The 2014-2015 Fashion Dictionary

In case you missed it, in the year 2014, new fashion terms were invented and added to the lexicon. As designers put together innovative concepts, these translated into a series of words to describe these fresh interpretations of former trends. Every year, the fashion dictionary expands and new terms are added. This year was no different and perhaps even more replete with new terminology. For the fashion novice, these words may induce forehead lines and blank stares. And thus, this post is dedicated to you. If you missed a few fashion inventions, here is your chance to catch up for the New Year. I've concocted a list of fashion terms that came alive this year along with the designer who helped them reach fruition. Take a look below and I hope this helps you stay up-to-date for 2015.

ATHLEISURE

This term is a combination of athletic wear and leisure (duh). Coined in Alexander Wang's H&M capsule collection, this word is meant to convince consumers that you don't need to be athletic to pull off sportswear. Tank tops and leggings are no longer reserved for religious gym-goers, but rather, the fashionistas on the streets who run from one show to the next. Gone are the days of racing to Kors in stilettoes. The sneakers has been revived and it's no longer just your basketball shoe.

via style.com

NORMCORE

What is normcore, you ask? Apparently it was invented in the 90's on Seinfeld, but with the 90's fashion revival, designers have brought it back to life. Though this was more of a street style trend, the mom jean has made an appearance at catwalk shows as well such as Karen Walker and Adam Selman. Will Normcore continue into the new year? We'll have to wait and see.

via blog.lonewolfmag.com

WEARABLES

This one will definitely be popular in the New Year as it has only recently surfaced in light of the Apple Watch. This term has been in the works throughout fashion week, but DVF's Google Glass and Apple's Apple Watch have propelled its introduction to the fashion lexicon. What does it mean? It means that technology is finally shaking hands with fashion and calling a peace treaty. Wearable tech is the new black, ladies and gentlemen, so get ready for this one to skyrocket in 2015.

via nbcnews.com

Health Goth

This one may be slightly more obscure, but that is exactly where it gets its intrigue. It started last year with Jeremy Scott uploading photos to Instagram as well as American musician, Mike Grabarek, and promises to expand in the New Year. What is it? When the goth meets the environmentally conscious, you get a health goth. With a newfound interest in taking care of our planet emerging, we can expect to see more of this one coming soon to a runway near you.

via britishlibrary.typepad.co.uk

Are you ready to enter the New Year? I wonder what fashion terms the industry will come up with next...

Ponder it,

XOXO,

Bella

#IconCity: Sarah Jessica Parker, Our SATC Fashion Soul Sister

Carrie Bradshaw may have been our original icon back in the 90s, but Sarah Jessica Parker is still the face behind the character and her fashion sense seems to be even more amazing than Carrie's. Everyone from Karl Lagerfeld to Anna Wintour is BFF's with this chic celebrity and who can blame them? Her style is a combination of class and flamboyance which nobody can emulate and she consistently keeps her crowd guessing. Years after her reign as Carrie, she remains one of our biggest fashion icons and we await her Red Carpet presence at every awards season. Let's not forget that she was chosen to play the Editor-In-Chief of a top fashion magazine on Glee to reaffirm her power within the industry. Cheers to SJP.

Here are some of her best looks.

LOOK 1

This may appear simple, but the accessorizing is pure SJP. Strand of pearls, anyone?

via InStyle

LOOK 2

This sexy Naeem Khan fringe dress that she wore last year had us all experiencing some serious body envy.

via InStyle

LOOK 3

Can you say chic? The coat, her hair, the handbag, oh my. Inevitably, it's Alexander McQueen.

via InStyle

LOOK 4

Speaking of McQueen, this particular look was a total dream at the Sex and the City 2 Premiere. Are you as obsessed with the crazy hat as I am?

via InStyle

LOOK 5

The amount of pretty in this dress cannot be calculated. I die for this Elie Saab gown.

via www.ibtimes.com

What do you think of SJP's style? Which look is your favourite?

Ponder it,

XOXO,

Bella

Pre-Fall 2015 In Review

It is mid-winter and the fashion world is already two seasons ahead with the recent release of the Pre-Fall  2015 collections. On the bright side, these items can still provide us with further inspiration on our current looks, while ensuring that we remain ahead of the trend. Pre-Fall is one of my favourite times of year because during those rough and tedious winter months, it gives us some fashion to feed our frozen souls. There may be no fashion week until the spring, but there are still new collections to ogle at and aspire to purchase. After taking a closer look at every designer collection, I have selected five for review that caught my attention. As with each new fashion season, I have chosen the designer collections that were composed of a majority of looks that I am dying to wear. Without further ado, here are my top five.

