Miss Hijabi

My Celestial Body, a US based company that provides some very girly, elegant designs to the masses, is giving one MissHijabi.com reader a special $50 gift voucher.

Here are just a few of the ladylike pieces they sell that have caught my eye (all under $50!)...

Gorgeous floral

Elegant drapes

Stunning gardenia creations

Two piece prettiness

~~To enter the competition please complete all of the following steps:~~

~~1. You must go to the MyCelestialBody.com and register with them~~
~~2. Like MissHijabi.com on Facebook~~
~~3. Like My Celestial Body on Facebook~~
~~4. Share the giveaway on Facebook by clicking here and pressing "share".~~

~~You can also get an extra entry in via Instagram:~~
1. Follow me on IG: @miss_hijabi_blog
2. Follow Celestial Body on IG: @shanekalene
~~3. Go to my profile and repost the giveaway image, tagging myself in it by name, including the hashtag #misshijabi.~~

~~The winner will be announced via Facebook in about a week's time. Good luck!~~

Winner is Megan Al-Hassani

I remember when I started hijab blogging back in 2008 (is this really the 6th year?!) I pretty much relied on styling outfits purely from online shops and kept the graphics so - there were definitely no personal style shots of myself as I put out now. Everything was about mixing this and that straight from various Islamic design websites. I've decided to return to that every now and again as it was a bit of fun for me and a way in which to introduce you guys to some of the cutest things out there from current Islamic design companies that you may not have come across yet.

Today's focus shall be on Aab - the UK abaya powerhouse that delivers Western friendly abaya designs - some of which I need to get my hands on. Aab's simple grey polo abaya is no exception. A piece such as this can easily transition between casual day and formal night with the help of varied accessories.

Matched with an Aab hijab, this outfit of blue-greys and hints of rose gold hues really makes for an understated glam occasion.

Details + Links

Clutch ~ Rene Caovilla

Heels ~ Shoebacca

Necklace ~ Zales

Abaya ~ Aab

Hijab ~ Aab

The casual side of this abaya comes out to play with a side of pastels to brighten your day up. OK, I guess it is more of an extremely girly casual, but that's how I roll.

Details + Links

Bracelets ~ Dorothy Perkins

Bag ~ Cambridge Satchel

Necklace ~ Stella & Dot

Sandals ~ Mod Cloth

Abaya ~ Aab

Hijab ~ Aab

Which do you like better - the rose gold glam or pastel casual look?

Ah, the peplum train. I thought it was a cute trend when they popped up in the fashion sphere not too long ago but never considered wearing one myself because I'm already popping out in the hip area and didn't want to go down Bumpy St any more than I already have. I ended up jumping on this cutesy bandwagon though when Melbourne based label Sorayya wanted to send me a piece from their latest collection.

Long sleeved and flared at a bias at the bottom and longer at the back, this piece has the cutest cut.

Peplum tops in general are great for women who aren't so shapely in nature as they create instant curves with the waist-cinching/hip-flare design aspect. On hour glass shaped women who already naturally hold that bodily shape they can over-accentuate which is fine for regular fashion followers, but for modesty concerned Muslim women it can be a bit much. If you fit that bill then make sure you get a size that is a tad looser so as not to over do it. On me personally, mainly because of major breastfeeding inflation (if ya know what I mean), I feel like this design at the moment is in need of much more covering scarf than what I wore in the pics, so next time I shall cover up the chest a bit more but for review purposes the top is in its full glory.

The colour does tend to change a tad depending on whether you are outside or inside due to the overall glimmer in the fabric. Check the variations to the last two pics on this post to compare. That may annoy some, but I love the effect. The sunshine really warms it up!

The fabric has quite a relaxed, loose stretch to it and is so comfortable to wear. Bonus points for being lightweight and breathable - perfect for the hot Aussie weather.

It's such a glam little beauty. There is no way I would casually wear this. Anything with a hint of glimmer (and this one packs a lot) needs to be done up smartly, hence the heels.

Details + Links

Top ~ Sorayya Facebook | Instagram

Skirt ~ Crossroads

Heels ~ Steve Madden
Scarf ~ Egypt

Ring ~ YSL

As I take a little break from the usual fashion reviews, let me steer you towards a more domestic sense of style with Mexican based brand Casa Otomi.

