Breakfast Date Style

I hardly feature my personal style but I really loved this knit I got at a fashion exchange I attended this month, which was hosted by the Zimbabwe German Society. Swapping clothes isn't bad at all if I do say so myself. Take a look for yourself. This is how I rocked my new swap for a casual breakfast date, paired with animal print cuffed denims, pointed black pumps and my natural hair...

Location: Organikks, Chisipite

Mexican Midnight Snack: Nachos

It’s been a while since I’ve had nachos so when the opportunity arose and my stomach needed filling on a night out with those close to me - a plate of nachos was exactly what I needed and boy was it beyond filling. Topped with chicken strips, the combo nachos, cheese, chicken, sour cream and jalapenos gelled perfectly together – a plus for me because anything with something meaty – completes me, plus I got to get my hands dirty. The best food is usually eaten with your hands - something I believe. You should definitely give them a try.

What I ordered - Nachos Con Polo

With Cajun chicken breasts

Other variations include;

Nachos Grande

A serving of nachos topped with chilli cheese sauce, melted cheese and jalapenos, served with guacamole, sour cream and house salsa

Nachos Con Carne

A serving of nachos with spicy beef mince

Favourite drink - a Material Girl softail which includes monin morello cherry syrup with fresh lemon, fresh mint leaves and cranberry juice topped with lemonade. What I love most about it is its not too sweet and the fresh mint is absolutely refreshing without overwhelming the softail.

Where to get them

News Cafe Borrowdale

Stand 1, Sam Levy’s Entertainment Centre Sam Levy’s Village, Borrowdale

04 852 188

http://www.newscafe.co.za/

Mondays: Kitchen closes at 8.30pm

Tuesday-Thursday: 9.30pm

Friday & Saturday: (10.30pm but it's at the managers discretion to open till 11pm)

Sunday: usually 9.30pm but we play it by ear.

What are nachos?

Nachos are a Tex-Mex dish from northern Mexico. The dish is composed of tortilla chips (totopos) covered with cheese or cheese-based sauce, and is often served as a snack. More elaborate versions add more ingredients and can be served as a main dish. First created in about 1943 by Ignacio "Nacho" Anaya, the original nachos consisted of fried corn tortillas covered with cheddar cheese and sliced jalapeño peppers.

The Hangout: The Spook House

190 Mutare Road

Harare, Zimbabwe

077 806 4033

Open: Wednesday to Sunday

Concert Venue – General Venue – Outdoor Bar and Grill

I recently went to The Spook house which is along Mutare road and was delightful surprised by this hangout spot. Being a creative I love another music and outdoorsy and this place gave me just that. From what I understand different events take place at this joint, I however, had gone there for the Jazz Fest – the line-up included Matthew Ngorima, The Outfit and Jam Signal. Yes, I listen to a host of genres – plus I love trying out new things... Under the African Sky the festival vibe at The Spook House was a much needed break from the world –with good music and clean fun, I thoroughly enjoyed myself. It was cold out but I can only imagine what happens when it’s warm out. – Bet people never want to leave.  Plus the manager is super – friendly and anywhere were the welcome is great gets a plus from me.

Go for - chilled vibes, great food, entertainment and service

I hear it’s also the go to place for Shisa Nyama Saturdays.

The Perfect Fish Spot

Fishmonger

Belgravia, 50 East Road, Harare, Zimbabwe

Open – All week

Seating can be inside or on the outside garden tables.

Tel 302285 or 308164.

Looking for somewhere to eat on a Sunday can be quite a drag. With most places closed and the usual places open (usual can get boring). This past Sunday however, I wasn’t looking for the usual – I wanted something different. After driving around town from Thai spots, local cuisine and ending up at Fish monger, it was quite impressive.  This final choice was totally worth it.

I’m not really a fish/seafood kind of person but fresh calamari can take my heart any day. Gosh, this one of the reasons why I fell in love with Durban - Need to go back soon. By now you know calamari was what I settled for and it was definitely good value for money. The flavours just came together in a mouth-watering concoction and once again –I was sold – I could eat calamari all day for the rest of my life – well if it’s cooked to the tee like this one.

My foodie partner in crime settled for sushi – and I stole myself a bite or two – sushi not being my thing but when something’s good you cannot lie. It was tasty and the plating was way too impressive... something out of a cookbook I tell you - Making it even more enjoyable if you ask me.

