Shape Up: Walk the Block

It’s just so easy to get caught up in your work and go into 'zombie mode' without ever leaving your desk. However, if you’re looking to shape up for the New Year, you’ve got to start taking a break to walk the block- your work area at least!

I’ve always tried to be good about my exercise regimen. However, many of my friends find it difficult to carve out time to work out each day. Needless to say, they’ve all found a way to stay slim. What’s their secret? They walk during their lunch breaks! Instead of sitting through lunch, they eat and then walk. Whether it’s around the block or your building, just ten minutes of walking briskly can make a difference. (If your job requires you to wear heels or uncomfortable shoes, pack a pair of sandals or tennis shoes to slip on during lunch.)

Walking has so many benefits—mental and physical. You can burn upwards of 100 calories from a brisk 20-minute walk. If you’re looking to drop a couple pounds that you packed on over the holidays, walking during lunch in addition to your regular exercise schedule will help you shed those unwanted LBs much faster too. Not only does it help tone your arms, abs and shoulders, it also burns more fat than jogging. Who knew? Better yet—walking also boosts endorphins, which ease stress, fatigue, confusion, and anger.

And all you blogees, whenever you're experiencing writers block or just need a break, taking a quick 15-minute walk always does the trick. It helps to recalibrate and reset. And you'll always end up being far more productive afterward too!

Are you walking the block? How do you stay in shape when you can’t squeeze in a full workout?

Saskia XO

Shop-Sensation Saturday

So earlier today, after a lazy morning of relaxing on the sofa to watch 'It's All about Amy' avec a cup of tea and some chocolate hobnobs (my weakness ;)), me and one of my best friends Milly, went on a quick shopping spree to our closest mall.


So this post is dedicated to just some of the things two Brit babes endeavoured in....

Discovering finds such as these Fashion Magazine inspired clutches......

(Bentall's Centre, £39)



Having our make up done at Chanel.....





Trying on as many clothes as we could carry was our next job....


(Dress from Miss Selfridge, SIZE 8, £42)



Drooling at the guy model workers in Hollister ;).....







Experimented with MAC's lavish lipstick collection; my fav was 'Up the Amp' (£13.50)

After a long hard day, it was a frappuccino from Starbucks (low fat- of course), that helped restored our energy!

So that's just an insight into the amazing adventures which my friends and I get up to at the weekend.

What do your weekends look like?

Saskia XO

Friday Favourites!

As usual, here are my weekly 'Friday Favourites' from the past week!


Favourite Photo






Favourite Quote







Favourite Craving







Favourite Manicure







Favourite Colour Scheme







Favourite Accessories (oversized clutch+ gold watch)








What items would make the cut for your 'Friday Favourites'?!

Post below!


Saskia XO

MAC's Mega Mahem!

Poised, ready, waiting - five championship shades. Haute matte red to shimmering silver. Double loops all round! Lips have never seen such a performance! All take their bow in the dazzling packaging of this limited edition collection....feast your eyes guys and galls.....



1.



2.



3.



4.



 5.




Which is your favourite?


Saskia XO

The counter enchartment: Your-go-to jewl

Every girl ought to have an accessory she can wear day in and day out. For me, it’s my favourite charm necklace. I almost always wear it, it's simple, classic, classy: a Tiffany Love heart Pendant on a silver chain (which my parents bought me for my Confirmation).
The way I see it, accessories help personalise an outfit. But when it comes down to it, they are such a personal preference. For some people, it’s about making a statement with bold pieces: big earrings, a centerpiece necklace or a look-at-me cocktail ring. Others prefer dainty accents like my charm necklace or a simple band ring. Needless to say, whatever your preference is just remember that your go-to flair should be something that makes you smile. If you’re still searching for that perfect everyday bauble, check these out:


1. Baby Bird in Gold Pendant Accessorise

2. The Scarlet Robin Small Monogrammed Heart

3. LC Lauren Conrad Gold Tone Button Stud Earrings

4. Anthropologie Forget-Me-Not Bracelet

5. Catbird Heart Ring in Rose Gold

6. LC Lauren Conrad Love Multistrand Pendant

7. Dogeared Karma Bracelet

8. Bauble Bar Horseshoe Pendant

9. Nordstrom Pronged Band

Which one is your favourite?

Do you have an accessory or piece of jewelry that you wear everyday? Snap a photo and post it below!

Saskia XO

Inspired Idea: Twinkle Twinkle

I love that magical feel of the holidays. To keep it alive just a little longer, why not make the decision to wrap your headboard with strands of Christmas tree lights?!....I think it’s charming and the light they produce creates a lovely ambience both for your bedroom and mood. And why not leave these up for a few more weeks until the novelty wears off…but until then, you'll be dreaming beneath an avenue of twinkling stars.
********

What do you think about my starry light strands?

