Dreaming in Style design decor places events fashion style

Zara October Lookbook

2011-10-14T21:07:00.002+02:00

In my eyes, Zara can do no wrong. Amazing October Lookbook. I want to book a flight to Europe and run into the nearest Zara store with my credit card.

Pictures: Zara Facebook page

Blue Bird Garage Food & Goods Market

2011-10-14T20:40:00.001+02:00

I have been keen to try the lovely Blue Bird Garage Food & Goods Market for a while, and it's definitely on my list for this month's indulgence in markets. Come on, what a fantastic way to spend a lazy Friday evening. It's open from 4pm until 10pm and is housed in a lovely old warehouse in Muizenberg. I'll post some pictures after the visit!

City Bowl Market on Hope - Fashion Market

2011-10-14T20:34:00.002+02:00

We recently visited the City Bowl Market on Hope for the first time and LOVED it. Less crowded than the famous Biscuit Mill, the market has a lovely relaxed feel about it, plus many gourmet goodies to taste. We tested the lamb curry and some spring rolls - both delicious Plus, the bonus is, it's not super crowded so you can actually find somewhere to sit with friends and enjoy your munchies in a leisurely environment. Divine. We even took ourselves up to the gallery where there is a bar-type setup and you can have a beer, a glass of bubbly or wine, while you people-watch and gaze over the hall filled with stalls, sounds, smells and colours. Lovely. And, they are having a Fashion Market in two weeks' time. Bonus.

Stellenberg Gift Fair 2011

2011-10-14T20:27:00.002+02:00

From speaking to people who are "in the know" about these Christmas gift fairs, I hear the one in Stellenberg is the business. I even hear that some ladies do their prezzie shopping for the whole year at the gift fair. Dangerous for the credit cards but fabulous for a real bout of retail therapy! This year the Stellenberg Fair runs from 19th October - 5th November, Mondays to Friday 10am - 8pm and Saturdays 10am - 6pm. It promises to be a treat...I'm there! For more info, go here.

Constantia Gift Fair 2011

2011-10-14T20:19:00.000+02:00

The Constantia Gift Fair looks stunning. This year the Fair will be held at SARDA, Brommersvlei Road,
Constantia from 19th - 23rd October and is open from 9am every morning, until 6pm (19th - 21st October) and until 4pm (22nd & 23rd October) which gives you a nice opportunity to have a leisurely visit. The entry fee is R20, which will be donated to SARDA (South African Riding for Disabled Association) - lovely to know you are helping while doing your Christmas shopping!

Kamers Vol Geskenke 2011

2011-10-14T20:00:00.002+02:00

I last went to Kamers Vol a few years ago and absolutely loved it! They have an overwhelming selection of things to buy, and the venue is usually beautiful which means you can make a day of it. This year is no different, as Kamers Vol in the Cape will be held at Lourensford Wine Estate in Somerset West from 25th - 29th October, from 9am - 6pm daily. That's in 2 weeks' time people. Lovely stuff.

Best of Cape Town Christmas Gift Fairs

2011-10-14T19:53:00.003+02:00

This is my absolute favourite time of the year in Cape Town. Not only is the weather edging towards Summer, but all the Christmas markets are happening and I just love them! I'll be posting about the ones that excite me the most, the Stellenberg Gift Fair, Kamersvol Geskenke and the Constantia Gift Fair. A visit to any of these is a must! Let me know if there are any that you think are lovely - I always love options!

Scandinavian floor lamps

2011-09-26T19:16:00.002+02:00

Just love Scandinavian design, as I've mentioned. Having a bit of a lamp love moment, and when you see these lamps, you'll know why! Don't you think they are gorgeous?

Photos: Scandinavian Design Centre

Sweaty Betty gym clothes

2011-09-26T12:12:00.001+02:00

I just love the Sweaty Betty gym clothes. I usually look terrible at gym, but if I bothered to go out and kit myself out with nice gym clothes, I'd definitely want these pieces from the Sweaty Betty collection.

Pictures Sweaty Betty

Kate Moss : wedding dress

2011-09-23T13:22:00.000+02:00

Yes, yes - I know it was ages ago but I'm still allowed to say that I loved Kate Moss' wedding dress. I thought it suited her and made her look very feminine and pretty.

Picture: Vogue UK

Wrought iron gates in Greece baby

2011-09-23T13:13:00.001+02:00

I love wrought iron. And I'm sure you agree it just looks extra special set against a backdrop of whitewashed walls and the Greek sea. Very inviting...

Picture my own

Beautiful blue door

2011-09-23T13:11:00.003+02:00

Who doesn't love a beautiful, worn door? I snapped this while walking in Santorini and wished I could buy one and ship it home. Don't make them like they used to!

