not your standard rules of engagement

Renowned Cape Town jeweller Ida Elsje has long had me drooling over her beautifully unique pretties. 

But now that I'm already ringed that way, she's taking my breath away with the most striking,
contemporary re-designs of classic engagement rings. 

I could be sorely tempted to swop my sweet and simple Tiffany's Lucida for this bold beauty. 

If, you know, it wasn't for the sentiment and all that...

If you're still in the market, rejoice, and book an appointment for your custom creation!

festive dresses

There's a lovely new label in town, just in time for silly season!

Velvet brings Southern California's comfortably cool vibe to sexy little dresses that take you straight from the beach to the party. 

Pretty and feminine with a laid-back edge, a dress-lover like myself can't ask for much more.

Find Velvet dresses at Purr, in the Lifestyle Centre on Kloof Street.

Euna

Quinn

Krystal

My personal favourite: Nola

bridesmaid fashion inspiration: grey

My favourite bridesmaid's dress inspiration image ever:

InStyle Weddings Fall 2007

Melissa Sweet Fall 2007

Classic, floaty & feminine:

Watters * Beyond Vintage * Marithe & Francois Girbaud

Playful, cheeky & sexy:

French Connection * Karen Millen * Jane Norman

Sleek, modern tailored:

Kate Spade * Warehouse * Karen Millen

bridesmaid fashion inspiration: pink

I am not the biggest fan of pink. But lately? Grown-up nudes, musk, flesh, peach and even delicious shades of candyfloss, bubblegum and strawberry ice cream all tempt me with their inherent femininity. Add a black bow, some ruffles or lace and you're sitting pretty in a girly daydream.

Image by Jason & Anna Photography via Style Me Pretty

La Petit Salope * Preen * Karen Millen

Lipsy

Nordstrom * Forever21 * Lipsy * Halston Heritage