Saskia XO

Beauty 101: Brows

When it comes to eyebrows, many of us wonder how to shape them, how to fill them in, how to elongate them, etc… Today, I will be teaching you all the ins and outs of brows! This is so great because the correct brow shape can really lift the eye and slim the face.

First let me share my #1 rule: DO NOT OVER-PLUCK!! Please! There is nothing pretty about thin overly-tweezed brows. Brows frame your eyes. Cardinal sin #2: do not shape them into tadpoles with thin tails. Cardinal sin #3: do not shave them or use a razor of any kind. If you have committed any of those crimes, with no judgment from me, I hope you’ll reconsider and start growing them back in (and if they don’t grow, try using a lash-growth serum on them or even your dad’s hair-growth serum!). Then, follow these six steps on how to get beautifully shaped brows.

Tools

• spooly brush or disposable mascara wand
• cuticle scissors
• angled/slant tweezers
• pointed tweezers
• brow shadow (taupe for blondes, brown range for everyone else)
• stiff brow shadow brush
• pencil (to line up the angles).

Instructions

1. With a disposable mascara wand or spooly brush, brush the hairs upward to prepare for Step 2.
2. With a pair of scissors, trim any hairs that are longer than your brow shape.
3. With angled tweezers, pluck areas above and below the brows, grabbing a couple at a time.
4. With pointed tweezers, grab stubborn single hairs and shorter ones.
5. To determine where your brow should start, hold a pencil or make-up brush along one side of your nose.  Where it crosses the inner corner of your brow, that’s where it should begin.
6. Now angle the pencil across the iris; that’s where the arch should begin.
7. Angle it to the end of the outer corner of the eye; that’s where the brow should end.
8. With those angles and lengths in mind, fill in the brows using light, feathery strokes as if you were drawing individual hairs.

*Pictures from LC.com

I hope you found these instructions helpful!

Saskia XO

Kitchen Beautician: A Heavenly Mash

Hey blogges!
I apologise profusely for the absence of any sort of post over the last couple of days, I know it's know excuse, but have just been run off my feet with work, school and dare I say it....t.v and play!
So here's my apology to you all in the form of a simply sensational seduction.....a heavenly mash!


My favourite at home remedy for dry skin is simple: coconut butter and a couple drops of olive oil. Coconut butter is an incredible moisturiser and promotes elasticity in skin. 
Extra virgin olive oil is packed with vitamin E and antioxidants. These two are a mash made in heaven! 


Blend two teaspoons of coconut butter and 10 drops of extra virgin olive oil together in a bowl using the back of a spoon. Apply a thin layer anywhere skin feels dry once or twice a week. I use this on my lips, legs, arms, elbows, and hands. Cover and save the rest in the refrigerator. Due to the coconut craze right now, coconut butter should be pretty easy to find. It’s the perfect spring skin prep!




What heavenly mash up's do you approve of?


Saskia XO

Kick start your New Year Winter Look....

Winter may wreak havoc on your commute, but to keep it from sabotaging another aspect of your work life, I'm stepping in. To save you from the seasonal doldrums or the feeling of having nothing to wear when the snow and ice strike, I'm getting creative with our nine to five wardrobe routine. Think faux fur layers and shearling-lined booties to winterize your office gear — just remember that doesn't mean there isn't still a place for your pretty printed dresses and statement brights. Click through to see and shop five perfect antidotes to the season's run-of-the-mill work ensembles.... 

Revamp your pencil skirt...
Give a pretty pencil skirt a wintry update in moody florals; then further the theme with a chunky knit and a pair of shearling-lined booties for that sophisticated-cum-cool effect.

Rag & Bone Benton Turtleneck ($325), Zara Printed Sheath Skirt ($80), By Malene Birger Gilsan Ankle Bootie ($674), Mango Touch Leather Bowling Handbag ($290), Gap Heavy Opaque Tights ($13), Madewell Golden Braid Bracelet ($25)

Cinch your sweater... 
Bundle up stylishly by adding a sweater coat to a girlie dress; just cinch at the waist and add a pair of seasonal boots to complete your cozy-chic apparel.

Diane von Furstenberg Maiko Dress ($619), Joseph Chunky Sweater Coat ($348, originally $695), Gorjana CarmelThree Drop Necklace ($70), Topshop Tan Skinny Cord Belt ($32), J.Jill Solid Micro Tights ($13), Madewell Lil Briefcase Bag ($118), Zara Retro Ankle Boot ($40, originally $90)

Check Out Jason Wu for Target

Mix your textures...
If your office allows for a little more outfit creativity, take advantage with cool textures and prints. Add a classic white button-down to a chunky-knit cardigan and a little leather skirt. Stay warm with a pair of opaque tights and add interest with a pop of leopard-print.

