30 October 2013

One Day. B-Day - Beyonce's Mrs Carter Tour 2013

I had the huge pleasure of going to see my all-time favourite singer last night, Queen B. I've loved Beyonce since Destiny's Child came out with 'Say My Name' in 2000, I was only 10. I bought that album and used to listen to it on a loop knowing all the words and singing along. Today nothing's changed I love Beyonce's music and still know all the words, but what I think I love even more is what she stands for and what she represents; empowered women.


Her concert last night was indescribable and she truly is an inspiration. She sang new songs like 'Love on Top' and 'Ring the Alarm', favourites like 'Halo' and 'Single Ladies' and she even took us back to 'Survivor' and 'Crazy in Love'. There were 9 costume changes, all of which were incredible, I'd love to raid her wardrobe. She looked amazing on stage, so healthy and at ease with her body. She's such a sexy woman but not in a crude or provocative way; it's a way that you'd be proud to emulate yourself - confidence.

Beyonce was proud to present to us her all-female band complete with guitarists, drummers and her vocalists 'the mamas'. The only men in her show were 'Les Twins' a pair of incredible (you guessed it, twin) dancers who were busting out moves like I've never seen before. A testament to her kindness, at the end of the concert Beyonce singled out a girl in the audience who had a sign saying "It's my birthday. <3 u B." Beyonce stopped the music and asked the girl's name before singing her the best rendition of Happy Birthday I've ever heard, I wish that had been me; what an incredible thing to remember [wish I'd thought to go with a "it's my birthday" sign!].

Photo via The Guardian

I've been watching the clips back today and can't believe I was there. Listening to her live was an incredible thing, it was truly the best concert I've ever been to and shows she really is a one-in-a-billion talent.

We love you B.

28 October 2013

Style It. Essential Accessories

When it comes to our wardrobes we don't always have a totally expendable budget for endless new outfits. That's why I think it's so important to have a good collection of essential accessories that can be used to update your current wardrobe. Here are my five essential accessories for endless style options.

A printed scarf - Karl Lagerfeld $250
You really can't go past a scarf. Personally I'd pick a silk one. You can wear it draped or wrapped around your neck, tied in a bow, use it as a head scarf or even wear it as a belt.

A statement necklace - Mimco $349
A bright, bold necklace is a great piece to add some extra style to an outfit, particularly for a formal or cocktail occasion. Try to go for contrast; if you're outfit is bright opt for a monochrome piece, whereas if you're wearing black them add a splash of colour with your necklace.

A pair of neutral ballet flats - Nine West $110
You'll want a pair of shoes that you can wear with a range of options. With a pair like these you can pair them with jeans, capri pants, shorts, skirts and dresses. I love having a multi-purposeful pair in my wardrobe.

A classic watch - Michael Kors $295
I'm a rather minimalist dresser when it comes to jewellery. Usually I'm set with a simple pendant necklace and watch. A classic timepiece like one from Michael Kors is a great investment and is guaranteed to look great with any outfit whether dressy or casual.

A hat - Hats by the 100 $60
I love hats. Berets, beanies, fedoras, fascinators. I just love them all as they add such a nice element to an outfit. At the moment I'm particularly loving the felt floppy fedoras that are going around. They're great to wear in the city with a sleek outfit or dress it down and wear yours to the beach.

Photos courtesy of Karl Lagerfeld, Mimco, Nine West, Michael Kors and Hats by the Hundred

25 October 2013

Plate Up. Beef Casserole

This dish has been an all-time favourite of mine for as long as I can remember. Mum has been making it since I was little and although I was quite a fussy eater back in the day, I loved this casserole. Originally from Margaret Fulton's cookbook (isn't she the cutest!) we've made a couple of adjustments over the years to have this dish just how we like it. I always have mine with rice but the options are endless; it could be with pasta, used as a pie filling or enjoyed alone. It also reheats really well, bonus!


