And Heading Indiana Jones Ways

I have no real logic as to why this look makes me feel like I just stepped off a Spielberg adventure movie, maybe it’s the ‘cross the body’ leather pouch, the chino-esque peg trousers, or the leather belt (which doubles as a rather excellent whip).  Whatever it is I countered it by throwing on some sky-high heels as I walked out the door, otherwise I may have been tempted to jump down potholes or head for the jungle, neither of which are befitting of someone so ladylike.

Actually I was, and maintain that I still am a tomboy at heart, I played in the mud, cut my hair like a boy and one of my favourite things was finding big rocks to look under (prime slow worm hiding places).  Granted it’s been a while since I had grit under my fingernails but I’d still prefer a good old fashioned trek than a trip to the mall.  Sorry if that shatters any misconceptions about me being cutesy and fragile, I’m fearsome behind my bunny rabbit costume, honest I am.

P.S. I’m wearing the Maysaa basics jersey polo neck which is insanely comfortable, and sometimes simple is best. x

The Video

So you’ve waited long enough for this, or I should rather say, It’s late enough, and I’m sleep deprived enough to think posting this is a good idea.  I guess you know I have an obsession with reworking my clothes and in particular my own designs.  I must admit, the subconscious designer in me has a talent for making a design lovely to play around with, I should write her a note of thanks. (oh and again you can watch it without the sound, if music ain’t your thing)

The wondrous star that is the dress is the Maysaa Kimono Wrap Maxi Dress, the top is Uniqlo (but of course), and the trousers (which I now live in) are soon to be available at Maysaa.

I really should befriend a film maker to make these with me… in the hope that I’d look less insane.

It’s Not New, It’s Now

I was going through the Autumn collections from the Parisian fashion houses for a Hijab and the City article, and it got me gushing over the Lanvin show again.  To make a dress that is both structured and fluid, to use colour so understated but so intense, he designs the way I think… In contradictions and juxtaposition.  Anyway, I’m just about as ecstatic about the H+M / Lanvin collaboration as one can be.  No wonder time seems to be crawling at the moment.

Thanks to Monsieur Elbaz I’m feeling a like I want to dress a little darker, a little more grown-up, and a little wilder this winter.  A sentiment exactly reflected in the visuals of the rather wonderful (unofficial) version of Stromae’s ‘Te Quiero’ video.. Love! (also can be watched without sound to much the same effect, although I love the fact that the vocals are recorded live.)

Think Ink

I want this dress badly! So I am aware that on closer inspection the print is somewhat illuminati-esque in design, but that aside, I want this dress!  So pretty, so grunge, in fact, if we’re talking unrealistic acquisitions I think I want those clogs too!

(image: via style.com)

Twice in a Blue Dress

Having just arrived back from Paris, I basically had a choice of what was in my suitcase.  So I stuck to my trusty Maysaa jersey maxi dress, with the addition of two beautiful vintage pieces I picked up in Paris.  The tan leather belt and the amazing lambswool gilet.  I was snapped by two street style bloggers fromThe Whole Hole which rather made my day. (Just realised I can do this via Lookbook! A little slow with this technology lark am I- belated hypes would be much appreciated!)

Creepy Cool

So I do admit to having a strange fascination for creepy crawlies, especially the oversized hand crocheted ants that found their way onto arms and in hair on the Aksu show.  But if you’re not a fan of big bugs then there was still much to love, structural dresses, mixed textures, and boy can that man drape.  It was the separates that were most hijab friendly, soft tailored trousers and loose blouses were all beautiful.

A few of my favourite things.  That red is just stunning, and the details are a lovely juxtaposition of textures.

(images: the rubbish ones by me, the decent ones via Zimbio)

Jersey Maxi Dress

The long sleeved jersey maxi dress is a Maysaa spectacular, though to be honest, comfort was the thing most prevalent in my sartorial planning.  The denim shirt and belt was inspired (*cough* copied) off a girl on the tube.  The ballet pumps are Topshop’s finest, pretty, comfortable, pretty comfortable.

P.S. Sorry for the obscure Manu Chao title reference.

TopShop vibrant ballet

Modest Dresses

I’ve had a lot of emails requesting a post on wedding dresses.  And it has to be said that I’ve spent an unhealthy amount of time perusing the net-a-porter wedding boutique.  If only I’d known about this before I got married.  They have a wonderful selection of dresses, and a lot of them are easily hijab-able.  My favourites are the Lanvin and Matthew Williamson ones, but they are all so beautiful!

They vary quite a bit in price, but you can pick up something for under £500 which ain’t bad.  The service is amazing, and they have ‘free and easy’ returns should you change your mind.  If anything it’s worth checking out just for inspiration, they have a great wedding webzine and awesome little videos of the dresses.

All of these pics are taken from the wonderful net-a-porter.com

Summer Style

I made this dress years ago and although a little worse for wear it’s still something I love wearing.  It’s a bit of a jersey jilbab, great to wear over an outfit and super comfortable.  And of course there is the Maysaa head scarf which I’ve worn to the side, still my favourite!

Product Shots

We’re getting closer now, so don’t forget to sign up for updates on the Maysaa website.

I mixed up the styling on this shoot, some totally covered up, some with skinny jeans and short sleeves.  I kind of wanted to show how versatile each piece can be, and to let girls know that anyone can be a Maysaa girl whether they cover up or not.  It’s all about how you fall in love with a piece.

I made those heels too, a very last minute addition!