HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY.

I would like to wish all the mothers reading this blog a HAPPY MOTHER"S DAY today. I am sure your children will make this day special for you. But I am also sure (although I am not a mum) that every day is special when you are a mum! So enjoy this day with your daughters and sons and be grateful for having them in your life (especially since there are so many women out there who cannot have children). But even this problem is in part eliminated thanks to the possibility to adopt. In my opinion, this is one of the best decisions one can make. You get to help a child live a better a life by giving him/her your unconditional love. And in exchange you get to be a mother. After all, it's not that important whether you are the biological mother or not because you are the one who is going to hold his/her hand until they learn to walk on their own. 

I also want to wish my mum a HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY. Actually I am going to do this in person very soon since I will be spending the day with her. I wanted to share two of my favourite pictures with my mum and also share with you my little thought for her. I decided to go with something homemade this year because I know how much she appreciates handmade gifts. And since I love baking, this was a very fun gift to prepare. This way, I can satisfy her sweet tooth and at the same time keep the calories down for her :) :)

And below are some home baked cookies I made for my mum. I hope she likes them......

STAY FAB

How to wear.....Floral Sandals

Flowers are everywhere, this spring and summer 2012. Tops, jackets, and of course skirts and dresses come in flowers. But while we might have seen similar pieces during SS11, this year flowers are also on trousers and shoes. Floral sandals, both wedges and heels, are very fashionable at the moment and can provide an easy fun way to embrace the floral trend. Floral shoes can complement and outfit, help us make a statement or simply liven our outfits but can also be used to tone down edginess or make a girly look even more romantic. If you are afraid of wearing flowers on your feet, don't. Anyone can wear these! Between wedges and heels floral sandals as well as lighter and brighter colours you have an ample choice of styles and colours to choose from. And because there are so many ways to pair them, you are definitely going to find a look you love. Below are some ways to wear floral sandals this season.....

WEAR FLORAL SHOES WITH JEANS

This is definitely the easiest way to pair floral shoes, in particular floral wedges. As you can see in the picture below, pairing florals on your feet with denim pants is not only simple but can help you achieve a very casual effortless but still girly look. And you can dress the two pieces down or up depending on whether you pair them with a simple top or wear a nice blazer. Moreover, for a more put together look go with darker jeans, whereas for a more romantic look wear light denim.

WEAR THEM WITH A CLASSIC OUTFIT

If you want to try something different than pairing floral shoes with denim, the next option is to pair them with a classic outfit. One example is the classic black dress, which in summer is often replaced with a white dress.  Whether you wear your floral sandals with a black or white dress the ultimate look will be girly and put together. Plus you will be adding a touch of freshness and a modern twist to the classic black/white dress. Below you can see a very classic paring, that of a black dress with a white blazer, re-visited and modernized by adding floral wedges and a bright clutch.

MIX FLORALS WITH OTHER PRINTS

If you are not afraid to mix prints in the same outfit, you can also pair your floral shoes with a different print. Whenever you do so, however, try to keep the rest of your outfit a solid colour and go light on the accessories. Below is a perfect example on how to pair florals with another print, in this case polka dots. Thus outfit is modern but at the same time classic. Without the floral shoes, the outfit would have looked very put together and effortless chic. By adding the floral wedges, the look becomes more fun and feminine but still modern and chic.

PAIR FLORAL SHOES WITH PASTELS & BRIGHTS

If you are after either a very girly look or a very bold and bright combination, you can pair your floral sandals with pastels and brights. Below is an example....

FLORALS ON FLORALS

For the ultimate romantic look floral shoes can be paired with a floral dress like ERDEM did with his SS12 collection. Below is one of the pairings seen on the runway. For some of us, this might be too much, but I am sure that with the right dress and shoes this pairing can be worn gracefully.

WEAR THEM WITH LACE

Another way to pair florals shoes is to combine them with lace. This can help you achieve a very feminine look which is more on the girly than sexy side.

I haven't bought my floral sandals yet. However, I have tried a pair which I loved. My husband liked them too ( in fact he kept pushing me to buy them). I might pick them up in the following weeks, but only after I am sure there is anything I like better. And you have you bought your floral shoes? If yes how are you going to wear them? And if not, do you like this trend?

STAY FAB

Spring Summer 2012 Shoes Haul.

Every year around May and June I like to go around shops (mainly 2) that is Gallaria Darmanin and Tip Toes and buy a pair of heels for the sandals. That's what I have been doing for the past 3 years and each time my trip is very successful. I must say that it's easier for me to buy summer than winter shoes. It might be because I like to invest into winter boots, so I take longer to find something I like in order to make sure I get the best quality since the price tends to be higher. In Summer, on the other hand, I feel I can get away with paying less for my sandals (both flats and heels) and still get good quality shoes. Notwithstanding this, I still end up buying more shoes in Winter than in Summer. Yesterday, I was going through my summer shoes and I realized that apart from those shoes I don't wear (because they are not comfortable) I only have 3 sandals with heels and 2 pairs of flat sandals. So after a little bit of shoe shopping this week, here are my 3 new additions.....

