Happy New Year!

To all my Wonderfully Q-rious Readers ...

Have a Wonderful 2014

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★ Merry Christmas ★

TUMI Debuts the Santa Monica Collection for Spring 2014

Celebrating artisanal design and elegant styling, TUMI introduces the Santa Monica collection of men’s and women’s lifestyle accessories. Inspired by the coastal living of Southern California, the collection pairs TUMI's core values of design excellence with an enhanced sense of style to present an assortment of modern classics. The collection will launch Holiday 2013 with new styles and colors set to debut for Spring 2014 ...

“By combining beautiful leathers with our iconic ballistic nylon, I wanted to bring elements of TUMI’s heritage of craftsmanship and design to the forefront of each style. The Santa Monica collection demonstrates beauty in simplicity,” said George Esquivel, TUMI Creative Director. 

Distinguished by clean lines and a polished aesthetic, each Santa Monica style highlights the craftsmanship and high-quality materials as key attributes of the design. A nod to TUMI's heritage, a mélange of soft and supple leathers is at the helm of this premiere collection. Cleanly crafted, the materials themselves evoke a sense of demure sophistication and classical chic. Mixing materials becomes a statement when TUMI’s signature ballistic nylon is paired with treated leathers, elevating the personal touch each bag manifests. Rich Vachetta leather complements natural matte or high shine, glazed finishes in a basic palette of Asphalt, Crimson, Black, and Bridle. For Spring 2014 a lighter palette of Flax Multi Natural Linen and Coral in Natural Linen injects seasonal flair in select styles.

Iconic TUMI elements are further enhanced throughout the Santa Monica assortment. Embossed logos are discreetly placed allowing a distinctive “X” detail to gain prominence on select styles. A structural symbol of strength, the “X” detail extends into the stitching of each piece, emphasizing the hand-crafted element attributed to the collection. Santa Monica's knotted leather ties lend a distinctive look to each bag, serving as exterior pocket closures. Luggage tags are refreshed in burnished leather for an effortless touch. 

The casual-chic Santa Monica collection boasts nine versatile styles. From the perennially-chic Mabery Hobo and timeless Fraser Zip-Around Continental wristlet to the utility-driven Bashford Duffel and Whitfield Helmet Bag, this new array of accessories is designed for world-class travel and everyday adventures. 

Key styles include:

Drummond Brief — R9999 (only available in bridle)

• Classic Flap Brief silhouette with a detachable, adjustable cross-body strap
• Boardroom ready with subtle detailing and organized interiors
• Front flap with push-lock closure and two-card slot interior pockets
• Exterior, Back, zip pocket with media pocket and Add-a-Bag functionality

Bashford Duffel — R14999 (asphalt)

• Inspired by TUMI’s best-selling Alpha Soft Duffel style
• Stylish option to pack in weekend essentials featuring iconic “X” design detail
• Snap-close hand wrap
• Detachable and adjustable shoulder strap

Sycamore Tote - R7499 (bridle & black)

• Versatile tote featuring iconic “X” design detail 
• Hidden exterior pocket on the front for easy-access to mobile devices
• Color-blocked bottom is an unexpected twist, adding durability and styling
• Interior reveals organized side pockets and open space to pack in daily necessities

Mabery Coverible Hobo — R9999 (bridle & available in asphalt)

• Offers a two-in-one wear option: over-the-shoulder classic hobo style or convert into a cross body for hands-free wear on the go
• Front flap pocket is the perfect size to access frequently used items including mobile device or iPads
• Dedicated interior laptop pocket and large zippered main compartment 
• Features knotted leather ties

Fraser Zip-Around Continental Wristlet - R3699 (coral, also available in bridle)

• Zip wallet with organized interior for credit cards, coins and money
• Front flap pocket with snap closure for small items
• Doubles as a wristlet
• Two detachable leather wristlet straps included on interior allows individual to accent their piece

The TUMI Santa Monica Collection is available in all SA TUMI stores.

Dream of the Dress

For the December issue of Harper’s Bazaar China, the fashion glossy puts a new spin on the fairy tales with this dreamy spread captured by Shxpir ... 

Model Yan Xu enters the uncanny valley, looking perfectly doll-like as she channels Cinderella and Snow White in gorgeous gowns styled by Wang Ying. 

Doll-like makeup is done by Sun Qi, and hair by Jason X.

 via FGR

Things to do ...

Boho Chic

Flower Crown: Oasis in London

Top: Forever New

Maxi Skirt: Forever New

Sandals: Prato at Edgars

Bangles: Assortment from Jewels and Lace,  Topshop and Mr Price

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Designer Collection by Busby Leather adds Logo Range

The recently launched Designer Collection by Busby Leather will introduce the Logo Range to its core collection before the end of the year. Launched in November 2013, the Designer Collection sees the addition of handbags and purses differentiated by material and price points. The Logo Range will launch in all Frasers and leading luggage and lifestyle stores from January 2014 ...

