Being Brazen

On my bucket list... by Thaya

2012-01-26T11:30:00.000+02:00

Thaya is a a mom, store owner, small village dweller and the blogger behind Beatnik Bazaar . Today she will be sharing a few things from her bucket list - Enjoy...

1. See Iceland from a Hot Air Balloon
2. Watch Mikhail Baryshnikov dance to the sounds of the New York Philharmonic Orchestra in Central Park
3. Tour with Led Zeppelin (if they were still touring)
4. Spend time in the desert with a Native American Shaman
5. Write an epic screenplay with Charlie Kaufman and work with director, Wes Anderson, on the film
6. Fall in love in Paris
7. Dive the most exquisite tropical reefs in the world
8. See Kate Bush and Tom Waits live in concert
9. Go on a cycling gastronomic pilgrimage through Europe
10. Live simply for a year in a temple, deep within the mountains of Japan

Note: "On my bucket list..." is my current guest blogger series. Most weeks a lovely blogger will share things from their bucket list. to read other bucket lists, go HERE

Pretty in blush

2012-01-26T11:23:00.000+02:00

Loving these blush coloured pretties from Nina Ricci's pre-fall 2012 collection.

To see more from the collection you can trot over here

Film love: Wes Anderson

2012-01-24T23:55:00.000+02:00

I am a fan of Wes Anderson films. There's just something about his quirky characters and borderline ridiculous storylines that I just adore. So far, my favourite films of his are: The Life Aquatic, Rushmore, The Royal Tenenbaums and The Darjeeling Limited (which is almost all his films actually).

His next film, Moonrise Kingdom, is due out a bit later this year and looks like it's going to be awesome - check out the trailer below:

Do you like Wes Anderson's films?

10 things I learnt this weekend

2012-01-23T23:59:00.000+02:00

1. Woolworths is selling these cute satchel bags at the moment
2. Hardly anything annoys me as much as an insect buzzing near my ear.
3. My new Samsung Galaxy tablet is so handy and fits perfectly into my favourite, small handbag (I got the 8.9 inch one and I love it!)
4. Once Upon a Time is a really cool, fairytale- inspired TV series
5. I'm very addicted to fruit flavoured Lindt chocolate slabs.
6. Heidi Klum and Seal are getting divorced :( - Latest story about it here
7. Even after 2 months, The Brazilian Blowout treatment I had is helping me to have hair that's a lot more manageable and fuss-free.
8. I do not deal with super hot weather very well
9. Having midnight snacks with friends is a lovely way to end an evening.
10. Clémence Poésy's photoshoot for the February 2012 issue of Glamour UK is so pretty (above photo from the shoot, taken by David Oldham ) - See all the photos here

What have you leant recently?

Happy Weekend!

2012-01-20T10:50:00.001+02:00

“ Now and then it’s good to pause in our

pursuit of happiness and just be happy."

- Guillaume Apollinaire

Hope you all have a gloriously happy weekend

My top 5: albums (right now)

2012-01-17T16:53:00.000+02:00

Deciding which five albums I like the most was rather challenging, as I am always dicovering great new music and I have so many trusty ol' favourites. So, while there is a strong possibility that in the next month or two I may be ranking a few other albums higher than some of these, right now these are my top 5 albums...

1. Ceremonials - Florence + The Machine: This ridiculously good album is by my favourite band. I have listened to it so much in the last two months and I am still not even slightly bored of it. The only issue I have with it is that it is not longer.

2. Young the Giant - Young The Giant: I recently discovered this indie rock band and so far I am really enjoying their music. You can listen to one of their songs over here

3. Barton Hollow - The Civil Wars: This American folk / alternative country band is really good. This album is their first and was released in 2011. They also recently recorded a song for The Hunger Games film soundtrack with Taylor Swift called 'Safe & Sound' (you can listen to it here)

4. Torches - Foster The People: This has definitely been one of my top albums, since I first heard the band's single 'pumped up kicks' over a year or so ago. This album is full of awesome.

5. Making Mirrors - Goyte: This Belgian-Australian singer and songwriter, who goes by the stage name Goyte, has a really unique sound. He has actually been around for a while, but I only stumbled upon his music a few months ago when I saw this music video (which also features singer Kimbra)

What's your favourite album/s at the moment?

Fashion favourites: Golden Globes

2012-01-16T20:53:00.003+02:00

My top choices for the best dressed celebs at this year's Golden Globe Awards are definitely Michelle Williams and Nicole Ritchie. Both looked stunning and wore dresses that really suited them .

