Summer Breeze

Summer Breeze by kamarla featuring platform shoes

Blue jacket, £69 / Kayleen platform shoes, £29 / Givenchy brown purse, £2,125 / Miss Selfridge choker necklace, £12 / Eugenia Kim summer hat, £325

J'adore Michael Kors

I have been going on and on to my family about wanting to get a Micheal Kors bag, and finally I can say I absolutely adore the latest addition to my bag collection.

I decided to go for the Michael Michael Kors Selma Medium Messenger bag. I love the colour-block contrast of  Black and White giving the bag an elegant and clean finish. The good quality Saffiano leather will ensures that my bag is scratch-proof and waterproof.

Originally I was quite surprised at the size of the bag. On first look you would think that it won't hold a lot, but believe me looks are deceiving. I can fit a hell of a lot of things in this bag without it looking bulky.

The bag came beautifully packaged in a white satin dustbag which meant that as well as travelling in style, my bag successfully made the journey perfectly intact.

As a messenger bag there are no handles but just a long white leather detachable strap. I love the fact that it is adjustable as I have huge worries with straps as I am quite short. Another great thing about the detachable strap, is that once taken off the bag becomes a cute clutch bag. This will be ideal for holiday, as it makes a great neutral day and evening bag.

What do you think of the Michael Michael Kors Selma Messenger?

Hugs and Kisses

Leopard Celine Inspired Clutch

A couple of weeks ago, when I was in Peterborough I popped in to return some items and came out with this bag . I don't know what it is but in the past  I would always express my dislike to animal prints,  yet now I am love with leopard printed items.  To my amazement it is the 'Must have' print this season with most fashion brands & stores flocking to create accessories from shoes to bags.

This bag was originally £6 but was reduced by 50% to a mere £3. I love the style of this bag as it reminds me of the Celine Crossbody Trio even though it only has 2 compartments instead of 3. The use of gold hardware makes the bag look that little more chic and the size is perfect to carry all your handbag essentials or great to use as a clutch on a night out.  Not to mention it comes with a shoulder strap in case you are anything like me and love to be hands-free!

Are you loving the Leopard Print Trend?

Peace, Love & Besos

 I don't know what it is but right now I am way into bright blues (as evidenced here + here).  I love the zipper detail on this bag and the size is awesome and can carry all your essentials.  Not to mention it comes with a shoulder strap in case you are anything like me and love to be hands-free!

- See more at: http://www.alittledashofdarling.com/2014/07/nordstrom-anniversary-sale-vince-camuto-blue-bag.html#sthash.dENY74cD.dpuf

 I don't know what it is but right now I am way into bright blues (as evidenced here + here).  I love the zipper detail on this bag and the size is awesome and can carry all your essentials.  Not to mention it comes with a shoulder strap in case you are anything like me and love to be hands-free! - See more at: http://www.alittledashofdarling.com/2014/07/nordstrom-anniversary-sale-vince-camuto-blue-bag.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+ALittleDashOfDarling+%28A+Little+Dash+of+Darling%29#sthash.ayZBTxsl.dpuf

 I don't know what it is but right now I am way into bright blues (as evidenced here + here).  I love the zipper detail on this bag and the size is awesome and can carry all your essentials.  Not to mention it comes with a shoulder strap in case you are anything like me and love to be hands-free! - See more at: http://www.alittledashofdarling.com/2014/07/nordstrom-anniversary-sale-vince-camuto-blue-bag.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+ALittleDashOfDarling+%28A+Little+Dash+of+Darling%29#sthash.ayZBTxsl.dpuf

 I love the zipper detail on this bag and the size is awesome and can carry all your essentials.  Not to mention it comes with a shoulder strap in case you are anything like me and love to be hands-free! - See more at: http://www.alittledashofdarling.com/2014/07/nordstrom-anniversary-sale-vince-camuto-blue-bag.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+ALittleDashOfDarling+%28A+Little+Dash+of+Darling%29#sthash.ffYfqoL2.dpuf

 I love the zipper detail on this bag and the size is awesome and can carry all your essentials.  Not to mention it comes with a shoulder strap in case you are anything like me and love to be hands-free! - See more at: http://www.alittledashofdarling.com/2014/07/nordstrom-anniversary-sale-vince-camuto-blue-bag.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+ALittleDashOfDarling+%28A+Little+Dash+of+Darling%29#sthash.ffYfqoL2.dpuf

What's in my Suitcase?