Picture my own

Santorini : most beautiful views on earth

2011-09-23T13:09:00.000+02:00

Sometimes when walking through Santorini you wonder if it is actually real because it is so incredibly spectacular. I'll be going back, that's for sure.

Picture my own

Shabby Chic loveliness : Rachel Ashwell

2011-09-23T13:05:00.003+02:00

If you love shabby chic decorating, you'll absolutely love Rachel Ashwell's style. I think it's an answer to every girl's need at some stage for a dreamy romantic style of decorating. Feast your eyes on these beautiful rooms done by Rachel Ashwell.

Pictures: Shabby Chic

Grey couch from Bo Concept

2011-09-23T12:54:00.002+02:00

I love Danish design, as if I haven't mentioned it before. I think it is perfectly balanced in all ways. This couch makes me smile. I love grey, and I think the proportions are great, plus there is a handy little pillow-ish bit - who wouldn't love that?

Picture: Bo Concept

Cath Kidston is the best

2011-09-23T12:46:00.000+02:00

I flipping love Cath Kidston everything! There is something completely irresistible about her gorgeous patterns and prints that identifies with the girly me. When we were in London, I almost went moggy in her shop - I wanted to buy one of everything. However I restrained myself (or the exchange rate restrained me!) and now I browse online looking at my next dream purchases.

The Provence Rose Roberts radio - yes please.

Chelsea Roses and Country Check tea towels. A few of these please.

Provence Rose cake tins. Want these so much!

Pictures: Cath Kidston

The perfect watch by Danish Design Watches

2011-09-23T12:36:00.003+02:00

I love this watch. Neat tan strap, neat clear face - perfect design in my mind. See more Danish Design watches here.

Picture: Danish Design Watches

Friday Fashion Love : Carolina E from Fashion Squad

2011-09-23T12:34:00.003+02:00

I just love this look, found on Lookbook, and put together by Carolina E, who is a 24 year old blogger and stylist from Stockholm. You can check out her blog Fashion Squad for more. Black, white and a neon accent bag. Perfect.

Picture: Lookbook

Gorgeous cocktail dress

2011-09-23T12:17:00.003+02:00

Ok wow, this dress is amazing! I love! In my dreams, I wear this lovely dress by Helmut Lang on Net a Porter. I could browse this lovely site all day. Lots of window shopping and dreaming about beautiful clothes for me!

Picture: Net a Porter

Book Club Tote Bag

2011-09-22T16:05:00.003+02:00

I love this tote from Swiss Miss. It makes me laugh. And that's enough of a reason to love it.

Picture: Swiss Miss

Donna Karan belted dress : gorgeous!

2011-09-22T15:59:00.000+02:00

Here's a little Donna Karan from Net a Porter to get you into the weekend spirit! What a gorgeous, chic little number. I can see Kate Middleton (yes, sorry to harp on!) wearing this. Very nice.

Picture: Net a Porter

Charlene Wittstock: Style Icon

2011-09-22T15:53:00.001+02:00

Charlene Wittstock - yes, our very own South African lady who is now part of the Royal Family in Monaco. She has a grace and a classical elegance about her that befits her new role in the Royal Family, and I am sure she has great fun shopping for her stunning designer wardrobe.

Pictures, top to bottom: Hellomagazine.com, rdujour, hairstylegallery

Weekend looks: hippy boho?

2011-09-22T15:35:00.003+02:00

In fact, I love this look. I couldn't personally pull it off though. It's somewhere between surfer chic and hippy boho - I do love it.

Picture: Free People

I want red ballet pumps like Pippa Middleton's pair!

2011-09-22T15:23:00.003+02:00

Now I'm sure Pippa Middleton has a designer pair of red pumps, but I will settle for a more common pair - as long as they are leather. Nothing worse than synthetic red pumps. I quite like this pair by Topshop.

Pic: Shopstyle

Pippa Middleton's style

2011-09-22T15:11:00.001+02:00

I was browsing on Pinterest last night and realised (obviously) that Pippa Middleton is getting photographed a lot more often in really cute outfits. It must run in the family. She has a very nice, chic style - a little more cheeky than her sister Kate Middleton's style - and a nice style to draw inspiration from. Here are some of my favourite Pippa Middleton outfits, and you can click here to see more lovely Pippa outfits, or you can visit my Pinterest. Just love the animal print blouse, paired with jeans to make it a little more casual. Love the blazer and smart dress combo for business meetings etc, and love the swan print dress for a casual stroll along the high street. Note to self : must buy red pumps. They go well with so many outfits!

