Christmas Shopping Time

Now that I’m holiday, the Christmas spirit can truly begin. I’ll be using my time to watch cheesy festive movies, sing carols by candlelight and drink lots of wine. I’ll also try and brave the shops for some shopping. I have a big family and an even bigger circle of besties that need a little something something ;)

As much as I love this time of year, I know shopping will be an insane experience. So I’ve decided to set up a little list of items that I will be on the hunt for. Perhaps these can help some of you out. Also please feel free to send in suggestions.

For the boys in my life…and by boys I mean my gays. I definitely need to reward these guys for sticking by me when I’m drunk, sad or feeling fat. They make me smile, they cook me dinner and bring me new episodes of Glee.


The Selby Is In Your Place is a collection of stylish profiles featuring the oh-so-marvelous peeps in the fashion, design and art industries shot by the genius that is Todd Selby.

The next idea is to keep them super savvy for Cape Town summer. How fab are these boat shoes by Bronx. I’m really loving this grey colour, a nice change from the usual brown. Super affordable and super stylish.

For the girls in my life…you’ve drooled over Bradley Cooper with me, told me I look fabulous at a club at 2 in the morning when I’ve got mascara stains on my cheeks and don’t judge when I have two desserts. Luv ya bitches!

This is one of those items that I would love very much to receive myself…so in case you didn’t hear it drop, that was a hint ;) This butterfly dress from Sissy Boy is so cute. It’s pretty and versatile enough to wear to work or out on the town.

I was browsing over on Spence the other day when I came across this great anchor necklace by Steffany Roup.

For the fandamily it’s a little hard as there are so many of us. So these ideas are some stocking fillers:

Soon I'll be posting my Christmas wish list.

Ex-Oh! Ex-Oh!

In the Past Two Weeks...

Things have been unusually busy in my life recently. Some of it for fabulous reasons and some for not-so-fabulous reasons. As a result my Twitter and blog have suffered. There have been many blog-worthy moments happening, just no time to actually document them. So to catch everyone up, here is what I’ve been up to:

…I’ve gone to our office year-end parties where I dressed up as an angel, stayed out till 4.30 am, kissed a boy with an accent and still woke up with no hangover.

…I’ve received an awesome hamper courtesy of NoMu. Along with Samma Designs, we entered their Aficionado pin-up competition and managed to win with our Mad Men-esque photoshoot.


…I’ve doubled my cinema visits of the past four months by going to watch The Chronicles of Narnia and Harry Potter.

…I’ve been to two fabulous events. Including the intimate launch of Vintage Lifestyle online magazine at Starlings coffee shop in Rondebosch and the press day at Press Stick’s new Press Room. I got a preview of the autumn collections for Witchery, Sissy Boy and Sunglass Hut. I also got a media pack which included a voucher for a free massage. Much-needed after this crazy time.

…I was one of three fashion bloggers to take part in a O Magazine photo shoot along with Dimi from Style Scoop and Miss Milli. I’ll be featured in the March issue talking all about Cape Town style.

…I’ve managed to put up the Christmas tree in the flat, decorated the fireplace and bookcase with holly and hung our stockings. I even know what I’ll be contributing to my family’s Christmas lunch. But I have yet to buy one present for a friend or family member. In fact, the thought of going to the shops scares me.

…no matter how full the diary is looking or how low the bank balance is dropping, this is definitely my favourite time of year. Things I’m looking forward to are going on leave later this week, hanging out with my gay best friends at Mother City Queer Project, tanning on the beach, singing carols by candlelight and welcoming my best friend to Cape Town.

What have you guys been up to?

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An Open Letter To...

…the creators of chick-flicks. You have ruined my life. Don’t get me wrong I enjoy your movies immensely, I watch them all the time and thus have a horrible romantic life.

I waste so much time looking for guys with sparkly skin or secret royal lineages in the hope that I can be the one who makes a difference in their lives, you know be “the only thing that’s real” or at least get them to go outside and strip. Shiny things make me happy.

I am probably ignoring dozens of perfectly eligible men because I’m on the lookout for boys with posh British accents who are willing to partake in sad attempts of fighting for my honour. Never mind that these same guys will cheat on me with skinny-ass tanned women or that they prefer a little something-something from ladies of the night, Hugh Grant I’m talking to you, I’m hooked.