It is not unusual for me to over pack and be overweight (I’ve had many overweight charge dilemmas in the past). However I have got better this year due to sorting out the outfits I want to wear in piles before packing them. As I will be going away for 4 days, I will be using my M & S  Holdall for my luggage,because it is lighter than a suitcase meaning I am able to make full use of the 10kg weight limit allowance.

Clothes

White & Mint Playsuits - Playsuits are absolute wardrobe essentials; they're gorgeous, lightweight and easy to dress up or down.

Multicoloured Kimono – Can be used as a beach cover up or light jacket.

Sequined Multicoloured Paisley Maxi Kaftan – Although this is a beach item, I think it is way too pretty to only wear on the beach and would wear this for nice restaurant dinner.

Shorts – These are a must-have holiday essential and can be used both in daytime or night-time. I only own denim shorts so I am taking my high-waisted dark blue shorts and a light wash blue pair to wear for different looks.

Selection of tops – I tend to wear plain coloured tops nowadays as they are easily wearable to match other items but I did pack an Aztec print vest top, yellow cami top, white halter cami, Black Silk halter neck and white crop top. Knowing me I will throw in a few extra before the holiday!

Nautical Striped Maxi Skirt - can be worn in the day or evening and easily worn with a variety of tops.  Black/Green Faux Silk Joggers – These are great comfortable trousers, which can be dressed up or down.

Finally most importantly is underwear whilst on holiday, although I only have 2 pictured, the rest will be packed later on, But I like to take mainly black sets and seamless bottoms. Along with a pair of 10 denier tights & a pair of socks especially for on the way back to UK.

Beachwear

I own about 14 variations of swimwear but I have managed to select just 5 items from my collection. I doubt I will use them all but I prefer to have a fresh bikini / swimsuit everyday as it saves me doing any washing on holiday.

Halterneck Embroided Gem Swimsuit|Multicoloured Diamond Swimsuit|Floral Bird Halterneck bikini|Nautical Striped bikini| Neon block coloured bikini

Bikini waterproof bag – Perfect for storing wet swimwear but could be doubled up as an additional clutch.  Beach towel – I like to use my own towel at the beach as it is the right size and I can distinguish my towel from the rest on the poolside/at the beach.  I also take a big floppy hat to protect my eyes from the Sunrays and prevent heatstroke.

Accessories

Blogger Programme tote bag – Great as a beach bag or if I go exploring on an excursion.

Jewellery – As it can weigh, I will only taking my Gold Body Chain which is great worn with swimwear, my pink robed and gold necklace and my Blue statement necklace.

Limited Edition Primark Gold Clutch – Black is a neutral colour so it will match any outfit plus the gold hardware makes it look expensive. Black faux croc & leopard pony waist belts – Again black belt will match any outfit but the leopard belt will instantly update an outfit to look fierce.

Shoes

Nude Patent Pointed Heels – I always struggle when picking out the perfect heels for holiday as it is no point packing a lot as you never wear them all, so I am taking my Nude pair as they are smart,  dressy and a neutral colour. Black Jelly Heart Flip Flops – They’re great for the beach especially when you are required to wash off sand because they are waterproof & won’t go mouldy.

 I will also take my Black Faux Snakeskin Pumps which will be worn on the day I fly out as they are comfy and perfect to travelling.

I hope you have enjoyed seeing my full breakdown list of items I will be taking to Ibiza. I will  be doing an Ibiza travel diary after my holiday.

Are you going away for some last minute Sun before Winter arrives?

Peace & Love

What's in my 'Toiletries' Bag?

In my second installment of my Ibiza holiday post, I will be discussing what I will be carrying in my holiay wash bag. Due to the liquid allowance, my toiletry bag is always minimal when I go away;i  only take the bare essentials and if I forget anything I know I can probably find it on location albeit it being a high price.

Face Products

Facial skincare - On holiday my facial routine is very simple and quick. I use the Simple Oil Balancing Facial moisturiser which is great for keeping your face oils at bay and Simple blemish face wipes – For those days when I am lazy or tired to use the makeup remover.

Face Scrub – I like to use St Ives Apricot scrub to exfoliate my skin on holiday as with the heat and sweat, it is more likely to drawn out the toxins plus it helps to revive the skin from sun damage to keep you looking radiant.

Makeup remover/cleanser & cotton pads – It is essential to remove all traces of makeup at the end of the day and cleanse your face so I take a travel sized bottle of Green people Makeup Remover/Cleanser plus you don’t want to give the cleaners a makeup filled pillow . I also take a couple of Muji Cotton pads with me too.