All pics: Celebrity Gossip

Kate Middleton : Style Icon

2011-08-24T10:54:00.001+02:00

Ever since she stepped into Westminster Abbey wearing the most beautiful Sarah Burton for Alexander McQueen wedding dress, we knew Kate Middleton was a style icon. And she has been seen in the most beautiful outfits ever since. These are some of my favourites, which I think are extremely elegant and fitting for a future Queen: regal in bridal gown, elegant in lace, stunning in purple & chic in navy. I wish I had a wardrobe like that! Pics via Hello Magazine. For more pictures of Kate's gorgeous outfits, see Hello Magazine.

Topshop clutches

2011-08-22T14:45:00.000+02:00

When I was in London in July, I noticed what a stunning selection of clutches Topshop had. See some favourites below:

Pics: all Topshop

Hello Naomi : Cakes, Cupcakes & Cookies

2011-08-22T14:13:00.000+02:00

I have posted before about a beautiful baby shower by Hello Naomi, but I am posting again about Hello Naomi's beautiful cakes, cupcakes & cookies as I just love her style. Beautiful, unique and chic. I wish we had Hello Naomi in Cape Town as I would love her to make a cake for my baby shower one day. Gorgeous! Have a look at some of her handiwork below, and be sure to visit her blog for more!

Pics: all Hello Naomi

Home Love Project : organizing!

2011-08-17T16:25:00.000+02:00

I love order. Today I started ordering & sorting my linen cupboard - starting with duvets. I cut & sewed (I use the term 'sewed' rather loosely, as if you look at the picture you will see that there was definitely more tacking going on) size letters onto the duvets, popped them in plastic storage bags & labelled the storage bags - so at a glimpse, I can see what size duvet is in which bag. So easy, and I hope so effective.

Pics: my own

Awesome thank you stickers!

2011-08-11T15:02:00.000+02:00

I just LOVE these thank you stickers. The calligraphy is beautiful. But then it would be, because it's being sold on Etsy in a shop called KissforCalligraphy. I really want these, and everything else in the KissforCalligraphy shop! Amazing talent.

Pic: KissforCalligraphy

Orchid Cafe loveliness

2011-08-11T14:52:00.000+02:00

If you're looking for a cute spot, and I know I have mentioned this one before, but I just love it - The Orchid Cafe in Chelsea Village, Cape Town, is a wonderful girly place for a coffee or lunch. And you get the feeling you could linger for a while in the cute outside courtyard, reading a magazine or book while enjoying your coffee. It's also never been overly-busy when I've been there, which I really like - nothing worse than having to shout instead of chat when having tea with a friend. A really charming little spot!

Wedding hair : rhinestone comb

2011-08-11T14:47:00.000+02:00

Just found a beautiful rhinestone hair comb on Etsy, perfect for adding that special touch to wedding hair. The accessories and small touches are such fun! I love sparkles, and I think this is a great accessory from IreneJewelry on Etsy.

Pic: IreneJewelry

Zara Red Coat - it's a must!

2011-08-11T14:40:00.001+02:00

If this picture from the Zara Fall Winter Campaign is anything to go by, the rest of the collection must be stunning. A red coat is a nice bold choice, and can work in so many combinations - yet it's classic at the same time. I couldn't get enough of Zara when I was in the UK. Beautiful.

Pic: Zara Facebook Page

Etsy wants

2011-08-11T14:28:00.000+02:00

I'm having a very home-love day today, and these are a few of the gorgeous items that I would just love to buy from Etsy. If only...

These Turkish Towels from hamam shop:

This recycled book pages garland from saratops:

A light grey cross buckwheat hull and lavender pillow from enhabiten:

The Antique Teddy Bear Quilted from wearingthepast:

Pics from individual shops on etsy

Want to visit : Dear Me

2011-08-03T11:27:00.000+02:00

There is a little spot in Cape Town about which I've heard a lot of buzz lately, and which I am just dying to visit for a lingering lunch or warm winter tea with a friend : Dear Me, in Longmarket Street, in the Cape Town CBD. Open for breakfast and lunch, and dinner only on Thursday nights, Dear Me looks like an exquisite little place. Have a look at these pictures for a preview of this Cape Town gem and if you visit, let me know what it's like!

Pic: Dear Me

Pinterest : love it!

2011-08-03T10:58:00.000+02:00

I am really loving Pinterest at the moment, and I've just added a Pinterest button to my blog so you can follow me on Pinterest.

Best Places : Oia, Santorini

2011-08-03T10:29:00.001+02:00

It really is that beautiful. Just saying.

Pic: my own

Irene Dairy Farm

2011-06-16T08:05:00.001+02:00

Looking for a lovely spot in Gauteng for a relaxed weekend lunch? Irene Dairy Farm. Lovely and homely.

