Greyscale Ensemble

Blazer- Thrift Buy/Pants- Woolworths/Heels- Footwork

So, I must admit- its been a minute since I have posted on my blog. I know, I know. There have been a few things I have been focused on in my personal life and I am also busy with plans and content I have for blog. so don't fret-I have not forgotten about you.

I am all kinds of obsessed with this grey blazer, it is definitely my favourite item at the moment as well as one of my best buys this year. I picked it up while out thrifting (Which was a very successful thrift day might I add) for under 50bucks- Imagine?! It is fitted, longer length and pairs well with almost everything in my wardrobe. I have been loving grey hues as of late so I was quite delighted when I found this amazing blazer, I am super excited to play around with it.

I am so envious over my friends in Cape Town and JHB, Winter has arrived (For them at least)and I have been seeing countless instagram posts of them flaunting their oversized faux fur coats, and I am over here like "When is our turn?" I must admit though, Durban has had a couple of cold days in the past week, but not cold enough to pull out those gorgeous fur coats. I am not complaining because I absolutely love sunshine, but lets face it- Winter is one season that the fashion Gods look down on and smile upon. The layering, the over the top coats and jackets, the minimalist colours- So chic! So yes, I am a tad bit bummed that we in Durban hardly experience winter weather.

What are some winter trends that you are loving at the moment? Hit me up.

Until Next Time Loves...

K

Products I Cannot Live Without

Today I bring you something totally different from what I normally post on my blog. I will be sharing the products that I absolutely love and cannot live without. I use these products every day. Happy Reading …

Benzaderm Moisturizer and Benzac AC 5 Wash

Over the years I have had no luck when it came to finding the perfect skincare products that I could add to my daily skincare routine. I tried so many products but nothing truly hit the spot. I heard about Benzac many years ago from friends who had undergone the treatment via a dermatologist, I was so fascinated by the results but sadly I was unable to persuade my parents to book me an appointment to undergo the treatment as I didn’t suffer with severe acne. Years later, lo and behold- Benzac skincare products were introduced to the public SA market, I couldn’t have been happier. I jumped at the chance to try out the products and they were everything (and more) I had expected they would be. Because this product seems to aim more to acne prone skin, I was somewhat reluctant as I thought it may be too harsh for my skin as I do not have acne, but boy was I wrong. This skincare brand is the only one that fully agrees with my skin and gives me the results I am looking for. The active ingredient in Benzac is benzoyl peroxide which helps to diminish acne.

Benzaderm is part of the Benzac range, so you already know it is amazing. I use the Benzaderm cleanser and moisturizer daily and I apply the Benzac AC 5 Wash directly to my problem areas, and it works wonders! You can find these products at Dischem stores nationwide- there is a Benzac Starter Pack which contains the Benzaderm cleanser and moisturizer along with the benzac AC 5 Wash for only R197,95.

MAC Nude ”Satin Spirit” lipstick and MAC Studio finish concealer in NW45

Guys, I literally get anxiety when these two products are almost finish (I can already feel the anxiety creping in, as you can see my lipstick is almost done). Let me start with my nude lipstick, this is my favourite lipstick in the whole world! If you follow me on Instagram and/ or snapchat, I am sure you are probably sick of seeing me wear this lipstick. I remember a time where MAC was out of stock, for a really long time. While going through that painful time in my life, I had no choice but to use an earbud to dig out the last remains and continue to flourish. (I know I’am being somewhat dramatic right now but this lipstick is AMAZING)

I must admit, when it comes to make up- the only three makeup brands I use are MAC, Bobbi Brown and Clinique. It is very hard for me to try other products because I have sensitive skin and I am a creature of habit. To be honest, I have not tried other nude lipsticks- I would probably like lipsticks from other brands (Maybe not love them as much as I love my MAC lipstick). Even though I only wear MAC lipsticks I will be trying other brands out, and I will be sure to let you guys know how that goes. If you use other lipstick brands and absolutely love them, I would love to hear about them and get some recommendations.