JUST CAVALLI

While Roberto Cavalli collections are often too concentrated in animal prints, I found this one to be one of his best pre collections. Of course, prints still reigned supreme, but as a fan of pattern diversity, I could not resist the excellent styling skills that were executed in this particular collection. Baggy leather pants were a major favourite and if this collection is any indication, they will be a major emerging trend in 2015. Leather appeared in other forms as well such as oversized sweaters and classy cut dresses. Can there ever really be too much leather? As per usual, the leopard print made an appearance on several looks in a black and white hue, but it was not the dominant print. The colour palette consisted of burgundy, mustard yellow, and a surprise in the form of pastel pink. A few pant suits were a central point in this collection and some boho dresses that somehow kept Cavalli's edge intact. As for my favourite part? That would have to be the coloured fur a la Fendi. I'm hoping this trend will continue to grow and prosper in the new year. 

My rating? 8/10 for mixing prints like a pro.

LOOK I LOVE: Look 4

Very Cavalli, very edgy, and very contemporary.

PRABAL GURUNG

Every now and then, Prabal Gurung comes out with a collection for me to obsess over. This was one of them.  As with the Just Cavalli collection, this one swam in prints and bold fashion choices that resonated with me. Whether black and white or floral, no print was left uninvited to this party. At first, black and white seemed to be the dominant theme, keeping it monochromatic. As you dug deeper into the collection, an array of colours like red, yellow, and blue made an appearance. It was a lesson in artwork in the shape of dresses, skirts, and pants. Who says there can be such a thing as too many prints? Clearly, not Prabal. Based on this collection, wide leg pants will be the new dominant pant cut in 2015. Am I excited? I will be once someone shows petite girls how to wear it. Feminine dresses in A-line cuts were also a popular look as well as the oversized coat (of which I am a big fan). Some of these looks may even make the Red Carpet. I suppose we shall wait and see.

My rating? 7/10 for eye candy.

LOOK I LOVE: Look 35

The texture of that top needs to meet my hands.

ANTONIO BERARDI

I am a HUGE Antonio Berardi fan. If I could, I would have every piece from many of his collections in my wardrobe. This collection mimicked architecture with clean cut shapes and my personal favourite, asymmetry. Speaking of texture, there was an abundance of it featured in this collection. Whether in the form of beading or wool, this was definitely hand candy (if that were to exist). To all powerful women out there, this was THE collection for you. A mix of pantsuits with classy blazers and vests, each of these looks screamed independent woman. No female empowerment collection is complete without red and this collection showcased the colour with pride. Bold inserts of red permeated the collection in the form of skirts and dresses. Grey was another dominant presence, but it was anything but its usual sombre self. With plenty of shape and movement, this dark shade became a symbol of fluidity and strength. The collection ended with the contrasting white, reminding us all that we can and MUST wear white after labour day. Once again, fabric was manipulated in such a unique way, that we'll all be climbing those shelves for each elaborate piece.

My rating? 9/10 for shapulation (shape manipulation).

LOOK I LOVE: Look 11

This matching set has my name written all over it.

JOSH GOOT

At first I thought, "who is Josh Goot?" And then I thought, "Can we be friends?" This collection was so clean and yet so interesting with all its shapes and cuts. The mass of floral prints and knee length dresses oozed femininity and yet, I wasn't bored. There was a sense of pureness almost akin to the Garden of Eden in this collection. Perhaps it was in the flowers or maybe the simplicity of the model with pulled back wet hair. Once again, the asymmetry added intrigue to many of the looks whether on skirts or the backs dresses. There were some classy white looks that would be perfect for Spring and Fall (if you're a rule breaker like that). The dark forest met wonderland in a fairytale fantasy that I yearned to enter. While black and white dominated, some inserts of blues, yellows, and purples tickled the eye. Skirts were the focal point and in individual forms, they appealed to a variety of tastes. I'm expecting to see some of these looks at the next celebrity event. Let's hope Emma Watson or Diane Kruger concurs.

My Rating? 8/10 for mystique.

LOOK I LOVE: Look 21

This is so pretty, my eyes are melting.

