Instant Gratification, Please.

Santorini: A Vague Impression

Obliteration, devastation and starting all over again…

Santorini’s aesthetics are not pretty.

They’re rugged, they’re unruly …they’re beautiful.

It is disaster and rebuilding on full display as the cut-away cliffs fold like cake mix down to the Aegean Sea… Nea Kameni’s active volcano in the flooded Santorini caldera erupted, demolished, and created what Santorini is today.

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A post shared by ✨Jessica O'M🕉️ahoney, CPTF. Life Coach (@jessicajomahoney)

…and the sea is the deepest sparkling blue you can ever imagine. A blue that somehow makes you feel its’ depths …your depths …life’s ‘inifinite’-ness & possibility …and on top of the devastation that the volcano created, man’s hand has crafted, carefully and lovingly, the most beautiful architectural treats for the eye, in glistening whites, bouncing the light, and making the whole landscape a working-art, a work of hope.

…because only a few kilometres away lies an active volcano, and Mother Nature could go and take it all away again.

I was speaking to a bartender, this time around, about why it is that Santorini feels so different and why it takes your breath away…

She said it is the energy of the volcano – a feminine energy – and it is right at this little island’s doorstep.

…and the villagers worship and celebrate its’ power, because it built the island as it is today, in such a jaw-dropping and heart-stopping kind of way.

Out of the eruption. Out of the devastation.

And the little caldera cliff houses teeter on its’ edge, vicariously, almost as if they are constantly rebalancing their weight to lean against gravity. And the tourism is as relentless, as the sun, and the wind.

…and I think that it might just be the thing that does Santorini in.

But the rejuvenation and reconstruction is a part of Santorini, and like moths we are drawn to the flame, to the active volcano, to the rumbling, yet strangely restorative energy that is Santorini.

Nea Kameni, the island of Santorini’s creation, is pictured to my right 💓

https://www.instagram.com/p/B3o3mn1JzoH/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

WHAT ON EARTH SHOULD I WEAR THIS FALL???

The weather begins to chill, the leaves begin to brown, and, naturally, we want to freshen up our wardrobes to meet the new season! Trendy, timeless, and, of course snug, is the aim of this list.

This lookbook is for our US/UK family. Southern Hemisphere – a Spring wardrobe pick is in the works for you too, so watch this space.

**Prada Boots with Wide Tread:**
https://rstyle.me/+6bFIluU_EN_X_HfsIt7yTg

These Prada boots are to die for – wide tread is a big 2020 trend, and I am loooving it! This is an unusual take on it, pairing the edgy girl look, with a classic riding boot – eliciting a cross-pollination of Country Girl elegance with Chic City Living. Definitely wear these from the office to the fashion show. Works well with a classic trench.

**Calvin Klein Trench Coat:**
https://rstyle.me/+yD48ma8edjf6UbbpkpopPA

This Calvin Klein trench coat will be the gift that keeps on giving. In neutral tones that will take you through many seasons, timelessly adding refinement to any outfit. This specific piece is part of the Vestiaire Collection, and comes in at Very Good Condition …and Very Good Price, too, I might add! Think simple – chunky white wool turtlenecks paired with mini skirts and boots.

**Alberta Ferretti Frayed Mini Skirt In Cream Colour:**
https://rstyle.me/+k11Vu_3cibPDtx7vSTewfA

This sweet little Alberta Ferretti is a classic nod back to the sixties – see Margot Robbie in Once Upon A Time In Hollywood. This skirt is sure to keep your fall cute, and is versatile enough to work with an array of stockings, boots (both ankle and knee length), and because of the colour, will pair well with practically all your beloved tops. This is an investment piece, and the style can forever be reimagined, and reinterpreted.

**MANU Atelier XX Micro Cylinder Bag:**
https://rstyle.me/+i6wrNBbxv7kxGvvJ82K6YA

The chunky gold chains… The neutral warm hues… This is 2020. We are craving comfort, but also feeling a need to rebel. This piece is a winner, and I need it. NOW!