Left: Michelle Williams, who took home a Golden Globe for her role in My Week With Marilyn, wore a velvet Jason Wu dress with a Fred Leighton headband & clutch.
Right: Nicole Ritchie wore a beaded Julien MacDonald gown and accessorised it with House of Harlow clutch.

What was your favourite outfit of the night?

Easy peasy apple turnovers

2012-01-12T23:59:00.000+02:00

I don't know about you, but I love a good apple pastry or pie. There is just something about sweet apples wrapped in a fresh baked pastry that I find so comforting.

Even though I have been trying to watch my diet (especially after the festive feasting) and cut out as much gluten as I can, over the weekend I had such a craving for an apple pastry that I decided to make a few. They came out rather well for my first try, so I thought I'd share the super simple recipe that I used...

What you will need:

1 can of unsweetened pie apples OR 2-3 medium apples, peeled & chopped (I ended up using canned apples this time and they worked out really well)

1 teaspoon cinnamon (add a bit more if you like your apples more spiced)

1/4 teaspoon nutmeg

2 tablespoons brown sugar (or more if you like it sweeter)

1 roll of frozen puff pastry, thawed ( I used Today brand puff pastry)

a little butter

a tiny bit of milk

1 egg

icing sugar

If you are using canned apples: 2-3 tablespoons water OR if you are using real apples: 1 teaspoon of corn starch dissolved in 3 tablespoons water (to thicken apple filling if you want or need to)

What to do:

1. Sauté the apples with a blob of butter for a few minutes on a medium-high heat. Then add sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, water (or corn starch) and sauté for a bit longer
2. Preheat oven to 200 C (400F)
3. Unroll the thawed puff pastry onto a lightly floured surface and cut into squares.
4. After the apple filling has cooled, spoon a little filling into the center of each square. Then fold the edges over to either make triangles or rectangle shapes and seal all open edges by pushing down firmly.
5. Place the turnovers on a baking paper lined baking sheet.
6. Mix an egg and a little milk together in a bowl and lightly brush the mixture over the top of each turnover.
7. Now bake turnovers for about 20 minutes or until puffed up and golden brown.
8. Make a thick icing paste (aka glacé icing) using water/milk, butter and icing sugar.
9. Once apple turnovers have cooled, ice each turnover and allow icing to harden.
10. Eat and enjoy as soon as possible, preferably with a cappuccino or a cup of tea :)

This recipe makes: 6 well sized apple turnovers Total time: About 45 minutes
A note: All the above photos are of my apple turnovers (taken by The Boyf & I )

Daisy necklace giveaway

2012-01-11T22:58:00.001+02:00

Today I am happy to announce the start of my first blog giveaway for the year. This lovely giveaway is sponsored by South African jewellery designer, Emma from emma anne jewellery .

The winner will receive a silver, daisy necklace (like the one below) , plus will get to choose one of the following stones to go in it: yellow quartz, blue topaz, pink amethyst, silver topaz or blue chalcedony.
-

A bit more info: The silver daisy pendant is from emma anne's 2012 'Daisy Mae' Summer Collection. Emma had this to say about her latest collection: "This Collection is comprised of various daisy motifs in silver, yellow gold and rose gold. The pieces each include beautifully rose cut semi precious stones in a soft pastel colour palette.... The pieces in this collection are very fresh and feminine with a delicate playful feel about them."

HOW TO ENTER:

1. Trot over HERE and tell me, below, which emma anne item you like best.

2. For an extra entry you can either: "Like" the emma anne facebook page and leave a comment on the wall mentioning this competition OR tweet about this giveaway and include @beingbrazen & @emmaannedesign in your tweet.

Giveaway notes: *Anyone may enter this giveaway * the winner will be chosen randomly * This giveaway will end on Tuesday, 24 January and the winner will be announced by Wednesday, 25 January. Good luck, darlings.

- - GIVEAWAY CLOSED - Winner: @Kathcakes - -

A fabulous, bold home

2012-01-10T18:59:00.002+02:00

I stumbled across this fabulous home via Desire to Inspire and I just love it. The unique and colourful decor is quirky, yet still classy. To see all the photos and read more about this London home, trot over HERE

It's for you...

2012-01-05T18:04:00.000+02:00

Happy New Year, Darlings! I really hope that your year ahead is filled with happiness and love. Last year was a fleeting and rather unmemorable year for me, so I am hoping that 2012 is the total opposite of that. Anyway, since it's a brand new year I thought it would be a great time for a little "it's for you" catch-up session..

How it always works: I will answer the below random questions - then you answer the questions as a comment. Why? cause sharing is caring *winks*:

1. For me, 2011 was the year of... realisations
2. I spent my New years Eve... at Kirtsenbosch Gardens, picnicing on the grass and listening to local bands, until the clock struck midnight.