Pic my own

New Cape Town Eatery : Skinny Legs and All

2011-06-16T00:05:00.000+02:00

As promised, a picture of the most delicious french toast from Skinny Legs and All luxury cafe in Loop Street, Cape Town. The french toast arrived with a delicious ginger-poached pear, some gingery syrup, and a dollop of cream and almond flakes. Only Capetonians could make french toast cool. Well, it's a must! Yum.

The interior itself is charming and simple. Definitely a cute inner-city spot worth a visit.

Pics my own

Earth Fair Market, St George's Mall Cape Town - best fudge in the world!

2011-06-15T23:58:00.000+02:00

Go to the Earth Fair Market in St George's Mall Cape Town, and look for this stall which sells the most AMAZING fudge!! Amarula, Funky Monkey (peanut butter) and my favourite... 50/50 - dark and white chocolate fudge. It's addictive - don't say I didn't warn you!

Pic my own

Want : H&M Summer Collection

2011-06-12T22:51:00.001+02:00

With my trip to the UK being imminent, I am doing a lot of online browsing to research my purchases. H&M's new summer collection has caught my eye! Check it out here.

Pic: H&M

The Study Project : more coming soon!

2011-06-12T22:38:00.002+02:00

The Study Project is moving along swiftly, and coming together nicely. You may have remembered my post on the grey feature wall. Now comes a chic French-style bedside table, and storage solutions for the study part of the room. Check back this week for new pics of the transformation. Still a long way to go!

Best Places : Skinny Legs and All

2011-06-12T22:34:00.001+02:00

This weekend I went to Skinny Legs and All, a new restaurant - or, as they call it a "luxury cafe" - that's opened in Cape Town. Situated at 70 Loop Street, it's a very cute spot for a breakfast or lunch in the city centre. Check back this week for my full post and pics!

Have a lovely Monday!
x

Macaroon Monday : Tasha's

2011-05-09T07:11:00.005+02:00

The famous Tasha's has opened in Cape Town! What an exciting day! One (sorry, it's the influence of the Royal Wedding fever which has hit) arrived home to a box of Tasha's macaroons (had no idea they made macaroons, I clearly need to become more acquainted with this lovely eatery)! They were mini macaroons and the flavours were delicious- my favourite being the coffee ones, and the chocolate ones. Some of them had a strong marzipan type flavour which I'm not a fan of but on the whole they were delicious. And what a pretty prezzie they'd make in a box like this.

Pics: my own

The Study Project : Grey wall

2011-05-05T08:32:00.000+02:00

I've wanted a dark grey accent wall in the house ever since I can remember. So, I bought a tin of grey paint, and we created a grey accent wall in our study (I must claim I did not do much of the painting - I was relegated to doing the border bits with a brush), which also serves as an extra bedroom. I'm slowly going to track the transformation of this room, from stark white boringness (and I love white, so don't get me wrong. It's just that I don't love unstyled white spaces with no thought - which is what this was) to a beautiful room. So the first step, is the grey wall. First we lined the wall with masking tape so that we would end up with straight grey lines - especially in the corner of the room, where the grey and white walls would meet. Then we equipped ourselves with a set of paint brushes, a roller, and a paint tray, plus a screwdriver for opening the paint tin once it had been shaken. And don't forget the plastic lining to protect the floor. If the room is carpeted, this is even more important! Luckily our floors are laminate wood, so any of the water-based paint which landed on the floor could quite easilty be wiped up. I'm rather pleased with the results, although there is still a lot to do to finish the room. Grey wall: tick!

Pics my own

Holiday time & the most beautiful babyshower on earth!

2011-04-21T18:27:00.001+02:00

I'm going on holiday for a little while, and will be blogging again in early May. Enjoy the long weekends all South Africans! Here's some inspiration while I'm away: the most beautiful baby shower I've ever seen on Hello Naomi. Here are a few pics below to inspire you but you need to visit Naomi's blog to see the full post.

Pics: Hello Naomi

Luxury must be comfortable, otherwise it is not luxury- Coco Chanel

2011-04-20T18:14:00.000+02:00

Like these gorgeous loafers from Witchery. Love!

Pic: Witchery

Pinterest is awesome

2011-04-19T23:12:00.000+02:00

I could spend the rest of my life on Pinterest. Ok, it's a slight exaggeration but whatever. I've created a Pinterest profile and am loving it! You should go. Get inspired!

Frivolous Friday - things I'm loving

2011-04-15T19:40:00.000+02:00

We all need to be frivolous sometimes! This Friday I'm loving:

H&M's list on their facebook page of new stock about to be in store.

This recipe for a Double Chocolate Layer Cake on Epicurious

A modern take on a farmhouse kitchen via HousetoHome

The gorgeous design of this wine store via Dezeen

Happy weekend everyone!

Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication

2011-04-15T07:39:00.001+02:00

It's true. Leonardo da Vinci definitely knew what he was talking about. Sometimes the simplest things end up expressing the most. Like the Japanese Cherry Blossom.