As I said on My SS12 Wishlist post, as funny as it may sound I didn't own a pair of black sandals with heels until today. I wanted something dressy and I was inspired by Chriselle simple sandals for the floral one shoulder dress in her prom video. Moreover, I have been seeing sandals like this a lot.......very simple but so flattering on your feet (at least on mine). What I like about these is that they have flowers which adds volume and make the shoes more feminine and romantic and also more dressy. Plus, they also seem very comfortable to walk in although the heel is slightly higher than what I normally consider comfortable. I guest it's due to the heel being thick. And if you noticed in the last picture above, the heels are slightly green (some kind of colour blocking going on them too). I got these for 20 euros, a steal I know. These are perfect for me to wear on a date night with my husband, especially now that both our birthdays and our anniversaries are coming!

I was so excited when I saw these shoes, I quickly picked one shoe only to try it along with another 6 pairs. Sadly, though my size was too large and the shoes kept coming out. I ended up buying a size smaller although a bit tight (in Malta half sizes are not common). Finally, I have my nude patent heels which I have been wanting for so long since they are both a classic shoes and are great to pair with most put together outfits. The heel is perfect for me. I have puchased higher ones and I can only wear them for one hour and then my feet really hurt (being flat footed).These were around 23 euros, a great price again.

And then I also got these flip flops for only 4 euros. They are gold and they seem pretty comfortable, great for Summer evening walks.

And you, have you purchased any Spring or Summer shoes? If yes, you can share your purchases in the comments. This way we will all get ideas for other future shopping trips...

STAY FAB.

Empowering Yourself - Through Your Own Beauty, by Jackie Clark

Few days ago, I was contacted by Jackie Clark who is a regular contributor for the Mesothelioma Cancer alliance blog. She, as all of us, loves fashion and beauty. But most importantly, she as me believes that fashion and makeup are powerful tools for women to feel fabulous and be stronger and more confident throughout their lives. So when she asked me to feature one of her articles on my blog as a guest post, I couldn't say no. 


If you have read my previous post Stop waiting to feel fab....Start now!, you will remember me stressing the importance of using fashion and beauty products to make the most of our body, no matter the situation we might be experiencing. This is especially meaningful for those women going through cancer, who are seeing sudden changes in their body. We want them to use clothes, makeup and all the rest to continue feeling fabulous. Because, feeling fabulous on the outside is much likely to provide them with the inner strength they need to face their problems. And if this can make the healing process even just a little easier, it's a great thing! Jackie is going to talk about this in more detail. I am very excited to host such a powerful article as the first guest post on my blog. So I hope you enjoy it as much as I did. As usual, feel free to leave your feedback. And let's all send our best wishes to all the women going through this cruel disease.

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Empowering Yourself - Through Your Own Beauty

By Jackie Clark

Cancer is just one of the many problems that can enter a woman's life--and if you are a woman who has found herself with this painful diagnosis, it is easy to lose faith in yourself. Amidst all of the mesothelioma treatments or breast cancer doctor visits, you may simply feel more and more fragile as time goes on. If you are in this situation, and you don't know where to turn, take a moment and think about how you feel about fashion and beauty. Fashion is something that is often dismissed as the vanity of women, but the truth is that true fashion and beauty is all about taking care of yourself.

Beauty is a highly subjective thing. Everyone is beautiful, and though people say that beauty is only in the eye of the beholder, the truth of the matter is that beauty is only something that you can do for yourself. Even if you are wearing the most beautiful haute couture dresses or the most expensive jewelry, you are not going to feel beautiful unless you are comfortable with the way you look and the way that you feel in these clothes. Take some time to think about what your options are going to be and how you can create the look that best suits for you.

How do you feel about fashion right now? Many people do themselves a disservice when they choose to dress like everyone else. Maybe your favourite style is very eclectic and vintage, or perhaps you prefer to wear styles that are very sleek and modern. Some people adore the retro-future look of some steam punk styles, while other people prefer to go over the top straight into Victorian styles. Think about how you look when you feel really beautiful. While these styles may not be precisely for work or for some social groups, they are still important to you and who you are as a person!

When you pursue fashion, you are saying that you deserve to look beautiful. In a world that tells women that they can only be beautiful if many different conditions are met, telling yourself that you are beautiful is as revolutionary concept. Think about everything that the fashion magazines tell you and remember that they are just one source. You have family and friends that think you are beautiful, so start listening to them as well.