Barrel bag, R1 999

 A barrel handbag, shopper handbag and three purse styles make up the supplementary line, with each exclusive Logo Range piece retaining the quality and craftsmanship associated with Busby and its Designer Collection. The handbags and purses exhibit the same beautifully designed inner detail, including branded lining, as found in the original pieces. Although the signature gold hardware makes a reappearance, the new Logo Range sees the addition of striking silver signature hardware. 

Zip Round, Tri-fold and Bi-fold purses, R599 each

A key differentiating factor lies in the material of the pieces. Rather than an all-leather design, the newer pieces are made from PVC with leather trims. Different colours, including sophisticated cream, brown and grey shades, have also been introduced to ensure newness and relevance. The Logo Range pieces are further distinguished by relatively lower price points.

East-West Shopper (Left) and North-South Shopper (Right), R1 699 each

Introducing the Autumn 2014 Guess Collection

GUESS, the American lifestyle brand famous for its trend-setting denim and unforgettable campaigns, will be introducing a women’s and men’s collection inspired by Western motifs, that weaves new directions in denim designs for fall 2014. The combination of unique textures and novel trimmings sets this collection apart, offering functional pieces with true aesthetic value ...

For women, interesting details are key this season, with lace-insets, cut-outs and zippers adding drama to everyday looks. Distinctive denim pieces dominate the fall delivery, offering embellished and distressed jeans and jumpsuits, studded jackets and pieced chambray shirts and jackets. Army-green skinny jeans with cargo pockets and camo-printed pieces define military-chic. Glossy, waxed denim in deep red, black and metallics make the perfect statement essentials. 

For the fashionista looking to spice up her wardrobe, jackets and denim in python-jacquard, floral or leopard prints are playful and can easily be dressed up or down. A suede fringe jacket and moto jackets, in denim and leather, make great layering pieces for cooler temperatures, while biker jackets, combing tweed bodies with soft leather sleeves, are equal parts sophisticated and rocker-chic. 

Vintage-Americana influences lend inspiration to the men’s collection, with distressed denim, washed out chambray shirts and denim jackets. Embroidered button downs, plaid printed denim and shirts and faded jeans compliment the Western trend. Luxe, coated denim and leather moto jackets, double-breasted cardigans and soft, velvety blazers create a modern, refined look for the style-conscious guy. The mixing of fabrics and textures in a deep red and indigo color palette adds a touch of sophistication to the men’s urban collection. 

The GUESS fall collection is set to hit South Africa from February 2014; along with an assortment of accessories including handbags, footwear, watches, eyewear, jewelry and belts and small leather goods. Featured accessories motifs this season include polka dots and chevrons. 

For more information: 

www.guess.com

Topshop's New Collection: Running Wild

Running Wild encompasses the feeling of freedom and being on the road. Think balmy nights driving down the West coast, through the meandering deserts of Nevada, juxtaposed with a 90’s revival of the grunge-punk scene. Beaten denim is teamed with printed silk bombers. Washed floral, clashing prints and fringing are key; all mixed up with metallic flashes. White lace body-con dresses are teamed with embroidered kimonos, shirt dresses and chunky sandals are teamed with reflective sunglasses. Effortlessly cool silhouettes, lightweight fabrics and bold use of print are perfect for those long summer days.

For more information:

TOPSHOP / TOPMAN Gateway: 031 583 1333

TOPSHOP / TOPMAN Sandton City: 011 685 7070

TOPSHOP / TOPMAN V&A Waterfront: 021 419 5000 

TOPSHOP Personal Shopping at V&A Waterfront: 021 419 5934 or topshopps@edcon.co.za 

Authentic Indian Dining is about to Enter a New and Exciting Era in Durban

The launch of Jeera at Tsogo Sun’s Suncoast Towers hotel, will allow guests to explore a flavourful array of delectable authentic Indian dishes from all corners of India.

Jeera's name reflects the restaurant’s dishes distinctive flavour and aroma; and a sophisticated and appealing approach to food. The skilful cooking style, complimented by the chef’s signature blend of spices and sauces, will give each dish its own distinct regional influence and flavour ...

Sous Chef Sandren Govender

With months of consultation and testing, sous chef, Sandren Govender has created his own special blend of condiments that will meet the standards of authentic Indian cuisine connoisseurs.

Priya Naidoo, Alan Khan and Deena Naidoo

The secret of the restaurant’s kitchen is the romance of combining ancient recipes, some dating back to the 1800s, with modern delectable dishes and blend of spices, such as jeera (cumin), black pepper, cinnamon, coriander, cloves, among others. The end result is exquisite recipes — boasting stylish and wonderful flavours — that give guests a unique opportunity to explore a fusion between ancient authentic recipes and a blend of signature spices.