For a change we actually had space to share dessert – though I was tempted to get the Malva Pudding – another addiction I need freeing from. So chocolate mousse it was, topped with ice-cream and a nicely garnished strawberry – I like strawberries and anyone who doesn’t needs some seriously help just kidding). By now you know not to take offence as I said that just for emphasis.  The chocolate mousse hit the right sweet spots; it was divinely rich and decadent. This fish spot can do no wrong. I’d like to go back and perhaps try something different and see if this kind of serving was just a lucky strike or the real deal.

In my efforts to stay honest and keep it real with you the restaurant is definitely ago to place for good fresh seafood– the only downside I experienced was the service was slow and that’s just about it.

On the Menu

Salads – Pasta – Sea food platters –Chefs table (includes beef and chicken) – from the sea  (seafood dishes)- East meets west (Indian and Thai curries) & Desserts

Note: Sushi menu available from Wednesday to Sunday

Native Wear: The New Normal for Gents?

Native wear isn’t anything new –it’s been a big part of African culture for a long time now – it however hasn’t always been embraced as much within the country – (just have a look around town and you can make your own conclusions) however, usually in countries like Nigeria, Ghana and others where both men and women don their garb on daily - it’s not even a question of whether one should wear it or not? – It just is. 

Of late however, I have seen a number of our Zimbabwean brothers looking dapper in these looks. Usually reserved for special events, like weddings, or award ceremonies, the native look is slowly infiltrating the everyday spheres of a man’s life, personally this is a movement worth acknowledging and I am all for it.

 I’ve also noted that there are some brothers who are not going full on native but are incorporating native wear by switching it up with just a native shirt with their everyday formal pants, jeans or chinos. – Which is perfectly okay - the experimentation is more than welcome in my books and I’d recommend small doses to anyone who wants to try it out. It could even be with a native inspired bow tie or the intricate details on a formal shirt. Whatever floats your boat..

Whether you choose to go full on or little by little native wear is a look worth exploring.

If you are serious about fashion or just want to switch it up and update your closet - think native and take a leaf from these gents style handbook.

Tytan in his cut-out

Ngugi never goes wrong

For the attention seekers

These dapper gents definitely know how to go about native fashion the right way...

Think Native Gents

Bye.....

Basic Instinct: What should be in your closet?

Most people I know get stuck on getting these fancy outfits that they can only wear once or for a few more stretches. And then when it comes to everyday looks one often gets stuck on “I’ve got nothing to wear today” but my question is don’t you or are you just not shopping smart enough? This however, is a roundup of what should be in your closet...

Denims

Dark wash jeans – go with anything and everything.

Boyfriend jeans – hello casual cool.

White skinnies – All white party, anyone?

Ripped shorts – take me to the water now!!!!!!

Shirts and Tees

Loose shirts in any colour you like although neutral tones go with everything, these are great for lazy Sunday’s and summertime.

A striped tee – hello sailor....

A plaid shirt – road trippin’ anyone?

Denim tops – can be cool and dressy.

Tanks in all colours – need I say more...

A formal shirt in black, white and a coloured one...

A sparkly dressy top and few statement tees for the weekend.

Add ons

A parka – for them rainy days.

A military jacket for edge and style points.

A coloured blazer to switch it up from day and night.

A neutral blazer to go with everything you own.

A trench coat – the ultimate weather protector.

A leather jacket – cool girl vibe, night time festival and well maybe some handsome guy will take you on a motorbike ride and you need to dress for the occasion (hides) Well a girl needs to be prepared right?

Go skirts

Skirts – boy, when it comes to skirts you need them all but my faves are a maxi, pencil, midi and tulle  skirts - these never fail.

Dress up

LBD (little black dress) - Nights out on the town – bet you thought I’d say date night ....okay and date night....

Maxi dress – hello summer or Sunday look

Wrap dress- Just ask Dianne Von Furstenberg?

Shift dress– hello board meeting, interview with the CEO or a client.

Body con dress – just might get you a ring.

Slinky Slip dress – hello red carpet or themed party

A white dress – do we want to outshine the bride? Umm yes!!!

Keep warm in

Sweaters – oversized, tunic sweater, chunky knits, a neutral and colored cardigan.