FENDI

Somehow, Fendi always makes it as my favourite. I can't help it. I'm a Fendi girl. I know Karl is better known for Chanel, but Fendi beats it by a mile in my book. Shh. Don't tell anyone. Now, let's talk about this marvellous collection. I'd like to start off by saying that I adore Lindsey Wixson and this may have contributed to my bias. She looks so darn cute in Fendi furs that I'm girl crushing hard. This particular collection was all about coats, because Karl knows that your outerwear is everything at this time of year. Whether in a bold print or a colourful fur, each piece was playful and a statement in and of itself. Who cares what you're wearing underneath unless it's a beautiful Fendi mini skirt in turquoise or plum. These were the colours that dominated this collection. Unusual for Fall? I would say so. But alas, Karl is an innovator and if he can introduce these new hues for this chilly season, who are we to question it? The collection has everything I love and live for, whether fluff, mod dresses and skirts, or leather bits and pieces. The prints were abundant as well and made a statement in every possible way. If I were a six year old girl, I would adore this collection. As a 23 year old, I'm obsessed. What's not to love? Colourful mini dresses? Check. Graphic prints? Check. A sprinkle of whimsy? Check. Luxurious furry accessories? Check. SOLD to the lady at the left.

My rating? 10/10 because Karl is the fashion king.

LOOKS I LOVE: 16, 37, 39

Because you can't pick just one.

All image via Style.com.

Which was your favourite Pre-Fall collection? 

Ponder it.

XOXO,

Bella

Long Skirts Are The New Pants

2014 was the year of athleisure. In other words, everyone shook off their stilettos in exchange for a comfy sneaker, and gym pants became the new chic. For this reason, I have recently been craving femininity, a concept that has slipped away. To bring it back, I decided to take my first pre-New Year risk. I bought a midi skirt.

Yes, I am 5" tall. It is undeniable that I fall under the petite category and I could never have imagined myself in a midi skirt. But alas, I was fed up of wearing skinny jeans and unprepared for the mom jean trend that has invaded the fashion world. Baby steps led me to a full midi skirt (think Oscar de la Renta meets Raf Simons for Dior). I immediately fell in love and had to have it. As someone who has seen multiple short celebrities don the midi, including Miroslava Duma and Rachel Bilson, I knew it was in my future. It was only a matter of time before I decided to take the leap.

Now that I have finally taken that risk, I've decided to impart my own wisdom on short girls who share my fear of the leg cropping midi.

TIP 1:

Wear heels

This is a given. Even if you aren't a heels girl (which would blow my mind if you are in the short girl club), a small wedge would suffice. It will definitely solve your height problem. A nude heel would further elongate your legs and ensure that they don't look even smaller than they already are.

via streetfashionist.blogspot.com.es

TIP 2:

Make Sure It's High Waisted

A higher waisted bottom is a short girl's best friend. Embrace it, especially if you're opting for a midi skirt or wider leg jean. It's a great way to make your lower half look longer.

via fashforfashion.com

TIP 3:

Wear It With A Crop Top

Nothing elongates quite like a crop top. No matter what, this is a perfect illusion creator for short girls.

via shopzerouv.com

TIP 4:

OR Tuck It In

If you don't like crop tops because that sliver of skin is not too flattering, tuck in a cute blouse. It will have a similar elongating effect on you.

via hannahlouisef.com

TIP 5:

Do It Like Duma

This may not sound too concrete, but simply making the purchase is the first step. The rest will come afterwards.

via vanessajackman.blogspot.com

Convinced yet? Let's make it our new years resolution, shall we?

XOXO,

Bella

'Tis The Season To Be Fluffy

Winter is all about fluff. Snow tumbles on the ground only to transform into a bundle of white fluff that children make snowballs out of and throw at innocent passerby. As Buble would say, "It's a marshmallow world in the winter" and frankly, that sounds delicious. So, baby, it may be cold outside, but at least we can rely on fluff to keep us warm and cozy and compliment our Starbucks cup. This season, there is nothing more glamorous than some extra texture and for those who are not big on fur coats, it's time to take a look at some other alternatives. 

Here are ten fluffy pieces that I ADORE in the winter time. Take a look and get inspired.