**Nastygal Knit’s Not Going to Happen Sweater and Joggers Lounge Set:**
https://rstyle.me/+hPU26spwwIYrQw8THcH-Eg

Cute loungewear to keep us comfy but not feeling like actual slobs… This is exactly what we have here. At price point, too, to make the budget (and the material) stretch.

**UO Flat Brim Felt Fedora Hat – Beige at Urban Outfitters:**
https://rstyle.me/+TsgVTAIPfgC7OXEtyg9vEw

When in doubt, add a hat. This beige fedora is so swish, it will elevate the simplest outfit, and give added interest.

**Oasis Midi Dress by Free People:**
https://rstyle.me/+BpPkwfcge2qgrIcUw-bOJg

Pretty, flowy, feminine, for our soft girl days. Autumn is a time where all the colours warm up, intensifying before the cold brush of winter blanches all the hues to shades of blue and grey. This dress is perfect for the not-so cold days.

**Cream Dresses – Lorna Luxe Ivory ‘Amelie’ Lace Detail Slip Dress:**
https://rstyle.me/+c3oogs8kjTAPtw9zyusENg

A satin slip is my idea of grace. This can be worn with a knit cardigan day or night.

**Lee Matthews Striped ribbed-knit cardigan:**
https://rstyle.me/+IzbsH9eo1lzBuEOZ-8bmRw

The polo neck is very in right now, and rightly so. Demure yet form-fitted, country nostalgia. I adore!

FROM PRADA TO ZARA: September’s Vogue Picks & Their High Street Equivalents

Flipping through this month’s British Vogue, I outlined some of my favourite trends and have linked where you can shop them, as well as some affordable high street alternatives!

TREND: ORGANZA

Organza material is lightweight, shimmery and graceful – and, it is all over the pages of Vogue this month.

I absolutely love Gigi Hadid in this Prada dress, and although it is not available to buy just yet, I did find a great Zara alternative, that captures the feel.

DESIGNER: PRADA

Prada Organza Blouse – British Vogue Sept 2020

HIGH STREET: ZARA

Zara – R699/$32,07
https://www.zara.com/za/en/knit-and-organza-jacket-trf-p02488106.html?v1=56677053

TREND: FRILLED POPLIN SHIRTS

These shirts make me think of days gone by. Very romantic. Very nostalgic. Very feminine. D&G have a beautiful broderie anglaise top below, and Zara has a very sweet alternative.

DESIGNER: DOLCE & GABBANA

Dolce & Gabbana Cotton Blouse with R19 791,80/$995
https://www.dolcegabbana.com/en/women/clothing/shirts-and-tops/cotton-blouse-with-flounce-detailing-white-F74R5TFU5RFW0800.html?cgid=women-apparel-shirts#page=1&start=22

HIGH STREET: ZARA

Zara – R699/$32,07
https://www.zara.com/za/en/embroidered-top-with-ruffle-trim-p07200026.html?v1=51057376

TREND: TIMELESS SHIRTS

This isn’t really a trend, because I don’t think these will ever go out of fashion. However, a well-cut shirt is definitely at the forefront of this year’s fashion imagery, and I think one in beautiful material is just oh-so-flattering.

DESIGNER: MARGARET HOWELL

Margaret Howell R3 378,30/$155
https://www.margarethowell.co.uk/womens/shop/shirts/mhl-collared-swing-shirt-pyjama-stripe-cotton-brown-ecru

HIGH STREET: ZARA

Zara R799/$36,66
https://www.zara.com/za/en/striped-blouse-p09479043.html?v1=58107804&v2=1277472

TREND: TAILORED SUITS

We are very much into reclaiming the masculine this year. 2020 needs to be taken on ferociously, at times, and nothing says “I am here, and I am ready” like a fresh new suit.

DESIGNER: SALVATORE FERRAGAMO

Salvatore Ferragamo R31 161,30/$1430
https://www.ferragamo.com/shop/gb/en/women/rtw-women-uk/jackets-women-uk/g-738735–24

Zara R2299/$105,48
https://www.zara.com/za/en/blazer-with-belt-p07199418.html?v1=59333935

TREND: KNIT EVERYTHING

From Jacque Mus to Skims, we want knit in all shapes and sizes. The polo neck is making a big comeback, and bralettes under cardigans are also very timely. There are so many great designers creating beautiful pieces, I especially like ribbed versions, and really you can go wild in all colours with this. Comfort is another thing we are craving in these upheaving times.

