What should always be in your travel bag

I’ve become accustomed to last minute travel trips and this has somewhat forced me to master packing in a hurry. I do however, at times forget a few things which is bummer and that’s why I feel this blog post will help someone who might find themselves in this predicament. Besides, you never know - your next travel call might be a minute away and the last thing you need to stress about is trying to figure out what to pack. Here’s my rundown of what should always be in your travel bag.

First things first make sure to pack your toiletries. If you’re flying travel size toiletries are your best bet. Best to still feel and smell fresh when you travel. Your hygiene doesn’t have to fly out the window just because you’re travelling. I never leave without my facial wipes, mouthwash and when I hit the road a good deodorant. If you're travelling around Africa- insect repellent is a must...

Make sure to pack a light coat in case it gets cold and you want to keep warm. A travel size blankie also does the trick. Roll it up and bag it.

A comfy set of lingerie and a pair of socks should find a place in your bag as well.

Instead of stressing about which shoes to take – just a bag a pair of comfy flats and red bottom heels so you can rotate between the two whilst on your trip.

A pair of denims and a fresh white tee will at least cover you and you will still look good no matter the setting.  A maxi dress and an LBD for obvious reasons.

And oh don’t forget your swim wear – you never know – pool/Jacuzzi anyone?

If you’re on prescription meds please don’t leave them behind. If you always forget your passport – don’t leave it for last minute – make sure to bag it today.

What essential items do you always have to have on your trips? Feel free to comment below...

5 Zimbabwean fashion bloggers to follow

Here's my pick of the 5 Zim bloggers to follow on instagram 

@dee_masiya

I love Chiredzi blogger Dee’s unique and vibrant fashion sense. She runs the blog Elegant Quatr'e and is always dressing elegantly and perfectly for her body. Her confidence levels are very apparent and her style aesthetic is through the roof. With a consistent and elegant look, she’s definitely a blogger you cannot miss. Her classy looks are tasteful and have me stalking for seconds. Her gram has simple looks that one can imitate - it’s so effortless it scares me. She gives me all kinds of reasons to always look good and I hope you find the same kind of inspiration from her too.  I’ve never seen her make even a single fashion misstep and that’s a good reason to follow.

@deffinatlyshaz

Sharron is a Harare blogger presenting her own fashion reality which I really dig. Her choice of blogging on affordable fashion and beauty is just what we need especially if you’re obsessed with clothes but on a tight budget.  Her style journey is pretty, fun and fabulous. One of her aims is to inspire us to live a happy life – a happy fashion life and she does it so well. Her gram has the ability to make you want to best friends forever. With a down to earth vibe, what’s not to love about Sharron?

@mis_nessah

Vanessa had me at hello. Her obsession with makeup, fashion and coffee will have you just as obsessed. She has a sense of humour too which makes it even better. My favourite quote from her has to be “Don't judge a book by its cover. Kupfeka pink coat hayisi mari, ibasa racho‪#‎bloggerlifestyle” – it had me thinking that’s just the life we chose and I love it. Founder of VChiliMakeup and @ikmworth this fashion blogger, motivational speaker and mogul in the making is fearless. Plus I love the sweet lovey dovey pics with her bae.

@queenngrace

Grace,is a lover of chic, authentic and affordable things. Her simplistic and minimalistic looks are the perfect look for the everyday no fuss girl. I love how she’s not afraid to be different and her modest and classy looks excite me. I just want to run around the town with her and have intellectual conversations. She’s the future of fashion.

@anicheberry

Chenai’s gram is one of the most professionally put together. Her style represents affordable and versatile fashion. This bloggers style experiments have me wanting to copy her over and over again. Giving off a very tasteful and chic vibe you just have to follow her, no questions please. Just do it.

How to rock your summer clothes in winter

I’d like to think I’m not the only one who has struggled with this – trying to rework your winter closet when most of the pieces you own are screaming hello summer. I have been fortunate enough to expose myself to many fashionista’s, stylists and just good old advice from magazines and friends who have found ways around this. Because I love you I’m not going to be stingy with this info. Here are just a few tips on how to get your summer clothes to go the distance even in the colder season.

Dress away

Dresses can still be worn this season. My favourite is when I pair my short dresses with boots of all lengths. When it comes to your longer maxi or slip dresses add a boho vibe to it by wearing a vintage denim jacket over it. For more edge add a leather biker jacket to it and some cowboy boots. If the temps dip extremely low grab an over-sized faux fur coat and let out your inner glam.Adding a scarf also helps.

Feeling skirtish

Skirts – the fun thing about skirts is that they often add texture and dimensions to what would often be a plain winter look. Add some spark to your closet by teaming your trousers or pants with a skirt over them. Sounds strange? But with the right proportions it’s a stellar look. If you’re not feeling as adventurous pair your skirt with an over-sized sweater and thick winter leggings and a pair of ankle 

boots.

Layer with denims

One look that I’ve been overdoing at the moment and will continue to over-do is the denim jacket under a much larger coat. This is my form of layering. Plus denim has been a big trend this year – so I’ve been on the bandwagon since summer.

Easy breezy shorts

Shorts - are the easiest thing to bring into winter. All you need is a pair of thick winter leggings and you’re good to go.