This South American label create beautiful handmade goods not only for your home, but also for your wardrobe. I was sent one of their gloriously colourful traditional Otomi patterned cushions to adorn my lounge room with. After trying it out on the couch I decided to keep it as an ornamental piece as opposed to a functioning cushion thanks to the fact that my kids would ruin it in a flat ten seconds by either leaving smears of food all over it or have their tiny fingers rip out the stitches for destructive fun.

Stitches close-up...

This bright design uplifts the room and really pops out against my bare white walls.

I had a little fun going monochrome with my camera today (discovered some previously unknown settings!) and found the varying hues of colour in the cushion look even more stunning in blue toned monochromatic lense. I love the effect of it all...

Besides homeware, Casa Otomi also infuses traditional Mexican designs with stylish wardrobe accessories. I'd love one of these bags for myself, worn against a black abaya. They also carry gorgeous bags in the patterns similar to the cushion, but I adore the floral girlishness of these pieces below.

There are honestly so many gorgeous designs to choose from. I kinda want them all!

Welcome to my home, beloved!

Make sure you check out Casa Otomi's other fantastic designs via their Etsy site listed below.

Details + Links

Cushion ~ Casa Otomi Website | Facebook | Instagram

Another day, another abaya...

Today's potluck of prettiness comes courtesy of Scabiosa Boutique; a designer abaya label that hails from Dubai. Named after the Eurasian flower, Scabiosa create gorgeous gowns that can not be found anywhere else.

The label's designer allowed me to have my choice of her garments for the review. I ended up narrowing it down to three and was sent one of them. I had no idea which one I was going to receive so there was a bit of suspense, waiting to see which one would arrive.

The piece I got, as shown below, reminds me of the traditional interwoven Islamic mosiac designs seen on mosques all around the world. The simplicity of white on black, surrounded by dainty ruffles is so elegant - making it totally wearable by women of any age. I'm gonna grow old with this one ;)

The abaya comes with a very long matching sheila; both ends of which are polished off with the same glimmer white embroidery, black ribbons and ruffles.

The abaya billows out nicely when let loose but for picture-sake I decide to wrap a skinny black bowed belt around the waist to reel it in a bit. The abaya is open-style, with clasps running from top to bottom. I snuck a turquoise skirt underneath for an added pop of colour (had to have something match my nails!).

The large decorated collar and chest of this abaya also continues around the back - the uppermost region of the back being covered in this fabric lattice work. Same goes for the cuffs on the extra wide sleeves.

All in all, I would say this abaya is uber-modest. Everything is loose and drapes beautifully thanks to the gorgeously soft fabric used (double layered I must add). This is definitely a high quality piece in all aspects - fantastic handiwork and superior material. What else would you expect from Dubai?

I feel as if this is an all occasions type abaya. Whether you are going out to dinner, praying at the masjid, having coffee with friends, etc; this style is perfectly understated chic and not too over the top (which goes back to me saying previously that it is perfect for all ages).

Make sure you check out their other lovely designs. Click here to see another favourite of mine!

Details & Links

Abaya ~ Scabiosa Boutique Website | Facebook | Instagram

Jewellery ~ Egypt

Wedges ~ Steve Madden

Belt ~ Malaysia

Skirt ~ Dunno Bro

Although a rainy winter has already kick started here in Australia, I understand the rest of the world is currently enjoying warm weather to various degrees; perfect for private pool parties and lazy beach days. (Fear not fellow Aussies, we only have a few months to go before the heat hits us again).

To celebrate the (upcoming) sunshine, French label Madamme BK are giving one lucky MissHijabi.com reader a very cool €70 (approx $100) gift voucher to spend on any of their lovely 100% Italian made swimsuits. Below are just four samples of what is sold via this Paris boutique. Make sure you check out the plentiful rest on their website. They have hijab-attached designs and turbanesque swimsuits as well as swimwear in 3/4 length for the gals who like to be modest without going full-hijabi on themselves.

To be in the running to win please complete all of the following steps:

Like MissHijabi.com on Facebook
Like Madamme BK on Facebook
Go to Madamme BK's website and join their mailing list
Click on this link here, share it on your Facebook wall and tell me in the comments which swimsuit you would put the voucher towards.

All steps must be completed. Please make sure your post on Facebook is set to public so I can see it. Winner will be announced in two week's time via Facebook.

Good luck ladybugs!

