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The festive season has a tendency to bring out the good and bad in all of us. Those feelings of benevolence become amplified once the clock ticks over into December. Scenes of goodwill and charity develop into circadian occurrences, as opposed to blue moon incidents. Seemingly with such altruism, it also sees our frustration and stress levels elevated. Ugly scenes like road rage run rife. And we seem to attract those inconveniently oblivious to anyone but themselves. Through such annoyances it is vital we remember that such occurrences in reality are an oddity. And at the end of the day we all have burdens to bear. Rather than focusing on that jerk who cut in line, put more energy into love and just let it go. In truth, not everyone is blessed to be celebrating this time of year surrounded by love and laughter. They don't have the luxury of perusing stores for gifts or creating delectable Christmas lunch menus. Some people find themselves alone this time of year and some will be far from home. It's imperative to remember just how blessed you are and that any small act of kindness can go a long way.
But it's also crucial to carry such behaviours well into the New Year too. Christmas is indeed a time that sees much merriment and compassion, but these are all attitudes that should be practiced throughout the year and not just exclusively during the month of December. Especially during a time where the world feels erratic and those in power unhinged. Chose love over hate and empathy over intolerance. I wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a most happiest of Holidays. Whatever and wherever you find yourself, I hope it is brimming with affection and mirth.
Eat, drink and be merry always.
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So without further ado.
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Unicorns please. Because nothing screams individuality and creativity quite like this mythical creature and it's association with everything psychedelic. They awaken our inner child, that playful and fanciful side we generally tone away and shy from. Rainbow hues and vibrant radiance bring nothing but joy to young and old. And being incredibly du jour right now, the selections of unicorn inspired pieces are truly endless. From pool floats to make up brushes, dressing robes and trinkets. Go on and gift someone some shimmery magic to carry them through to the New Year.
Shop all things fairydust and unicorns below.
More specifically slides. That new "ugly it" sartorial piece that rivals those infamous sweaters/t-shirts donned at this time of year. Made famous by cool-girl Rhianna and her highly coveted collaboration with Puma, they arrived with an obnoxious bang approximately two seasons ago. And because comfort will be key this festive season, nothing screams such luxuries as this style of design. Perfectly bold and controversial, your family members won't know what to think of your chosen footware. Luckily this is a trend that won't be dating anytime soon, so you know such sartorial gifts will remain relevant and well worn.
Shop slides below
DIAMONDS ARE A GIRLS BEST FRIEND
And so is an equally opulent case to store them in. I can't tell you how much I adore these Samantha Wills jewellery chests. The personification of luxe, now available in white and black marble designs. An irrefutably chic new addition to any vanity and home. Of course one is never limited to utilising such pieces with just their jewels. Try them as a stylish solution for storing bits and bobs like sewing materials or stationary.
You can also shop even more jewellery chest designs and sizes here.
OUTRAGEOUS FORTUNE
For a most silly season why not pair it with frivolity. Crystal embellished sunglasses to humble headphones. Whip out the plastic fantastic and treat that special someone (or yourself). And if money is of no issue then go all out baby. Do as the one percent and splurge on your very own private island, or pretend to be cashed up with this key charm.
1. Pineapple charm
2. Levitating bluetooth speaker
3. Granny bag by Vetements
4. Dolce Gabbana for SMEG fridge
5. Ultimate beauty kit
6. Camera clutch bag
7. Crystal embellished boots
Shop more ostentatious extravagance below:
Following along from the whimsical and frippery, who wouldn't want a burger shaped cushion beckoning its human master from the couch? Or a cheeky, suggestive peach proudly showing off what Mother Nature blessed it with? Or maybe you know someone who has always dreamed of becoming a pizza. Or think they'd be more appealing dressed as one? It's possible with this delectable costume. It is truly the gift that keeps on giving, and all minus those pesky calories.
Shop a range of food inspired pieces below.
On a serious note, it's important to remember how wastefully materialistic our world is becoming. While splurging on frivolity is fun and at times fulfilling, why not do something truly unique but equally as powerful. Countless charities offer gifts that aim to give back to communities. For example Unicef where you can buy a special edition Monblanc for Unicef pen or a 200 polio vaccines to a community in desperate need. Or visit the Oxfam shop to purchase a range of ethical products like artwork or chocolate.