What you'll need
1kg chuck steak, diced
2 tablespoons plain flour
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tin crushed tomatoes
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
1 tablespoon vinegar
1/2 cup red wine
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 capsicum, sliced
1 small tin kidney beans, washed


What to do
Preheat your oven to 160 degrees Celsius. Place the beef and flour in a bag with a good pinch of salt. Shake until the meat is coated. In a pan, heat the olive oil on medium heat and add the beef. Fry until browned and take off the heat.

In a large casserole dish combine the crushed tomatoes, sauce, vinegar, wine and paste. Add the meat and place in the oven. Cook for 2 hours then remove and add the capsicum and kidney beans. Return to the oven for a further 30 minutes.

This hearty casserole is so simple and packed full of flavour.

23 October 2013

Must Have. Top Ten Coffee Table Books



I'm such a lover of books, particularly big coffee table books with plenty of pictures that look fantastic on a shelf or table. My own shelves are bursting with gorgeous books I have collected over the years on all my favourite topics. [In my future home I'm planning a floor to ceiling library!] Having an elegant coffee table is very important so here are my top ten picks for the perfect coffee table book collection.

This is quite possibly the ultimate coffee table book. The allure of beauty is a celebration of Hollywood's legendary actresses from the 1930's to the present, from Marilyn Monroe to Julia Roberts. Each page shares unforgettable images that have shaped the entertainment industry's culture. For all the lovers of film, fame and fortune.

I got this book for my 21st and it's a favourite of mine as it contains everything you could ever want to know about the big apple. It has all the shopping and eating hotspots and well as the best places to stay and it's topped off with some gorgeous design sketches. There is also a Taschen's Paris and Taschen's London.

Straight out of ELLE decor, the pages of this book contain a unique look at hundreds of dazzling rooms that the magazine has published in it's first two decades. The perfect intimate view of breathtaking homes from around the world.

Who doesn't love the femininity and intricate designs of Ellie Saab? This hardcover book explores her finest pieces and the reasons why she's a coveted designer, dressing international stars and royalty.

I love the idea of this one. It's an illustrated journey through NYC neighbourhoods. The author's unique and charming drawings of the city will inspire your own love affair with New York.

For as long as I can remember I've loved elephants and not just in a "they're-my-favourite-animal" kind of way; I have an all consuming fascination/adoration for these beautiful creatures. This book is an illustrated guide on their habits, behaviour and human likeness.

I stumbled across this particular book in a little book store in Greenwich Village and fell in love. How could you not like a nursery rhyme book that's all about designers and clothes? I mean really.

I really enjoy looking for interior design inspiration and this is the perfect little book for indulging that passion. From giant castles to one bedroom rentals this book is bursting with creative inspiration for your home.

There are few things in this world that make me happier than dogs and these pictures are sure to put on a smile on your face. Photographer Seth Casteel has captured some brilliant moments.

And to round out my ten you're going to need a good cocktail book because what are you going to be sipping whilst you're reading all your other books? A cosmo of course!

Photos courtesy of Book Depository and Amazon.

21 October 2013

One Day. Inspiring pretty things

Today feels like a picture day so I thought I'd share with you some of the lovely images I've come across that make me smile, inspire my dreams and push me to work harder.

Come follow me on pintrest (pearlsofstyle) or instagram (krissierogers) for more inspiration.

Have a wonderful day beautiful readers. 


 
































Photos from various creative places :)

18 October 2013

Plate Up. Chilli Con Carne

A bowl of chilli is an all-time favourite of mine, especially now that I've been building up my chilli tolerance lately (I can actually have it quite hot now!). This recipe makes a great dish to serve with rice or I love using it as my filling for burritos and tacos. You could also have it on toast if you're one of 'those' people.