Physical in-the-mall shopping; people, crowds, lines, screaming kids. Blurgh. It's an bloody nightmare! Hooray for whomever invented online shopping! Boo to the guy that decided to hike up Oceania region shipping fees!

When I purchase anything online one of the things I hate is the massive shipping fees that are automatically accrued thanks to living in Australia. Don't get me wrong, my country is the best in the world and I would never want to live anywhere else but it's annoying that we pay a lot in postage merely due to the fact that we are situated so far away from every other continent.

When buying online, if the retailer has massive shipping fees, no matter how good the product is, I do not get it. It puts me off instantly. Buying a top for $40 and paying $25 on shipping? Forget about it. That's why companies like ASOS always get my money - free shipping every single time.

Take into consideration the Islamic fashion market and you will find most of the actual fashionable Islamic brands are based in either the US, UK or the UAE. For Aussies that means big bucks just getting the stuff delivered here, even more so if you are buying separate pieces from separate companies. And the more you buy, the bigger the shipping costs get.

Enter Sora. Based in Brisbane, this brand new Aussie company that just launched a couple of weeks ago, is taking the major cost of shipping out of Islamic online shopping in two fantastic ways: They are bringing top Muslim owned stylish brands like Inayah and Abaya Addict direct to your door (and adding Annah Hariri soon as well) and you don't have to pay for the privilege as they offer free shipping for all Australian orders over $50. A pretty good deal in my books. It's about time we had something like this in the Australian market. We have so many Muslims here and are only now starting to branch out into our own fashion sphere. Took us a while.

To test out their services, Sora sent me a Turban from Azura Azwa (which will be shown on a later post), one of their vibrantly hued pashminas and the blush batwing cardigan from Inayah.

The richness of colour in the scarf is gorgeous. I usually go for patterned hijabs myself but this one is a keeper. It has a nice little sheen to it as well as being probably the best quality pashmina I have had my hands on in quite a while as some I have received in the past have been quite flimsy, made of thin material and low quality in comparison.

The cardigan is almost a cape to me. I enjoy the extra loose drape to it and the little flutter in the winter breeze that it did today as I took pics. It's made of excellent lightweight, soft crepe - perfect for a hot summer and for layering in winter without getting bulky. I easily wore my Abaya Addict hi-low top underneath it (they sell them too!). I'm thinking an abaya underneath wouldn't go astray either.

Definitely check them out - not only do they offer free shipping for Aussies, but they also have a special Worldwide shipping condition for large international orders. Visit them on their website, Facebook and Instagram accounts and while you are there snag a bargain at their opening Eid Sale.

Details & Links

Heels ~ Steve Madden

Top ~ Abaya Addict

Cardigan ~ Inayah viaSora

Necklace ~ Collette

Bangle ~ Kenya

Belt ~ ASOS

Scarf ~ Sora

Hijab Jewels, a UK based Islamic company, are giving a sweet selection of girly hijab pins away to one MissHijabi.com reader. All you need to do to enter is complete all of the following steps:

1. Like MissHijabi.com on Facebook
2. Like Hijab Jewels on Facebook
3. Share this image on Facebook (make sure it is set to public so I can see it)

The winner will be announced in a week's time via Facebook. In the meantime, jump on over to Hijab Jewel's website to check out their pretty scarves and accessory collection!

Good luck ladies!

Once upon a time there lived a little girl who grew up dreaming of wearing exotic turbans, living out of a rickety old gypsy traveller's caravan and roaming the countryside, barefoot, at her own free will.

Unfortunately said girl had a big fat head that should not be seen in a turban. Stick a short neck into the mix and you have a massive "Nah-uh, child" finger waving episode going on. To remedy this I stuck a scarf around my neck to create the illusion of length. I don't get it - how can I be tall but miss out on having a long neck? It eludes me...

For a while I have been chatting here and there on Facebook about this turban that I was sent recently. It is a ready-made slip-on turban designed by Azura Azwa that newly launched Australian company Sora sent me. You don't have to tie or wind any fabric - it just slips over your head and secures around the bottom of the neck with inner, hidden elastic. It is so simple and comfortable to use and great for those days when you can't be bothered playing around with pins (or in my case searching the house for one). Bonus points for securely staying on all day.

It has a nice little relaxed vibe about it - very boho chic (and therefore right up my style alley) and I'm loving the easy pastel-minty green hue. Pastels suit virtually every skin complexion out there and so are a blessing for all, especially whities like me who can't go too dark or too bright without going ghost-like in the face.