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While I can't assist you with deadlines or organising sleeping arrangements for incoming relatives, I can help narrow down small somethings for loved ones. From sartorial trends to pieces guaranteed to garner giggles, I've prepared a two part gift guide laden with inspirational goodness for Christmas twenty seventeen.
OH MY STARS
Whether you have an affinity for what lays beyond our reaches or a horoscope aficionado, celestial inspired jewellery is assured to enchant and enrapture. The celestial trend is currently a force to be reckoned with. And while at this moment it may be considered a humble trend, all things astral is anything but. A true transcendent style, designs that are as undeniably timeless as a classic Breton stripe. From making a spirited statement with a zodiac pendants to modern celestial charms for your ears, the options are endless when it comes to otherworldly inspired pieces.
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1. Zodiac earrings
2. Interstella necklace
3. Astrology necklace pendant
4. Crescent zodiac necklace
5. Constellation necklace
6. Open moon and pave star ring
For those with an affinity for the ocean, a straw bag is an ideal and most unexpected gift. Not only reserved for areas with air thick with the fresh scent of brine or places that leave your toes sandy. Raffia style bags are perfect for year round use. From Farmers Market adventures to brunch with the girls, there are countless occasions for them to carry their newest best friend. All all the while keeping them in a perpetual vacation state of mind.
Shop my edit of woven bags
This type of category is usually featured on copious holiday gift guides and for good reason. While the world may need more hugs, it certainly could use with more laughter too. Mugs or water bottles that we continuously reach for day in and out are indeed a perfect way to bringing joy to that special someone. They are also the most obvious association too. So go beyond the usual and think outside the box. Like amping up the chuckles with a Pusheen colouring book or a make light of their drinking habits with this flask.
And to my dearest friend Liz, this yoga mat has your name written all over it.
Shop my edit of all things funny.
THE BOLD AND THE BEAUTIFUL
They're big, bold and certainly beautiful baby. Nothing is more memorable than a fiesta for your ears. And no one does such celebrations quite like Samantha Wills (get 15% off here). Think eye catching hues and extravagant tassels. Exotic filigree details coupled with bohemian beading. Vibrant reds and minimalist white stones. Accessories no longer reserved for dinner dates or opulent black tie soirees but ideal for pairing with a simple t-shirt and jean combo. Taking the drab to fab within milliseconds.
Shop killer statement earrings below
A classic gift idea, tried and true. A no brainer really. Every female has a firm affinity for perfume. Be it a preference for fruity to musky florals. Whether you opt to indulge in firm favourites or rather introduce them to something different. From iconic fragrances like Chanel No. 5 to Instagram stars like Le Labo and Byredo, the choices are endless. Best of all their decadent packaging is fit for a queen and makes it the ultimate vanity companion. And a collectable no less.
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From left to right:
Valentino Donna
Miu Miu EDT
Byredo Velvet
Tom Ford Orchid Soleil
Chanel Noir
Encourage them to take up the lost art of handwritten notes. Or inspire them to compose sweet nothings to loved ones. Take pen to paper and give them an unpredictable but most useful gift. Notebooks are helpful and convenient companions. Varying in degrees of sizing, you'll find pieces perfect for toting in your handbag or some hefty in weight, ready to be scribbled with countless rambles and musings. Go on and inspire them with cover art and suggestive titles like Smythson's "Bright Ideas" or get them ready and rearing for the New Year with Ban.Do's 2018 agenda.
Shop some of my favorite notebooks and accoutrements below.
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Jessica Stam photographed by Greg Kadel and styled by Ekaterina Mukhina for the December 2010 issue of Vogue Russia.
Merry Christmas!
Wishing all my amazing readers and supports all the very best over the Holiday season. May it be filled with much love, peace and abundance. May your giggles turn into roaring laughter and your belly swell with sumptuous homemade food. Please keep in mind that this time of year may not be so jolly for all, so be sure you reach out to loved ones, both far and near and spread some love. Kindness always goes such a long way. And you never really understand how much a humble smile can do to someone who is feeling those noxious blues.