I dance my ass off at clubs because I have come to believe many hot guys are not only sensitive souls but can also bust a move and one day we’ll end up doing choreography in a street together.

I want to wait in the rain because I’ve learnt not only will I look radiant and my mascara won’t run but that guy, the one that got away will find me and we’ll have a moment and kiss and totally ignore the fact my shirt is see-through.

You have convinced me that a kiss is a gazillion times better when it’s accompanied by a killer soundtrack. Also running into each other’s arms makes for great dramatic moments. On a side-note, have you ever tried that? It’s hard to master and if you’re out of sync, teeth bash, foreheads bump and someone lands up on the floor.

I also fear that when I do find love without an elaborate gesture I may not believe it. If there is no guy with cue cards telling me I’m perfect or a John Cusack look-a-like holding up a classic 80s song on a boombox, how will I know if it’s real. If a guy is not willing to slay an evil sea witch or go to prison ‘cause some little bitch of a sister falsely accused him of something then I’m gonna eject his ass.

Ex-Oh! Ex-Oh!

Image from here.

Things I've Realised...

…I cannot keep blaming changing room mirrors, clothes that seem to shrink in the washing machine, bad genes and random skinny bitches for the fact that I’m overweight. At some point I need to put down the cheese and admit that I don’t work out enough or eat right. It’s taken scary photos at bad angles and skinny jeans bursting at the seams to make me realize that I need to re-think my habits. Any suggestions on how to motivate myself would be gladly appreciated.

…I’m getting closer to a happier work life. I could even say I was on my way to starting my desired career. Things are changing slowly and at times they barely move but they’re looking up. I have some very exciting things to look forward to and hopefully one day I can say “I love what I do!”

…I need a financial adviser. Every month I swear I’m gonna stick to my budget and save more money. Come the middle of the month and I have to do some stealing, um shopping at my parent’s place, restrict the social gatherings and go without new pretty things in my wardrobe. What’s even worse when I panic about not having enough money I tend to spend more. In my mind, spending calms me down and makes it all okay.

…I will definitely be making new year’s resolutions next year. I plan to stop being late for everything and instead be 5 minutes early. Except for fashion events, for those I’ll be a little bit late, tis the fashionable thing to do! I also resolve to be one of those annoyingly happy people. My optimism will be so great, you’d think it can cure cancer. Hopefully it will also be contagious and make a difference and all that nonsense :)

Ex-Oh! Ex-Oh!

This Week I...

...went to see South Africa play USA.


Last week Wednesday The Nelson Mandela Challenge was held at Cape Town Stadium. Bafana Bafana, in their first Cape Town game in several years, took on USA.


Along with Blue Eyes, my gays and the family we headed to the stadium via the Fan Walk. The city centre was filled with yellow as over 50 000 fans made their way to the stadium. It reminded me a lot of the world cup and was great to see so many supporters. It was also awesome to be able to sing the national anthem with a gazillion other supporters. Plus there were lots of cute boys :)


The evening started with an address by President Jacob Zuma and then the game started. I thought South Africa played a lot better than the USA but had trouble finishing. At the end, the Americans won 1-0.



Ex-Oh! Ex-Oh!

Happy Friday!

I absolute love the 'Advice of from a Cartoon Princess' series on Youtube.
This is the latest one and it's hilarious.



Have a great Friday!

Ex-Oh! Ex-Oh!

This Week I...

…went on the Wheel of Excellence.



This past Saturday was spent with the family and we decided to have a fun day at the V&A Waterfront. The kids played around at Scratch Patch, I got a hole-in-one at miniature golf and then we had some lunch. The most exciting time of the day, apart from that ice-cold drink I rewarded myself with after an entire day with the family was the Wheel of Excellence.

I’ve written about the wheel before. Mostly about how quick it was erected, heehee erect ;). This weekend was the first time I’d actually gone on it.



For R70 per adult, you can take a 20 minute ride in the wheel. On a great day, the views are amazing.


If you’re visiting Cape Town or would just like a reminder of how pretty it is, you should head to the wheel.