Body Products

Body Cream -  I use a miniature Vaseline body cream on holiday and a couple of Garnier samples which can easily be popped in my bag if we go to the beach and want to do a quick moisture especially due to salt water drying out my skin. 

Shower gel & Flannel –   I always take a travel sized bottle because of the 100ml liquid allowance. However, the majority of hotels I stay in provide good quality complimentary toiletries.

Deodorant – My Lush Greeenech Powdered Deodorant ,  I find it is more hygienic than roll on because it is in powder form , I find it keeps me dry in the heat and if I do sweat (can’t stop the inevitable of nature) , it does not smells due to the antibacterial properties.

Essentials & other bits

Toothbrush & Tooth tabs – My foldaway toothbrush always stays in my travel wash bag as it’s so handy to use on the move and I use the Lush Toothtabs instead of toothpaste as it is light, minimises those spillage accidents and natural as it contains no fluoride.

Mouthwash – I like to pop a travel-sized Listerine bottle in my bag for those times when you need to refresh your breath especially after a meal.

Disposable razor & shaving gel – I like to take a disposable razor & shaving gel with me in case of any touch ups (Yes I am talking about the bikini line ladies).

Hair Oil - I will most likely have box braids extensions to save me hassle of bringing hair dryer, afro comb, shampoo/conditioner etc. But to keep my hair hydrated from the drying sun, I will take my ORS Vital oils spray which is full of light essential oils such as grape seed and sweet almond oils.

I personally don’t use any sun lotions anymore as I recently heard on radio 4 interview with a doctor that SPF has not been tested on black skin, plus with the melanin in my skin it protects me enough as I don’t tend bathe in the sun too much anyway. Feminine products I always take a couple for those 'just in case’ moments as the body has a mind of its own sometimes.

The next installment in my Ibiza holiday bag posts will be 'Whats in my holiday makeup bag'.

What is your 'Must have' item in your toiletry bag on holiday?

Peace & Love

What's in my 'Airport' Handbag?

Since the time I booked my September holiday to Ibiza late spring, I have been so excited for several reasons:

• Glitz , Glam and Party Central...It's the Celebrity hotspot of 2014 ( Cara Delevingne, Kim Kardashian & Kanye, P Diddy , Naomi Campbell etc)
• Escape the dull, wet UK weather for a hotter & sunny climate
• I will be staying in the newly opened &  first European Hard Rock Hotel. 
• My final holiday to end the Summer before starting my final year at university.

As I am only going for 4 days, I am purely only taking hand luggage; thankfully Ryanair allow up to 10kg allowance plus an additional handbag. So I thought it would a good idea to share with you a breakdown list of what I will be packing for my 4 night trip to the Beautiful Balearic Islands in a few blog posts.

As you can tell I love to cram as much as I can into my carry-on bag, however the above are all necessities (except the alcohol of course). I will use my £49 Harrods Burgundy Faux Saffiano Leather Handbag as it has long shoulder straps, sleek and fashionable, making it the perfect tote bag.

Travel Wallet – I love this wallet especially as it is personalised with my initials ‘SRP’. This is a must have travel essential as I am able to store my money, travel documents/flight paperwork all in one without the need of separate folders etc. Plus I love that it has a pen holder as you never know when you will need a pen.

Makeup bag – I always take an additional mini toiletries bag in my hand bag, in case I need to touch up any makeup before or after the flight. I don't take much just the essentials such as gel eyeliner, mascara, studio fix powder, chewing gum , lip balm & lipstick, two perfumes, nail file & nail polish, remover pads clear nail polish , hand cream, body wipes and a mirror.

Kiss Gel Dress – I will be taking my Kiss Gel Dress nails that I received from Alex Silver PR as it will save the hassle of bringing nail polish plus the Glitter 'My Space' nails will look very glam glistening in the sunlight.

Disposable Contact Lenses & Glasses –  Unfortunately I am not blessed with 20/20 vision ,so I always make sure I carry both my contact lenses , prescription sunglasses and everyday glasses

especially as I will need to protect my eyes from the sun & it's UV Ray. 

Purse – I never bring my large Valentino purse abroad but instead use a cheap small purse which can easily be used on the go, to fit my necessary bank cards including my driving provisional for ID, change and additional Euros as I don’t want to walk around with my travel wallet with all my important documents on holiday.