In the spirit of things, I'll be taking the next week or so off to spend some quality time with the fambam and friends. Though you'll still find me active over on Snapchat - soniademacedo (snapcode at bottom of page) and Instagram - @soniademacedo. So be sure to follow if you're having Coco withdrawals.
Until 2016 lovers,
-Sxx
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| via fashion gone rogue |
THE SCENE
It's the most wonderful time of the year, or so they say. Christmas day is a day to be spent with loved ones; be it family or friends. All gathered under the same roof, in eager anticipation for the merriment awaiting at the dining table. Such a feast will be spread before thee, one oh so reminiscent of those placed before the gluttonous King Henry VIII, sans the medieval fanfare. Your people all amassed at the table, in fits of belly-busting laughter while devouring sumptuous food and bottles of vino. Roaring laughter and eating until the button on your denims burst. That is the ideal Christmas lunch.
When one contemplates Christmas and fashion the mind automatically directs you to the colours red and green. And it is easy to understand why we gravitate towards these two colours considering how traditionally steeped in the festive holiday they are. I for one despise wearing and pairing these two colours year round, especially during this time of year for a number of reasons. Firstly, it reminds me of my primary school uniform of green polos and daggy red shorts. Secondly it's overly, seemingly festive.
This time of year I find that most fashionistas curate ensembles solely based on these colours. Some combine the two and others don it head to toe. There's no rule to say you can't nor is there an unwritten faux-pas but for me I prefer to keep the traditional colours at bay, revealing only just a hint of festivity on say my lips. The thing is there are more colours in the colour spectrum one can indulge in this time of year. And I find metallics tend to be the most fun. I love the idea of wearing something sparkly like these pants or this skirt. Glittery enough to remain merry whilst also being something that can be utilised year round.
-Sxx
CLOCKWISE
Faux-patent Falabella bag by Stella McCartney
Wrap cami by River Island
Circle and bar lariat necklace by Orelia
01 Le Rouge. Rouge Pur Couture lipstick by YSL
Pearls of wisdom earrings by Kate Spade
Flouncy heels by Tabitha Simmons
It's the most wonderful time of the year, or so they say. Christmas day is a day to be spent with loved ones; be it family or friends. All gathered under the same roof, in eager anticipation for the merriment awaiting at the dining table. Such a feast will be spread before thee, one oh so reminiscent of those placed before the gluttonous King Henry VIII, sans the medieval fanfare. Your people all amassed at the table, in fits of belly-busting laughter while devouring sumptuous food and bottles of vino. Roaring laughter and eating until the button on your denims burst. That is the ideal Christmas lunch.
When one contemplates Christmas and fashion the mind automatically directs you to the colours red and green. And it is easy to understand why we gravitate towards these two colours considering how traditionally steeped in the festive holiday they are. I for one despise wearing and pairing these two colours year round, especially during this time of year for a number of reasons. Firstly, it reminds me of my primary school uniform of green polos and daggy red shorts. Secondly it's overly, seemingly festive.
This time of year I find that most fashionistas curate ensembles solely based on these colours. Some combine the two and others don it head to toe. There's no rule to say you can't nor is there an unwritten faux-pas but for me I prefer to keep the traditional colours at bay, revealing only just a hint of festivity on say my lips. The thing is there are more colours in the colour spectrum one can indulge in this time of year. And I find metallics tend to be the most fun. I love the idea of wearing something sparkly like these pants or this skirt. Glittery enough to remain merry whilst also being something that can be utilised year round.
-Sxx
CLOCKWISE
Faux-patent Falabella bag by Stella McCartney
Wrap cami by River Island
Circle and bar lariat necklace by Orelia
01 Le Rouge. Rouge Pur Couture lipstick by YSL
Pearls of wisdom earrings by Kate Spade
Flouncy heels by Tabitha Simmons
If I'm honest, the infamous ugly Christmas sweater party is something I wasn't overly familiar with until recently. A most humorous American tradition somewhat lost to Australians (perhaps even the rest of the world?). And rightly so. Us folks residing in the Southern Hemisphere are not privy to those famed white Christmas' as our counterparts on the opposite end. For us, Christmas falls in the midst of summer so sweaters are essentially irrelevant for obvious reasons. Nonetheless an influx of ghastly festively themed t-shirts can always be located without much strain.