Your path to beauty requires thought and effort. You will make some mistakes along the way, but remember that these are not long-standing mistakes. All you need to do is to change out of those clothes and change into new ones! If you are not sure where you want to start, think about choosing to shop at vintage stores and second hand shops to help you figure it out. Look good, feel good- Don't be afraid to glam yourself up on a Tuesday! 

There is no better time for you to realize that you are beautiful. Find a fashion that suits you today. Whether you love bold bright colors or severe black, you are going to find some fantastic choices out there that are just waiting for you. 

You can visit the Mesothelioma  Cancer Alliance blog by clicking here http://www.mesothelioma.com/blog/

STAY FAB

My SS12 Wishlist!!!

If you have read my Goodbye Winter........Welcome Spring post you already know Spring is definitely my favourite season. The beautiful weather makes all my preferred fashion trends finally wearable. These include layering soft materials and wearing brighter colours, among others. For the same reasons, Spring is also my favourite period to shop. The warm but not too hot temperatures make my shopping trips more fun and the sunny days make me happier which means I am more likely to be in the mood to try on various pieces of clothing and accessories. This might be great for my wardrobe collection but not always for my purse. This last part is not really true. In fact, I try to always stick to my budget, I shop mostly during sales except for certain purchases which are more necessities than just wishes and try to limit impulse purchases. However, every now and then I like to give myself a gift especially around Christmas and my birthday. And since my birthday is next month I might be soon buying myself something I both wish to have but which I also need to pair together certain outfits I have in mind. So below are the pieces I am currently eyeing. Some of them are specific, which means I know exactly where I can find them, while others are just ideas which I will have to  continue looking for...... 

Tangerine, pistachio, peach and light blue nail polishes
Although I would like to own any possible colour of nail polish available out there, these 4 are the ones I really want to buy. Other colours which I might also look for are any sort of lavender and different shades of warm pink I do not own. And what about you, which is your must have nail polish colour for this season?

      

Coral Blazer

I have seen one I really liked from Zara but I am willing to look around to find something better and may be less expensive. Although, I almost sure I will leave this purchase till July when the sales start since now is getting to warm to wear a blazer. Are you into coloured blazers or do you prefer to stick to the basics like black, nude and navy?

Gold Watch  

I have seen one with studs by Guess which I liked but I am not sure whether I want to commit to it since I have been wanting a Micheal Kors watch for so long. I also don't know whether I prefer yellow or rose gold. So while I decide I might actually but one of the watches below which are much cheaper. They are by Parfois, my favourite accessories shop at the moment. Which one is your favourite?

Rafia multi coloured flats 

                                                                        Parfois                                                                  Gallaria Darmanin

I have seen this both in shops as well as at local markets. So I will either wait for the sales to start or get a cheap pair from the market, especially since they are those kind of shoes which might not be in trend next spring and summer. Do you already own a pair? And if not, would you buy them or they are not your style?

Nude flats with black pointed toe

I already own a pair of nude flats but they are brogues so they are more casual. So I would like something which is both girly and modern. It was love at first sight once I saw a similar pair from Parfois. Unfortunately, they didn't have my size.

Nude clutch

A nude clutch is something every woman should have in her closet. However, except for special event, I have never been a clutch person since it cannot fit all the things I like to carry around. Lately, however I have felt the need to own at least a few. And although I already have a black, a bronze and a silver one I would like to have few more in brighter colours which are also more fun and less dressy. I bought a brown one  few weeks ago which was on sale. Now I am looking for the perfect nude one which is both fun but put together.

Tangerine dress

As soon as I saw this post I knew I had to buy a dress in a similar colour. Tangerine is so in this season. I am sure you all know that since we have been hearing since last autumn. 

Wendy's lookbook

Asymmetrical black dress or skirt 

This would be the perfect thing to wear for my birthday. And even if it might not be in style next year, I am really looking forward to wear this spring and summer. The best part about this trend is that you can wear a relative short skirt (anything above the knee is short for me since I am not really used to wearing skirts) with more cover on the back. 

                                                            Pull & Bear                                                              Stradivarius

Pastel coloured skinny pants

I will try to get a light coral peach pink pair during the sales. I might also look for a minty or emerald green pair. 

Printed and floral T-shirts and tops

My wardrobe really needs some prints since most of my tops are plain solid colours.

Black sandals

As strange as it may sound, I actually do now own a pair of black sandals with heels for summer. Although, I have various flat sandals in black I think it's now time for me to get a pair with heels. 

A floral dress or romper

Last year I really wanted a romper. This year I am more into dresses and I really want a floral one similar to the one below. 

Pull & Bear

I hope this post gives you some inspiration for your coming Spring Summer shopping trips. And let me know what you are really looking forward to buy.