Electricals – Where ever I go my iPad Mini goes because it has a better battery life than my mobile and contains all my essential apps, music & games for the flight.  I take my mobile to stay in contact with people via WhatsApp & so I can instagram my travels. Also my Smartstick Charger is carried around in case my phone runs out charge when I am out and not near a plug, this will give my mobile a full charge.

Cameras – My Samsung NX100 Compact System always comes on holiday as I love the quality of pictures it captures in the daytime in comparison to my point & shoot camera. I take my Samsung WB150F point & shoot camera because it is smaller & has wifi upload feature to social media.

I will also be packing other essentials such as Glamour/Cosmopolitan/Company Magazines,  plug Adaptor adapter, my chargers (iPad, Phone, Camera) , Umbrella as you never know the weather when back in UK.

Snacks – Inflight snacks are essential especially if you are like me and dislike plane food. I always eat at one of the aiport resturants before the flight but I carry some sweets, crisps and biscuits onto the plane with me for when I get peckish!
 

I hope you enjoyed seeing what I take on the plane with me, the next installment in my Ibiza holiday bag posts will be 'Whats in my holiday toiletries bag'.

What essentials do you take in your handbag when you go on holiday?

Peace & Love

Holiday Inspiration: Airport Style

Many of you already know, I am going on holiday next month to Ibiza. To say I am ...EXCITED... would be a huge understatement.

I don't know about you but I like to travel in style. Beginning with what I wear to the Airport.
However, it pays to be practical as well as chic, which is why I planned this outfit for my travels.

Airport Style Inspiration by kamarla

I decided to go with a light and simple outfit. Keeping layers to a minimum as we all have to go through the security process, such as taking of belts, shoes etc. There is no jewellery or a belt for the basic reason that it is a hassle to take off when going through the scanner.

I chose simple leopard flats to add print to the outfit. Flats are better than heels in this case, as you wouldn't have to take them off in order to go through the scanner. For one thing I don't like to put my feet on the floor without socks.

Resist the urge to go in super short shorts and a crop top in preparation for when you arrive at your sunny destination; for the simple reason that it will be chilly on the plane ride before you get there. A scarf and jacket are necessities when travelling. At least with a jacket you can take it off when warm, but easily accessible for chilly moments. I chose a leopard scarf to bring the outfit all together.

Wearing a hat on your travels you look chic and it is an easy way to transport; without it getting squashed or misshapen.  The Michael Kors cross body bag is perfect for airport style, as the long strap keeps your hands free to deal with check-in and a stylish way to store your travel documents.

My style inspiration

Pictures from www.glamourmagazine.co.uk and www.instyle.com

What is your go to style when travelling?

Hugs and Kisses

Primark Limited Edition Haul

Last weekend my sister came to visit me in Bristol, which meant ...SHOPPING SPREE!!
We went to check out the 4 floored Primark in Bristol, and decided to seek out their Limited Edition collection.

Leopard Print Pony Heels : £22.00 - (1) I love leopard print accessories. (2) They are chic, sophisticated, perfect for work in the day and drinks at night. (3) They are a bargain and a great dupe of the Miss KG Alba heels for £80. (4) Best worn with a Black LBD, Leopard Print Clutch and minimal Jewellery.

Leopard Print Pony Ballet Flats : £16.00 - Who wouldn't like the ballet flat version? (1) They make a casual outfit look effortlessly classy and (2) No fear of tired, hurting feet. (3) Best worn with Boyfriend Fit Jeans, Basic Tee or White Shirt, and a Navy or Beige Blazer.

Faux Leather Gold Hardware Clutch : £10.00 - (1) The Gold hardware and minimal design instantly dresses up an outfit . (2) It comes with its own dust-bag to protect from scratches. (3) The built in card holder saves you carrying a bulky purse. (4) It has an internal pocket and phone holder. (5) Perfect for a night out as a clutch or use the gold metal strap to pop on your shoulder. (6) Best worn with a Black LBD, Gold Waist belt and Jewellery, and Black or Gold Heels.

Limited Edition Zip Biker Boots: £22.00 - (1) Biker boots can make an outfit look edgy. (2) Black and Gold hardware need I say more. (3) The heel makes the boots look feminine without being obvious. (4) Everybody loves getting two things for the price of one, just unzip the top and you have an ankle boot, or keep it on for a longer fit. (5) Best styled with a Basic/ Slogan Tee, Distressed Jeans and a Leather Jacket.

Do you like the Primark Limited Edition Collection?

Hugs and Kisses