The whole turban look is really in at the moment (think Ascia style) and I'm glad Sora sent me this piece as beforehand I never really thought it was a look I could pull off (short neck, round face and all) but I gotta say it ain't looking too bad with the help of a neck scarf to balance things out. Big hooray for the peaked section at the top - it hugely helps lengthen a round face!

The neck scarf isn't specifically a neck scarf - it's actually a new piece I received from Kotton Love, a US based design team that produce unique hijabs. I was sent two pieces; both of which I will go into more depth about at a later date, though they need quickly mentioning here for obvious reasons.

Details + Links

Turban ~ Azura Azwa via Sora Website| Facebook | Instagram

Scarf around neck ~ Kotton Love Website | Facebook | Instagram

Jewelled Kaftan ~ Yara Yosif

Top ~ Carina

Ring ~ Egypt

Would you guys ever wear a turban?

A little while back, The National newspaper in Abu Dhabi featured myself and a few other hijab bloggers in a massive feature all about hijab blogging and personal style. I was recently sent the PDF copy from the journalist as it appeared in the newspaper feature. I was thrilled to find out my pic (as you see above) was used as the cover. So exciting! I immediately emailed my mum a copy like I was back in primary school and showing off some art work I did during the day, lol. This needs to go on the fridge!

In case anyone asks - the abaya I am wearing above is from NA Exclusive Abayas from a former review I did here.

If you would like to read the article please open the image below in a new page/window to see the enlarged, readable copy.

Not gonna lie... I'm kinda wearing the above scarf to death. I predict it will stay in my hijab collection for quite a while considering bright colours and flower power are kinda my thing.

The scarf, sent to me by Kotton Love, is my current favourite. I've worn it at least five times since receiving it about two weeks ago (which is a lot considering I don't really go out much). I was also sent an equally bright hued scarf that I used in a previous turban post here.

Their scarves are hand picked and designed by the Kotton Love team so you can guarantee there aren't going to be a million copies of the scarf you are wearing like there is with other online companies.

Besides worn with my very hippy crochet vest, this bright baby contrasts really well against a plain black ensemble (in my case an abaya).

The second piece - sheer stripes edged with velvet trimming.

I was having one of those days where nothing matched and I didn't care.

Both hijabs were well made and created with good quality fabric and stitching.

Worn with a vintage belt.

Make sure you visit their website and see the large range of uniquely designed scarves they have on offer!

I love bright colours. A magical pop of a deep fluro pink against a black backdrop really does it for me so I try to incorporate a little colour here and there into my outfits when I have the time to focus on dressing, which is quite rare considering most days when I leave the house I am carrying two children in my arms, my bag handle clenched in my teeth while almost forgetting to put shoes on (which happens more than you would think). I've been surviving on four-five hours sleep every night for the longest time (thanks kids!☺) and have discovered how dysfunctional the brain gets without adequate rest (hence the lack of regular blogging for the longest time). Caffeine dependent, I am.

Today I had a bit more time to focus on myself and thus decided to whip out quite a few vibrant little pieces from my floordrobe (I ain't the organised, tidy type - creative minds rarely are).

Skinny trousers are firmly kept under my abaya - these legs are not ready to see the light of day any time soon. I picked this cute pair up from Kmart because I loved the water-colourish brush of dark pastels. I mainly bought them for the pattern, not the fit and talked myself into thinking they would be good for those open abayas I have lurking around. Speaking of which, the abaya is from UAE label Nabrman; the same one in which Kim Kardashian wore in Dubai (not that what she wears really matters in the scheme of things, but it worth mentioning in case you recognise the design as the images were everywhere at the time). See the pics here.

I love the pants peeping out of abaya look and always wanted to try it.

The hot pink neon bag was sent to me by Tarb. I was introduced to them foremost by fellow blogger Winnie Detwa as she has worn various designs of theirs in the last few months so I was more then pleased to receive one of my own.

The piece they sent me was the very girly Libby clutch. Check it out, ladies...

It ain't leather but it sure does look like the real thing (minus the costly price tag). This piece retails for a mere $25 and is so useful. I found it incredibly handy for those times I go out and don't want to lug around a huge amount of crap with me. It amply fits my very basic basics - phone, cards, money, lipstick, keys, etc with room to spare.