3. This year my 4 biggest goals are... to get healthier & fitter, keep my life clear of clutter, work harder on my blogging and have at least one grand adventure.

4. Do you believe that the world will end in 2012? Nope

5. What have you been reading over your Dec/Jan holiday? I read 'The Hunger Games' Trilogy and I'm almost finished 'The Night Circus'

6. What's the best item you got or bought last year? My laptop from The Boyf

7. If you could only buy one luxury item this year, what would it be? A Beach House or a holiday to Paris (a girl can dream, can't she? )

8. I hope this new year is... filled with unexpected surprises and good friends

Honor pre-fall 2012

2012-01-04T18:48:00.002+02:00

I am really loving designer Giovanna Randall's first pre-fall collection for Honor.

The above four outfits are just a few of my favourites. To see the rest of the collection, trot over here

2011-12-22T19:17:00.005+02:00

Darlings, I am currently on holiday for a few weeks and am so glad to have the time to give my brain (and my computer) some much needed down time. I may be a bit quiet during my time off, but I will definitely be back to regular blogging and tweeting soon.

Hope you all have a wonderful festive season, filled with laughter and relaxation. Happy holidays!

Guest posted on lanalou style

2011-12-22T15:58:00.003+02:00

Image from lanalou style

Recently I contributed to lanalou style's gift guide series by sharing a few fablous, local things that I would love to find under my Christmas tree.

Trot over HERE to see the full post and find out where all the items are from.

The weekend I stayed in Kommetjie

2011-12-15T20:00:00.000+02:00

Almost 2 weeks ago The Boyf and I, plus some of The Boyf's family, trotted off to Kommetjie to stay in a beautiful beach house for the weekend.

The thatched-roof home, very aptly named 'Beach Haven', is located right on Long Beach and is ridiculously awesome. Among other things, it has 4 bedrooms (all with their own bathrooms) and a big pool.

On arrival we were greeted by the friendly owners and shown around. I was instantly smitten with the look and feel of the place. The decor and furniture (which is almost all blue, white or red) is modern, yet relaxed. I especially loved the upstairs living room, kitchen, study area and the main bedroom (which is where The Boyf & I were lucky enough to sleep during our stay).

One undeniably cool thing about Beach Haven is that it has it's own pathway leading straight from the deck/pool area onto the beach. All I had to do was walk a few meters and my feet were in the chilly, Atlantic ocean - it was so blissful. I hope someday I can have my own beach path to go with my beach house ;)

The best thing about this house is that it has a seriously great view of the ocean. I honestly could have just sat on the balcony for days staring at it.

When I was growing up I spent good portion of my childhood living in Kommetjie and playing on Long Beach. I always loved waking up to the small of sea air and hearing the waves in the distance. Staying in Kommetjie again not only brought back a lot of happy memories for me, but reminded me just how beautiful it is there.

I'll definitely be booking a stay at Beach Haven again and would highly recommend it to anyone that is looking for a luxury, beach getaway that is not too far from the city.

To see more pictures of Beach Haven you can go here.

To make a booking, contact Cape Holiday Lets on:

+ 27 (0) 21 789 2413 or via email: beachhaven@holidaylets.co.za

* All photos by Me and The Boyf

My top 5: Chick TV shows

2011-12-14T18:43:00.005+02:00

I love a good TV series, especially ones that have fabulous female characters and/or are full of lust-worthy things. Today I thought I'd share my current top 5 chick TV shows (in no particular order):

1. Revenge - This show centres around a young woman (played by Emily VanCamp), who returns to her childhood home in The Hamptons to seek revenge on all the people who helped frame her father for a crime that he didn't commit. The show is full of beautiful clothes, homes and interesting twists. Love it!
2. New Girl - A very funny show about a really quirky girl, named Jess (played by Zooey Deschanel), who moves into an apartment with 3 single guys after a break-up.
3. The Secret Circle - A 16-year old girl moves to a new town after the death of her mother, then discovers that she has magical powers and so do a couple of the other kids at her school. It's a cool teen show that I recommend to anyone who's a fan of no.4
4. The Vampire Diaries - This highly addictive show has plenty of drama and eye-candy. I must admit that I watch it mainly to look at Damon *grins*. I'm really hoping that Damon and Elena hook up sometime during season 3.
5. Gossip Girl - I'm onto the fifth season and I'm still enjoying it. While I sometimes find myself slightly annoyed by the ridiculous amounts of drama in the show, the amazing clothes always make it a worthwhile watch.

What's your favourite chick TV show right now?

Happy Weekend!