Lately I've noted amongst my Facebook peers numerous soirees celebrating this amusing tradition. Hell, I was even invited to one last week! "Ugly Christmas Sweater Parties", who would have thunk it? And while I politely declined due to event collision it still got me searching for a sweater to wear. Even if the temperatures are set to soar to 37°C this weekend. So when it comes to finding that unseemly piece, personally I'd prefer something that I actually wouldn't mind wearing. because it doesn't sit well for me to purchase something solely to use on one occasion. Most of these selections are overly cheesy like the "Bah Humbug" piece, which is actually a DIY or the reindeer knit but #Elfie and "Team Santa" are still very much wearable in the month of December. Dare I say cool even?
-Sxx
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Team Santa t-shirt from Simply Be
#Elfie sweater from eBay
Snowman sweater from Simply Be
Reindeer knit by Jolt
Bah Humbug DIY sweater from Nordstrom
Lately I've noted amongst my Facebook peers numerous soirees celebrating this amusing tradition. Hell, I was even invited to one last week! "Ugly Christmas Sweater Parties", who would have thunk it? And while I politely declined due to event collision it still got me searching for a sweater to wear. Even if the temperatures are set to soar to 37°C this weekend. So when it comes to finding that unseemly piece, personally I'd prefer something that I actually wouldn't mind wearing. because it doesn't sit well for me to purchase something solely to use on one occasion. Most of these selections are overly cheesy like the "Bah Humbug" piece, which is actually a DIY or the reindeer knit but #Elfie and "Team Santa" are still very much wearable in the month of December. Dare I say cool even?
-Sxx
CLOCKWISE
Team Santa t-shirt from Simply Be
#Elfie sweater from eBay
Snowman sweater from Simply Be
Reindeer knit by Jolt
Bah Humbug DIY sweater from Nordstrom
Being Team Dog and having a firm affinity for our furry best friends, of course I had to include this. Plus I know that a lot of you also adore and have fluff babies of your own.
Or have these wonderful humans in your own lives.
You've probably seen this quote fluttering around Facebook or Twitter. It's shared to death and it's easy to understand why this is so.
I felt compelled to curate this list, not just for our furry BFF's but for the humans who love and live for animals too. My last two gift guides (here and here) were about thinking (somewhat) outside the box when it comes to gifting. So why not tie someones gift with their love for animals? I think doing so would make for an exceptional gift; like really, heartwarming. Who could say no to Menswear Dog or some Art Deco fashioned coasters?
And it's not just humans we can spoil but of course our precious babies too. I don't know about you guys but I seriously adore spoiling my fur baby. Not just during this time of year; but year round. When she was around two (human years) I had a propensity to overindulge. And when I say overindulge, I mean it. To the point where every time the doorbell rang and I collected a parcel, she expected its inner contents to be exclusively hers. Granted 99% of the time, she was right in thinking so. And while over the years I've had to cease in excessive spending (predominantly because her collection of toys had become so vast, I was making her look like a hoarder), I refuse to hold back at Christmas time. Though this year I wanted to get my little Coco-Bean something different to the usual offerings. Like maybe this specialised GoPro harness. I've always been curious about what she gets up to in the back garden or even just taking her on mini adventures through the bush and capturing the experience from her vantage point. Of course, she'll still get those mushy plush toys she dearly loves too. What can I say, I just can't help myself.
Or have these wonderful humans in your own lives.
We can judge the heart of man by his treatment of animals. // Immanuel Kant
You've probably seen this quote fluttering around Facebook or Twitter. It's shared to death and it's easy to understand why this is so.
I felt compelled to curate this list, not just for our furry BFF's but for the humans who love and live for animals too. My last two gift guides (here and here) were about thinking (somewhat) outside the box when it comes to gifting. So why not tie someones gift with their love for animals? I think doing so would make for an exceptional gift; like really, heartwarming. Who could say no to Menswear Dog or some Art Deco fashioned coasters?
