You know when you buy that one piece and you just want to wear it over and over again? Yeah, this top is that piece. Its hijab friendly and oh so flattering. I know there is some rule you can't wear white after Labor Day, but who cares? I say get it! It's a perfect item for this fall. Aaanddd it's under $30!!

Top: Zara // Jeans: Primark // Bag: Kate Spade // Shoes: Target // Scarf: Local

The first look I wore to a birthday party. This probably will be my go to outfit for the upcoming weekends. I paired it with skinny jeans and a nude pink hijab and leather flats. For the fall transition, pair it with culottes and a darker hijab maybe taupe or rust and cute loafers. I'm sure you'll see me wearing this exact outfit soon :)

Close up with some pretty flowers 

Top: Zara // Shawl, Hijab, Pants: Pakistan // Shoes: Call it Spring (similar)

 I secretly always loved big dupatta's but haven't worn them cause its an "aunty" look. So I was pretty ecstatic when these big embroidered dupatta's came back. I don't think most aunties were fond of my all white outfit, but hey I loved it! With this vibrant dupatta, how else could I really wear it? I wore a structured white top but made sure it was simple enough to make the dupatta stand out. Thankfully my mom had white straight pants to complete the look. 

hope you all had a lovely long weekend. 

stay tuned for my many many fall posts coming :)

<3sania

As you know I recently traveled to Toronto, Canada. It was a short trip as I went for my friends wedding. I really wish had another day or two as I couldn't do everything I had intended but still had a great time! My favorite part about Toronto was how nice everyone was. Every single person we passed always said hello. I definitely would love to visit again. Here's a short recap of my trip :)

DAY 1

 

What I Wore:

 Tunic: Poplook // Slides: Windsor // Scarf: Hijab Vault

Where I Went: 

We first went downtown to visit the Ripley's Aquarium and the CN Tower. The Aquarium is perfect for kids and Safa really enjoyed this. We opted not to see the CN Tower but was a wonderful view from the outside. 

For dinner we drove to Mississauga to a new steakhouse called BlackStone Steakhouse & Grill. Let me tell how amazing this place was. The food, ambiance and customer service was impeccable. The chef himself thanked us for coming and was so sweet. Definitely recommend to eat here!!

DAY 2

Where I went:  

We visited the Toronto Zoo for the kids. It was huge and definitely would take a whole day to complete. We went for a couple of hours and did about half of it. If you have kids, I highly recommend it! Definitely bring snacks and food for the day. There are many picnic areas to sit and relax during the day. 

I surprisingly didn't take many pictures that day. I wore a long tunic from Zara and sneakers. I kept it casual and comfy as we walked around a lot!

DAY 3

Okay, brace yourselves. This day we did a LOT and obviously ate a LOT. I really would never get fit if I lived here!! 

What I Wore:

Black Top: Poplook // Pants: Zara // Jean Jacket: Target // Scarf: Hijab Loft

Where I Went: 

Kensington Market: Wow. That's all I have to say! There is so much to eat here and see. It had an eclectic vibe and cute vintage stores on every corner. Blue Banana Market is the perfect store for unique gifts to bring home .

Wafels & More: For breakfast, we fulfilled our sweet tooth a little early. Loved this cute place!

Burgernator: For lunch, we checked out the famous Burgernator. It was halal and service was fast. I opted for the chicken burger which was good but not the best I've had. Everyone loved their beef burgers and said it was totally worth it. I think we were so hungry we didn't even take any pictures, lol. There's also Top Gun Burgers and Dirty Bird (also halal) that everyone really enjoyed. 

Graffiti Alley: As you walk away from Kensington Market on Spadina, you get to Graffiti Alley. These alleyways were vibrant and filled with a amazing art. On the way we also walked through China Town. 