2011-12-09T09:26:00.002+02:00

“No, life cannot be understood flat on a page.

It has to be lived; a person has to get out of his head,

has to fall in love, has to memorize poems, has to jump off bridges into rivers,

has to stand in an empty desert and whisper sonnets under his breath...

We get one story, you and I, and one story alone.” - Donald Miller

Have a wonderful Friday and a very happy weekend.

A pretty living room

2011-12-08T23:59:00.000+02:00

Darlings, how pretty is this light and feminine living room? It belongs to Portuguese designer Ana Antunes and I am quite smitten with it. I would love to have room like this in my apartment, but I'm sure The Boyf would find this pastel-filled colour scheme a bit too "girly" for his taste.

Trot over here to see more photos of this room.

Monogram jewellery giveaway

2011-12-06T23:59:00.002+02:00

Today I am happy to announce the start of a awesome giveaway sponsored by South African jewellery designer, Jessica of Thula jewellery.

The winner will receive a personalised sterling silver, monogram necklace OR ring:

Description: Sterling silver necklace or ring, hand engraved with your letter of choice. The round section has a sanded finish and the sides are highly polished (You can purchase the ring for R430 and the necklace for R420.)

HOW TO ENTER:

1. Visit the Thula website and tell me, below, which item you like best.

2. For an extra entry you can either: "Like" the Thula facebook page and leave a comment on the wall mentioning this competition OR follow Thula on twitter and tweet the following phrase: Really want to win the @hellothula monogrammed jewellery giveaway over at @beingbrazen - http://bit.ly/vxldfs

Giveaway notes: *Anyone may enter this giveaway * the winner will be chosen randomly * This giveaway will end on Friday, 30 December and the winner will be announced by Tuesday, 3 January 2012. Good luck, darlings.

- - THIS GIVEAWAY IS NOW CLOSED - -

WINNER: One Stiletto at a time

10 things I learnt this weekend

2011-12-05T23:59:00.016+02:00

1. I absolutely have to own a beach front home one day (see point 2).
2. There is very little that beats waking up to the sound of waves and a sea view.
3. I had forgotten just how cold the ocean is on Kommetjie's Long Beach (thankfully your toes just go numb after a while of walking in it and you can't feel it)
4.My new laptop looks so awesome - though, since The Boyf bought it as a gift for me, he seems to think I should wait until after Christmas to use it (I don't agree).
5. Revenge is my latest TV series obsession - such a great show.
6. I really like my new Ipanema flip flops (click HERE to see them)
7. Some people don't seem to realise that they must pick up after their pets .
8. Coral seems to be one of those colours that just suits everyone
9. I'm not a broody person, but some children make me feel like I could be.
10. This is good to remember: " ...anger is always your enemy.You must keep your emotions in check. The moment you lose control of them, you lose the fight every time." - Sherrilyn Kenyon

What did you learn this weekend?

Gift ideas: budget - friendly

2011-12-02T12:48:00.000+02:00

Here are ten, random Christmas gift suggestions that range between R120 and R240:

1. A floral scarf - Poetry Collection (R120)
2. Silver & pearl earrings - Joya (R129)
3. Embossed heart bracelet - Steffany Roup( R240)
4. 19cm rectangle dish - Le Creuset (R130)
5. Leather necklace - Missibaba (R200)
6. Florence + The Machine CD (about R169)
7. Scented candle - Africology (R220)
8. Silver flower necklace - Shelley & Harry (R205)
9. Mary-Jane espadrilles - Foschini (R150)
10. Spiced Vanilla body butter - The Body Shop (R120)

Celeb style: Nicole Richie

2011-11-29T20:05:00.000+02:00

I really love Nicole Richie's glam boho style. She always wears such pretty dresses and has amazing taste in jewellery (her accessories are often from her own brand, House of Harlow 1960). She recently wore these two fabulous outfits:

Left: Rocking a sequined Halston dress and House of Harlow jewellery.
Right: Looking fab in a sunny Keepsake dress with a House of Harlow clutch.

Happy Weekend!

