Like a Barossan

Dear Lovelies,

These majestic palm trees may make it look like I’m somewhere close to an ocean, blistering heat, glistening sky, salt water smell in the air.

Well, blistering heat is true, but I’m actually over an hour away from an ocean. In fact, the most amount of water here can probably be found in the irrigation systems for the vines. Yes! I’m in the Barossa, north of Adelaide.

This stunning road is lined with old and gracious palm trees that throw much needed shade to protect from the sun that makes the quicksilver approach 40 degrees easily before noon.

What better way to stay cool then to wear a simple polyester skirt, put a knot in the t-shirt (and enjoy a sneaky glass of ice cold Rosé).

For those of you who are interested in outfit details: the skirt is from the recent Zara sale (that I showed you *here*), t-shirt from Kmart - buy one size up so you can put a knot in it ;-)

With Love,

Coffeebeanlilly

Romantic Chinoiserie

Dear Lovelies,

If the blog title sounds like Chinese to you - you are not too far off!

Chinoiserie (English: /ʃinˈwɑːzri/) is the European interpretation and imitation of Chinese and East Asian artistic traditions, especially in the decorative arts, garden design, architecture, literature, theatre, and music. (Source: Wikipedia)

It is most prevalent in art and interior design, boasting opulent yet delicate prints mostly of flowers, birds and asian motivs. The fascinating and eyecatching thing is the colour combinations: dark navy with blush, lush teal with pink, frequently paired with metallics like silver or gold.

For maximum impact in fashion, it can be worn from head to toe (think: Victoria Beckham's white and navy Roberto Cavalli dress or Nicole Kidman in the movie "Australia"). 

For a more gentle entry to this beautiful style, I chose to accentuate my outfit with a clutch. Although I have to admit that it doesn't just accentuate it, it actually is the pivotal center of it. Sneaky little clutch with an impressive pattern. 

With Love,

Coffeebeanlilly



SHOP THE LOOK:

Tarte Rainforest of the Sea Foundation / Tarte Tarteist Pro Eyeshadow Palette

Dear Lovelies,

Although people say "never change a winning horse", many of you will agree that from time to time change is necessary and unavoidable. Your personality evolves and with it your style and your taste. Trying new things can be like a breeze of fresh air and give you a real feeling of empowerment.

In my case I was looking to trade up from my drugstore foundation that I had loved for many years and invest into something that I perceived as "better", sold via a designated shop for cosmetics, such as Sephora. 

Not only did I think that I'm finally "old enough" to invest into pricier cosmetics, but since going off the pill three years ago (you can read my journey *here*) my skin has gradually changed and needs different care now.

That I bought the eyeshadow palette from the same brand was purely a coincidence. Trying to find a great assortment for hooded eyelids led me to this one and I loved that there was an assortment of matte and shimmer tones in this.

I've been using these products for three months now and here are the pros and cons of both:



Tarte Rainforest Of The Sea Foundation (30ml, AUD$57 via Sephora):

Pros:
♥ Lightweight
♥ Buildable
♥ Waterbased (not oil based, which is great for oily skin)
♥ The dropper is a hygienic way of applying the product to your sponge or brush

Cons:
♥ The dropper is a bit flimsy and only dispenses one drop at a time
♥ Application with a brush can make it look streaky easily    
♥ No SPF, so wear a primer with SPF underneath

Tarte Tarteiste Pro Amazonian Clay Eyeshadow Palette (AUD$83 via Sephora):

Pros:
♥ Smells like Cookies when you open it
♥ Blends very well when applied with brushes
♥ Highly pigmented, even without the use of primer
♥ Stays on all day without smudging or hiding in the eye crease

Cons:
♥ Some of the matte shades are too pinkish / reddish for people with hooded eyelids

Do you have a favourite foundation and eyeshadow palette? Which one and why?


With Love,

Coffeebeanlilly

SHOP THE LOOK:

Gingham Pants

Dear Lovelies,

Gingham is such a questionable trend, don't you think? There's something so oddly appealing about it, something that takes you back to the old world, a touch of class and the smell of power.

On the other hand, if not done right, it can quickly make you look like you were a band member of ABBA back in the days (no offense, I love ABBA).

So, to keep it classy, I decided to style these eye-catching pants with a simple black top. 

How do you pull off your Gingham pieces?

With Love,

Coffeebeanlilly

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