I must admit, when it comes to make up- the only three makeup brands I use are MAC, Bobbi Brown and Clinique. It is very hard for me to try other products because I have sensitive skin and I am a creature of habit. To be honest, I have not tried other nude lipsticks- I would probably like lipsticks from other brands (Maybe not love them as much as I love my MAC lipstick). Even though I only wear MAC lipsticks I will be trying other brands out, and I will be sure to let you guys know how that goes. If you use other lipstick brands and absolutely love them, I would love to hear about them and get some recommendations.

Moving onto this magic product, my MAC Studio Finish concealer. I am one of many females who suffer with dark circles under their eyes and slight pigmentation on the face. Because of this, lighter concealers never did me justice. For complete coverage, I was recommended this MAC concealer in a shade darker than my foundation, and I have never looked back since. I recently introduced this concealer to my mom and she has never felt better when it comes to her makeup and covering her problem areas. This concealer gives me the coverage that I desperately need and leaves me with flawless makeup. It is definitely my ultimate make up product that I just cannot live without.

I definitely recommend this product to everyone! It retails for only R230- A bargain compared to what it does.

Clinique Superprimer

We all know how important primer is when it comes to applying makeup. You can literally feel the difference in your skin when you use primer, as opposed to when you don’t. I have always loved Clinique products, they subtle and leave my skin feeling fresh, soft and never tight- and their primer is no different. I never cared too much about primer, after trying it out, I never put make up without it.

Apple Cider Vinegar

I love using apple cider vinegar as a toner. It has some great health benefits such as lowers blood sugar levels, helps with tummy problems, prevents indigestion, clears acne- The list is endless. You can mix just a few drops in water or in your tea. I choose to use it on my face as a toner, as it leaves my face feeling so much cleaner and oil free. I have to warn you though, it smells absolutely horrible- but its benefits triumph the smell lol.

Johnsons & Johnsons Facial Cleansing Wipes

Although I love how I feel and look when my face is beat (in layman’s terms- when I have make up on) there’s no feeling like coming home and taking off all that makeup, allowing your skin to breathe again. These facial wipes are my go-to wipes as they remove all my makeup and leave my face feeling moisturized afterwards. They are gentle on the skin and make it easier to cleanse my face afterwards.

So there you have it guys, my products that I cannot live without. What are some products that you absolutely love? I would love to hear… Also, I would also like to know if you would want to see more of these kinds of posts on the blog in future? Hit me up

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Denim Overload

Denim Jacket- Thrift Buy/Denim Shirt- Woolworths (Country Road)/Pencil Skirt- Mr Price/Boots- Topshop/NY Cap- Sportscene

Denim is timeless and a classical fabric that just does not seem to go out of style. I am a huge fan of denim as it oozes power, confidence and a certain edge that I always love to possess. I decided to wear an oversized denim jacket with my denim shirt to demonstrate that layering denim on denim can be trendy and cool, and not look like you trying too hard. I picked up this one of a kind denim jacket at a thift store and it is, still to this day, one of my best and most valued purchases I have made while trifting. Its the kind of item that will last me a lifetime and will never go out of style.I figured a pencil skirt would be the perfect pairing piece and honestly, different from what I would usually choose to pair a denim jacket and shirt with. I had fun styling and putting this look together, you could imagine my excitement when this NY cap actually fitted my head- with a little help from my braids (even though it was somewhat tight- but manageable).Check out another denim on denim look I wore here

I am loving my braids at the moment. I needed a break from my afro(maintaining an afro is hard work guys)and I just wanted a new and fresh look. You can follow me on instagram at @kendrahunsley to get a closer look at my new hairdo.

I hope you enjoyed this look post, I always love hearing from you

Until Next Time...

Just Do It

Shirt-Urban/Pants and Hat- Woolworths/Gilet and shoes- Cotton On

You know how it is so easy to come up with an idea, a concept- but somewhat difficult to execute that idea? I am slowly passing through that stage. One needs to close the gap between dreaming about something and making it a reality- and that is my current mission. I have just started a new venture (after just “thinking” about if for months), this is a different space for me to be in as I am walking the walk and not just talking the talk. The biggest obstacle when it comes to following your dreams is fear. Will I even succeed? What will people say? What if I fail? Are questions that not only surround, but occupy the realms of our minds. Fear can kill your dream before you have even begun making it a reality. It makes you doubt your ability to conquer thus creating a negative attitude, and we all know that nothing good comes out of a negative attitude.