Ex-Oh! Ex-Oh!

Monday's Mantra

This week I’ll be begging, borrowing and stealing.
I believe I’ve practiced a lot of grace by not murdering my colleagues.
I’m addicted to Supernatural and Desperate Housewives.
I wish the ending of Inception wasn’t so ambiguous.
It’s sucky that we’re halfway through the month and I’m already broke.
Soundtrack/Mantra for the week It’s My Life And It’s Now or Never

Mid-Week Notes

*Last night one of my fashion dreams came true. I was lucky enough to meet Chris Viljoen from Elle at the Witchery launch last night. I may have squealed and acted totally uncool but it was worth it. He is beyond fabulous!

*Speaking of Witchery, the brand is fabulous! It's very Country Road but a bit more grown-up and sophisticated. I attended the launch last night at St Ives in Camps Bay. There were lots of fashion peeps, pretty PR girls and some kick-ass motijos. The new winter range was showcased to the media and it's something to look forward to. There is this white shirt that I am prepared to sell my car, my bestie and my shoe collection for. It's that amazing.

*Tonight I'll be attempting to make a chocolate pie. Similar to the one in Julie and Julia. We're having our favourite gay best friends over for dinner and the evening calls for something special. If it flops, all those involved have promised to like it nonetheless. I have awesome friends.

*I'm getting excited for this time next week. I'll be going to the SA - USA soccer game at Cape Town stadium. Cannot wait to get out my yellow shirt and flag again. Also I cannot wait to get crunk ;)

Ex-Oh! Ex-Oh!

Monday's Mantra

This week has lots of promise.
I believe that sometimes friendship is all you need.
I’m addicted to disaster movies, swimming and butternut pie.
I wish I would learn my lesson and wear sunscreen.
It’s sucky that I will be sporting a sunburnt forehead at a fashion launch.
Soundtrack/Mantra for the week We Go Together

Image from here.

This Week I...

...explored Cape Town.

Last week I managed to try out three new places in Cape Town. All very different yet fun.



It started with my big brother’s birthday drinks at Rick’s Café in Gardens. Aboslutely loved this place. Only problem was the wind, we needed to sit with blankets but having lots of tapas and cocktails helped matters along. The whole restaurant and bar feels homey and had a lovely mix of people which I love. It’s decorated in a colonial style with the upstairs bar paying homage to Casablanca. If you’re keen to go, they have amazing cocktail specials daily until 7pm.



To start the weekend off, Blue Eyes and I headed to her ex-company’s Halloween party. In keeping with the theme, Kimberley Hotel in Roeland Street was the venue. Apparently it added to the ambience. To be honest I’ve driven past the “hotel” a few times and nothing, not even their super-cheap breakfast special is enough to tempt me to go inside. As I’ve learnt time and time again, never judge a book by its cover. Don’t get me wrong, the place isn’t a palace and I’m not a rush to go back but I was pleasantly surprised. The bar is cheap, the place is full of hipsters and cute foreign boys seem to stay there. Definitely a spot to try out when you need to mix things up.

To end the weekend, we decided to try out one of Cape Town’s most famous – and oldest – ice-cream shops. Venezia is in Sea Point’s Main road and while it may not look all that great, it is worth the trip. Blue Eyes had four sorbets, lemon, granadilla, strawberry and orange and I had four ice-creams, mint, chocolate, strawberry and Oreo. Let me tell you know, the chocolate will change your life! It may not be good for blood sugar or hips but it’s worth the bland salads and gym visits to have some once and awhile.

Ex-Oh! Ex-Oh!

Images from here, here and here.

Lanvin for H&M

By now, almost everyone knows about the Lanvin for H&M diffusion line. The official lookbook was released yesterday and it makes me want to jump on a plane to the nearest H&M. I absolutely love the line and you can see some of my favourites from the collection on Style Scoop tomorrow.

Right now if there is one thing I'm lusting over, it's this ballerina dress. To die for!

Ex-Oh! Ex-Oh!

Monday's Mantra

This week I'm challenging myself not to spend any money.
I believe you're never too old to get dressed up.
I’m addicted to mint chocolate ice-cream, MIA's XXXO and Weeds season 6.
I wish I could rock short shorts.
It's sucky that summer is around the corner and I'm out of shape.
Soundtrack/Mantra for the week Save Tonight

Image from here.