Zara R619/$28,40
https://www.zara.com/za/en/knit-cotton-cardigan-p04978100.html?v1=61200153&v2=1277483

Zara R619/$28,40
https://www.zara.com/za/en/special-edition-knit-leggings-p00014117.html?v1=72675021

Look out for next months’ picks, as I will be translating into a whole array of different high street names, not just Zara.

Stay Safe. Stay Comfortable. Stay Chic.

MACROS – Everything You Need To Know

Psychologist and nutrition expert, Kirsty Britz, shared her wealth of knowledge about macros and body image health on this week’s Big Sister edition of Sisterhood Saturday.

Here is a little summary of what we learnt about macros and how to get started.

Below are links to calculating your macros, the macronutrients in individual foods, as well as Kirsty’s own unique macros menu in pictures.

Remember: if you decide to try the macros nutrition model – yours will be different to hers; this menu is suited to her unique body make-up and health/fitness targets.

https://www.instagram.com/tv/CDWNaf6JtLZ/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Example of What Kirsty May Eat In A Day

What are macros?

Macronutrients are made up of three major food groups: protein, carbohydrates, & fat.

The macros nutrition model is calculated uniquely and individually.
You choose your targets, and what you want to eat based on your individual body make up.
You can eat anything, provided it fits in with your daily macro count.
You count your macro’s rather than your calories, or restricting food groups.
It may seem tedious at first while calculating, but after that it is easy, nutritious and effective.
A lot of people only stick to their macro counting 5 days per week.

“There are no bad foods. Only ‘sometimes’ foods, and ‘all time’ foods.” – Kirsty Britz

MACRO CALCULATORS

MACRO IN FOOD CALCULATOR

NOW WHAT?!

Once you have your unique macros – take an hour or two to create your own meal plan.
Enter each food into the calculator above and calculate the nutrients in the food you are going to eat this week!

You will now know that your body is getting all the healthy nutrients it needs in your daily diet, and you will be in control of what you eat, working toward your own unique goals, steadily and healthily.

If you feel you may have an unhealthy relationship with food, Kirsty recommends you seek a nutritionist/expert before starting a new health journey so that it does not become unhealthy and obsessive.

Below are links to eating disorder helplines – reaching out and talking to someone is sometimes the first step to a lifetime love affair with your body and food.

EATING DISORDER HELPLINES

USA HELPLINES

Hopeline Network: 1-800-442-4673
Crisis Textline: Text CONNECT to 741741
Overeaters Anonymous: 1-505-891-2664
National Association of Anorexia Nervosa and
Associated Disorders: 1-630-577-1330

SOUTH AFRICA HELPLINES

Imani: 27 (0) 21 761 0740
Eating Disorders South Africa: (27) 12 338 2543
Twin Rivers: 27 (0)82 863 3159

UNITED KINGDOM HELPLINES

Beat Eating Disorders Helpline: 0808 801 0677
Eating Disorder Association NI: 02890 235959
Eating Disorder Support: 01494 793223

Visit Kirsty’s Instagram for more Health Tips:

https://www.instagram.com/kirst_fitfood/

DIY Style Mask

Step by Step Photo Instructions to make your own at home.

Staying In-Tertainment: The Little Social Distancing Handbook for the Girl Who Just Stays In

Advice, Activities, Exercises, Style Ideas & Recipe To Keep You Sane and Entertained During Partial and Full Quarantine.

100% of the profits are going to the charity Gift of the Givers.

AT HOME MICRO-NEEDLING

Lockdown Style for The Girl Who Just Stays In

Cosy Outfit INspiration

Because of the tumultuous times thrown upon us, many of us are confined to our couches. This is a time of uncertainty in which we can easily get the blues.

Let us not underestimate the Power of Fashion.