2011-11-25T23:26:00.004+02:00

“Do not let your fire go out, spark by irreplacable spark. In the hopeless swamps of the not quite, the not yet, and the not at all, do not let the hero in your soul perish and leave only frustration for the life you deserved, but never have been able to reach. The world you desire can be won, it exists, it is real, it is possible, it is yours.” - Ayn Rand, Atlas Shrugged

Have a fabulous Weekend, darlings :)

Magic dress giveaway

2011-11-23T16:01:00.002+02:00

Today I am happy to announce the start of a lovely giveaway sponsored by Fascinating Julia

The lucky winner will get one infinite wrap dress in a colour of their choice:

A bit about the "magic" dress: It can be wrapped in countless ways and styled for just about any occasion. It's one size and can fit sizes 2- 16. It's a great dress to get for your bridesmaids, to use as maternity wear and to for anyone looking for a super versatile piece of clothing.
)

HOW TO ENTER:

1. Visit the Fascinating Julia website and tell me, below, why you need this dress.

2. For an extra entry tweet this phrase: I want a magic dress! Holding thumbs that I win the #FascinatingJulia giveaway on @beingbrazen - http://bit.ly/sepOOH

Please note: *This giveaway is open to South Africa residents only * the winner will be chosen randomly * Dress colours subject to availability *This giveaway will end on Monday, 5 December and the winner will be announced on Tuesday, 06 December.

THIS GIVEAWAY IS NOW CLOSED - WINNER: COSMICGRRL

10 things I learnt recently

2011-11-22T23:59:00.004+02:00

1. Not having a computer of your own is rather crap - Recently my dear computer crashed and is still in a coma, hence my lack of blogging lately ( Thankfully, I have a new laptop on it's way. I hope to introduce it to you all soon)

2. I read and organise a whole lot more when I am computer-less

3. Bistro Sixteen82, on the Steenberg wine Estate, is a great breakfast spot

4. You can now buy Kindles direct from Incredible Connection in SA.

5. The Breaking Dawn Part 1 movie is awesome and I was pleasantly surprised by Bella's wedding dress (have you seen the film yet? what did you think of it?).

6. Brogues are definitely not for me

7. It's hard for me to take The Boyf seriously with his moustache

8. My mind may be ready for summer, but my body is far from beach ready

9. Florence & the Machine's new album, Ceremonials, is really good

10. Embracing the uncertainty of life is far better than worrying about it

What have you learnt recently?

* image found via Tumblr (think its a Kate Spade pic)

Lovely & local

2011-11-17T23:59:00.000+02:00

Here are some lovely, local things that caught my eye recently...

Stripey tee and pants - by Marion and Lindie
Pretty teacups - by love Milo
Personalised monogram necklace - by thula jewellery (great gift idea!)
Grey tassel earrings - by Joya
'Abacus' napkins - by Skinny laMinx
Maxi dress - by Christopher Strong (available from Spence)

Spanish country home

2011-11-15T23:59:00.000+02:00

This lovely home is located in the south of Andalucia, Spain. I absolutely love the relaxed feel and simple, rustic decor.

To see more pictures of this home trot over HERE

Happy Weekend!

2011-11-12T18:40:00.001+02:00

"Nothing in the world is permanent, and we’re foolish when we ask anything to last, but surely we’re still more foolish not to take delight in it while we have it." -W. Somerset Maugham

Have a fun weekend!

image via Tumblr

A music mix

2011-11-12T18:10:00.016+02:00

1. Such Great Heights - Postal Service
2. Shake it Out - Florence and The Machine
3. What You Know - Two Door Cinema Club
4. After Hours - We are Scientists
5. Draw your swords - Angus & Julia Stone
6. Paradise - Coldplay
7. We Won't Run - Sarah Blasko
8. Go Outside - Cults
9. Video Games - Lana Del Rey
10. Daniel - Bat For Lashes
11. Never Let Me Go - Florence & The Machine
12. Skinny Love - Birdy

Note: you can click on the song title link to watch the music video

Sleepwear giveaway

2011-11-10T14:35:00.002+02:00

Today I am happy to announce the start of a lovely giveaway sponsored by Lila Rose, a luxury sleepwear brand that makes fabulous pajamas.

The lucky winner will get to choose one of these three chemises:

A bit about Lila Rose Sleepwear: Started in 2007 by owner and designer Nicola Ralph, Lila Rose specialises in pretty sleepwear that is made from quality fabrics. Currently Lila Rose sleepwear is available in various boutiques across South Africa, at Stuttafords and from the online store.

HOW TO ENTER:

1. Visit the Lila Rose website and tell me, below, which item you like best.

2. For an extra entry you can either: "Like" the Lila Rose facebook page and leave a comment on the wall mentioning this competition OR follow Lila Rose on twitter and tweet the following phrase: My sleeptime would be so much better if won the @LilaRoseLove giveaway over at @beingbrazen - http://bit.ly/w1Repv

Please note: *This giveaway is open to South Africa residents only * the winner will be chosen randomly *This giveaway will end on Sunday, 20 November and the winner will be announced on Monday, 21 November

THIS GIVEAWAY IS NOW CLOSED

Celeb style: Kristen Stewart

2011-11-10T12:00:00.000+02:00

I am really loving how confident and smiley Kristen has been looking lately (which is a nice change from her trademark sulky face). Last week Kristen Stewart showed off her stunning, vampire-white legs in these two sexy outfits:
(

Left: Strapless Monique Lhuillier dress and black Jimmy Choo heels.