Been thinking of a really cool idea but have not gotten around to putting into gear? Just do it! Been wanting to improve your health and wellness? Just do it! You and a friend have been meaning to start a business together? JUST DO IT!!. We put up these building blocks in front of us which creates this big barrier therefore we find it hard to do the things we want to do. Let’s stop making excuses and focusing on all the reasons why we cannot and shouldn’t do certain things, and just go ahead and do them.

About The Look

In preparation for the chilly days ahead (I see that those chilly days have come sooner rather than later for CPT and JHB) I have decided to post a winter inspired look. Gilet’s are so chic and versatile, and are perfect for those not-so-cold-cold days. They are the perfect item for when you are dressed down and just need a ‘pick me up’. I love that you can wear a gilet with a long and short sleeve. I have a cream one as well and will definitely be wearing them more frequently. With having an afro, I felt like I could never wear hats or caps, I mean, how will they fit? I just ruled them out until I envisioned this look and knew it would look even better with a wide brim hat. It was such a mission getting it to fit LOL, I literally had to remove it between shots as it was too tight. I will definitely be wearing more hats and caps as I know now it is actually possible with my afro (it just needs some taming first).

What are some things you have been wanting to do but just have not gotten around to doing them? I’d love to hear

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Until Next Time…

Xoxo

Kendra

MONOCHROME LOOK + TIPS ON BEING PRODUCTIVE

Dress-Mr Price/Shoes and Socks- Topshop

Walt Disney said “The way to get started is to quit talking and begin doing”. This quote resonates with me because I have fallen victim to the “more talk, less action” syndrome. It is so easy to speak on things that we want to do and plan on doing, but actually getting down to doing them is a whole other ball game. We waste so much time on unnecessary things like social media and TV, when we could be using that time to get tasks done. We purposely find everything else under the sun to do except what we actually need to do. You know, looking at that white wall that looks so interesting when you have to study? Procrastination has taken over our lives and it is time to set ourselves free from the chains that we find ourselves bound by.

I remember many times in University where I left my tasks for the last minute, which in term resulted in me feeling so overwhelmed and stressed because they all caught up with me and other tasks that arose were added. This resulted in me not producing my best work and doing something just to get it done and not to get that high mark. How many of you’ll have experienced that? As of late, I have been practising productivity in my daily life and really keeping track of my time. I work a 9hour shift every day and that has become a challenge for me as I have to schedule personal daily achievements before and after work. I have been using it as an excuse to not get things done but have soon realized that I cannot keep complaining about it, instead look for solutions and find ways to adapt to the situation. I have not gotten this right 100% but I make sure every day to try and improve on it.

Tips To Maintaining Productivity

1- Wake Up Earlier Than Usual

Your morning really has a significant impact on the rest of your day. If you continuously pressing that snooze button, finally waking up and rushing through getting ready for the day, your mornings will not be productive. I really hate rushing and being late because it puts me in a disoriented state and I cannot function properly that way, it also throws me off course therefore I don’t get a positive start to my day. If you find waking up early difficult, try 15minutes earlier than the time you usually wake up. This way you are not drastically changing the time you have been accustomed to waking up, but that small change can have a positive impact and once you okay with that 15minutes earlier time, add another 15minutes. I am naturally an early riser but I still try to wake up earlier than usual (5am, 5:30am) this way I have ample time to get ready and to plan my day ahead while still having time to reflect.

Because I usually always have tasks and deadlines I need to meet for my freelance work, I like to get to my workplace at least an hour earlier to give me time to complete my personal tasks. I am normally too tired to do an excessive amount of tasks after a long day at work, so I leave the harder tasks for the morning when I feel most productive. I also utilize my lunch breaks and get some work done.

2- No Such Thing As The “Perfect Time”

It is as if we are waiting for a big sign in the sky to reveal to us “Its Time”. Life doesn’t work that way. We need to stop waiting for the perfect time to do things because that time will probably never come. Waiting for the perfect time to do certain things is also another form of procrastination and can really cripple your productivity levels. I remember when I kept waiting for the perfect time to launch my blog, I had all the excuses in the world and one day a friend said to me “Just launch it; it will never be perfect the first time round. Just get it out there”. Get used to jumping head first into tasks and not harbouring on the right time to start.