What you'll need
500g lean beef mince
1 onion, finely diced
1/2-1 teaspoon chilli powder (or more if you can handle it, I usually put a full teaspoon)
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (this is sure to get the sinuses running so don't add it if you don't want it too hot)
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
1 tin crushed tomatoes
a dash or red wine
3/4 cup beef stock
1 small tin kidney beans, rinsed
olive oil for frying
sour cream, spring onions and rice or burritos to serve

What to do
Fry off your onion and beef until browned. Add the spices and fry until fragrant. Add the tomatoes, wine and stock and simmer for half an hour. Add in the kidney beans and simmer for a further 10-15 minutes or until it is a good consistency (it shouldn't be runny). By now you're home should be smelling like a true Mexican kitchen so take the pan off the heat and serve with your rice or in your burritos. This chilli con carne recipe is a guaranteed flavour sensation. Serves 4-6.



Photos by Krissie

16 October 2013

Must Have. Dr. Jackson's Coconut Melt


This is the perfect product for me. I'm always suffering from chapped lips and I have a terrible habit of tearing at my lips without realising. Naughty naughty. Plus, the bonus is, this little pot of goodness isn't just for your lips, it can be used on dry skin, your nail beds and even your hair! If it's actually a secret beauty weapon used by Miranda Kerr and Emma Stone, as the whispers say, then it must be good! The coconut oil is said to nourish and even reduce wrinkles. I'll take ten please! $17. Shop here.



By the way, whilst I was browsing through net-a-porter you'll never guess what I came across.... Paw Paw Cream! Looks like Lucas' ointment has made the big time! I think I'll stick to getting mine at the chemist.


14 October 2013

Suitcase. Christmas Holiday Destinations

I'm thinking of going away for Christmas with my mum as we are long overdue for a family holiday; it's going on six years now. I got rather excited at the thought of a trip away and started fantasizing about new destinations, shopping, beaching, historical ventures, snapshots, handsome waiters and cranky passport checkers (ok maybe not them).... but then I realised, I haven't the faintest clue where we should go.


So, I thought I'd take this opportunity to throw some ideas out there and see if you had any suggestions.

Here's my thought process so far.
Duration: 10 days - 2 weeks
When: over Christmas/New Year
Who: mumma and I; two fun-loving gals with a sense of adventure and a love of the ocean and shopping
Where: ???
What: ???
Budget: moderate

Let's see what the choices are...

I wouldn't mind heading to north QLD, I've never been to the Whitsundays or Hamilton Island but trouble is that time of year is rainy season and you can't tan if the sun don't shine, so better rule that one out.

Fiji? Tahiti? New Caledonia? Oh wait, same weather problem. Damn. That also rules out a cruise.

Next idea, another Australian capital city? Well I'm always in Melbourne and would rather go somewhere different, Sydney doesn't really take my fancy, Hobart is just a no, and Perth and Adelaide aren't really striking me.

Back to the drawing board. Maybe somewhere overseas, but somewhere accessible. New Zealand? I wouldn't mind heading back to Queenstown as I had such a great time when I visited a couple of years ago. Trouble is, if I head back there I'd like to go to the snow this time and as far as I know there isn't any white powder in summer. Random blizzard perhaps? Keep dreaming.

Ok maybe I need to venture a little further overseas. Trouble is with the limited time I have off and Australia being so far away it does make things difficult. Oh how nice it would be to live in Europe. "Why don't we pop over to Switzerland for the weekend? Or Italy or Greece? They're only 2 hours away. Sounds jolly fantastic. Bravo old chap." See? So much easier. (Note: clearly I got a bit carried away envisaging myself living in England.) Now where was I? Yes overseas. Oceania is ruled out because of the weather. At this stage I don't want to visit Asia so what are we left with? South America? Bit scary. Africa? Not until I get over my needle phobia since I need all those immunizations. Europe? My dream holiday location but I think I need 3 months for that one. Or America? I do so love that country... Hawaii perhaps? It's America but without the 24 hour travel time, plus I've never been there before. Should be a good time of year. Yes I'm liking the sound of that one. Wait here while I go look at flights........





Goodness anyone would think I was unprepared booking two months in advance [I guess I kind of am] the flights are a little pricey. Might need to see if I could negotiate a deal. In the meantime does anyone else have any bright ideas? My suitcase is screaming to be packed and clearly time's a ticking!