Right: Nude Marios Schwab dress with Brian Atwood pumps

What do you think of Kristen's style?

10 things I learnt this weekend

2011-11-08T16:06:00.000+02:00

photo by me

1. I just really don't like Whisky

2. Strawberry smoothies and chocolate-filled pancakes make a fabulous breakfast

3. I prefer Bright nail colours to neutrals right now - one of the colours I'm really liking is O.P.I's 'No Room For The Blues' (you can see the colour over HERE)
4. American Horror Story is seriously creepy TV show, that just keeps getting weirder.

5.THIS is what's happening on one of the world's most remote marine sanctuaries - It's a sad truth that shows just how polluted our earth is becoming.
6. Eucerin Dry Skin Repair Lotion makes my legs feel so soft and smooth ;)

7. It's almost impossible to keep my apartment clean for more than one day
8. Taylor Swift has a super cute, new cat named Meredith - go HERE to see it
9. La Senza's underwear is so pretty and comfortable

10. I love this quote: "Perfection is static, and I am in full progress" -Anaïs Nin

What have you learnt recently?

Happy Weekend!

2011-11-04T10:54:00.000+02:00

"Start living now. Stop saving the good china for that special occasion. Stop withholding your love until that special person materializes. Every day you are alive is a special occasion. Every minute, every breath, is a gift from God."

-Mary Manin Morrissey

Darlings, have a wonderful Friday and fabulous weekend :)

Gossip Girl, Season 5 - Blair hats

2011-11-03T20:28:00.004+02:00

Along with cute coats and bright bags, it looks like Blair will be wearing quite a few interesting hats this season. I think most of them look very cute and quirky.

What do you think of Blair's hat looks?

Pretty bikini giveaway

2011-11-02T11:00:00.001+02:00

Today I am happy to announce the start of a lovely giveaway sponsored by Coco li, a fabulous Cape Town boutique that currently has branches in Milnerton and Green Point.
(

The lucky winner will receive a LoveWaterLove bikini of their choice from Coco Li

A bit about Coco li: Both having a background in Interior Design and Architecture, sisters Lana Goslett and Leigh Tzouvanni, combined their talents and love for beautiful things to put together a fabulous boutique. The first shop was opened in August 2004. The boutique stocks a great range of local and imported clothing, gifts, jewellery and decorative goodies.
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HOW TO ENTER:

1. Visit the LoveWaterLove website and tell me, below, which swimsuit you like best.

2. For an extra entry you can either: "Like" the Coco Li facebook page and leave a comment on the wall mentioning this competition OR follow Coco li on twitter and tweet the following phrase: I hope I win this pretty @Coco_Li_CT bikini giveaway over at @beingbrazen - http://bit.ly/sNyJfT

Please note: *This giveaway is only open to residents of the Western Cape * the winner will be chosen randomly *This giveaway will end on Wednesday, 09 November and the winner will be announced on Thursday, 10 November.

THIS GIVEAWAY IS NOW CLOSED

It's for you...

2011-11-01T18:47:00.001+02:00

Happy November, Darlings! Isn't it just insane how time is just speeding along? before we know it it will be dashing through the malls time, followed by decking the halls with bells and then straight onto happy New Years...Anyway, since we haven't had a random Q& A in ages, I thought it would be nice to do one today...

How it always works: I will answer the below very random questions - then you answer the questions as a comment. Why? cause sharing is caring *winks*:

1. Thought for the day... I'm going to need alot more coffee.

2. Last night I... went to gym for a little bit, ate some chicken pie with salad and watched some Walking Dead (the TV show, not people in halloween costumes).

3. Song you've been playing on repeat? "Shake it Out" by Florence & The Machine

4. Currently I spend too much time... on the computer

5. Rustic lakeside cottage or posh city apartment? I need the city apartment for the week and the lakeside cottage for weekends, so both please ;)

6. What are you reading right now? The Hunger Games trilogy (it's awesome)

7. Blackberry, Android or iphone? Android

8. Today my nail colour is... 'No Room For The Blues' by O.P.I

9. Do you prefer your man's face clean-shaven, bearded or with rugged stubble? I like rugged stubble alot, but clean-shaven is better to kiss. Beards are a not my thing.

10. What one word best describes your life at the moment? charmed

Music for Twihards

2011-10-30T23:59:00.001+02:00

This week the music video for Christina Perri's 'A Thousand Years' was released (check it out above). The song is just one of the tracks that will be on The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn, Part 1 soundtrack.