I also love the way the cherry blossom translates so effortlessly into a variety of decor and design elements, like these lanterns:

Pics: 1: Cherry Blossom Varieties, 2: Kaboodle

Keep Calm And Carry On poster : the frame

2011-04-14T22:13:00.000+02:00

Yesterday I promised you a picture of the framed poster and here it is! An exquisite job by The Framer in Lansdowne Road in Claremont. Give Jean a call if you want lovely white box framing. As you can see, the cling wrap is still on the frame - it's like a new baby in the house. While I look for the perfect wall to hang it on, it shall remain happily on the guest room bed.

Nobis Hotel Stockholm

2011-04-14T07:30:00.001+02:00

I first read about the Nobis Hotel on the awesome Dezeen site. And what a wonderful world awaited me. Definitely somewhere I'd like to stay if I ever visit Stockholm. Which I hope I will one day. Definitely on the travel list.

Pics: Nobis Hotel

Keep Calm and Carry On Poster : the journey

2011-04-13T22:41:00.000+02:00

I, like everyone else who reads decor and design blogs and is interested in popular culture, noticed the Keep Calm and Carry On poster and had to have one. So off I went to this wonderful website where I ordered my lovely poster (in the colours elephant stone and aged white of course), which then made it back to our fine shores with a traveller. And this fine poster has been sitting in its tube for the past 6 months while I investigated the framing options. Of course, I settled on the obvious (tending towards my Scandinavian decor obsession) - a white box frame. Today I collected the finished product and tomorrow I shall post a picture of my first 'real' piece of framed art. Growing up so quickly.

Pic: Keep Calm and Carry On

Macaroon Monday : A Martha recipe

2011-04-11T19:21:00.000+02:00

I am on the hunt for the easiest recipe with good results so that I can make macaroons myself, because this addiction is getting too expensive! From the several reviews I've read, Martha Stewart's Parisian Macaroons seem to be a pretty good bet. I keep threatening to make a batch of macaroons but have been a bit intimidated by the recipes I've found so far. However, Martha's recipe looks fairly do-able, so this is one I shall definitely be trying. Have a go and let me know if you have success!

Light wooden chair

2011-04-11T07:00:00.003+02:00

This chair almost reminds me of the famous wishbone chair. Love the light wood and gentle lines. See more at the Thailand Furniture Fair.

Pic: Dezeen

Lazari pink cupcakes

2011-04-10T09:00:00.003+02:00

If you haven't been to Lazari for one of their famous pink cupcakes, you should. The recipe even featured in a mag a while back, but I couldn't get them to taste or look nearly as good as the originals!! Just as deelish but probably not as well known is the Lazari eggs benedict. Do it!

Pic: Russell Smith via Lazari

Prettiest teasets in the world!

2011-04-09T09:00:00.003+02:00

If you're looking for the prettiest and widest variety of china plates, saucers, teapots and teasets, then you must make your way to The Whatnot and Chinatown Shop in Kalk Bay. I was speechless (and a little scared I would knock something over with my large handbag tote) as I wandered from room to room in this incredible little hideaway. Rooms of china await you. You can't actually believe that one shop can have so many beautiful items. If you're missing a part of a teaset or just want to jump on the bandwagon of vintage high teas, this is the shop for you. Up one of the side streets in Kalk Bay, this is one shop that can't be missed if you have a passion for china.

Pics my own

Most delicious chocolate croissant : Deli on Duncan

2011-04-08T08:04:00.003+02:00

Last weekend I ventured to Pretoria, place of all things pretty, and filled with shops that are filled with treasures. I can see why Pretorians just want to shop. The bug bit me! My sister and I went to Duncan Yard and had the most deeeeelicious breakfast of chocolate croissants at Deli on Duncan. What a fabulous spot! If you're in the area, you must pop in for a beautiful pie, pastry, slice of cake...or the chocolate croissant. Amaze! And it's the cutest vintage setting too. I absolutely love this deli!

Um, how delicious?

A cute vintage stove which I would so love to have!

THE croissant. To die for. Really. Didn't even open the jam or butter - it was so full of chocolate!

Couldn't agree more!

It was pretty empty when we arrived. I thought only Cape Town people did late breakfast. It appears Pretorians only do brunch dahling.

How to choose?! Sweet, savoury, lamb pies, cheese muffins, salmon quiche, apple pastry....

Choc caramel cupcakes, cranberry and choc muffins, croissants, cakes.... yum

Pics my own

Earthfair market in St George's

2011-04-07T08:00:00.001+02:00

The Earthfair market is definitely the most delicious place to have lunch on a Thursday. Make a stop at the fudge stall- the funky monkey peanut butter fudge is out of this world. So is the white and dark choc fudge. Mmm. Go today! Starts at 12h00.