Jeera's  Indian-inspired main dishes boast a specially prepared and deboned lamb curry served with potatoes. All dishes are served with Jeera's  signature sambals and archer.

Kaliq Essop, Mike Jackson & Sandren Govender

Situated on the lower ground floor of Suncoast Towers hotel, a landmark deluxe property on Durban’s Golden Mile, the restaurant’s muted Indian-inspired interior sets a tranquil theme throughout. Guests are invited to unwind in the evenings amidst a tranquil environment.

Tonight's Russel Brand Show Cancelled

The first show of Russell Brand’s “Messiah Complex” SA Tour scheduled to take place tonight, Friday, 15 November 2013 at the Teatro at Montecasino has regretfully been cancelled owing to an unexpected delay that caused him to miss his flight.

'There was a technical problem with his passport and the airline did not allow him to board. The promoter has made emergency arrangements to get him to Johannesburg – but unfortunately he will be a day late. Showtime is working to replace tonights show with a performance next week. This will be advised as soon as possible. Patrons for tonights show can either get a full refund from Computicket – or hold on to their tickets until a possible replacement date is announced. If this does not happen – Computicket will fully refund on presentation from next week.' says local promoter, Tony Feldman of Showtime Management. “We apologise to Russell Brand fans for the inconvenience and for this unexpected and disappointing last minute change. This only affects tonight’s show. The remainder of the SA Tour will go ahead as scheduled.”

The sold out Messiah Complex SA Tour is scheduled for three shows at the Teatro at Montecasino on 16, 17 and 18 November and two shows at Artscape, Cape Town on Tuesday, 19 November 2013 and Wednesday, 20 November 2013.

Bollywood Icon Priyanka Chopra for the Guess Holiday 2013 Ad Campaign

This holiday season, GUESS will introduce its new advertising campaign featuring the multiple award-winning, Bollywood icon, Priyanka Chopra, appearing in the brand’s signature black and white style shot by Bryan Adams ...

Priyanka, a former Miss World, actress and recording artist, is one of the most recognized and celebrated talents in India and International cinema. 

Guided by Paul Marciano, Creative Director for GUESS? Inc., and shot by former GUESS collaborator and musician, Bryan Adams, the campaign captures Priyanka’s free-spirited glamour in a collection of signature black and white photographs. In the campaign, Priyanka portrays a movie star at home in an elegant Mediterranean villa wearing some of the season’s most stand-out dresses. 

“Priyanka’s confidence, strength and sensuality reflect the qualities I always look for in a model,” said Marciano. “Priyanka reminds me of the young Sophia Loren and the top actresses of the 1950s. With the Indian movie industry exploding on a global stage, and GUESS having a brand presence in 87 countries, we could not have found a better global brand ambassador. Choosing Priyanka reinforces our celebration of multi-talented, dynamic and accomplished women.” 

b

Look for the GUESS holiday campaign in December issues of top South African fashion and lifestyle magazines.

Wise words from Disney ...

Elle and Blackberry Announces the 2013 Style Reporter Finalists

ELLE magazine and BlackBerry® have once again joined forces to create an amazing opportunity for young bloggers and street-style spotters to launch anonline career in the world of fashion. The search kicked off in July 2013 and is a nationwide competition to discover a young, talented creative who can report on style, capture and document the dynamic narrative of style, tell a story with a photograph, and convey a unique point of view with their writing.

The 2013 Style Reporter needs to be confident and able to communicate and report on social media platforms in an engaging and intelligent way...

BlackBerry’s decision to collaborate with ELLE for a second year on developing South African talent allows the finalists the opportunity to develop their skills on feature-rich smartphones, and provides the next fashion reporter with the stylish and innovative technology needed to launch a career in this fast-changing and social media-driven age. 

To enter, aspiring Style Reporters were asked to create a new blog and in their first post convey street style at its most dynamic. In keeping with BlackBerry’s thinking, the brief asked for entrants to capture ‘Fashion on the Move’ and show how it moves them personally, drawing on their creative ability and fashion knowledge. Entries closed 18 September and the 2013 panel of judges had the difficult decision of first selecting 18 semi-finalists, before editing it down to 7 finalists. ELLE editor, Jackie Burger, says of this year’s finalists: ‘They certainly have a strong point of view, a good visual narrative, innovative lateral interpretation of the brief as well as an understanding of creating a signature blog.’

BlackBerry South Africa Brand Planning Manager, Marina Hartmann, says: ‘The entries are as diverse as the country we live in. They all captured the brief in their own distinct style and created memorable content. For our finalists, keep inspiring and stay true to who you are and stay focused on the brief. Let your surroundings inspire you!’