And it's not just humans we can spoil but of course our precious babies too. I don't know about you guys but I seriously adore spoiling my fur baby. Not just during this time of year; but year round. When she was around two (human years) I had a propensity to overindulge. And when I say overindulge, I mean it. To the point where every time the doorbell rang and I collected a parcel, she expected its inner contents to be exclusively hers. Granted 99% of the time, she was right in thinking so. And while over the years I've had to cease in excessive spending (predominantly because her collection of toys had become so vast, I was making her look like a hoarder), I refuse to hold back at Christmas time. Though this year I wanted to get my little Coco-Bean something different to the usual offerings. Like maybe this specialised GoPro harness. I've always been curious about what she gets up to in the back garden or even just taking her on mini adventures through the bush and capturing the experience from her vantage point. Of course, she'll still get those mushy plush toys she dearly loves too. What can I say, I just can't help myself.
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I think there is a general consensus that when it comes to selecting gifts for guys, we all have the hardest of times doing so. In theory it should be the simplest. In terms of fashions the overall range is nowhere near as broad as that of females. And I suppose you could argue the same goes for interests no? But then I feel like we're seemingly stereotyping sexes while also being sexist.
Who says you can't get a dude a candle? Or a toaster for that matter?
That said I do find it considerably hard to purchase gifts for guys. I always feel like my selections are lame. Be it an awesome printed t-shirt or a pair of kicks. I'm never, truly confident in my choices. And maybe that is where my problem lies. My go to is always a t-shirt. Hardly inspiring I guess. So why not stray away from the usual suspects? Not only t-shirts but socks and jocks too. Lets be slightly more creative and stay away from the norm and all without being overly outrageous. Like maybe an awesome pair of Jack Purcell's. I mean, when guys think of Converse they usually conjure up images of the iconic Chuck Taylor no? And of course there's appliances for the home. Which should not be classed as a "female" thing either. A hard lesson one Australian company learned with the backlash of their Christmas catalogue and classing everyday kitchen appliances as appropriate for only females! Guys deserve toasters too you know. Especially ones by Smeg, because who doesn't love Smeg?
What do you find you sway towards when gifting for men?
-Sxx
Who says you can't get a dude a candle? Or a toaster for that matter?
That said I do find it considerably hard to purchase gifts for guys. I always feel like my selections are lame. Be it an awesome printed t-shirt or a pair of kicks. I'm never, truly confident in my choices. And maybe that is where my problem lies. My go to is always a t-shirt. Hardly inspiring I guess. So why not stray away from the usual suspects? Not only t-shirts but socks and jocks too. Lets be slightly more creative and stay away from the norm and all without being overly outrageous. Like maybe an awesome pair of Jack Purcell's. I mean, when guys think of Converse they usually conjure up images of the iconic Chuck Taylor no? And of course there's appliances for the home. Which should not be classed as a "female" thing either. A hard lesson one Australian company learned with the backlash of their Christmas catalogue and classing everyday kitchen appliances as appropriate for only females! Guys deserve toasters too you know. Especially ones by Smeg, because who doesn't love Smeg?
What do you find you sway towards when gifting for men?
-Sxx
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Can you believe there is little over two weeks to go until Christmas Day dawns? I don't know about you guys but I am yet to even put up my tree. I've also given frighteningly very little thought on what to buy my loved ones too, so in a most feeble attempt to get myself into the Christmas spirit I decided I'd attempt to dedicate the month of December to Christmas itself and produce content that is strictly festive related. I actually forged the idea while reading about Zauni's (check her amazing blog here) participation in VLOGMAS this year (check her videos out here). So it's not entirely the same as actual personal videos every single day of the month but more about committing and challenging oneself to one idea for a few weeks.
So for this week's posting, I'll be featuring a selection of clickable gift guides/ideas. Trust me, they'll benefit both you and me (probably me more). For more information, make sure you click on each product/image.
