The Perfect Autumnal Scent...

Usually I steer clear of any fragrance named “Candy,” given my unfortunate experiences with Aquolina Pink Sugar and other high-calorie gourmands. However, Prada Candy had a few things going for it: I generally very much enjoy Prada’s aesthetic, and I love the refined work of Daniela Roche-Andrier, the perfumer responsible for many fragrances in the line. She tends to render her accords as luminous and sparkling, and this radiant quality permeates Prada Candy. Although it explores rich materials like caramel, vanilla and sweet resins, Candy lives up to its name by conveying a dainty, luscious confection.


The idea of a rich gourmand composition presented as an elegant sweetmeat is much more difficult to execute than it might seem. Oriental resins like benzoin and tolu balsam that have an enveloping sweet darkness are also heavy and dense. Layered with vanilla, musk, tonka bean and other classical gourmand notes, the effect can be both cloying and rough. The main reason that Candy captured my heart from the first inhale is that it eschews all of the above. From the caramelized top notes with their illusion of pineapple and mandarin to the woody vanilla drydown, it retains an appealing brightness. Its sweetness is obvious, but never tiring; the aura of Candy overall is coquettish and playful, with a distinctly elegant character.
After the shimmering prelude, Candy becomes warm and velvety. The musk and vanilla lend it a delicious softness, while benzoin and amber fill the drydown with their smoky darkness. The accent is on the dry woods, rather than the buttery caramel (in contrast to the aforementioned Pink Sugar, which I find overly sweet and creamy,) a facet that makes Candy quite a sophisticated gourmand fragrance, making the transition into autumn, effortless.

It does so much more than simply indulge one’s sweet tooth; its luscious warmth is also irresistibly sensual.So for whether it be a lunch date, a work meeting or even a long autumnal walk in the woods, Prada Candy is the scent to be savouring this season.

Would you give this perfume a try?

Saskia XO

Hello October: Fall Styling Ideas

We are crazily already entering into the season which I like to call 'FAB' (fashion and birthday!)...as I will turn 17 on October 22nd and numerous Fashion events take place also!
Now that it’s October, I thought I would share 10 simple and chic styling ideas to try this month to keep your look feeling fresh and on-trend…

Temper sparkly separates with relaxed knits. Pair your favourite metallic mini with a comfy, chunky knit for a daytime-approved look that can take you well into the evening hours.


Play with texture by mixing together unexpected combinations such as tweed, silk, and wool to give your look depth and intrigue.


Try an oversized daytime clutch instead of your standard satchel for weekend jaunts and mid-week work meetings.


Add leather-like hints to your look by pairing them with summery favourites to transition your closet to fall without breaking the bank.


Mix in sheer, lightweight layers to your look to balance fall’s heavier wares.


Twist on an oversize, knit scarf (or snood) to add complexity and colour to your look. Plus they are warm and cosy—and they instantly add an unexpected pop to an otherwise basic ensemble.


Wear a swingy skirt (preferably in a bold colour) to liven up the season’s characteristically structured and tailored silhouettes (and drab palette).


Layer chunky knits together to create a cosy and seasonally appropriate look that will keep you feeling snug all day long.


Add an army inspired parka (in camo green print or solid olive) for an on-trend alternative to your basic fall jacket.

Try a sleeveless trench for a high-fashion update to a classic cut. Belt it and pair it with a simple shirt-dress and you have yourself a lovely fall-feeling outfit for the office or your internship.

Which October style tip are you most excited to try?

Saskia XO

Currently Craving: Fall Polka Dots!

I have been loving polka dots lately. Aside from florals, it’s definitely one of my favourite prints this season. Not only is the polka dot a classic pattern that is easy to mix and match, it’s also a simple way to add a playful punch to your wardrobe.

When I decided to blog about my dotty love affair it got me thinking… Why is this print called polka dot anyway? Well ladies, I researched the matter and was surprised to find that there is a supposed relation to the origins of the polka dance! Who knew? Apparently, the print was popular right when polka music and dancing were all the rage. And the rest is history…


I especially love the dotted print in neutrals and classic combinations such as black and ivory, navy and black, or navy and white. It’s the easiest of all prints to mix, which is why it’s a staple in my closet.

What do you think about this dotty look? Are you ready to give polka dots a go?

Style polka dots into your look, snap a photo of yourself, and upload it in the comments bellow!
Get dotty ladies!

Saskia XO

Mani Monday: Point à Point!

Yes! Your eyes do not decieve you, it is the unanimous return of the infamous....Mani Monday!! And this season it's kicking back with fantastic fall fun!

It’s good to change things up every now and then. Today let’s have a some fun with the classic French mani, shall OUI!? We’re simply adding two rows of cute little dots below the classic French manicure line. Simple enough, right? Get out your dotting tool and let’s get started!