The music video features quite a few clips from the film, a gorgeous black dress, loads of candles and super soppy, romantic lyrics (obviously). The new Twilight film will be premiering worldwide on November 18th and I cannot wait to see it (yes, I do have my tickets already).

You can check out the full track listing for the Breaking Dawn soundtrack over HERE

What do you think of the song? Where do you think it will play in the film?

On my bucket list... by Corey

2011-10-27T23:58:00.000+02:00

Corey is a lovely blogger, who recently moved from from Houston (USA) to Trinidad and blogs over here. Today she will be sharing a few things from her bucket list. Enjoy...

My bucket list has changed drastically this year, as I have recently moved to an island, quit my job, learned to surf and am about to set off on a Trans-Atlantic cruise. Here are some of the new top six:

1. Own an English bulldog - Name him Bob - Teach him to skateboard

2. Travel to the Maldives - Dive, Relax & Be Lazy

3. Get the courage to wear bright Red lipstick all day

4. Experience the Bridge Climb in Sydney Australia

5. Learn to Paddle board in Maui

6. Visit Victoria Falls and hang over the edge

Note: "On my bucket list..." is my current guest blogger series. Most weeks a lovely blogger will share things from their bucket list. to read other bucket lists, go HERE

Lemlem

2011-10-26T11:53:00.001+02:00

Lemlem sells lovely clothing that is all handmade in Ethiopia and made with natural cotton. I am really loving all their brightly striped dresses, skirts and scarves.Definitely putting a few items onto my wardrobe wishlist.

A bit about Lemlem: Supermodel and World Health Organisation Goodwill ambassador Liya Kebede started Lemlem in 2007 as a way to encourage economic independence in her native country of Ethiopia and to preserve the ancient art form of weaving. "Lemlem" means to flourish or bloom in Amharic.

10 things I learnt this weekend

2011-10-25T16:34:00.000+02:00

Image found via tumblr

1. Cherry Brandy roses are such a pretty colour
2. I really love my new, Samsung Galaxy S2 phone - it' so thin, fast and ridciculously awesome (I may be biased *winks*). Plus you can even put the Kindle app on it.
3. Taking a jog outside to warm up before you do things like crunches and squats really increases the effectiveness of your exercise (just need to make sure I stretch better next time)
4. The Hunger Games book is turning out to be a very interesting read
5. &Union is a great place to have a chilled drink on a Friday night
6. I love bread, but need to eat less - I'm pretty sure I have a mild wheat intolerance
7. Sometimes having breakfast for lunch is a fabulous plan
8. You can make your hard boiled eggs into heart shapes by doing THIS
9. Coraline is a strange and wonderful animated movie, especially in 3D
10. "...better to be hurt by the truth than comforted with a lie."- Khaled Hosseini

What have you learnt recently?

Happy Weekend!

2011-10-22T15:22:00.000+02:00

"In all things it is better to hope than to despair." - Goethe

Hope you have a wonderful weekend x

Products I'm using right now...

2011-10-21T11:32:00.000+02:00

Here are my thoughts on six of the beauty products I am using right now (some are regular buys and some I have just discovered)...

1. Christian Dior 1 Couleur Eye Shadow in Argentic 056 - I really love this sparkly, grey eye shadow. It's great to use when you doing smoky eye make-up. The packaging is also cool and even has a mirror inside.

2. Le Blanc de Chanel, Sheer Illuminating Base - This product is very multifunctional, you can either apply it as a primer, mix it with your foundation to make it lighter and more illuminating or you can use it over foundation as a highlighter. The one big downside is that it's rather pricey.

3. Woolworths Soothing Cleansing Milk for sensitive skin - I've been using this cleanser for about a year and I absolutely love it. It's creamy and very gentle on my skin. Plus, it's very affordable.

4. St Tropez Tan Optimiser Body Polish - This is the best body exfoliator I have ever used. It's gentle and very effective. After only a few uses I could actually notice that my skin was getting smoother (true story). St Tropez sells it as a 'Tan Optimiser', but it can be used whether you plan on self tanning or not.

5. Dermalogica Sheer Tint Moisture SPF15 in Light - This moisturiser gives my face light coverage, a little sun protection and a bit of a glow. The only downsides are: I don't find it moisturising enough on my dry skin, so I prefer to wear it over my daytime moisturiser and it's a bit pricey for the size.

6. Revlon Top Speed Fast Dry Nail Enamel in Metallic, 860 - I really like this nail colour, especially on my toes. It's very silver, sparkly and dries quickly. It's not a thick nail polish so I put on about 3 coats before I get the look I like.