ELLE and BlackBerry® are proud to present the top 7 Style Reporter finalists: 

Niquita Bento, 22 

Student, Cape Town 

Blog: Neck Of The Woods: http://neckofthewoodss.tumblr.com/ 

Twitter: @xx_niquita_zz 

‘I am beyond ecstatic to have been selected as a 2013 finalist. I feel that all the work I have been involved in until now has been in preparation for this competition. Street style is self-expression. It’s personal, it’s fun, it’s reinvention and that’s what I try to convey in my work. I love finding beauty in the mundane. I want my images to be the ones people will always remember, the ones that provoke thought, tell a story and stays with you.’ 

Lebogang Tlhako, 25 

Freelance photographer, Johannesburg 

Blog: http://smadzadza.tumblr.com/ 

Twitter:@_bubunas 

‘As a finalist for the second year in a row I feel a sense of accomplishment to be part of this journey again. As a photography graduate, it’s my passion to capture what is genuine and what is happening on the streets of SA. I use an analogue camera, which brings a different perspective to fashion blogging. I want people to be able to connect with and relate to my work – not just now but also in the future. I love to shoot the unexpected – a great shot is when all the right elements come together in one moment: the textures, the background, the lighting and the personality.’ 

Elelwani Netshifhire, 22 

Film and television graduate, Cape Town 

Blog: http://streetarazzi.tumblr.com/ 

Twitter: @lwanie 

‘I aim to capture silent stylish moments which pass by every day without being noticed or documented, and I hope people see this and walk away wanting more. For me, street style is about observing. I want to inform people through my visual reporting. This competition is a journey to grow and learn and be mentored – winning is a bonus.’ 

Kirsten Mackrill, 20 

Fine art student, Cape Town 

Blog: http://wildandoverdressed.tumblr.com/ 

Twitter: @kirst`_mackrill 

‘The fashion industry is where I have always dreamed of being and to be given the opportunity by ELLE and BlackBerry® is completely overwhelming. I am extremely excited to be able to learn and grow as a fashion blogger and enthusiast. I want to be able to capture the way fashion inspires me, and communicate this to others. I want to bring a fresh take on this year’s competition.’

Themba Mbuyisa, 21 

Student, Johannesburg 

Blog: http://colourfulpain.tumblr.com/ 

Twitter: @city_vibez 

‘This is the first time I’ve entered a competition like this, and as a photography student I knew this was one I couldn’t miss out on. I hope people will see the beauty in my work, and that for me it is colour, personality and facial expressions that are what tell a story. Beautiful sunlight and colours make me stop and snap – I want to capture my love of detail and showcase the importance of a considered shot and story.’ 

Kabelo Seshibe, 21 

Journalism student, Johannesburg 

Blog: http://rebellehouse.tumblr.com/ 

Twitter: @rebelleRogue 

‘Street style, to me, is a form of expression. I look forward to capturing this in my Style Reporter journey. I want to capture what is relevant, the unique, the different and the significant. It’s something that can’t be imitated. I want to capture how style resonates with the individual, and what fashion says about them beyond the clothes. I look forward to capturing a reflection of my time in this competition.’ 

Thanda Kunene, 23 

Photography student, Durban 

Blog: http://theoverlocker.tumblr.com/ 

Twitter: @_thanda 

‘This competition demands not only someone who has an eye for fashion and an understanding of how different art forms influence fashion, but also someone who is online-savvy and hot off the mark. My passion is to tell stories through fashion and provide a strong and unique visual voice, one that references bygone eras but in an African and modern context. Visual imagery that talks to the viewer makes me stop and snap, instead of imagery that is “perfect” or “planned”.’ 

The 2013 ELLE Style Reporter in association with BlackBerry® finalists will receive two more challenges before the final event in December 2013. In true Style Reporter fashion, they will be given tight deadlines, briefed in the context of local fashion and challenged to capture style by drawing on their influence and referencing art forms of design, architecture, art, film, music and photography and asked to convey how these art forms shape local fashion today.

Chief judge and photographer Ed Suter says: "What impressed me most about the finalists’ entries was how they brought their own identities and surroundings to their work. All of the finalists' entries have character, humour and unusual points of view. I am really looking forward to seeing how each of them respond to the challenges we set for them, and hope that none of them lose that special individualism that made an impression on me and my fellow judges."

The ELLE Style Reporter in association with BlackBerry® search aims to help grow the next generation of fashion writers in SA. Follow the super 7 finalists  journey on www.elle.co.za 

Follow #StyleReporter2013 on Twitter with @ellemagazinesa and @BlackBerry_ZA