Trilby Mania

2011-04-07T07:30:00.002+02:00

Just loving the trilby at the moment. It's a must-have item for summer! This one is from ASOS - anyone know where I can get a cute trilby in Cape Town?

Pic: ASOS

Lazy days in Kalk Bay

2011-04-06T07:30:00.003+02:00

One of the loveliest things to do in Cape Town is to spend a day in Kalk Bay. So many lovely things to do! Pop into Mythology for the most exquisite and exotic shoes, accessories, art and clothes; antique shops for vintage finds; Gypsy for eclectic clothes and jewellery; the Kalk Bay Trading Post for lovely secondhand finds; India Jane for more exotic clothes and accessories; Franki's for vintagey clothing; Sirocco for a drink at sunset. Plus, don't forget Olympia Cafe for lunch, and ice cream at the little ice cream shop on the main road. The perfect way to spend a lazy Saturday in Cape Town.

Looking for gorgeous cushions?

2011-04-05T17:45:00.001+02:00

Good cushions are hard to find. That's why, when I saw these, I just had to share them with you. If you are looking for gorgeous cushions, visit The Meeting Place shop (Simonstown) and grab these while they're still there! Would look amazing with any neutral couch (grey, beige, white). I want them! And while you're there, have the chicken, bacon and avo salad in the restaurant upstairs (not downstairs- the one upstairs is the really amazing salad) - don't say I didn't tell you about it! Soon you'll be driving there just for the salad!

Pic: my own

Blair style headbands

2011-04-04T22:38:00.001+02:00

I do love Blair's headbands! See some of my favourite headbands below:

Pics: ASOS, 1 &2 Lipsy, 3 & 4 Oasis

Macaroon Monday : CASSIS

2011-04-04T18:37:00.000+02:00

Today's motto was 3 macaroons in 3 minutes. Yum. I ate these on the way home hence the bad quality picture! Much to my disappointment, these weren't packaged in one of the gorgeous purple boxes that is available at CASSIS, but it was probably because I only bought 3 macaroons : raspberry, chocolate and pistachio. I could have bought a boxful but I am trying to keep my waistline thin and my purse's waitline a little fatter. Anyhoo, the raspberry had a very distinct fruity flavour and tasted like fresh summer (work with me here!), and the pistachio had a very light nutty flavour and reminded me of pistachio ice-cream I tasted recently - but more of that in another post. The chocolate was the only macaroon flavour I have ever tasted and found a bit too rich. You see, when I eat macaroons, I don't just want to eat one - I want to experience all the flavours available. The chocolate macaroon could serve as dessert all on its own. Quite decadent! There are 2 CASSIS shops - Gardens for those who live on that side of the mountain, and Newlands - for those of us who live in the 'burbs. Divine! So who's joining me next week for Macaroon Monday?

Pics: 1: my own, 2: CASSIS

Heart craze continued : decor

2011-03-30T23:00:00.000+02:00

More heart decor. Love it!

Pic: my own

Tan Clutch

2011-03-29T22:29:00.000+02:00

What a divine clutch purse. Wear with jeans, cute white top and tan peep toe heels! From ASOS.

Pic: ASOS

Macaroon Monday : A recipe to make your own!

2011-03-28T18:37:00.000+02:00

In the absence of a macaroon tasting today, why not try this recipe to make your own? They are even called Laduree Style Macaroons. I haven't tried the recipe yet and not sure I am brave enough to, but what's not to love?

Red Velvet Cupcakes

2011-03-27T09:43:00.008+02:00

The beauty of red velvet cupcakes is that they look so garishly red that you think they would never ever taste as delicious as they do. My favourite place to have Red Velvets is at Lazari in Greenpoint or Vredehoek, Cape Town. You have to try them if you haven't already. One day I tried making my own red velvet cupcakes, and although it was very rewarding and they were devoured very quickly, when I saw how much red colouring was involved, I was quite alarmed. A very fun process nonetheless and one I'd also recommend. I love a little something different, and I think these would be great for a birthday tea. Here are a few pics of my baking day!

Pics: my own

Perfect cocktail party dress

2011-03-26T20:15:00.001+02:00

Looking for something to wear to a cocktail party or anniversary dinner?

Pics: ASOS

Espadrilles!

2011-03-26T20:11:00.001+02:00

Love these shoes for casual weekend style!

Pics: ASOS

Aleit : Wedding Planner Extraordinaire

2011-03-26T11:40:00.000+02:00

I can't say enough good things about Aleit and his company. They planned our wedding back in 2007, and I was completely blown away. I will post some pictures one day - Thursday would have been a good day to do that! If you are looking for a wedding planner in Cape Town, I can highly recommend Aleit and his team.