3- Say NO to Distraction

I am so easily distracted and I am sure a lot of you reading this are too. With social media and all those cool series to watch, how can we not be? I must admit, I have not quite mastered the art of blocking out distractions. As I sit in bed typing this post, I have been picking up my phone every 10minutes to check social media. I keep telling myself that it is just to take a small breather from typing, but we all know that’s a lie. Turning off wifi/cellular data is a good way to forget about your phone and stay productive. Also placing your phone far from you helps as well. That way your phone isn’t reachable and you’re more likely to forget about it… at least for a good 30minutes. (*As I go leave my phone in the next room*)

There is a huge difference between being busy and being productive; you can be busy doing nothing. Value your time and the things you spend it on. Stay focused and in tune with your goals in life, both short term and long term, and do something every day that gets you closer and closer to those goals. Your potential to become the best that you can be can be measured by your daily routine, so spend your time wisely.

About This Look

I am not a fan of dresses but I am particularly in love with this one because it’s a boxy fit. It is comfy, loose but still chic (just the way I love my clothing). I finished this look with these adorable frilly socks as I felt they added a pretty element to the overall look. This dress is perfect for winter and it will definitely be in the forefront of my wardrobe. You could also change up the look by adding knee high socks or chic black stockings and a pair of boots. The dress is a statement piece on its own so I love the fact that I can play it down with my accessories and not have to try too hard to elevate the look.

What are some of the ‘time leeches’ in your life? And what helps you stay productive? I would love to hear from you guys.

Xoxo

Kendra

Back To Black

Shirt- Cotton On/Pants- Woolworths/Shoes-Topshop/Fringe Bag- Cotton On
Okay guys, I tried to steer away from all black as I possibly could, but I failed. DISMIALLY! What can I say? I have gone back to my roots and just could not fight it anymore. You are looking at an ensemble that I feel most comfortable in, where I feel most myself. Black, Loose fit and Simple Silhouettes is all I am about. I am usually drawn to the 'effortlessly done look', you know, those looks that don't seem too overdone? Its as if you just threw together an ensemble without batting an eyelid and it turns out to be one of the greatest pairings... I love those looks, and I always try to create them. Even though sometimes putting those kind of looks together isn't so "effortless"

I purchased these chunky slippers at a sale at Topshop (For only R250) they have a Birkenstock vibe but I love the simplicity of the front and the chunkiness, Its not a shoe I would have normally opted for but I wanted to try something new. I don't wear open shoes much (Boots and sneakers is all you would see me wearing)so getting these was a big deal and I am glad I did.
I hope you all enjoyed this post and I would love to hear your thoughts :)
xoxo
Kendra

#MRPDENIM CAMPAIGN

Mr Price brought together influencers from all around South Africa to take part in their campaign where we needed to express our connection to denim either through video or imagery, and I was so honoured to be amongst those they chose (So Major!). Taking part in this campaign was a no-brainer as denim is a huge part of my life. Denim is something that NEVER goes out of style and can be incorporated into so many different looks.

I had a vision of being on top of a high building as if I am on top of the world, being so high up and yet not being afraid. Denim is bold, and that’s exactly what I wanted to depict in my pictures. So I called up my photographer friend,Kevin, and we shot these pictures on the rooftop of a random building in Durban CBD. The whole concept came to life even better than I expected. “Denim is fearless and excudes freedom” is the message I went with and I think my chosen picture for the campaign fits it perfectly.

After the campaign went live, Mr Price invited us to Braamfontein, Johannesburg for an epic street party. From a pop up store, to charging stations, then to cosy blankets to keep us warm, Mr Price literally thought of everything! This was my first time being in the same space as all the amazing creatives and bloggers that I really look up to and it was so inspiring sharing stories and creating relationships. Thank you to the Mr Price Team for the love

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I would love to know what you guys think. P.S you can see my picture displayed in the window of selected Mr Price stores.

Photographers by Simphiwe Kevin Mkwanazi