1. Essie makes some of my favorite colours for this particular look. You’ll need a good, strong white and a very sheer pink or peach. I used this + this together.
2. Make sure your nails are completely clean. No need for a base coat.
3. Paint a classic white french tip. It’s fine to be a little messy.
4. Use a little polish remover along with a brush to clean up + perfect the bottom of the line.
5. Go about just below the french tip line and make a row of 5 dots. There should be a little space (about 1/8″) like you see in picture 5. Make one dot in the very center first, then two on each side. We had the best luck when we made these 5 dots first and then sandwiched the middle row in between in the next step.
6. Now go right in between the French tip line and that row of dots and make 4 more dots. They should be centered between the dots from the first row you created.
7. Wait for your dots to dry completely and then do a coat of a sheer pink/peach colour. I did 2 super thin coats.
8. Last but not least, add a fast drying top coat.

Then VOILA!!!

Happy Monday!!


Saskia XO

In Remembrance: Never Forget 9/11

It is with a heavy heart that we should take pause today and remember those who sacrificed so much on this day 11-years ago. I remember exactly what I was doing when it happened and I’ll never forget. It was an unreal day. And a very sad day.

This post comes as a reminder that we must cherish each day and love the people in our lives.

Please join me in taking a moment today to honour all those affected by the 9/11 attacks. My heart goes out to all the victims and their families as well as all of the heroes too.

Saskia XO

How to Wear your 'LWD' mid-season!

All hail to the rise of the LWD! What is this “LWD” I speak of? The little white dress, of course. The LWD was one of the summer’s most key pieces and can continue into the beginning of autumn. It was spotted all over the spring/summer and resort runways and is the perfect staple to any girls’ closet. There are dozens of different takes on this trend: Ralph Lauren’s lace minis, Calvin Klein’s clean cut sheaths, Chloe’s flirty frocks, Chanel’s delicate dresses… the list goes on! When selecting a LWD, make sure you pick something with a classic cut. This way, you can style it for a variety of occasions. The great thing about white is that it looks good on everyone and a simple LWD is versatile beyond belief…

Below I have listed 10 simple ways to style your LWD mid season: 

1. Get edgy. Style your LWD with a leather jacket. Accessorise with a studded cross-body bag and strappy sandals or booties for a play on the rocker chick look.
2. Make a statement. Try a beautiful statement necklace and some strappy platform heels. It’s a simple yet chic look that’s perfect for mid-summer parties. Bump up the fab-factor by wearing your hair down with a hint of vintage.
3. Casual cool. For a laidback look, pull on a relaxed denim jacket and finish off with platform wooden sandals. Leave your tresses a little undone with these everyday effortless waves.  
4. Layer it. Layer over a loose tank, a long necklace and a cropped jacket. Pair with heels for an office friendly summer ensemble or strappy flat sandals for a more casual look.
5. Brighten up. Add a splash of summer’s hottest trend: neon. I suggest piling on a day-glow bangle or necklace or cinching your waist with a bright belt. Punchy hued sandals are also a fun way to liven up a LWD.
6. Go boho. Wear a lightweight scarf, a neutral cross-body bag, strappy sandals and some bright coral lipstick for a fresh weekend look that's perfect for a sunny Saturday.
7. Get fancy. Make your LWD nighttime friendly with a black blazer, patent leather peep-toe heels, an oversize black envelope clutch and some seriously red lips.
8. Business. Pair your LWD with a crisp blazer (bright colours are especially great for the change into autumn), a thin belt and strappy heels. This look is perfect for the office. For an added dose of sophistication, wear your hair in a Ballerina Bun.
9. Crop it. Wear a cropped denim or white vest over your LWD. It adds the perfect bit of edge without going over the top. Carry a print clutch and sport some nude flat sandals for an easy on-the-go outfit.
10. Stay on the fringe. Add a draped jacket, a leather fringe bag, camel colored heels, a loose side-braid and natural makeup for a modern take on cowboy cool.

Never thought one dress could go so many ways, did you?

When it comes to filling your closet, aim for pieces that multitask. When you have a selection of great basics, it’s easier to layer and style it into new looks. The LWD is a prime example of versatile clothing.

Will you be sporting a LWD this summer- autumn, mid season!?

Saskia XO

Last of the summer wine....

As the countdown to the end of summer roles on perpendicularly, everyone seems to be remenicing on their summer memories! For a change, and as something different, I thought of doing a Summer/Autumn shift over for the latest beauty products :-) 

After much deciphering, I came up with the idea of posting a 'Beauty Hall' video by one of my favourite bloggers, Tanya Burr!

ENJOY!!

What is your favourite beauty buy from August?

Saskia XO

P.S. Please let me know if you enjoy this kind of post!?