Organic by John Patrick Raw Hem Poplin Shirt ($242), Madewell Leather Belltoll Skirt ($298), 3.1 Phillip Lim Rope Stitch Cardigan ($475), Michael Kors Bradley Watch ($180), J.Crew Skinny Calf-Hair Belt ($60), Opening Ceremony Laetitia 2 Platform Boot ($255 to $318), J.Jill Solid Micro Tights ($13)

Add a touch of luxe...
For more glamorous — but still accessible — office attire, we love dressing up a flowy wrap dress with a '70s-inspired faux fur. Add in your luxest of leather totes and a pair of statement booties to liven up your corporate dress code.

Zara Flounced Crossover Dress ($60), W118 by Walter Baker Barry Faux Fur Vest ($148), J.Jill Solid Micro Tights($13), B Brian Atwood Tempesta Suede Platform Booties ($315, originally $450), Marc by Marc Jacobs Grey Leather Tote ($530)

Bring out your brights...
We love making brights work for Winter; this look is all about tying together standout colour in timeless silhouettes. To finish it off, we're a sucker for a sweet peep-toe-and-tights combo and a delicate piece of jewelry to dress it up.

3.1 Phillip Lim Cuffed Flared Trousers ($425), J.Crew Jackie Pullover ($65), Dannijo Nicoline Necklace ($170), J.CrewEdie Purse ($238), Collins Suede Platform Peep Toes ($80, originally $255)

What new looks will you take on?


Saskia XO

Wednesday Witterings...

We are mid week already!? Hope you have an wonderful Wednesday!

Can you list any witterings to live by?

Saskia XO

Edible Obsessions: Blueberry Boy Bait

After spotting this recipe on one of my favourite foodie blogs, Smitten Kitchen,I couldn’t resist blogging about it. It’s pretty easy to understand why… Behold: Blueberry Boy Bait.

Rumour has it, this treat was blessed with it’s great name back in 1954 when a young girl stole the show in a junior Pillsbury Bake-Off after announcing her treat was named for the effect it had on boys. Cute, right?

You’d think Boy Bait would consist of a top sirloin and some seriously creamy mashed potatoes—but you would be wrong. After putting this recipe to the test, I was pleasantly surprised to find the name yielded said results. It’s buttery and rich. And it was consumed in just a few (male) sittings. This Blueberry Boy Bait is a surefire crowd pleaser.

If you’re interested in whipping up some serious man magnet yums, check out the recipe below (this will serve 12, generously):

Cake Ingredients

• 2 cups plus 1 teaspoon all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon table salt
• 16 tablespoons unsalted butter (2 sticks), softened
• 3/4 cup packed light brown sugar
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1/2 cup blueberries, fresh or frozen (if frozen, do not defrost first as it tends to muddle in the batter)

Topping Ingredients

• 1/2 cup blueberries, fresh or frozen (do not defrost)
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Instructions

• Adjust oven rack to middle position and heat oven to 350 degrees. Grease and flour 13 by 9-inch baking pan.
• For the cake : Whisk two cups flour, baking powder, and salt together in medium bowl. With electric mixer, beat butter and sugars on medium-high speed until fluffy, about two minutes. Add eggs, one at a time, beating until just incorporated and scraping down bowl. Reduce speed to medium and beat in one-third of flour mixture until incorporated; beat in half of milk. Beat in half of remaining flour mixture, then remaining milk, and finally remaining flour mixture. Toss blueberries with remaining one teaspoon flour. Using rubber spatula, gently fold in blueberries. Spread batter into prepared pan.
• For the topping : Scatter blueberries over top of batter. Stir sugar and cinnamon together in small bowl and sprinkle over batter.
• Bake until toothpick inserted in center of cake comes out clean, 45 to 50 minutes. Cool in pan 20 minutes, then turn out and place on serving platter (topping side up). Serve warm or at room temperature. (Cake can be stored in airtight container at room temperature up to 3 days.)

Happy baking!

Saskia XO

Wear: Style is Eternal

The great Yves Saint Laurent is quoted as saying, “Fashions fade, style is eternal.” I couldn’t agree more. Cultivating your personal style is something that is acquired over time. It is something that has to be nurtured and true. So what is so great about 'style'?
Consider style as your go-to fashion source to reflect your mood....style is embedded with suggestions, views on current trends and advice on developing your own “fashion intuition.” Together with style, one can share tips, tricks and talk trends all in the name of the ever present question, “What should I wear?”
Therefore, it is important that as we mature, our style does too and that we learn to influence others with our own fashion passion!


What's your style?

Saskia XO

Surreal Shoes!

Talk about art attack foot wear....after witnessing, last S/S seeing the aztec print adorn the catwalks at all four of the fashion capitals and an understanding that aztec is yet to flurish for another further S/S, will these shoes be the next stilletoes craze?

So after perusing Buzzfeed, I stumbled upon this ridiculous post with images of some of the craziest shoes I’ve ever seen. Scroll  through these maniacs and I’m telling you your feet will hurt from just looking!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Would you wear any of these surreal shoes?!

 

Saskia XO