beauty banter: shade shifter

One of my favourite ways to get into a new season is by playing with new makeup, beauty and hair trends. I've never been into (or good at) nail art, but I love a style-trending manicure to accent my wardrobe and play up my personality.

Earlier in 2013, duo chrome was dubbed Hollywood's latest mani trend and this season I've been on the lookout for a good duo chrome polish so I could give it a try.

OPI's Peace & Love & OPI in their new San Francisco fall 2013 collection is exactly the polish I was looking for. Maybe it’s because just last week, I had an unexpected visit in San Francisco but I love how this metallic grey-based shade shifts between green and purple and literally changes every time I look at it. I love OPI’s applicator, and the formula was consistent with no apparent streaking when I applied. Two coats was more than sufficient for a strong and consistent colour. It’s actually a lot of fun to see what different light does for this duo chrome; every time I look at this polish, I see a different variation of colour!

Verdict: I love OPI’s Peace & Love & OPI! Would you wear this trend? Love it? Don’t love it? Let me know! x

The catwalk: spot skater dress

It's no secret... I love spots. And if you've read any of my previous catwalk posts you already know I am in love with Oasis! Rewind several months to when my husband was in London and picked up this pretty spot skater dress at the Oasis flagship store for me. I fell in love with it when I saw it online and I never expected that I'd be lucky enough to hang this lovely piece in my closet let alone wear it!

Arguably a spot-on match to Tangerine Tango (Pantone's colour of the year in 2012) this belted fit and flare was a staple for me this summer. It transitions nicely from day to night - but even better - it can be a staple in my fall wardrobe too. Pictured below, it's paired with a small Dooney & Bourke handbag that's teal in colour. Even though they're a bold pairing, the colours are an absolute perfect match and make the outfit even more fun and playful. Topped off by a tan patent pump, simple accessories and some soft mermaid waves this ensemble was one of my top go-to outfits of the summer. To take this into fall, I'll pair it with black tights and boots, and I'll darken up the handbag choice to something a little more seasonal. Do you like this dress better for summer or for fall? Happy shopping! x

Oasis spot skater dress with teal Dooney & Bourke handbag. Photo by Sam Russell

Oasis spot skater dress with teal Dooney & Bourke handbag. Photo by Sam Russell

Oasis spot skater dress with teal Dooney & Bourke handbag. Photo by Sam Russell

hernameiscat came back

Hello, hernameiscat fans! I know what you’re thinking: ‘Where have you been? I’m totally missing your fashion tips and street style!’ It’s long overdue, and your wait is over because I am back and ready to blog. 

I’ve had an unexpectedly busy summer filled with fashion, fun and fitness topped off by a somewhat unplanned but once in a lifetime trip to China. Keep an eye out for a fashionable post in the next few days – I’ll be bringing you up to speed on my favourite fashions of the summer and how you can transition your style into fall and winter. Gambei! (means ‘cheers’ in Mandarin) xx