As easy as it is to locate gifts for females in stores and such, finding that perfect something can be anything but. Lets face it, there is such a broad selection out there, you could even say that we are spoilt for choice. And yet it can be the hardest of tasks. I guess there are always those fool-proof choices like candles or perfume. But what about when you're trying to think outside the box? Make-up can make any girl smile but knowing exactly what they like and what will suit their complexion can also be daunting. I've always loved the idea of gifting clothing pieces to friends. Something they'd maybe been lusting over or living frugally for. And of course, my favorite thing to gift (and to receive) has to be coffee table books. I dare thee to find me a being who does not appreciate one?
What are your go-to's for gifting females?
-Sxx
So for this week's posting, I'll be featuring a selection of clickable gift guides/ideas. Trust me, they'll benefit both you and me (probably me more). For more information, make sure you click on each product/image.
As easy as it is to locate gifts for females in stores and such, finding that perfect something can be anything but. Lets face it, there is such a broad selection out there, you could even say that we are spoilt for choice. And yet it can be the hardest of tasks. I guess there are always those fool-proof choices like candles or perfume. But what about when you're trying to think outside the box? Make-up can make any girl smile but knowing exactly what they like and what will suit their complexion can also be daunting. I've always loved the idea of gifting clothing pieces to friends. Something they'd maybe been lusting over or living frugally for. And of course, my favorite thing to gift (and to receive) has to be coffee table books. I dare thee to find me a being who does not appreciate one?
What are your go-to's for gifting females?
-Sxx
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It's Christmas time, mistletoe and wine... Someone bring me a glass (or five) of vino whilst I mull this over. I am tragically unprepared this Christmas. I've finalised the gifting part, at least I think I have because I have an alarming inkling that I may have forgotten someone. Which is not good, not good at all. It's too late for me now because I refuse to venture willingly into the chaotic madness that is the parking lot of a shopping centre. Ain't no one got time for that. I also haven't contemplated an outfit either. Any suggestions guys? Thankfully it's set to be rather mild so maybe I'll fish out my trusty black denims and a vintage muscle tee. Nothing fancy-schmancy. What sartorial splendour will you be sporting? Casual or your Sunday best?
Anyhoo lovers this will be my final post for the year, so for now I want to wish you all a Merry Christmas and a happy and healthy 2015. Whatever you may celebrate and wherever you celebrate, may it include lots of love, happiness, good food and wine (or whatever your drink of choice may be). I'm going to take a little time off to work on a new layout for the blog and jazz shit up a bit. Rest assured though, I'll be back dazzling you in early 2015. But if you begin missing me, feel free to check out my shenanigans over on Instagram: @soniademacedo, Facebook and Twitter. I'll be fairly active on those mediums so while you wait be sure to check out my photographic shenanigans over there.
With that Merry Everything and a Happy New Year kids. May 2015 be awesome to us all.
Love and light.
-Sxx
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The silly season is well and truly here and in less than a week (major eek!) we'll be sitting by the Christmas tree opening presents and lavishing our eyes upon a feast of festive delights. Consuming until bellies are sated, then devouring even more until the buttons on our J Brand jeans indiscreetly pops open. Ahhh Christmas, a time of perpetual joy, peace and stuffing ones face. But until then from the sound of things, most of us are yet to find our Christmas spirit. Myself included. Where has it gone? Or why it has remained dormant is beyond me. And though I can't produce a miraculous cure for a case of bah-humbug nor conjure a location spell for finding the sneaky little bugger, I do believe these little Rudolph tarts will help ease you into all that Christmas effervescence. And if it's cutesy little face doesn't bring you a smile or sense of cheer then it's gooey, caramel insides definitely will because it's caramel.
Caramel.
Now kids, don't be fooled by it's appearance. You need not be a skilled craftsman nor patissiere extraordinaire. They're actually pretty easy to produce and decorate. But to be honest the decorating can be annoyingly fiddly at times and if you're a perfectionist like me then probably frustrating at the best of times but trust me, it is worth it.
INGREDIENTS:
20 Butternut Snap Biscuits
395g sweetened condensed milk
1/3 cup brown sugar
50g butter, cubed
150g milk chocolate
10 vanilla marshmallows, halved
20 Jaffas
20 mini marshmallows, halved
40 pretzels, cut into desired antler shape
Preheat oven to 180°C / 350°F.