Most of the time I end up purchasing large handbags because as a mum I have to always drag around bottles, nappies, baby wipes, snacks, small toys and so on (excluding my own stuff) and going on short trips to the movies or shopping where I don't need all these things can get annoying because I have to also balance in a large bag to carry everything as well so finally getting my hands on a smaller bag that nicely carries purely all my essentials for short outings is great. If you don't have kids then varying your bag size probably doesn't matter at this stage.

I went walking the other day to the park with my kids and since none of my abayas have pockets to hold my essentials the bag did me a huge favour because I could just swing it over my shoulder out of the way, thus rendering me hands-free (important when you have kids as any mother knows). The compact size of this bag and the long comfy strap are welcome features to my busy life.

Quality wise; it is good. The bag in general is well made and the clasp that closes the flap is very strong too. It has never slipped open since I've been using the Tarb clutch.

It comes in four different colours; blue, black, ivory and fuchsia. If you want the bright accessory look and pink isn't your thing then the blue is definitely worth checking out in my opinion.

Check out the libby clutch on Tarb's website. You can also find them on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter.

Details + Links:

Bag ~ Tarb (buy here)

Abaya ~ Nabrman (buy here)

Scarf ~ Egypt (buy similar here)

Belt ~ ASOS (buy similar here)

Pants ~ Kmart (buy similar here)

Ring ~ YSL (buy here)

Chocoloca: it means "chocolate crazy". I made it up. I shouldn't have. Moving on...

The other night I was in one of those predicaments where I wanted to nibble on something sweet (aka shove sugar in my face) and so like all food addicts scanned my freezer contents while sticking my head actually inside of it. I came out unscathed from potential frostbite and ended up creating this mountain of deliciousness...

Want to make it?

A couple scoops of cookies & cream icecream, topped with a Ferrero Rocher and sprinkled with one roughly chopped Tim Tam (chocolate biscuit for all my non-Australian readers). It hurts it's that good.

P.S: I purchased both the sundae glasses and the colourful floral tray from my local Ikea store a few months back.

In my mind, old timey crafts are preciously elegant and really bring to life an outfit that would otherwise get caught up in the synthetic fast fashion crap that currently floods the Western clothing market. In today's case; a feminine yet edgy crocheted handmade cuff from a new Lithuanian-by-way-of-Egypt designer SIMO and a lovely mixed and layered lace tinged abaya from Saudi Arabian design label; Sue.

The designer behind SIMO sent me two bags laden with her treasures (all of which were promptly uploaded to my Instagram account). The smaller pieces may pop up in later outfit posts as I keep the focus on the extremely girly grey and pink blinged out bracelet.

I can't crochet to save my life so I'm impressed with the handiwork in this piece. The softness of wool and the hardness of the shiny metal really offset each other nicely, not to mention the cuteness of the blinged out jewels. Bonus points for being strong, secure and well made.

I've had this abaya since forever. Two years is forever in the fast paced clothing world, right? It is probably the girliest piece I own but it does verge slightly on the dressing gown side of life so I am careful of where I wear it to in Australia. If I was overseas in Egypt or Dubai it wouldn't matter so much because over there it is obviously an abaya but in the West I find you have to be careful so you don't cross over into the nightwear side of things.

I'm consciously trying to steer my closet into a more Western friendly style. Being a white girl myself, I look at my wardrobe choices and the amount of Arab cultural clothing shoved in there is overwhelming at times. I literally have to say to myself aloud "Wake up white girl! Where are the jeans? Where are the skirts? Where is the colour?" Sometimes I feel as if I have lost my roots so to ground myself again I am attempting to choose more non-black pieces, simpler cuts and modern Western tinged pieces in colours that are more suitable and acceptable in my culture. Copious amounts of black fabric gets too heavy on the eye sometimes, don't you think?

Check out SIMO for other pretty handmade jewellery on their Facebook page.

Details

Heels ~ Mollini (buy similar here)

Bracelet ~ SIMO (buy here)

Bag ~ Palestyle (buy here)

Abaya ~ Sue (buy here)

After checking out my last outfit post (which you did of course...) you probably looked at the jewellery and thought "I'd like some of that." Well, today you may get your wish as SIMO is giving away a full set of handmade jewellery pieces that includes a bracelet, pair of earrings and necklace as shown below.