What we wear has the ability to structure our days, to brighten our days, to give us a sense of normality, to give us a feeling of safety …of cosiness, to make us feel a bit more like the best version of ourselves, like we are carrying on, and the world is carrying on too.

If you are feeling a bit blue, in a slump, not knowing what to do…

Get dressed.

Psychologically it will indicate to your mind that you are ready and the day has begun.

So …on that note, here are some comfy outfit ideas that are on trend right now for The Girl Who Just Stays In!

Comfy Co ords
Crop Hoodies + Joggers
Dress Up The Top, and Down The Bottom for The Work-From-Home Girl
The Cute Night Set (for the days when we consciously decide to just Turn Off)

Some Hot Pieces Online Now:

ALEXANDER WANG Mock Neck Crop Sweatshirt

https://www.prettylittlething.com/oatmeal-knitted-wide-rib-belted-lounge-set.html

Pretty Little Thing Grey Basic Cuffed Hem Jogger

Coronavirus, the Internet and the notion of ‘togetherness’ in the 21st century

Coronavirus. COVID19… The Invisible Enemy. It’s changed ours lives for a time. It’s catapulted us from our seemingly stable paths, into uncertainty. Into a place where we have to contemplate that which most of us put to the back our minds …the fragility of our existence. The certainty of passing on.

A very real element of danger is now at our doorsteps. And it’s pushing us in. Into confined spaces. Into the spaces of our minds.

It is interesting to think that a large amount of us spend a large portion of our times in the nether region of an in-between reality, which is largely made up from the consciousness of our minds.

The Internet.

The worlds created in this world, that now almost rule our own tangible spaces. Taking the togetherness of being together apart. Taking part largely in a new domain. Now, because of the pandemic, this is largely our only domain to be together in, (and yes, I use the word ‘domain’, tongue-in-cheek), fragmenting the word ‘together’ into new meanings.

Conflicting are most of our opinions of this world in-between. Is it disruptive of our tangible world? Does it shrink our relationships in the touching, feeling, seeing, right-here, world? Or does it deepen them? Does it save time and productivity or does it waste time, and shorten our concentration spans? There are so many questions. The only certainty is technology is ever-evolving, and as the rise of the radio and the TV forever changed human existence, society norms, pop culture, and globalisation, so too will this.

Now, with a pandemic at our doorsteps, many of us have found solace in the world in-between.

Is it quite ironic that we dove so deep into these technological worlds, only to become stuck in them to an extent?

Almost like the hand of Whoever Is Out There, saying ‘…you wanted your cake, now eat the whole thing’.

Or maybe it is the opposite – maybe it is a back-fired attempt at compression of worlds and our visions to the The Right Here.

And so, what will this new compression of space produce – an embracing of the new medium as something special and creative or something that sucks allofyou in? Or will we turn off and tune in to the other realm more? Will we be present in the 3D form, turning off the extension of ourselves, the mind-made-matter.

I argue that life has now become expanded through and of our Consciousness, and now a new entity simply Is.

The ever-growing, catapulting force of this entity drives politics, drives decision-making, drives fashion, drives our very idea of our Selves.

Maybe it is not good, nor bad, of itself. Maybe it simply is what the user makes of it …just as it is one’s own choice how much TV/chocolate/cigarettes/fruit/newspapers one consumes every day, and the collective demand will negate the collective supply.

So we are forced into confined spaces by an invisible threat; and now we open these spaces by jumping into invisible places.

BLAZERS – The Must Have Trend Right Now

Blazing trails from day to night. The blazer on the female form has a rich history, from little Chanel jackets coating the movement toward female emancipation, and the rise of women in the workplace, to years later, becoming the mundane and symbolising work, not play.

Now, the blazer is reimagined into the hottest pick of trends right now. No more is it confined to the office boss lady, it’s for the creative, it’s for the chic, it’s for cocktail lounges and casual city meets, day to night, the blazer is It.

Over-sized, with heels, in a pant suit, with nothing underneath, recreated into a dress-look, chic and office ready with pencil trousers… There are endless ways to rock the blazer, and here are some of my favourite put-togethers by powerful and imaginative women. Hope it inspires you.

Xoxo