Work that shirt

Basic Work Shirt – this is where knits come into play. If you have a knit vest you can easily wear it over your work shirt - add a blazer too if it’s too cold out. Another favourite I wore on a previous post was an over-sized knit dress over my work shirt... You can accessorize with a slim belt if you like.

Strappy heels/Basic Heel

Heels are often a NO NO in winter –but trends this year happen to allow knee high socks or cute looking socks to be worn with them. To be honest I am yet to try this it out myself but I’ve been meaning to and I will post it up when I do.

Light sweaters

All your light sweaters, cardi’s can be used for layering this season. Obviously not in one go though.  All you have to do is wear them under a coat or jacket you have, teamed with a scarf and you’re all set for the season. Hope this was helpful, tell me what you think and add your tips as well in the comment box below...

The best flat shoes for winter

Winters here and it’s quite exciting. I’ve decided to embrace the change and enjoy the season, though getting out of bed has really been a struggle, choosing outfits and shoes have been fun. Plus I’m getting to wear shoes I had put aside for a while because the heat of this past summer just wouldn’t allow the slightest of attempts. You must be wondering what shoes are the right fit this season? And which shoes to definitely have to have to take on the season in full glam gear with? Here’s a roundup of my top picks for the season. All these have the international style stamp of approval.

Sneakers and sporty shoes

Sneakers and sporty shoes are in and they are big in a really big way at the moment. They have definitely been having their moment this year, hitting the mark for obvious reasons. Transitioning not just from sportswear but into everyday street looks, including dates; yes ladies, you can wear your kicks on a date now and actually run around for a change, plus comfort is king in this situation, which is a much needed breath of fresh air considering heels have somewhat been the order of the day. With trends like sports luxe, athleisure – sneakers are right on trend. We’ve seen trends even in clothing move to a much chilled and relaxed vibe. Still fashion forward, yet quite relaxed. Although, you could go full on glam with your outfit and pair it with sporty shoe to just add that dose of personality they bring.

Brogues

Men’s wear flats are the perfect style staple this winter and go with just about anything. Whether you’re going for an androgynous look or trying to mix hard and soft looks, brogues pass the test. I’m particularly fond of them paired with a tailored pant suit or a flamboyant midi skirt.

Loafers

By far my favourite shoes of the season. I love the different designs of loafers out there. They never quite get old and I love how they constantly resurface time after time. If you’re looking for boyish shoes that are still uber glam and super comfortable – don’t let these flats slip by – plus they still work perfectly fine in summer too.

Vans

If you’ve read my previous posts you will notice I have quite the soft spot for vans and I’m in the process of building a collection. I wear them with everything, from jeans, to dresses, to skirts, to shorts, you name it. It’s all love on this end.

Pointy flats

Pointy flats have a poise and elegance about them. Though I’ve seen a few jokes go around that no one’s feet are shaped like that – it’s not going to stop us or me from donning a pair this season.  Let’s  make every step this season be a stylish one.

Men’s guide to winter fashion

I bet you’re thinking finally a winter post for men. It’s been a long time coming since my last post  Native Wear: The New Formal for men. Don’t fret guys, this time I totally have you covered. With the temperature dip it can be easy to put on any old jacket or jersey on just to keep warm but trust me – winter is the perfect time to experiment with your look and still stay stylish. Please don’t dress like a slob you can so do better and I’m here to show you how.

Put a hat on it

I know hats seem like they are meant to stay put for summer but not when it comes to men with style this isn’t the case. Street style bloggers and male trendsetters the world over have been spotted putting this look to the test and you should too. Call it the perfect accessory to top off a put together winter look. Up your style points by rocking a hat in neutral failsafe colours this winter.

Pinterest 

The ¾ coat

A ¾ coat is a great winter investment. Keep it simple, minimalistic and ensure that your coat has clean lines to look twice as expensive. Because ¾ coats are timeless you can’t go wrong with it- plus it will keep you extra toasty this winter. It transcends occasions as well – it can be worn for both formal and informal occasions.

Pinterest 

Pinterest

Boot up

Winter boots are essential to any man’s closet. There’s no question about this one – you just have to have them. Here's a mix of formal and casual boots.

Dress Boot

Lace Oxford Boots

Learn to layer well

Check out exhibit A and exhibit B – all you need to get this winter look on lock.

Exhibit A

Exhibit B

No need to break a sweat

The cardigan sweater – is an easy winter look to pull off - if fitted and worn well from a female perspective it makes us just want to give the wearer a hug.  A cardi is not just any flung on sweater. If it still has all its buttons put together and fits the wearer like a glove it works really well in casual settings.

Calling all bikers

The biker jacket also known as the bad boy jacket works for all men and looks extremely good. Best worn when you’re going for a hard look; add a bit of stubble around the face and you’re set.

Work with plaid

Top off most of your winter looks with a scarf, after all what’s winter without them. Get them in all colours except, yellow and orange lol.

Go for tweed

A tweed top coat is Boss and the go- to for any professional man who’s interested in brokering profitable deals. This top coat means business and will garner you the respect you deserve.

Stay away from the bomber

It’s just a bit too tacky and pimp like if you ask me.

Lastly grab a winter shirt

Feel free to share it with your special someone too.

All images sourced from Pinterest