Using a muffin tray rest 1 biscuit above each hole and bake for around 2-3 minutes or until soft to the touch.
Remove from oven and gently press the softened biscuits into a cup shape and allow to cool.
In a saucepan place sweetened condensed milk, sugar and butter and stir on medium heat for around 10 minutes or until mixture has thickened.
Fill biscuit bases with the caramel mixture.
Melt the chocolate and pour evenly over the caramel.
To decorate and using the photographs as a guide, place one marshmallow sticky side up on the base of the tart. Place one Jaffa in the centre of the marshmallow, the sticky side will adhere it together.
Add two of the halved mini marshmallows above the nose and using a skewer or toothpick add a small drop of the melted chocolate to the mini marshmallows centre to form Rudolph's eyes.
Place the cut pretzels above the eyes and press them gently into the chocolate mixture to secure in place.
Set aside to firm then and serve.
Et voila.
Caramel.
Now kids, don't be fooled by it's appearance. You need not be a skilled craftsman nor patissiere extraordinaire. They're actually pretty easy to produce and decorate. But to be honest the decorating can be annoyingly fiddly at times and if you're a perfectionist like me then probably frustrating at the best of times but trust me, it is worth it.
////////////////////////////////////////////////////////
20 Butternut Snap Biscuits
395g sweetened condensed milk
1/3 cup brown sugar
50g butter, cubed
150g milk chocolate
10 vanilla marshmallows, halved
20 Jaffas
20 mini marshmallows, halved
40 pretzels, cut into desired antler shape
Preheat oven to 180°C / 350°F.
Using a muffin tray rest 1 biscuit above each hole and bake for around 2-3 minutes or until soft to the touch.
Remove from oven and gently press the softened biscuits into a cup shape and allow to cool.
In a saucepan place sweetened condensed milk, sugar and butter and stir on medium heat for around 10 minutes or until mixture has thickened.
Fill biscuit bases with the caramel mixture.
Melt the chocolate and pour evenly over the caramel.
To decorate and using the photographs as a guide, place one marshmallow sticky side up on the base of the tart. Place one Jaffa in the centre of the marshmallow, the sticky side will adhere it together.
Add two of the halved mini marshmallows above the nose and using a skewer or toothpick add a small drop of the melted chocolate to the mini marshmallows centre to form Rudolph's eyes.
Place the cut pretzels above the eyes and press them gently into the chocolate mixture to secure in place.
Set aside to firm then and serve.
Et voila.
What is Christmas without some classic tunes? For me my fondest memories of the festive season revolve around the sounds of an old cassette tape (remember those kids?) my mother picked up for a few cents at Bentleigh market one Sunday morning. At the time I remember rolling my nine year old eyes at her because Christmas music was so lame, especially the old school stuff. Why couldn't she invest in something cooler like Mariah Carey? Little did I know that the melodies of Frankie Vaughan, The Kaye Sisters and Rosemary Squires would soon become a much loved favorite for many years to come.
For me it's just not Christmas without this tape playing in the background on
Peace.
-Sxx
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| image via: my name is yeh |
It's funny how we immediately associate the festive season with the colour red. Not green but red. And naturally it's ubiquitous right now. I hadn't given much thought to this before and perhaps I have far too much free time on my hands right now but this not-so-rare phenomenon fascinates me. Especially in the blog world where you'll note that the majority of bloggers who share their outfits with us are also turning to wine tones. Most are electing to add a touch of festive cheer to their ensembles and it's almost aways through a splash or complete saturation of crimson. Red is the undeniable primary colour we swerve to most during the Holiday season. Be it in your outfit, home decor or (especially) in food, in both savoury or sweet morsels, from sauces to fruits, red will be found. In reality this should come as no surprise given that colour certainly dictates our world. It's used to sell us products, invoke emotions and create biased hunger. We paint and create our world with it, affiliate brands and events with them. Colour is not as basic as you may think. It's complicated. Not only in the spectrum of hues but in its overall presence. There's an actual science to it.