The Fluffy Jacket

For those who are accustomed to wearing fluff, the fluffy jacket is an excellent style choice that will keep you feeling fashionable and warm simultaneously. It adds instant chic to your look and will make you want to keep that coat on no matter where you go.

via shopcade.com

The Fluffy Scarf

Not ready to commit to a coat? No matter. The fluffy scarf is a small accent  that will keep you feeling snug without the extra weight of a jacket. It can be subtle or bold, but make sure it's true to you.

via fashioninspirationblog.com

The Fluffy Vest

A fluffy vest is yet another alternative to the fluffy jacket. You may not be ready for all that fluff and I completely understand. This way, you can ease into it with a sleeveless variation of your typical jacket.

via fabsugar.com

The Fluffy Handbag

This year, fluff has been transferred to our handbags and we have Karl Lagerfeld to thank for that one. You may not want to WEAR the fluffy, but you can always carry it on your shoulder.

via lolobu.com

The Fluffy Sweater

This look is an easy fluffy go-to. Not sure what to wear? A fluffy sweater is ALWAYS the answer at this time of year.

via connectedtofashion.creatorsofdesign.com

The Fluffy Skirt

While this may seem bizarre to the average onlooker, the fluffy skirt is definitely a fashion statement. It defies expectations and when done right, it can look super cute with just about any slim fitted sweater.

via atlantic-pacific.blogspot.com

The Fluffy Hat

Nobody does a fluffy hat quite like a Russian fashion editor. Mira Duma reminds us that a fluffy hat can be chic without looking like over (read:road) kill.

via forum.purseblog.com

The Fluffy Muffs

It rhymes, therefore it is. Didn't some philosopher say that? Muffs are a great alternative to the hat. Breezy day? This invention is your chic solution.

via elleuk.com

The Fluffy Shoe

No, this is NOT meant to be practical or keep you warm. However, it's whimsical and that in itself is a reason to try it.

via topshop.tumblr.com

Fluffy Mittens

Who needs fingers? If you want to avoid frostbitten hands, do as the fashionistas do and wear fluffy mitts. They may seem silly now, but just wait until you slip them on. Toasty.

via carolinesmode.com

I hope you'll feel inclined to try one of these fluffy options this winter. Nothing beats the cold quite like a fluffy fashionista.

XOXO,

Bella

December Is About All Things Sparkly: DUH

Christmas is NEXT WEEK. That's right. The sales have started, boxing week is just around the corner, and STILL nobody knows what they plan on wearing to their office Christmas party or New Years Eve cocktail. You step into a store and every collection is flooded with sequins and sparkles, but frankly, you're not that kind of girl. Will you ever wear head-to-toe sequins again? Unlikely. The saleswoman takes you around the store and offers an excellent service, but unfortunately, every collection looks identical and that something special just isn't catching your eye. Where are the metallics, you ask? The salesgirl offers you a dumbfounded stare. What about monochromatic dresses, you inquire? Yet another uncomfortable silence.

WHY IS EVERYTHING MADE OUT OF SEQUINS?

via rebloggy.com

Apparently, during the month of December, there was an excess of glitter at the arts and crafts shop. This is probably because nobody would buy any of it during the rest of the year. What better way to suck in that Christmas shopper then with the easy sell that sequins are the ONLY way to dress at a Christmas event. After all, you have to get rid of them because once the holiday season is over, nobody is buying that stuff. And then, the worst happens. Everyone at dinner is wearing a sequin in a different colour. Before you know it, we're all shining bright like a diamond and nobody stands out from the crowd. There's glitter in your eye and it wasn't even worth it.

In other words, December is the month where fashion goes to die. Individuality gets crushed by a waterfall of sequins sprinkling all over it and everyone is caught wearing the exact same thing.

As a major fan of a wide variety of textures, I cannot understand how sequins have become the "go-to" for Christmas and New Years. To top it all off, these two events are a week apart and yet, nobody seems to see the problem with a fashion magazine that ONLY advertises things that sparkle for BOTH events. As much as I love a sequin, is it not the most predictable choice on these particular holidays? Shouldn't we opt for the unpredictable? Shouldn't we choose an outfit that we know nobody will be wearing? Isn't our worst nightmare to be caught in the same dress as Tiffany, our bitchy cousin from Wisconsin? As an excellent opportunity for common folk to get all dressed up, shouldn't we be yearning to defy fashion conventions and show off our unique sense of style?