To enter please complete all of the following steps:

Follow MissHijabi.com on Facebook
Follow SIMO on Facebook
Click here and share this photo on your Facebook wall. Make sure it is set to public settings so I can see it when I'm choosing the winner.

I will pick the winner in a week's time and announce it via Facebook so keep an eye out. Good luck ladies!

Photography by Fiorella

Well, it wasn't actually Ancient Egypt. That would involve some rather impressive time travel on my behalf, although if I could I definitely would. Instead I had to settle for a visiting British Museum exhibit that is currently touring the world and is ticking off its last days in Perth. A few friends and I made a date of it, visited the interesting archaeological gems and then sat down to a very decorated room to have what was supposed to be an Egyptian themed high tea. The room was obviously Egyptian themed, the tea... not so much. I've had tea in Egypt and although I can see how it was inspired by Egypt in general, the overall affair wasn't authentic. Nonetheless I enjoyed every part of it, except for when my son decided I wasn't going to have any chocolate cake and proceeded to smear that goodness all over the tablecloth and floor. Joy.

The day started with Ben & Jerry's icecream which was beyond awesome. I've never eaten it before and found the Triple Caramel Chunk to be one of the best I have ever had. Proper caramel gooey goodness. I'll make a weekend trip to the city just for this anytime.

The B & J ute.

Tea Time...

I desperately wanted to steal one these table top camels.

We went on a Sunday which sucked a bit because the weekend crowds were a bit much and I felt I couldn't actually take the time to properly take everything in, read the descriptions thoroughly, study the workmanship, etc as there were so many people huddling around the pieces on display. It was too busy to really enjoy, especially considering I was trying (at times unsuccessfully) to navigate a pram through the thick crowd. I did however manage to step on a child's foot (poor thing) and ram my pram into some guy standing in front of me. I think it would have been better to restrict the number of people allowed in at one time because it kind of dampened the experience for me somewhat, though in saying that having the opportunity to see so many amazing archaeological artifacts in Australia was a treat.

The abaya is from The Abaya Company, which hasn't made an appearance on the blog since I first received it and reviewed late last year when I was pregnant. How time flies.

It comes with a matching lace belt but I decided to forgo it and instead wrap a black satin ribbon around.

I took a friend to the secluded part of the museum for some quick photos behind the historical gaol (jail) house. I really don't go to the museum often enough. I am a HUGE history buff and was this closeto doing a history/archaeology/anthropology degree instead of teaching. I should have. My brain is made for exploring the past. Must gather fellow history buff friends more often for these sort of exciting visits to the WA museum. If you are in Perth and into ancient civilisations then I suggest checking out their Secrets of the Afterlife exhibit right now (it finishes in a few days!).

Blue on blue.

Details + Links

Abaya ~ The Abaya Company (buy here)

Bag ~ Old (buy similar here)

Shoes ~ Keds (buy similar here)

I have never seen Islamic inspired jewellery being sold here in Australia, that is if you don't count the little ethnic gold shops that seem to think they can sell gold pendants of low quality for exorbitant prices. My husband actually got me into the habit of buying decent high carat gold direct from Egypt because it is cheaper, better quality and handmade so every time we go back to his homeland I always manage to pick up a piece or two. I usually venture down the ring section of the store but have had the thought in my head lately that next time we go I am going to start focusing on necklaces and bracelets because I don't have any gold pieces (costume jewellery aside). The aim is to get at least one nice Islamic designed piece because I have always thought Arabic lettering was quite pretty and wanted to find a piece that was gold but also mixed in somehow with a little colour; be it a bead or few. The sort of thing I wanted is exactly what I found in UK based Innaya Couture.

They sent me six gorgeous pieces (two rings, three bracelets and a necklace in a box) and although it isn't real gold it is pretty much exactly what I have been looking for design-wise; the perfect mix of golden hues, Arabic/Islamic themed and splashes of brightly coloured beading. It has definitely quelled the lust I had for this sort of thing.

Two of the bracelets are beaded (one in a bright lilac, the other in turquoise) and include a gold chain and an Islamic pendent each. I have thick wrists and these beauties were both long enough to be loose on me once done up. It is something I always struggle with when purchasing bracelets so I'm obviously quite happy about that.

The third bracelet, although not as colourful, is probably my favourite. It's both simple and slightly in your face at the same time. I love the strong contrast of the black against the gold and find the Islamic emblem to be beautifully written.