Here's the best crew ever! These are some of my amazing college friends that all travelled for our friends wedding. College memories continue on <3

Some other fun food places we had:

 

FIKA: Iced Coffee // Moo Frites: Kimchi Fries // Peace Treats: DREAM Milkshake

Organic Press: My friend got a watermelon smoothie that was so refreshing on a hot day. 

Other Places: I wish I had more time and I definitely would of checked out the Toronto Islands, the Harbor Front and the Distillery District. I was most upset about not seeing the Distillery District which is perfect for photo ops. Next time, iA. 

Hope you enjoyed, 

with love

sania<3

And so it begins: My Fitness Journey. Lately, I feel its been really trendy to be "fit" but what better trend than being fit and health? For myself, I really just wanted to stop feeling so lethargic all the time and gain some energy. I also wanted to get back to my old body before I had Safa. All I can say, it hasn't been easy! I've been on and off about working out and eating healthy and I'm not going to lie even now I'm not perfect. I still have some sweets here and there and give into cravings. I'm still starting out and I know it will take time. I started working out consistently 3 times a week probably right before Ramadan in May. These past 6 weeks I've been working out 4-5 times a week. For the first time though, I truly enjoy working out and eating healthy. Why? Cause I'm seeing small changes in my body and in my mood. I see a lot of stories and people always show the after result. I wanted to share my whole journey. I wanted to share 5 tips that helped me start my journey and are keeping me going now. 

1. Find a Workout Partner.

For me, this was key and made the biggest difference. There are tons of apps out there, classes, websites, programs that you can do. What I needed was someone to keep me in check. I used to workout with my husband but since having our daughter we can't workout together :(. I was so lucky that one of my friends, Nilma (@nilma_husain) also just became a personal trainer. I know, not everyone is this lucky. If you can afford a personal trainer even 1 session a week, I highly recommend it. I was doing so many exercises with improper form even something simple as a squat. She really helped me fix my form, teach me new exercises and workout routines. 

2. Set (Realistic) Goals & Rewards!
This is something I learned from another friend of mine who does cross fit. You cannot workout without any end goals because you have no idea where you're going. My short term goal is to workout 5 times week (3 strength training sessions, 2 cardio). For lifting, I've been squatting 20 lbs and dead lifting 20 as well. My goal is to squat and deadlift my body weight. For actual weight, ideally I want to lose 15 lbs but I'm not focusing too much on weight but more so inches on my body. InshAllah I can reach it in 6 months!! Definitely set up rewards too when you reach your goals. Whether you lose 10 lbs, squat a certain amount reward yourself with a treat, buy something nice for yourself or eat at your favorite restaurant. Even every week if you've met your goal of working out such as 4 times a week, eat a small treat. 

3. Pick an activity you like.

If you hate running, don't choose running to lose weight! There are so many different types of exercises you can do to workout. I noticed I love lifting so increasing my weight gets me excited. For cardio I love cardio kickboxing, zumba, and dancing. Later as you get used to working out, then you can challenge yourself with different types of workouts. But in the beginning, pick something that makes you excited!

4. Plan your workout schedule.  

Plan! Plan! Plan! This is so important on a daily basis. On Sunday, I look at my whole week and I plan which days I'll workout and generally what I'll be doing (cardio, strength or recovery). I know for a factor Tuesdays I have meetings till late and I won't have a lot of energy to do an intense session. Instead I'll do a cardio or home workout. I also plan out my schedule each day. This also includes meal prep. I personally don't meal prep for the whole week but I will for two to three days to avoid eating out or giving into cravings when I'm super hungry.

5. Don't give up!!
Lastly, do not give up!! Sometimes its hard not see results right away. Believe me, I get it. But if you keep going your body will start to show small improvements. In the past two months I haven't lost weight in numbers but I have lost inches, old clothes are fitting me and I feel so much more energetic. 

I hope this helps you begin your fitness journey or keep going. InshAllah I hope I can continue and share my journey. After having Safa, I really wanted to be an active mom to one encourage her to be active and two to do all fun activities with her. If you have a family, it's awesome to workout together or just stay active. 

