preppy look your own and add your personal touch with accessories. My favourite accessories are interesting shoes and bulky necklaces that rest just under the shirt collar, top shirt button tied or not. Remember, no preppy look is complete without a stylish handbag and sunglasses, so make sure not to leave the house without them!

White pants

Great for every season! I paired mine this Spring with a turquoise chiffon blouse, black blazer, spotted pumps and accessorized with a black and white scarf with yellow edging. I love doing black and white with pops of color. If you are a bit bottom conscious when trying white pants, as many of us are, pair it with lengthy light weight tops like chiffon or linen. Do try peplum blouses and layering as well. White pants are too fresh and chic to miss out on, so shop for a pair that compliments your body type and fits well. Have fun, play around with it and see what works for you! Oh! Psst...one last thing...don't forget to wear seamless nude undies!

Blazer ready

Blazer ready. Be blazer ready all year round. I love light linen blazers as a throw over for spring/summer and cashmere and leather blazers for autumn/winter. Today I wore a black and cream patterned cotton dress with black hosiery and black lace up suede flats. Quite a basic outfit. To add some polish, I whipped on a cream blazer. It highlighted the pattern and elevated the look. Blazers smarten any outfit. Put it to the test! In a basic wardrobe we'll usually find  only black blazers. I encourage you to explore alternatives! My must have's for any wardrobe includes a black blazer, a white/cream blazer and a blazer with an element of interest, either patterned, bright colored or both. Remember that with any blazer you buy the fit must be perfect! #putyourbestblazerforward

Easy style

On days that you're not up for getting dressed but still need to leave the house, I recommend "no fuss and a dash of Wow"! My dark blue denim jeggings, grey v-neck and neutral suede ankle boots = my "no fuss". My blue patterned jacket with a vintage feel = my "dash of Wow"! I kept my accessories quiet with stud earrings, simple silver ring and bangle and leather postman sling bag. The key to easy style is to wear simple tops, bottoms and shoes and then to add one "Wow" piece. This is a great way to feel put together on lazy days or to experiment with trends. Remember that a "Wow" piece can also be a fun accessory like an interesting scarf, a loud bag or a bold item of jewelry. Wear what works for you!

Snake skin

I've rediscovered snake skin this season. It's a statement print and very classy if not overdone. I chose a white and grey pair of snake skin jeans to add to my wardrobe. It's timeless and versatile. Today, I paired it with a simple grey jersey and dressed it up with tan heels and grey cashmere and tan leather blazer from my label, Zeenat Arieff. On warmer days, pair with a white, grey, black or yellow blouse and neutral or metallic sandals. Remember, when wearing a loud print keep the rest of your outfit simple!

Jumpsuit lovin'

I'm loving jumpsuits rite now, especially with fun prints. So versatile and comfortable, it's a great travel piece. Dress it up with heels or go casual with pumps. If you have a fuller figure and feel that it's not for you, try it in plain black or in a dark print with a cross over top like the one I'm wearing. Also try a cowl or V neckline as opposed to a round neckline. Be adventurous and try different jumpsuits, you may be pleasantly surprised!

Time for colour

Find the two brightest colours in your wardrobe and wear them together! For day time, pair with a neutral pair of sandals and accessorise with a complimentary but simple necklace and bracelet. Add a fedora for a more relaxed summer feel. I'm loving hats this summer, they are stylish and practical! If your day out continues into night, lose the fedora, slip into a pair of sexy bright heals, throw on a black blazer and you're ready to go! Outside your comfort zone? Go bold with accessories and replace the bright pants with jeans.

A cold start to spring

A cold start to spring inspired me to try layering with a dress. If you have loose fitting sleeveless dresses in your wardrobe make them work for colder days. I wore a black jersey top and grey printed vest under my dress and topped it off with a fun print scarf. I kept my legs warm with woolen grey stockings (matching the vest) and paired it with cute red pumps for a colour pop. Layer subtle colors with one bright or patterned piece at a time to avoid your items competing with each other!

Go androgynous

Mix colors and add a patterned piece to rev up an androgynous look. Stick to two colors and one pattern. Keep shirts neutral with white, black or nude shades and pair with cute pumps for day time. For evenings out, pair with heels, bold jewelry and make-up. Have fun with this look, it's comfortable, flexible and easy to put together!