The rings - the red rimmed with the dangling beads is my favourite. Both are large in size which I like. I hardly ever buy tiny rings because I don't have tiny delicate bones so "the bigger, the better" is kind of my policy when it comes to picking jewellery. Once again; beautiful lettering.

I obviously wouldn't wear all the pieces together at the one time (massive overload) but did so here for size comparison.

The necklace - turquoise blue and gold offset each other nicely. I know some people don't like the evil eye symbol on their jewellery because they believe it is just superstitious mumbo jumbo. Personally, I have always thought of it as aesthetically pleasing but have never believed in it or any power it holds. It is just there for the prettiness aspect.

What is your favourite piece?

Bracelets up close.

You can buy these statement pieces and many more (so many unique designs to choose from!) from Innaya Couture. Get in touch with them via their Facebook page and follow them on Instagram (which is where I first discovered them).

Details + Links

Jewellery ~ Innaya Couture (buy here)

Hijab ~ Sora Australia (buy here)

Top ~ Abaya Addict (buy here)

Which piece is your favourite? Do you own any Islamic themed jewellery?

I am fine with turning thirty in a couple more years time. Getting older doesn't bother me and never really has. I welcome it with open arms and along with that have started welcoming in a more strenuous skincare regime. I have never really looked after my skin; I just relied on my youth to carry me along and now that is fading it is time to step up my game and invest in quality skincare instead of the five dollar watery low end stuff I would randomly pull off the grocery shelf. I did a bit of online studying (looking at beauty expert's reviews) and Clarins was mentioned a few times by trustworthy sources so I went ahead and purchased some of their products.

I went mainly for their Multi-Active line as it is aimed at women around my age group and above who want to maintain the freshness of their late 20's well into their 30's. Instead of getting the whole range I just bought the day cream and night cream, a serum and a treatment oil. I just want to get the basics rolling! I still need to invest in an eye cream, a really good hand cream and maybe even a body moisturiser. If you know of any really potent ones (any brand) let me know which ones you use in the comments!

I use the serum under my day cream and at night use the oil lightly under my night cream. No word of a lie - from the first application I noticed a difference. Obviously I didn't magically appear ten years younger but my skin did noticeably look dewier and plumper the next morning. I never bothered with moisturisers or anything before on a regular basis so my very dehydrated skin basically drunk the cream up. I usually have oily/combination skin but with all the hormone changes and nutrient loss over the last few years thanks to the whole pregnancy/breastfeeding cycle my normally oily skin has been left quite dehydrated and lacklustre.

Both the Multi-Active Day and Multi-Active Night creams are non-greasy, comfortable to wear and really soak into my thirsty skin. I've put makeup on top of the day cream and serum and found my makeup lasted and even sat better on my skin with the moisture foundation set. The serum feels soft but for me the favourite is definitely the Blue Orchid Face Treatment Oil. I love the little medicine-like dropper to ensure exact amount extraction. I hate getting too much product out and then wasting it - especially when the product is a little pricey.

I always assumed putting an oil on an already oily skin was a big no-no. It doesn't sound right - why would you need to rub in oil if you are already a walking oil slick?! In all seriousness I scoffed at the idea but was persuaded into giving it a try after researching it a bit more and I'm glad I did give in because this is the star of my quad buy. It doesn't make my skin oily at all (this particular one is actually formulated specifically for normal/combination oily skin) - I just use a little (maybe four-five drops?) on my face and neck at night time before I put on my moisturiser and then wake up with soft, glowing skin in the morning - something I need considering I haven't had a good night's rest since my baby was born. My skin definitely feels more relaxed and is starting to look healthier and more awake.

I am definitely going to stock up on more of Clarins' products because I find that they do work for me and haven't irritated or broken out my usually sensitive skin. I already have to repurchase the night cream, even though I only bought them two weeks ago, because my daughter decided the hallway walls needed its cracks filled in more than my own. I tried scraping off as much as I could and putting it back in the jar but I wasn't so successful. Sadness. Money wasted. I think I need shelves on my ceiling just to keep things out of reach of busy little hands.

Have you guys tried any Clarins products? Are there any other products from other brands that you swear by for skin longevity?

Details + Links

Day Cream (buy here)

Night Cream (buy here)

Serum (buy here)

Treatment Oil (buy here)

As previously discussed, I have been trying my hardest to make a clear move away from abayas. For many years it was all I wore and while I will forever love them and still wear them on a weekly basis I do sometimes find myself staring into my full length mirror and saying "Enough with the Arab wear. Time for some white people clothing!" aka getting back to my roots.