What is the purpose of this discussion, you ask? I suppose I am desperately trying to find fashion in a pool of sparkle. As with everything, sequins and glitter are good in moderation and in the world of fashion, they are best worn when nobody expects it. So this year, try something different. Be bolder by avoiding the typical holiday choice. Perhaps you can try something new in the spirit of the new year. Experiment with a trend you have never tried before. Dress like it's February 2015 and resolve to escape your comfort zone. THAT is what fashion is all about. And if by any chance, you still want to sparkle, try a small accessory. It may pack that punch better than any sparkly dress.

via theberry.com

Peace Out,

XOXO,

Bella

Balmain's Spring Ad Campaign: Girls Will Be Boys

via fashionista.com

Let's talk about this ad.

via fashionista.com

And that one.

To the naked eye, these images may appear to be classic "girls just wanna have fun" photos featuring the hottest models in the industry stuffing their faces and still looking like goddesses. To the knowledgable eye, this is a Balmain Ad Campaign featuring five stunning Victoria's Secret Angels: Adriana Lima, Crista Cober, Isabeli Fontana, Joan Smalls, and Rosie Huntington-Whiteley taking on role model status.

Last week, I spoke about Alexander Wang's new denim campaign. I was flabbergasted (to say the least) at the blatant sexual image of Anna Ewers. This week, I found an ad that does "thought-provoking" the right way. As much as I love Wang, if this were a style contest, Balmain wore it better. Not only does this Balmain campaign promote an image of diversity (an important facet for designer, Olivier Rousteing), but it defies gender roles by placing women in a typically masculine setting doing typically masculine activities such as playing video games and eating fast food. Of course, these women are dressed a lot more scantily than your average male in his sweatpants in front of the TV, but in case you hadn't noticed, that is only the case for the first image, and even then, they look like sexy superheroes. In the second, they're wearing bold colour blocked dresses and jumpsuits, while enjoying a feast of burgers and fries. That is definitely NOT an image you see every day. Just when you thought the industry wanted us all to be skin thin, we find an ad such as this one telling skinny girls to EAT and not just a salad, but the fattest food around.

If this ad does not send a positive message, I don't know what does. While the Wang image resonated because of its sexually provocative nature, this one makes us think about the industry in a new light by painting an unconventional picture of models that subverts expectations. Rousteing takes the androgyny trend to a new level by having his models dressed in sexy and feminine gear, while engaging in stereotypically masculine endeavours. Essentially, according to this designer, girls can be boys without actually dressing like them. They can play Nintendo and eat fast food like the boys, but they should not lose their sensuality in the process.

Message received.

XOXO,

Bella

#IconCity: TayTay Made The Cut

Taylor Swift aka Taytay aka The New Victoria Secret Angel aka Karlie's BFF

Whatever you want to call her, it was only a matter of time before she made the cut in Icon City. After appearing on stage at TWO Victoria's Secret Fashion Shows, maintaining her top-of-the-chart status (and always looking good doing it), and writing every teenage girls' anthem time and time again, Taylor has officially reached icon status. Some may hate her and others may bow, but Taylor has proven herself as queen of pop/country (whatever she's singing these days) and deserves this spot. After all, Karlie would be lonely without her.

Here are some of her best looks:

LOOK 1

Taylor looks very 90's cool in this plaid and black tank combo. The bag and sunglasses add a little Jackie O flair to her rock n' roll look (only a little).

via ca.eonline.com

 LOOK 2

This look is one of my favourites on TayTay. Rocking the crop top and maxi combo at the ACM awards, this country girl made everyone's best-dressed list that night.

via realstylenetwork.com

LOOK 3

Taytay rocks those oxfords like no other. Even on a casual day, we want to dress like her.

via macaronsandmongrams.blogspot.sk

LOOK 4

She also knows no limits on the Red Carpet. Even in head-to-toe black, she looks beyond beautiful.

via nylonmag.com

LOOK 5

And finally, Taylor Swift looked breathtaking in this floor length white gown by Zuhair Murad. A vision in white, she won the slit award by a mile.

via instyle.com

And that's all, folks. What do you think of Taylor's style? Does she deserve icon status? Let me know!

XOXO,

Bella

That Time Alexander Wang #BroketheInternet

via style.com

Did that image make you uncomfortable?

via hypebeast.com

How about that one?

Thought so.

After scoping the internet for comments on Alexander Wang's recent denim campaign, I was surprised to see a slew of praise that made me question my propensity to say "huh?"