Are you using any great products right now?

Street style inspiration

2011-10-20T23:55:00.000+02:00

Photos by Tommy Ton via Style.com

Loving the above street style picture's - This summer I really want to add more bold prints and bright colours to my very dark-coloured wardrobe.

Silver earrings giveaway

2011-10-19T14:13:00.000+02:00

Today I am happy to announce the start of a lovely giveaway sponsored by SMITH, a fabulous South African Jewellery label.

The lucky winner can choose one of the below pairs of silver, handmade earrings:

A bit about SMITH: Anna Raimondo launched SMITH jewellery in 2010. All of Anna's pieces are 100% hand crafted, lightweight and made from sterling silver.

HOW TO ENTER:

1. Be a follower of this blog/twitter, THEN please go look at SMITH jewellery here or here and let me know(in comments section) which item you like best.

2. For an extra entry, "Like" the SMITH Facebook page and leave a comment on the wall mentioning this giveaway.
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Giveaway notes: *Anyone may enter this giveaway * the winners will be chosen randomly *This giveaway will end on Wednesday, 26 October and the winner will be announced on Thursday, 27 October. Good luck, darlings ;)

And the winner is...

2011-10-18T12:33:00.002+02:00

The winner of the fabulous Friedasophie Jewellery giveaway is.....*drum roll*.... Mauimandy ! Congrats lady, please contact me soon.

There will be another really cool giveaway starting super soon :)

10 things I learnt this weekend

2011-10-17T21:57:00.003+02:00

image via Tumblr

1. Sometimes writing can be such a frustrating process
2. The Black Books TV series totally cracks me up (love it!)
3. Cutting down on junk food is making me feel so much better
4. Even in 3-D, The Green Lantern is still not a good film
5. Apparently drying your manicured nails with a UV light may increase your risk of developing skin cancer - You can read THIS article to find out more.
6. I have a tendency to analyse things to death (...or do..I dont know...what do you think...probably. I'll think it over)
7. Nice heels may make my legs look better, but cute flats will always have my heart.
8. THIS book is guaranteed to make you laugh at least once.
9. Small, ceramic bowls are handy to use as jewellery holders
10. I'm often capable of way more than I give myself credit for.

What have you learnt recently?

Happy Weekend!

2011-10-14T12:14:00.004+02:00

"Three grand essentials to happiness in this life are -

something to do, something to love, and something to hope for."

- Joseph Addison

Hope you all have a lovely Friday and happy weekend :)

On my bucket list...by Bianca

2011-10-13T21:26:00.000+02:00

Today the talented, freelance designer and blogger Bianca (from The Tailored Life ) will be sharing a few things from her bucket list - Enjoy...

1. Teach my husband to ski in a little place called Zermatt, a tiny town in Switzerland at the top of the Alps with electric cars, horse-drawn carriages and the most beautiful slopes in the world.

2. Learn to code for web design. As a self-taught graphic designer I still rely on my husband for anything web related and it drives us both crazy.

3. Own a Jenny Packham gown and have somewhere glamorous to go to warrant buying it.

4. Summon the courage to get tattoo number five even though my family is against me doing it.

5. Renew my vows in a cheesy chapel in Vegas for our ten-year anniversary and take pictures in the Neon Boneyard. Having married at 22 there wasn’t a lot of support for us to make it. I look forward to proving everyone wrong in the years to come.

6. Overcome my permanent shoulder injury and actually complete a full Vinyasa yoga class, handstands and all.

7. Save my pennies and buy my very own Louis from the flagship Louis Vuitton store in Paris.

8. Pick up my beautiful electric guitar and actually learn to play it. Perhaps one day I’ll be able to rock out like Joan Jett.

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Note: "On my bucket list..." is my current guest blogger series. Most weeks a lovely blogger will share things from their bucket list. to read other bucket lists, go HERE

I like your bag

2011-10-12T23:55:00.000+02:00

Really like this fun, bright bag from Kate Spade's 2012 spring/summer collection

Image via GlitterGuide

Lovely & local

2011-10-11T19:16:00.000+02:00

Here are some lovely, local things that caught my eye recently...

Maxi drawstring dress - by I Love Leroy (available from 36Boutiques)
Gold and gemstones bangle - by Shelley & Harry
'Audrey' leather bag - by Gruber & Whale
Pretty, green dress - by Lunar
Leather and crystal necklaces - from Deep Dark Africa
'Esitezi' leather sandal - by Tsonga

Home office inspiration

2011-10-09T12:24:00.001+02:00

Pretty images via tumblr