And while chocolate is always a good idea so should be a feather soft cake. And that is exactly what these cupcakes are; airy with a hint of delectable lemon. Silken and supple with a touch of creamy frosting and topped with a fresh raspberry. I should mention how the recipe also calls for a generous sprinkling of icing sugar, hence the name "snow angel", though having run out at the most inappropriate of times I ventured to improvise and attempted to create my own icing sugar by using a food processor. Of course to a normal person that's easy enough, for me it also involved an annoying coating of powdered sugar on the marble bench top I was working on. And it's at times like those that I wish I had my own cleaner.
Happy eating.
-Sxx
I've been rambling far too much about colour and not enough about these charming little cupcakes which I came upon via Pinterest (oh God bless Pinterest!). All it took was a quick glance at the ingredients and method and I was reaching for the beater and eggs. Another thing I find to be peculiar is how little we mention angel food in general. Its become rather rare these days and I can't tell you the last time I saw one for sale in a bakery or tempting me at a cafe. Well we do live in a world brimming with total chocolate addicts who continually foam at the mouth at the mere mention of devils food cake.
And while chocolate is always a good idea so should be a feather soft cake. And that is exactly what these cupcakes are; airy with a hint of delectable lemon. Silken and supple with a touch of creamy frosting and topped with a fresh raspberry. I should mention how the recipe also calls for a generous sprinkling of icing sugar, hence the name "snow angel", though having run out at the most inappropriate of times I ventured to improvise and attempted to create my own icing sugar by using a food processor. Of course to a normal person that's easy enough, for me it also involved an annoying coating of powdered sugar on the marble bench top I was working on. And it's at times like those that I wish I had my own cleaner.
Feel like serving these ethereal and dainty beauties during your own Holiday soirees or Christmas gatherings? Click here to view the original recipe from The Cake Blog.
Happy eating.
-Sxx
2. 3 speed turntable by Crosley, "Tres Amaze" iPhone 5 case by ASOS, T-Shirt Silicone iPhone 5 cover by Moschino , Ella gold-tone earphones by Frends, Bambi iPad case by Givenchy, Jerrie Rose 13" case by Marc By Marc Jacobs.
3. Rosehip seed lip cream by Aesop, Perfect legs skin miracle serum by This Works, Santal 33 shower gel by Le Labo, Virtual Insanity nail polish by Deborah Lippmann, Lost Cherry matte lipstick by Charlotte Tilbury.
4. Midnight Eagle tank by Spell Designs, Anarchy awesome baggies by Oneteaspoon.
5. Les Femmes 2015 calendar by Garance Dore x Rifle Paper Co, Thames and Ortensia candles by Fornasetti, Hudson throw blanket by Shiraleah, Monogram glass plates by C. Wonder.
6. Kensington leather watch by Nixon, Eye collar necklace by Topshop, I-D ring by Carly Paiker, Saviour bracelet by Carly Paiker.
7. Suede tassel clutch by Topshop, Floral gem bag by Topshop.
It's somewhat beginning to feel a lot like Christmas. I suppose in (not literally) decking the halls with boughs of holly and topping ye olde plastic pine tree with a golden star has that affect on someone, despite all forms of protest and reluctance. I only wish I could postpone the festive season for a good month or two so I could really get into that freakishly annoying state of perpetual happiness. But time waits for no one and I'll try my best to adjust. What I can get into is the spirit of giving. Whether it's for those I love, the dearest of friends or for my own good self it's effortless to get into the mood of spending money. And despite the copious gift guides you've no doubt encountered online, here I am today to add to that ginormous list. I personally don't mind them though, it's interesting to see everyones take on the Holiday season and browse through their finds because you almost always end up finding something new there. Something that has evaded your perusing or something you'd completely overlooked previously, even something for that someone you were stuck fast for ideas.
I've shared a few of my own favorite finds above; things I'd personally gift and would also relish in receiving. Tech stuff always excites and beauty products are a no brainer, especially when gifting superior brands with beauty expertise. Let's face it, we all get giddy at the sight of a premium product. And jewellery is always a good idea.
Oh and I am well aware that I've totally discriminated against cats here. Apologies to my feline friends.
Merry everything lovers.
-Sxx
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