Good Luck!
sania<3

Summer is finally hereeeeee! I totally have a love/hate relationship with this season. I love the beach, dresses, ice cream, carnivals and the list can go on. I do however hate the super hot weather and humidity that comes along with it. This is why I have made a list of my top summer dresses for this season!! When it's this hot, I do not want to wear multiple layers. I always try to find one piece dresses that are long sleeves and floor length or at least midi length! Here are my top 8 favs!

1. Stripes Floral (Zara)

This is my favorite out of all of them. Zara always has the best long sleeve maxi's. They are a little steep in price but always worth it. I wore it to a bridal shower and plan on wearing it this summer. You can wear it as a dress, a cardigan or even with jeans. 

2. Beach Stripes (She In) 

I'm in love with this stripes trend this seasons. Wear it with this belt or your own funky belt. Pair it with a fun hat and you're ready for the beach!

3.  Bohemian Green (She In)

 

This is perfect for a night out. Comfortable especially for those hot summer nights. Pair it with heels and bold lip!

4.  Floral Fun (Zara)

 

Another Zara favorite. I really love all their dresses. Can never go wrong!

5. Abstract White (Forever 21)

I recently saw this and Forever and almost bought it of myself. I then realized I have similar pieces so I held off. If you don't have a white bohemian dress, definitely invest in this one!

6. Ruffle Wrap (Target)

 

I'm really tempted to get this and I just might. This is super classy and would look amaze with simple strap heels, black hijab and a red lip!

7. Beach Blue (Target)

 

I've had this for a while and finally will be able to wear this at the beach this coming weekend. Look out for it on my insta;)

8. Flowy Floral (Windsor)

 

Lastly, my sis rocked this beautiful dress. This is perfect for any bridal or baby shower you have to attend this weekend!

Hope you liked my picks! Can't wait to see everyones looks!

<3 sania

Salaam all!

Yesss, its been a while! This past year has been quite busy with my daughter and recently starting a new job. I am trying to get back into it isA. Wedding season is upon us so I figure I would give some ideas on different outfits for all different types of weddings and styles. 

1. Simple Elegance

Dress: Louella 

I love this dress from Louella. This looks great on anybody and also really comfortable to wear. Check out some of their other dresses. 

2. Flowy Abaya

Dress: Inayah

I wore this dress to my friends wedding last summer. I added a necklace and paired it with a black hijab. I love the way it draped and fit!

3. Pop of Color

Palazzo Pants: Zara

Who says you can't wear pants to a wedding? I loved these palazzo pants from Zara from a few years ago and they still continue to stay in my closet. I paired it with a peplum top and gold belt. 

4. Draped

Dress: Inayah

Sometimes with a simple dress, its always fun to play with jewelry. I loved this Inayah dress, especially this color. I wore a gorgeous pearl headpiece for more of a wedding feel. They have the best selection of dresses form casual to formal wear. Can never go wrong with Inayah!

5. Traditional

Lastly, what I usually wear to most of my weddings-- traditional wear. The hardest part about designing clothes for myself was finding a matching hijab. I typically don't match my hijab to my outfit but I make an exception for desi clothes. I'll try do wear the more neutral color in the outfit since I'm not fond of wearing bright colors. 

Hope you enjoyed this post!

with love,

sania

Hijab fashion Spring/Summer 2017 By sefamerve

 Hijab fashion Spring/Summer 2017 By sefamerve

On October 29th, 2016, UrbanBliss Wellness Spa held their "Discover You!" event at their premises, 85 Barry Hertzog Rd in Emmarentia. It was definitely worth the wait and attendance. I am positive this event will set in motion a host of future collaborations with the Spa,  InshaAllah.