Photo by Wikipedia Creative Commons

8 October 2013

One Day. The perfect medicine

I'm writing to you from sick-person-central so just a quick one today. I started feeling pretty whoozy over the weekend and it wasn't until yesterday when I saw the doctor that he confirmed I have tonsillitis and gastro. What a delightful combination. Not.

I really hate being sick. There's nothing worse than lying around feeling sorry for yourself. I was in bed last night trying to while away the hours. I had no energy for tv and was out of library books; so I flicked through my bookshelf to choose something to read for the second, tenth or millionth time.

This is what I chose.



I hope you've read this book, but if you haven't then you must go out and get it. Within the first page you'll be in fits of giggles. It's hilarious.

Ellen is my perfect dose of medicine, not unlike a spoonful of sugar, so I thought I'd share with you my favourite chapter to spread the love.

How to be a Supermodel

Since I am a covergirl I thought if any of you are interested in learning a little bit about modelling I could offer you some tips. I've sashayed down plenty of catwalks in my day - well, one. But I know what it takes to make an impression. So here are some suggestions, as long as you're willing to be fierce.

One: The Look
Always look like you're angry at the universe for making you too pretty.

Two: The Walk
Trot. Aggressively, like you're a horse that's trying to avoid puddles.

Three: The Squint
Squint like someone is bouncing sunlight off their watch and directly into your eyes.

Four: The Pout
Get those lips out there. Purse your lips like you're trying to sip out of a straw that someone keeps moving away from you.

Five: The Pose
Be mysterious. Always pose with one hand in your pocket as if to say "I'm so mysterious, this hand in my pocket could be a hook hand. You don't know."

Six: The Breeze
Carry a giant oscillating fan with you at all times. No exceptions.

Now put it all together. Trot! Squint! Get the straw! Who's a pretty girl? You are. Keep trotting. 

Thanks for cheering me up Ellen. Everyone go buy the book, it's hysterical and as a bonus you'll get a great ab workout from all the giggling.

Photo by Krissie

4 October 2013

One Day. Today's Ten

As a follow up to my last "today's ten" post here are a few more tidbits about me so we can get to know each other a little better.



1. What are you afraid of?
The dark. We don't get along well. My eyes play tricks on me, I often see giant spiders or creepy people. Light please!

2. Favourite pizza flavour?
Hmmm you can't go past margarita. Cheesy goodness.

3. Currently saving for....?
A house, a world trip, a car upgrade... All the expensive things.

4. Favourite animal?
Elephants! They're such beautiful creatures, I've loved them for as long as I can remember. I saw a movie once where there was a miniature elephant that was the perfect 'cuddle' size. That's been my dream ever since!

5. Movie that changed your life?
Titanic. I saw it when I was 8 years old and it had such a profound impact on me. I couldn't believe such a big ship would sink and so many people died, I went and got all these books about it to read. Not to mention the start of my lifelong crush on Leo DiCaprio.

6.What three things would you take if you where stranded on a desert island?
Music, a friend and tanning oil. Might as well live it up while I'm there!

7. Currently listening to...?
Matt Corby! I've got his concert next week.

8. Celebrity crush?
Johnny Depp.

9. Bad habit?
Interrupting. I don't mean to! But sometimes I just get so excited about what people are saying I just have to burst in with questions. Whoops.

10. Next on my travel wishlist?
Europe! Can't wait to go and spend some time travelling through Italy, France, Greece, Croatia, Bavaria, Switzerland... Just everywhere!

Photo by Krissie.

2 October 2013

Must Have. Kenneth Jay Lane Jewellery

Add a hint of sparkle to any outfit with these gorgeous pieces from Kenneth Jay Lane. This stunning bracelet is rhodium plated and features cubic zirconias on its intricate weaved design. Very vintage if you ask me.




Then complete your look with these studs, also rhodium plated with cubic zirconias. Great for day or nighttime wear alike. These are the perfect pair to have until you 'graduate' to real diamonds!



I love me some sparkle. Cuff $490, Earrings $50. Shop here and here.

Photos by Kenneth Jay Lane.