Pic: Aleit

Knead olive ciabatta

2011-03-26T11:33:00.000+02:00

So we have a little Saturday tradition- not every Saturday but when we feel like a light, casual lunch- which involves rushing to Knead to buy a loaf of their legendary olive ciabatta, which is enjoyed with much olive oil and balsamic vinegar, slivers of mozarella and slices of tomato. We are two very sad people if the ciabatta is sold out. Try it, and you'll see why! I think this is one of the reasons I'm looking forward to visiting the markets of Provence when we visit later in the year - I love casual eating like this. I can't wait to post pictures of the delish produce we buy and eat in France - keep an eye out for the pics!

Pic: Knead

Wedding favour ideas : Elsje Designs

2011-03-26T11:24:00.000+02:00

I love Elsje's work. Elsje Designs created our wedding invitations and I couldn't have been happier with the way they turned out! They have some cute favour ideas on their website - my favourite two are below. I find chocolate as a favour slightly overdone, and unless you have the time to really think about and source something unique, you might just laugh off favours completely like I did. Unless you had seen these ideas first! Both the fan and the spoon would look absolutely divine for a vintagey inspired wedding. I can see them looking so pretty on the tables - but just for the ladies!

Pics: Elsje Design's Online Shop

Handmade marshmallows

2011-03-26T11:01:00.000+02:00

Last night's naughty snack - handmade marshmallows by The Treat Company. And yes, they are so much better than the other type of marshmallows.

Pics: 1: my own, 2: The Treat Company

J Crew Love

2011-03-25T20:45:00.000+02:00

I do love J Crew. But who doesn't. Particularly love the email I received from them yesterday - the shoes (love!), the nautical top (love!) and of course some bling (double love!).

Pic: J Crew

Wonderful Love

2011-03-25T19:27:00.000+02:00

Been married for four years!! (As of yesterday, but I was too busy getting ready for dinner to blog this)

Pic: Beijing Kids

Olympia Cafe

2011-03-22T22:04:00.000+02:00

Right, it has to be said. Olympia Cafe in Kalk Bay makes THE BEST seafood pasta in the world. The only pity is you're not guaranteed it will be on the menu when you arrive for lunch, since their menu seems to change all the time. I have waited months, yes months, to taste it again. Saturday saw me once again enjoying that delicious seafood pasta. Rich tomatoey creamy goodness. You have to try it.

White living room : another one!

2011-03-21T19:26:00.000+02:00

Ah, white. Peaceful and serene. I love this lounge, however the wires hanging in the shelving unit bother my perfectionist mind. Otherwise, I do love this, especially the side table and the hint of wood used in the couch.

Pic: via House to Home. Photograph by Chris Everard, featured in Livingetc

A quiche with leeks

2011-03-21T19:18:00.003+02:00

Wow, a lot of foodie posts today! I am on the search for a quiche recipe that contains leeks. Do you have one you can recommend? I'll post my findings!

Macaroon Monday : Sugr dad'D

2011-03-21T18:22:00.000+02:00

I had my first taste of macaroons today and what a delight it was! I popped to Melissa's and bought a packet of Sugr dad'D macaroons. They look like mini macaroons to me (the pics shown are in a little soy sauce dish), although I'm not sure what the normal size is. I had such fun taking photos of them. I'd seen some macaroon stack photos on the web, which I loved, and so attempted to take my own macaroon stack photo. The little cracks you see on the macaroons are when I ran to get my camera and the stack collapsed. Very fragile little treats I see! They tasted nothing like what I expected macaroons to taste like. I've never tried them before, because I thought they looked a little dry, but it's a trick - a delicious and moist filling awaits you inside the candy-coloured morsels. I am very excited to try some more! I tried to visit the Sugr dad'D website listed on the packaging but couldn't find it, as I wanted to see what the flavours were I had tasted. I shall just imagine they were rosewater with a choc ganache filling (pink), orange with a citrus filling (orange), and lemon with a salty butterish filling (green). Yum.

Pics my own

Jamie's tomato and chorizo salad

2011-03-21T18:05:00.000+02:00

My husband loves cooking Jamie recipes. And I say, what's not to love? Last week, and I admit this reluctantly because I don't like being wrong, I turned my nose up at his suggestion to make Jamie's 'Best chorizo and tomato salad in the world'. I was wrong! It was absolutely delicious. Quite a light meal but filling, I can't wait until he makes it again! If you'd like to try the recipe, it's in Jamie's book jamie does or you can look it up online. Too yum.

Pic: my own

To go with those wooden floors

2011-03-18T19:15:00.000+02:00

I would love 2 of these from IKEA!