STAY FAB

Bright and Pastels- How to wear them together

Bright colours as well as soft pastels from baby pink to creams, minty greens, lemony yellows, lavender to pale sorbet oranges, light sky blues and many more are very hot this season. Everyone is excited to try them out but many are also afraid to try the colour blocking trend with the thought they might look silly and over the top. 

If you too are afraid to colour block, my suggestion is to try and pair brighter colours with pastel. This way you will be following the current trends, since both types of colours are so in at this moment, but you will feel less conscious and more comfortable which is the key to looking great! If you like the idea of pairing a brighter colour with a pastel one, you can look at my outfit below to take an idea on how to do it. 

I am wearing.....

Skinny light wash jeans from Stradivarius

Light pink (kind of old rose) blouse from 

Coral pink cardigan from New look

Nude patent flat flat brogues from Stradivarius

A gold with pink and pearl details necklace from New Look

Pear Studs

A beige fabric handbag (not visible in the above picture)

As you can see in the outfit picture, I paired my bright clothing piece with a soft pastel pink. All the other pieces of the outfit are basics and neutrals and the accessories are kept to a minimum. This way the bright coral pink is not contrasting with anything else and everything is well balanced. I do however suggest you try pairing together outfits which are a little bit more daring in terms of colour combination. You can take the following looks as an inspiration always keeping your style and comfort in mind.

STAY FAB

Stop waiting to FEEL FAB....Start now!

For years and years (most my teenage-hood and beyond), I felt so wrong in my body because in my mind the perfect me was a skinny girl with few curves at the right place (certainly not as many as I already had).....Each day was a nightmare to simply think about what to wear and actually go through the process of selecting clothes and wear them. Most times, I would end up wearing the same boring ensemble just because it made me feel a little less conscious. The longer and the over sized my clothes were the better. As long as my outfits covered my curves they were fine. But feeling fine has never been enough for me and neither should it be for you.......Whatever your state of being, whatever your current weight and dress size you should always strive to feel great and look great. If you are asking yourself "for who should I feel great?", my answer to you is.......simply, for yourself because feeling great makes you be great!

Had I had this concept in my mind, but most importantly if I had had all the information available to me today about how common young girls and women can live their life looking fab, my teenage hood would have been so much better. I could have embraced my love for shopping and clothes and all things girly to a higher extent. And I could have tried to feel fab day by day with my clothes, accessories and beauty products. I would definitely have avoided setting shopping trips as an award to losing weight. And I could had stopped waiting to lose some weight in order to allow myself to feel great......

But I cannot go back, and sincerely I wouldn't want to even if I had a time machine in my room, right now. So, what I can do is tell you about it, and hope that my experience can help at least someone who is as young as I was but even older to feel fab today. Think this way, whatever your weight and size dress you are so lucky because you are not alone. Today, we can easily share our feelings and our problems with people who are feeling just the same but are across the world. All this thanks to the Internet and thanks to blogs, vlogs and online forums. 

When you look in the mirror, try to like what you see.....

If you are unhappy about yourself, you can easily find advice and help tips to achieve whatever you want but you don't know how to. On my blog, as on thousands others, you can find posts about how to lose weight, eat healthy, exercise, do your makeup (easily) and style classic cute outfits. But most importantly, you can find girls and women who are feeling somewhat the same as you feel or who might have gone through the same feelings and are now at a better time in their life. Use their help and make the most of it. Make friends with them. But most important, set your mind to feel fab right now. Even if you consider your body and image as a work in progress (after all who doesn't), use all this information available to you online to make the most of what you have and what you already are right now. So, STOP WAITING TO FEEL FAB......JUST START NOW!

STAY FAB.

Other posts which might inspire you......

Love to be Woman! http://alessiapearl.blogspot.com/2010/11/lovetobewoman.html

A good book can make you feel fab too! http://alessiapearl.blogspot.com/2011/01/good-book-can-make-you-feel-fab-too.html

How I lost 22 pounds....http://alessiapearl.blogspot.com/2011/09/how-i-lost-22-poundsand-how-i-finally.html

No makeup look.. How would you feel? http://alessiapearl.blogspot.com/2011/10/no-makeup-lookhow-would-you-feel.html

How can I lose weight? http://alessiapearl.blogspot.com/2011/11/how-can-i-lose-weight-asks-alessia.html

How can I stop eating junk food? http://alessiapearl.blogspot.com/2011/11/how-can-i-stop-eating-junk-food-ask.html

Why reading is so important? http://alessiapearl.blogspot.com/2011/11/why-reading-is-so-important.html

How to start eating healthy? http://alessiapearl.blogspot.com/2012/01/how-to-start-eating-healthy-ask-alessia.html

How to cope with Raynauds? http://alessiapearl.blogspot.com/2012/01/how-to-cope-with-raynauds.html