Bag it

6 bags you need that will get you through the trends and seasons

A classic clutch bag 

An influencer’s tote bag

Everyday box bag

The cool crowds Backpack

 The never at home weekender bag

& a fashionista’s bucket bag

These key items will get you through the seasons and won’t fade like trends do. It’s all about form and function, what you can update on, switch up and dress down.

You can also then use various neck, arm or ear candy to add spice to your everyday looks.

For all your wardrobe management email me on c.mebe@yahoo.com

Shopping on a shoestring budget

Don't break even in cases of emergency - I see you!!!

Money is tight and yet the stores keep churning out things to lust over. This becomes a bummer when you still have other responsibilities but shopping is a habit you just can’t break. Right now most peeps are trying to map a financial way forward, with bills to pay and mouths to feed. Should this then be the end of your shopping addiction? Not entirely. There’s still room for you to get everything you need to get done and a few shopping outings as well. Good news right? Want to know how? Read on to get the lowdown on how to still maintain your habit when the going gets tough.

At this point it’s crucial to know how to still look fabulous on a shoestring budget. Here’s where I come in – one has to recognise what’s worth splurging on and what’s not. Whether it’s in season or not that’s beside the point. It’s best to spend your cash on things you can use over and over and won’t regret splurging on.

Invest in everyday basics that you can use in multiple ways and in different settings. One can never go wrong with splurging on a well-cut black blazer which is perfect for formal and informal occasions, an LBD – little black dress, for those cocktail events and dates you get invited too – whoop whoop, a pair of jeans that actually fit, a statement t-shirt which can be worn with just about anything, a classic crisp white shirt which can go from office to playtime real quick. Don’t forget the number one accessory – the only worthwhile accessory you need right now is a tote bag that can go from boardroom to your local cafe as quick as you can snap your fingers. Round off your shopping with classic black heels and you’re good to go.

Another thing - a classic black pant- suit will get you through all year round and will have you doing that Naomi Campbell walk like never before - if you see it on sale, check that everything is still intact and grab it for dear life.

Your hair might be your crown but your skin is everything. If you must compromise this time of year – don’t compromise on skin care. Cutting corners may give you results you were not looking for so when it comes to the products that you use stick to what works best for you. It’ here were I give you permission to ignore the price tag and score big - the results are totally worth the investment.

Every woman loves shoes, but now is not the time to get two extra pairs of shoes or the same shoe in every colour. You can’t go wrong with a classic pair of quality pumps or ballet flats. Choose a neutral tone that can be worn with almost every look you rock. If you can only wear it once – don’t waste your cash on it.

We all love to feel fresh when we jump out the bath or shower, most of us run to the aisles with the decadent and luxurious bath products – our pockets however, are saying a completely different story; cutting down here is totally acceptable, after all, it’s all going down the drain anyway– just make sure what you do get is moisturizing and that’s good enough.

Don’t blow your bank account on cosmetics such as lip glosses, lipsticks, blushes and eyeliner. There’s no shame in buying the less expensive brands when it comes to these at the moment. Later on in the year or the next when your finances are more stabilised you can definitely spoil yourself.

Remember the fact that it’s on sale doesn’t necessarily mean you need it, flee from the 50% off sales if there’s nothing there for you. That’s impulse buying and it’s not going to do you any good. If you don’t need it don’t buy it- simple.

With most trends having fully kicked in for the year; you might be itching to get on board but with the pinch in your wallet – it’s best to hold on a little longer and just buy what’s necessary and lasting. After all trends rarely last and it’s up to you to stay classy and out of debt. Out of debt is staying winning.

Happy Shopping!!!! 

Mastering my period

This isn’t an expert piece it’s a personal one. I know I’m not the only one but I wish I could wish that time of the month away – not only are my emotions all over the place – it can hurt quite a bit - okay a lot – can’t go to work or move my legs a lot.

Here’s my roundup of how I try to manipulate the next few days of my life to make it bearable at least. When the pain comes knocking getting cosy with a hot water bottle tends to soothe and bring comfort to but doesn’t quite make me forget what’s really going on.

Drinking loads of water is highly recommended because it decreases the chances of water retention which makes cramps all the more painful and causes bloating – something no one wants more of.  Which personally is a great reason for me to drink more water – I love water so this is not a really a problem for me.