The best part is that the above photos aren't the worst of the bunch, but I chose to omit the image of Anna Ewers touching herself out of respect for her and others who feel as uncomfortable with this as I do. Yes, Wang #BroketheInternet, but at what cost? I understand that denim is a saturated market, but does this really make people want to buy the pants or the woman? Am I the only one slightly turned off by this blatant display of female sexuality? I feel like I'm intruding on Anna Ewers' private time.

Obviously, Alexander Wang got the well spread memo that "sex sells", but haven't we established that good jeans sell too? And didn't he just come out with an H&M collaboration that already increased his popularity ranking? Come on, Wang.

Now, I would not consider myself a prude. I believe in fashion's campaign to #freethenipple, but there are so many other ways of displaying nudity that are not quite as cringe inducing. A woman's body is beautiful, but oiled up to this extent, it looses its tastefulness and becomes a clear cry for attention.

Remember when you saw that girl in your class on Facebook posing with pouty lips in front of the camera screaming for someone to notice her cleavage? You thought, "wow, that girl is insecure and needs attention real bad" or maybe you thought, "she's hot". But then again, she wasn't trying to sell jeans, was she? She was just a girl like any other imitating something she may have seen in a magazine.

Now, there's a question I'd like to ask. Can you envision this image in your latest Vogue? Can you imagine your 12 year old sister catching a glimpse? Is that what you would call "pushing the boundaries" or does it take things to a level where people can't leave it on their coffee table? I am all for boundary pushing, but to what degree?

On the bright side, the image stayed in my mind for over a week and therefore, it must have done its job. Does it make me scream for those jeans? Probably not. But I am talking about it, so I suppose Wang got exactly the reaction he wanted. Now we all know that Alexander Wang makes jeans.

Alexander Wang for H&M? So last month.
Kim Kardashian's oiled body on Paper Mag? Psh, Kim who?

Make way for Alexander Wang and let me know what you think of this image. Good career move or pornographic? Or both?

Ponder it,

XOXO,

Bella

My VS Fashion Show Play-By-Play (With Some Opinions)

via usatoday.com

In case you missed it, here is a Victoria's Secret Fashion Show play-by-play. Are you ready?

I began with a strong hope that this year's show would start with a smash, but all I got were some sparkles as the backdrop to the impending extravaganza. Oh well. A few Angels walked the runway in golden undergarments starting with the recently wed Behati Prinsloo, and those flashy golden wings were pretty in a conventional VS fashion show type of way. 'Twas cute.

My favourite collection, "Dream Girls", was introduced by Taytay aka The Lost Angel. Obviously, she was wearing lingerie just like all her other besties. Usually, she's known to wear slightly more clothing, but peer pressure always wins in the end. Before long, she will be walking the runway with the others.

And then, the ultimate shocker happened. Ed Sheeran appeared on stage, awkwardly shuffling with his guitar. Our two favourite Brazilians stepped on stage like twins in fantasy bras, feathers were worn, and kisses were blown. It was spec-freaking-tacular. I yawned. At least the outfits were cute.

Suddenly, Ariana Grande appeared singing Love Me Harder and everyone took her for an Angel due to her adorable little mini skirt undies. Of course, she introduced the much sought after teen collection, PINK. She proceeded to "bang bang into the room" by herself. No Jessie J or Nicki Minaj in sight. I was half hoping they would appear for that extra element of surprise, but alas, it never happened. The biggest shocker of all? Her dancers wore SO much clothing. Obviously, Ariana stole all the attention away from the models strutting down the stage as she worked that half ponytail. Although, I must admit that their outfits in this segment were my absolute favourite. I have a feeling Ariana's high pitched voice will be stuck in my head for months to come.

When the set changed, I knew I was in for something amazing. We were transported into a dark forest a la Snow White. And then Hozier appeared and I was like "who?" I can imagine the girls thought the same. Where was Bruno? How anticlimactic.

Finally, the grand finale took place and Taylor Swift returned holding hands with BFF Karlie Kloss and introduced her (future) smash hit "Style". How a propos.

via kansascity.com

The best part about the whole show? The location. London, baby. Oh, and Alessandra Ambrosio (as per usual).

And scene.

XOXO,

Bella

The December Shopping Disease

via nebraskahub.com

Yes, I have resurfaced from exam period (more or less) unscathed with much adrenaline to spare. With sales like Black Friday and Cyber Monday screaming my name, it was a wonder I stayed away from the shopping world and remained deeply immersed in my books. I must admit, Cyber Monday threw me slightly off guard (when did that become a thing?). But, alas, I managed to resist the urge to press that "add to cart" button and avoid Facebook ads like the plague (yes, they do occasionally entice me).