This Weekend I...

...will be taking advantage of Neighbourhood's drink specials.

...will be dressing up as an angel for a Halloween party.

...will be taking my niece for a manicure and pedicure for her birthday.

...will be drinking to deal with the all the children at said niece's birthday.

...will spend some time at the parents place, enjoying attention, satellite TV and free food.

...will try not to give into the jubilation of having money again. Need to make salary last until the end of next month.

Hope you have a great weekend planned!

Ex-Oh! Ex-Oh!

Classic Movie, Classic Quote

Don: Hey, Napoleon. What did you do last summer again?
Napoleon Dynamite: I told you! I spent it with my uncle in Alaska hunting wolverines!
Don: Did you shoot any?
Napoleon Dynamite: Yes, like 50 of 'em! They kept trying to attack my cousins, what the heck would you do in a situation like that?
Don: What kind of gun did you use?
Napoleon Dynamite: A freakin' 12-gauge, what do you think?

Ex-Oh! Ex-Oh!

Image from here.

This Week I...

...went to Kalk Bay.

A little disclaimer before I start this post. I am the youngest of four children and there are big gaps between us siblings. So while I know my parents love me, there are many things they’ve done and seen before I was born. Therefore by the time I came along, there wasn’t much need to do these things again. For example road trips to exotic places were not high on the list of things to do on a Sunday.



So when I announced to my besties that I think a trip to Kalk Bay was in order, a chorus of “You’ve never been to Kalk Bay” erupted. Yes it’s true, please refer back to the above disclaimer.

This Sunday armed with a whole bunch of cool people, we headed to the vibrant fishing village for some brunch and browsing. After a delish meal and milkshake at The Home of Waffles and Pancakes, we took a stroll through the town.


If unlike me, no one has told you about this gem of a town, I suggest you make your way there. It’s a fabulous mix of restaurants, deli’s, antique shops, vintage shops, décor/furniture stores and art galleries.




Ex-Oh! Ex-Oh!

Monday's Mantra

This is my last week at work. Start an exciting new job next week!
I believe brunch with my besties is the only way to spend a weekend.
I’m addicted to dreaming tropical holidays.
I wish I wasn’t so plagued by body issues.
It’s sucky that time has flown by so quickly.
Soundtrack/Mantra for the week Here it Goes Again

Image from here.

This Week I...

This week I…

…went to the Slave Lodge

When I was in school I never paid much attention when we did museum, planetarium and zoo trips. Now that I’m older and can think about more than getting up early to watch Saturday morning cartoons I am desperate to go back and learn some culture.


One of the places we never went on a school trip was the Slave Lodge. Before I knew exactly what it was, it was just another building. After what seemed like years, I finally found some time to make a visit.



The Slave Lodge is situated on the corner of Wale and Adderley street in the centre of Cape Town. It’s part of the Iziko Museums in South Africa that include the Plantetarium, South African Museum, and National Gallery. It’s also one of the oldest buildings in Cape Town.


The lodge was built in 1679 and was used to house slaves from the Dutch East India Company. What was surprising to learn is that many slaves were not South African or even African. Many were brought from other routes and placed here. What was even more surprising was the amount of leniency experienced by the slaves. It seemed once at the lodge, many slaves were able to marry, become free and own land.


One of my favourite parts of the lodge was the memory wheel. You can spin it around and round to see over 8000 names of the people once housed at the slave lodge.



Another part I enjoyed was the Nelson Mandela exhibition. It’s similar to the one at the Apartheid Museum just not as in-depth. It traces his journey from a young man to his humanitarian work and retirement now.


The lodge is open every day except Sundays and is super cheap to visit.

Ex-Oh! Ex-Oh!

Monday's Mantra

This week is the start of exciting new things.
I believe no decision is the right one.
I’m addicted to English toffee frozen yoghurt, So You Think You Can Dance and nachos.
I wish I could jump ahead one month.
It’s sucky that yesterday’s gorgeous day was not spent at the beach.
Soundtrack/Mantra for the week Cruel Summer

Image from here.