Such is life

The more sugar I take the more it seems that my emotions get out of whack – I’m fatigued enough already but the sugar that I crave makes me restless and I just don’t know what to do. I read somewhere that salt and sugar intake must be minimised a few days before your period and during your period so you can go through it as smoothly as possible. I’m yet to discover if this works because I’m still currently battling the cravings and I almost always give in so better luck next month.

A few more zits didn’t hurt anyone? Yeah, right – I’m prone to even more breakouts during this period (lol period – period). Avoiding dairy and caffeine is recommended the days leading to the period, I do my best to ensure that I wash my face with a daily salicylic acid cleanser  5 days prior to my  period as a preventative measure. And I don’t skip your evening cleansing sessions. Well in most cases. In a number of instances various contraceptive pills were prescribed to me by the doctor to keep PMS in check and the symptoms like crazy breakouts – I totally ignored the doctor’s orders because let’s face it to constantly take pills is kind of annoying.  By now you’ve figured I’m a rule breaker and I encourage everyone to find what their comfortable with lest you get mastered and not the other way round.

I do however; take Mefenamic acid used to treat mild to moderate menstrual pain, starting 2 days prior to the onset of flow and continuing for the duration of period. It does wonders and before I know it I’m dancing and running all over the place – ah yes – I’m free!!!! – At times I forget to take it prior but as soon as it starts – I grab something to eat and take them. You can get them over the counter however, it’s always best to consult your pharmacist or doctor before taking them because what works for me might not work for you.

If all else fails a packet of jelly tots, a comfy bed and a good movie will get me through and lest I forget foot rubs during this time are the best...

Have a happy period...wink

Hello March: Obsessing Over

Object of Desire

Marc Jacob Decadence fragrance is at the top of my birthday list. I totally adore the shape of the bottle plus who doesn’t love Marc Jacobs? Created with indulgence in mind, Decadence is a luxurious sensual woody scent, with top notes of Italian plum, iris and saffron; a heart of Bulgarian rose, jasmine sambac and orris, and a drydown of liquid amber, vetiver and papyrus woods. Created perfectly for extroverts like myself – it screams luxurious.

Shoe envy

I love this quote, “A pair of shoes can change your life just ask Cinderella.” I’m currently obsessing over these rose gold mules. I first laid my eyes on them on Instagram and it was love at first site. There are not a lot of people who love a mule but this shoe is a perfect DO. There’s a place on top of another pair of shoes of mine waiting to be filled with these.

Style DO

Skirts are slowly becoming a staple in my closet again considering that I am big on denims. I’ve decide to do a style reboot and add more skirts to my everyday looks. My top 3 skirt picks are definitely a midi, pencil and a tulle skirt. Maxi skirts however have a place somewhere in my heart as well.

On that Lip DO

If you’ve been on my Instagram you would know by now that Maybelline Baby Lips in Pink Shock has made its way as a permanent resident on my lips. It’s not too bright to be a distraction but subtle enough to be flirtatious and that my friends I love.

At home essentials

I’m all about things that excite the senses whether it’s a taste or smell; walking into a room or lying in bed in a room that smells good is total heaven for me. Whether it’s invigorating lemon, the sweetness of vanilla, sweet narcotic scent of jasmine or the subtlety of rose – the way a room smells makes a big difference. I enjoy lighting up a few scented candles and am big on rose fragrance oil for my diffuser. You can get your fragrance oil at Dusk Home Avondale for just a dollar. Depending on were you using it you might need more than one bottle. Their fragrance oil can also be used in potpourri sachets, other scented products and oil burners.

A Hair DO

Bantu Knots, yes I said it, Bantu knots!!! I know it’s not the 90s but there’s an appeal to them I just can’t put my finger to it. Perhaps how unconventional they are excites me – it’s a definite do for the brave and risk takers.

Drinking without losing your mind – Bushman Rock

You’ve probably noticed by now I don’t drink alcohol- I used to but now I just don’t anymore. So mocktails and grape juice are my new best friends. Bushman Rock pure grape juice is delightful to say the least. Tantalizing the senses and making you ask over and over again – “Are you sure this grape juice?”  The bubbles exploded on my tongue like nothing I’ve ever had before. I think I might just go live there on second thoughts I’ll stay here and order a few bottles.

Wishing you an awesome month

Have a good one...