To learn more about the spa click here:my review on the UrbanBliss spa
on Instagram: UrbanBliss if you were there...you are probably on their page!;)

You can also view and book their ground breaking treatments and purchase their advanced skincare: UrbanBliss website

The Discover You event was aimed at empowering women of the 21st Century who juggle work, home and family. It brought together a host of some of the best in the local industry from fashion, makeup, makeup organizers, to scarves and beauty treatments.

The following are the amazing people who collaborated alongside Urban Bliss to make the day especially memorable:

Stylexplora: yes!! I was there...!  This time in the capacity of  Makeup Artist. I provided one on one consultations,  and did a demo on the pool deck providing Makeup advice and tips to the value of R3500 exclusively to those who booked for the demo. My audience were spoiled with random gifts from makeup to gold metallic belts, turbans and headbands to the value of R1500.

Laboutique: suppliers in 100 % authentic premium quality Makeup. They supply everything from beauty blenders, Kyshadows, kylielipkits,  Morphe, Kat Von D, Nikki tutorials, and the list goes on.... Click here to check out their 100% original products on Instagram: Laboutique

Atelier Dajee: Fashion Mason retails and custom makes innovative and unique high fashion... Also featured at the SA fashion Week. The ladies were spoilt as he produced a fashion show just for the Discover You event in his demo slot, and all of his garments were available for retail at the venue and a few lucky winners snatched up vouchers. Click here to see Atelier Dajee Instagram: Atelier Dajee


Glambox: suppliers of the very on trend perspex organiser boxes that glams up any space and can be used as storage for a multitude of items and products around your home, business or events...A beautiful table was laid out with all of these organizers including selected Swiitch Beauty Brushes which were also available for retail. Swiitch beauty is a premium supplier in brushes and everything makeup related.

To view Glambox gorgeous boxes and organizers click here to go to Glambox Instagram: GlamBox

To view Swiitch Beauty, click here: Swiitch Beauty


Khalees Fabrics: specializes in unique scarves,  hijabs and headwraps... Gorgeous summer fabrics and prints to choose from.. They did headwrap and turban tie tutorials on the deck in their demo slot, click here to view their Instagram: Khalees Fabrics

Papushka: supplies a beautiful range of luxury Kaftans and sleep wear that are proudly South African.  Click here to view Papushka on Instagram : Papushka

Tanya Sachs: Celebrity Stylist who provide invaluable styling info in the first time slot of demos

Rashmi Threading Studio: touted as the Brow guru... who provided her professional services of face and eyebrow threading, grooming and tinting as well as waxing.
To Contact Rashmi: 011 486 0512/3

Finally some pics courtesy of Urbanbliss and Glambox!

Face beats by me on beautiful Marna! My table filled with gorgeous goodies from Laboutique and my kit! My scarf in dire need of ironing!

Turban tie tutorial by Khalees fabrics

#wanteverythingonthistable part of Laboutiques setup!

Ms. Ayesha Rajah owner of UrbanBliss Spa along with blogger Nonhle Thema sure have Pout perfection!

Atelier Dajee creation!

Atelier Dajee

Gorgeous dresses by Dezines4u

#Browgame strong by Rashmi!

Khalees Fabrics mesmerising the public with their wide range of scarves!

Beautiful Safwanah of Glambox handing out a gorgeous Glambox prize to a very lucky winner!

Papushka and their stunning range!

Mouthwatering affair! I mean eclair!

Cool Going ons!

The Stylexplora winners! Aren't they gorgeous? they were smiling throughout my demo!

Big ups, high fives and a huge Thankyou to the remarkable and gracious team of UrbanBliss Wellness!
 

Simply gorgeous! 

I spot a few familiar faces! ;)

There were tons of pics...so I may share more on Instagram....btw! a big little giveaway coming up on Instagram that you don't want to miss! Makeup, fashion, skincare, art, and more! click here to go tot my instagram: Stylexplora on Instagram and watch out for it!

Love and Salaams Always!
Stylexplora