So in an effort to make a change (and not just talk about it like I tend to do with everything else i.e: the gym) I have been spending a bit of money on more Western friendly pieces, this dark navy blue dress being one of them.

Horizontal stripes are the bane of any non-stick-thin woman, me being no different. Sneaky diagonal (mum tum be gone! or at least hidden temporarily) or the ever flattering vertical stripes are a godsend though. I saw this dress in Big W of all places and was pretty surprised at the good quality of it. Usually the cheaper department stores here in Australia will sell flimsy pieces of crap that are made with such thin fabric that you can pretty much guarantee you can spit through it but this is so well made. I had to buy it. Plus it was only about $25 so there was no way in hell I was going to leave it on the rack. As always with most maxi dresses it is a tad too short for me but eh, ankle shmankle. I'll live.

Just don't do chipped nail polish. Ever. I am a run-around-losing-my-mind mum at the moment so I am allowed to; you my friend, are not. Be above the mess.

Rustic brown to bring out the navy.

I just love this perfect shade of tan in this bag. What I don't love is that it is a bit worse for wear - I never take good care of my things. Slobsville, I know.

Details + Links

Heels ~ Steve Madden

Gold Ring ~ Egypt

Hijab ~ Melbourne

Cardigan ~ Espirit (similar)

Coral Ring ~ YSL

Dress ~ Big W

Belt ~ ASOS

Have you ever had those moments where you have to buy a gift for someone and have no idea what to get them? It happens to me all the time. When it comes to men (like my hubby or dad) I just give up. Men are so hard to buy for. Women are a lot easier but I still ruminate over what to get them. I usually end up going for something pretty and practical. I tend to stay away from jewellery or clothing as gifts because you never know if the person in question is going to like it or even wear it. What I am about to show you though, however, is in my mind such a nifty little gift, especially for mothers.

I've never been into personalised jewellery even though I was (and still am) a huge Sex and the City fan and the whole Carrie necklace was a big deal back in the day. I always felt a bit awkward at the thought of having my own name plastered across my chest so when oNecklace asked me to review one of their personalised gold necklaces I at first had no idea about what to actually have written on my customised piece. In the end I went for their Two Circle necklace so I could have both of my children's names engraved on it - a much more special, more meaningful approach in my opinion. They have a huge selection of different designs but if you are a mum check out their cute mummy options.

I love really long necklaces so I do wish the chain was even longer. It currently sits on on my decolletage but wouldn't mind it hanging even lower. I just realised I didn't take any shots of the necklace actually on me, so will have to remedy that by including it in the next outfit post I do. I have been wearing this piece quite a bit though. There is something special about having keepsakes of your children close by at all times...

The necklace is 24 carat gold plated (also made in silver) and comes in a choice of chain length. I went with the longest (22 inch) because I'm of the mind that there is no point having jewellery on and not being able to see it. If I had have gone for the shorter chains available my hijab would have hidden it completely. You can also choose which chain design you would like. I went with the box chain as it is looks a little neater and I prefer the chain links to be locked in closer (less chance of the loops opening up later).

The script used is cursive and very pretty. I thought the circles were going to be minuscule but they ended up being a decent size and even make a sweet tinkling sound when they make contact. Overall it is quite dainty.

Obviously being a mother I am going to go with the names of my kids, but a husband/wife name would be a good set as a gift for either yourself or a friend, or you could go down the hippy road and have words like peace and love scrawled on there... whatever you want basically. It's completely your choice.

Details + Links

Necklace ~ oNecklace (buy here)

My Celestial Body Giveaway

Style Scrapbook - Aab

Bronzed Browns

Mexican Otomi Delights

A Day in the Garden...

Win an Islamic Swimsuit with Madamme BK Paris

Scarfed Surprises from Sora

Giveaway: Hijab Jewels

Azura Azwa Ready Made Turban Style

The National, Abu Dhabi Interview

Kotton Love Scarves

Neon Hit

Quick Dessert Fix: Chocoloca

Lace + Crochet

SIMO Jewellery Giveaway

A day trip to Ancient Egypt

Islamic Jewellery by Innaya Couture

Current Skincare Products - Clarins Multi-Active Range

Urban Nautical

oNecklace Custom Gold Jewellery