A March DO: Discovering the Head wrap

Truth be told I’m not one to rock a head wrap but there’s times when getting out of your comfort zone is exactly what you need. After all fashion is exactly that - you can never put it in a box, sometimes it makes you or those around you uncomfortable – other times you only realize the beauty of it when you embrace it. 

The head-wrap originated in sub-Saharan Africa, and serves similar functions for both African and African-American women.

In South Africa and Namibia, the Afrikaans word used for head wrap is ‘doek’ (meaning ‘cloth’) is often used for the traditional head covering. In the past few years we have seen the rise of the head wrap as not just a traditional head covering but as a fashion statement piece as well. In other parts of the continent, terms like ‘duku’ (Malawi, Ghana), ‘dhuku’ (Zimbabwe), ‘tukwi’ (Botswana), and ‘gele’ (Nigeria) are used in reference to it.

In other cultures the head wrap is used for functionality and to mark special or significant days.

The head wrap it appears has endured many transitional periods in history and today it prevails. That my friends is staying power and worth the try...

I tried out the head wrap and was incredibly satisfied with the outcome. Will I try it again?? Most definitely – and I will be experimenting with different styles – Thank you YOU-TUBE tutorials. Check out the results below...

Head wrap - Purchased from a former colleague; Dress turned into a top - Mr Price; Skirt - Hidden Closet; Shoes - Footwork; Clutch Bag - Eastgate Mall; Pearls - Some store along Jason Moyo

Here are some popular effortlessly faces rocking head wraps

Kelly Khumalo

Bonang

Khanyi Mbau

Nandi Mngoma

Nompendulo Mkhatshwa

Solange

Lip Service

No one likes dry or chapped lips. Show me somebody who does and I will give you a reward. LOL I kid but I’d like to think most people don’t. For those who feel the need to neglect their lips I’m telling you right now – just don’t do it!!!– It’s not a good look. Show your lips some love by giving them the much needed TLC. On the other hand you might have super moisturised lips without a chap in sight so you’re reading this and asking yourself why should I even bother? Well, do it as a treat – part of your pamper session or me time = in this case if more won’t hurt you why not?

Step 1

Let’s start with of my all time favourite ways to a perfect lip service- it starts with a good lip scrub. This is the right way to go in getting your lips soft, smooth and in perfect polished condition. You can purchase a lip scrub but I prefer to do it myself and mix up a scrub at home which is lighter on your pocket and hassle free. Standing in a queue for one thing? Didn’t think so. Using products you can already find in your kitchen cupboard is easy and this makes lip beauty a breeze. All you need is two key ingredients – less than a teaspoon of brown sugar and a dash of olive oil – mix it up and rub onto your lips, start to massage the scrub in light circular motions for less than 2 mins and wash it all off – After this grab a wet cloth and just rub the face cloth over your lips to get rid of any leftover rough bits - that was easy right? Getting your lips in tip top condition is not rocket science folks it’s less than 10 mins of your time...

Next up - I recently discovered that not only is there a mask for your face but your lips as well. And I was eager to try it out – so I did. Once again the ingredients are easy to find and I didn’t have to leave the house to get it.

Here it goes.....

Step 2

A bit of honey and a dash of olive oil mixed together and applied to the lips for 5 mins. Simple, yet effective. My lips were left feeling supple and nourished.  Honey also has  antibacterial properties and hefty serving of skin-saving antioxidants which is a great bonus and just to add you can be naughty and have a lick of the honey – after all no one’s watching and I won’t judge.

Closing Credits

As soon as you’re done with the final step you can moisturise with a lip balm – I tend to over-balm after this because I’ve convinced myself that my lips are now in perfect condition to soak in the balm effectively. The balm I use is a honey lip balm from Sassafras which you can find at Sam Levy’s Village Borrowdale or Riverside Walk Avondale. Nothing compares to it –it’s the epitome of self indulgence.

On every other day besides my lip balm I love to add colour to my lips. Am crazy about purple which I feel is great for ladies with dark skin tone and at times a matte deep fuchsia shade finds its way on my lips – when I’m just screaming for attention – somebody help me please. . I do go for red on special occasions which I feel works on all women of all colour. Red never fails - just ask Bonang.

Whatever your hue is – try out this lip service 101 because after all there’s no point in trying to cover a crack without dealing with the core issue eventually it just shows – treat your lips and oh and also do it just because you love your lips a little bit more than you should.

Kisses