But today, all that has changed, my friend. Today, I have been freed of the heavy weight of literature and I have caught the bug. No, I am not sick in the coughing fit kind of way. I merely have the December shopping disease. Is it the Christmas jingles playing in every story putting me in the mood? Is it the snow falling from the sky inducing me to buy more sweaters? Is it a desire to decompress after remaining cooped up in the library? I could not say. But this disease has taken over my body and my immune system is struggling to fight it.

After all, it is only natural that with Boxing Week (best holiday of the year) rapidly approaching, my desire to shop is continuously expanding like a hot air balloon and eventually, it will explode. The stores will beckon and I will enter. That rush will return as I touch every soft fabric in sight against my dried up winter withered hands.

It might not be Boxing Day for a few weeks, but the sales have begun and everything that you will probably still be wearing for the next six months (due to the lengthiness of winter) is now at a reduced price. The promotions are yelling "BUY ME!". The red stickers are officially your favourite kind of stickers and invite you to blow kisses at them (if you're crazy enough). And sales people are starting to look slightly more attractive due to your blurred lovestruck vision.

December is officially being renamed "Shoptember". It sounds a little like September, which has already been taken, but we'll let it slide. This is the month when you can permit yourself to go a little nuts. Shoptember is about making yourself feel better on a -30 degree day. It's about making the best of winter by staying indoors, while avoiding hibernation. The mall is your new best friend. Open your arms to it.

So, take your best friend to lunch. And dinner. And breakfast. It is after all a season to be jolly and nothing makes me more jolly than a good sale.

Happy Shoptember!

XOXO,

Bella

The Finals Fashion Freakshow

Welcome, welcome. Come one, come all, to the Finals Fashion Freakshow.

Where?
Your library of choice. Any library will feature an array of ladies participating in the show. I promise that it will be better than the Victoria's Secret Fashion Show. No promises though.

When?
For the next three weeks, you can expect people from across the globe to participate in this phenomenon and exhibit their true selves in finals garb. Will it be pretty? No guarantees. It will, however, capture the eye.

Why?
Drowning in books, everyone is in a state of utter turmoil as our brains attempt to compartmentalize every single fact we've acquired over the course of the school term. Coffee is the beverage of choice to keep those beautiful eyes with their bold dark shadows as open as they can possibly be as a cause of the 5 hours of sleep that we got the night before.

Who?
Everyone.

First, you'll spot the BUNHEADS. These are the ladies who no longer have time to blowdry their hair. Hair salons, beware, because your prime clientele has subjected themselves to natural unruly curls spindling about and framing the face with a frizzy halo.

Then, you'll see the BAGGY GALS. Yes, I refer to those women who opt for sweatpants over jeans. There are a number of reasons they choose to go baggy during exams, but the main one remains that constant desire for food propelling them to the kitchen every 30 minutes to increase energy levels as much as possible. Nothing provides comfort quite like that chocolate bar you've been envisioning in your mind for the past hour.

The FOOD BINGERS are at your left, sneaking a snack every five minutes in the forbidden space of the library. These are the people who must ALWAYS be eating. You can spot them based on the constant crunching of their mouths. Their attempt to be silent does not go unnoticed.

As you step passed these ladies, behold the BOOK WORMS. You may have trouble getting a look at their faces, but you'll recognize them based on the multiplicity of books weighing down their tiny arms. These ladies have so much reading to do that their books have taken over their bodies.

And in the next cage, you've got the GLASSES LADIES. You have never seen them in your classes with a pair of glasses, but suddenly, they're masked by massive frames. Where is their face? They have chosen to hide their sleep deprived features and who can blame them?

And finally, get ready for...the NOSE DRIPPERS. This is as ugly as it sounds. These are the people whose immune systems have descended to such levels that they have contracted a cold that chose to creep up on them during finals. While runny noses are not very chic, the thought of being chic has simply slipped their mind as they bury themselves in books and kleenex boxes.

And that's all folks. I hope you enjoyed the circus and I expect to see you all there. Unfortunately, I am attending as well and therefore, I will not be posting any articles for the next week. Let's all focus on survival. May the odds be in your favour. Good luck and Amen.

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XOXO,

BELLA