Pic: IKEA via House to Home

Light wooden floors

2011-03-18T19:09:00.000+02:00

I am having a light wood floor moment... it goes with everything, brings a bit of lightness to the room, and ticks all those Scandinavian boxes. Ah, lovely.

Pic: House to Home

Bake Love Not War

2011-03-18T18:35:00.002+02:00

A friend of mine has started a lovely blog & business called Bake Love Not War. I've tasted the cupcakes. Amazing. Really! I love the Earl Grey ones, but lavendar also sounds amazing. Treat yourself for a birthday or just a girls' tea party. Who needs an excuse to eat cupcakes anyway?

Pic: Bake Love Not War

L'orangerie love

2011-03-18T18:26:00.000+02:00

My favourite splurgey decor and gift shop! Def worth a visit!

New Kate Spade site

2011-03-18T18:25:00.000+02:00

Check it out here (and a little mini-peek of the homepage below)! I love Kate Spade.

Pic: Kate Spade

Shoe envy : Kate Spade pumps

2011-03-17T23:04:00.000+02:00

My little shoe-heart just did a little jump when it saw these magnificent Kate Spade pumps.

Pic: Pinterest

Shoes at Topshop!

2011-03-17T22:48:00.001+02:00

Wouldn't you want to buy shoes from Topshop if you clicked onto this page of their site? Go now!

Pic: Topshop

Gorgeous canvas shopper

2011-03-17T22:45:00.000+02:00

Really, really want this bag!

Pic: ASOS

Give me that blue bag please!

2011-03-17T22:39:00.000+02:00

Another ASOS baby. What a gorgeous blue satchel bag. Yes please!

Pic: ASOS Facebook

ASOS for men

2011-03-17T22:33:00.000+02:00

Pretty snappy. What a great outfit. Men, take note. Then go here and buy it!

Pic: ASOS facebook page

JCrew Italian Ballet Flats

2011-03-17T22:24:00.000+02:00

Come on girls, go shopping!!!

Pic: JCrew

Two nights in Santorini

2011-03-17T18:47:00.000+02:00

In July we'll be spending two nights in Santorini as part of our UK escapades! Can't wait!

Pic: Explore Islands Now!

A market and no macaroons

2011-03-17T18:29:00.000+02:00

So whoopsy, macaroon Monday didn't happen this week, but it will next week seeing that next Monday is a public holiday here in South Africa. Fabulous. Today however, I explored a charming little food market in St George's Mall area in the Cape Town CBD (close to Cafe Mozart which I blogged about recently) where I ate lunch and purchased some very, very delicious peanut butter and dark chocolate fudge. Afraid it's all finished otherwise I would post a picture! The market is on every Thursday from 12 -6 pm, or so they tell me - so go and check it out!

Macaroon series

2011-03-13T17:54:00.000+02:00

In preparation for Paris, I think a little macaroon sampling is in order. Join me in my series, Macaroon Mondays as I sample Cape Town's finest macaroons. Oh yes.

Handbag to covet

2011-03-13T17:49:00.000+02:00

Would love this bag. Ah. Available to buy from Luisa Viaroma.

Pic: Polyvore

Nomu - a foodie's dream

2011-03-13T17:40:00.000+02:00

Based in Cape Town and started by Tracey Foulkes in 2000, I'm sure we all agree that Nomu is a foodie's dream. I subscribe to their newsletter which has loads of gorgeous recipe inspiration - subscribe here if you want to get it too. I'm craving some Nomu hot chocolate right now. Mmmm.

Pic: Nomu

Trend alert - Leopard print : hot, hot, hot!

2011-03-13T17:39:00.000+02:00

I've never stopped loving leopard print, but when my pumps gave up the ghost, I didn't replace them. So imagine my excitement to hear that leopard print is back! Fab news. However now instead of pumps (although will prob get those too!) I am searching for a leopard print blouse or scarf in SA shops but haven't found anything cool as yet. Let me know if you know where I can purchase such items! Here are a few of my leopard print faves found on the web.

Pics: 1 - Dorothy Perkins, 2 - Revolve Clothing, 3 - Roberto Cavalli from Net a Porter

Cafe Mozart is a lovely little spot

2011-03-13T13:01:00.000+02:00

If you haven't been to Cafe Mozart yet, you must. Little Parisian style cafe tables on beautiful Church street, lovely fresh menu, delicious buffet table inside... You really should make your way there. Among other things, you can browse the food market in St George's mall area on Thursdays, visit a few of the loveliest Long Street shops, and take in the buzz of town. Lovely.

Pics my own, apologies for bad quality - taken on my phone!

Hope and Greenwood : Chocolate Buttons

2011-03-09T21:39:00.000+02:00

On my must-taste list in London : Hope and Greenwood Organic Milk Buttons! Delish!

Pic: Hope and Greenwood